A memorandum was submitted to the Governor Shri Indrasena Reddy Nallu by the Tripura Journalists Union today.
The Governor’s intervention has been demanded over the delay in the trial process in the case of murders of journalists Sudip Dutta Bhowmik and Shantanu Bhowmik in 2017. The memorandum alleged that two journalists in the state were killed in 2017, but the culprits have not been punished. Those involved in the murder of Sudeep Dutt Bhowmik have also been granted bail.
On the other hand, the investigation process of journalist Shantanu Bhowmik’s murder has not actually started. Tripura Journalists’ Union has expressed its dissatisfaction with the progress of their investigation even though the investigation has been handed over to the CBI.
In a formal letter submitted to the Governor, TJU President Pranab Sarkar and Secretary-General Alak Ghosh emphasized that the Union, which is affiliated with the Indian Journalists Union (IJU) and the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), works relentlessly to safeguard the rights of journalists in Tripura.
It may be mentioned that after the killing of the two journalists, a delegation of journalists from the state met the then President of the country and the Union Home Minister. Later, the investigation was handed over to the CBI, but there was no progress in the investigation. The governor has assured to take necessary steps in this regard. After the interview, the delegation informed that if necessary, the Union of Journalists will meet the Union Home Minister again on this issue.
The TJU expressed deep frustration over the minimal progress in the investigation and prosecution of the accused individuals involved in these heinous crimes. Despite seven years passing, the families of the victims are still awaiting justice
The Governor has assured to take necessary steps regarding the issue.
The delegation included Tripura Journalists Union Advisor Sajjad Ali, President Pranab Sarkar, General Secretary Alak Ghosh, Assistant Secretary Abhishek Dey and members Samaresh Dey and Zakir Hossain. Gender Council secretary Shesadri Dasgupta was also present.
