Filmmakers have alleged that they were assaulted inside the Department of Films and Publications (DFP) while attempting to collect pending payments for a documentary based on the July mass uprising. The Culture and Film Collective has demanded the permanent dismissal of those involved, including DFP cameraman Md Mashiuur Rahman, and called for legal action.
The allegations were made at a press conference titled “Assault on Filmmakers at the Department of Films and Publications and Social Security of Cultural Workers,” held on Friday at the National Press Club.
According to the filmmakers, they went to the DFP office around 2:30 pm on Monday to collect overdue payments for the documentary. After waiting for several hours, the payment process began but was allegedly obstructed by cameraman Mashiur Rahman, who arrived at the scene and attempted to halt the proceedings.
They claimed that officials informed them Rahman had been involved in delaying the disbursement of the dues. When the filmmakers demanded accountability in front of the Director General, an argument reportedly broke out. At one point, Rahman allegedly attempted to leave the premises without settling the payment.
The situation escalated further when Rahman allegedly summoned 30 to 40 outsiders, who then attacked the filmmakers inside the Director General’s office. Several individuals were injured in the incident, with one suffering a head injury and others sustaining wounds to different parts of the body.
The filmmakers described the attack as not merely personal but a direct assault on documentary filmmaking and freedom of expression. They argued that the incident contravenes Article 39 of the Constitution, which guarantees freedom of speech, and constitutes a violation of human rights.
They also alleged that the accused had long exercised undue influence within the department and had been involved in various irregularities, including withholding payments. The incident, they said, reflects “systemic corruption” within the institution.
From the press conference, the speakers demanded immediate suspension of the accused official, an impartial investigation, and legal action against those responsible. They also urged authorities to take effective measures to prevent the recurrence of such incidents.
Speakers at the event included photographer Shahidul Alam, human rights activist Rezaul Rahman Lelin, and filmmaker Mushfiqur Rahman Johan.
Highlighting broader concerns, Rezaul Rahman Lelin said recruitment processes under the Ministry of Cultural Affairs are often influenced by nepotism and political considerations. This, he noted, forces artists into corrupt systems even before they can begin their creative work, with opportunities for financial misappropriation ranging from 10 percent to 50 percent.
