The Culture and Film Collective has called for the permanent dismissal of Md Mashiur Rahman, a cameraman at the Department of Films and Publications (DFP), following an alleged assault on documentary filmmakers.
The demand, which includes a call for legal action against all those involved, was made during a press conference titled “Attack on filmmakers at the Department of Films and Publications and social security of cultural activists,” held at the National Press Club on Friday.
According to the filmmakers, the incident occurred on 30 March when they visited the DFP office, under the Ministry of Information, at approximately 2:30pm to collect outstanding payments for a documentary based on the July movement.
After waiting for several hours, they alleged that Mashiur Rahman arrived and attempted to obstruct the payment process as it was about to begin.
The filmmakers claimed that when Rahman was asked to explain his involvement in the delays before the director general, he became agitated and engaged in an argument. He then allegedly brought 30 to 40 outsiders into the director general’s office to carry out an attack.
Several individuals sustained injuries during the incident, including one who suffered a head injury.
The filmmakers described the attack as a direct assault on freedom of expression and documentary filmmaking, stating it contradicts Article 39 of the Constitution and constitutes a violation of human rights.
They further alleged that the accused had long-exerted influence within the department and was involved in “systemic corruption,” including the withholding of payments.
Speaking at the press conference, human rights activist Rezaul Rahman Lelin noted that appointments under the ministry often favour relatives or party affiliates, forcing artists into a corrupt system where misappropriation can range from 10 to 50 per cent.
Other speakers at the event included photographer Shahidul Alam and filmmaker Mushfiqur Rahman Johan.
In addition to the dismissal of the accused, the filmmakers demanded a fair investigation and the implementation of measures to ensure such incidents do not recur.
