State: West Bengal

Year: 2026

Date: September 11, 2026

Source:

Journalist attacked

Kolkata Journalist Mehboob Raza was allegedly assaulted at Harin Bari Lane near the Colootola area.

A journalist’s alleged assault at a tea stall has brought the long-standing allegations of intimidation in Ward 43 back into focus. The latest incident has raised questions over the alleged influence of Nakhuda Masjid imam Maulana Shafiq Qasmi and his youngest son, who has been named in connection with the attack.
A message circulating among residents and activists alleges that the imam and his “syndicate” have dominated Ward 43 for the past decade, with those speaking against them allegedly facing violence. It names Imran Ali, Sharik Aman and Mahboob Raza as alleged victims of attacks.
“Pehla shikaar Imran Ali, dusra Sharik Aman, teesra Mahboob Raza. Kab khatam hoga gunda raj 43 se?” the message asks, demanding an answer from the Kolkata Police.
The allegations, however, remain unverified. No details of the earlier incidents, including dates, police complaints or medical records, have been independently established. The current journalist attack must also be investigated before responsibility is assigned.

Updated On: September 13, 2026

Bengal Working Journalists Association Condemns Attack on Journalist Mahboob Raza, Demands Action

The Bengal Working Journalists Association has strongly condemned the alleged attack on journalist Mahboob Raza while he was carrying out his professional reporting duties and called upon the police administration to conduct a fair, impartial and transparent investigation into the incident.

The Association demanded that appropriate legal action be taken against all those found responsible after a thorough investigation. It also urged the state administration and police to strengthen measures for the safety and security of journalists so that they can perform their professional responsibilities without fear, intimidation or pressure.

The Association said that disagreement with a journalist’s reporting or criticism of his or her work is a legitimate part of a democratic society. However, it stressed that resorting to violence against a journalist because of his reporting is completely unacceptable.