Dhaka, Dec 28 (V7N) — Mahmudur Rahman, editor of the daily Amar Desh Patrika, has filed a defamation case against BNP’s Information Technology Affairs Secretary AKM Wahiduzzaman Apollo and columnist Rashedul Haque Mallick over allegedly spreading false information on Facebook linking Amar Desh to attacks on other newspapers.

The case was submitted to Dhaka Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Md. Jewel Rana on Sunday afternoon. The court said it would review the matter and issue an order later.

The lawsuit claims that after attacks, vandalism, and arson targeting Prothom Alo and Daily Star, Amar Desh Patrika published reports urging the public to remain calm and protect the affected newspapers. However, Rashedul Haque Mallick allegedly posted on Facebook that "Amar Desh is involved in the attack on Prothom Alo," which AKM Wahiduzzaman Apollo then shared on his social media account.

The case further alleges that the accused attempted to create chaos by spreading false information, putting the life of editor Mahmudur Rahman at risk.

Speaking after filing the case, Mahmudur Rahman said, “I consider this statement a threat against my country and myself. It is not only insulting to me but also an attempt to incite a mob, which is very concerning.”

The incidents follow the December 18 attacks on Prothom Alo’s associate publishing house, Prothoma Office, and Daily Star, triggered after reports on the death of martyr Osman Hadi in Singapore. Police have so far arrested 18 people in connection with the attacks.

END/SMA/AJ