Tripura journalists condemn Paris terror attacks

Journalists in Agartala, in the Indian state of Tripura, took part in a rally expressing solidarity with the French media and condemning the terrorist attack on satirical magazine, Charlie Hebdo.

Hundreds of journalist, poets, writers and people from all walks of life participated in the silent march organised by the Agartala Press Club, condemning the murderous attack in Paris on those working for Charlie Hebdo.

“Our message is to protect the democratic rights of the people, to protect the rights and privilege of the media and newspapers so that they can work freely and independently,” said Satyabrata Chakrabort, president of Agartala Press Club.

Journalists condemned the terrorist attack and protested against all racist and sectarian acts in the name of religion or ideology.

Dipankar Sengupta, a journalist, said: “We want a peaceful and just world, which cannot be attained if terrorism exist.”

Akbar Ahamed, a renowned writer of the state, said: “We are protesting against terrorism, which is spreading across the the globe. Terrorism has no religion or caste and is the enemy of civilization. It is trying to divide people.”

According to him, attack on the media amounts to an attack of the freedom of speech and expression, and runs counter to democratic principles.