After Road Encroachment News, Journalist Jahid Ikbal Targeted by Facebook Defamation Campaign

Special correspondent: A coordinated smear campaign has been launched against senior journalist Jahid Ikbal and his son Tasbir Ikbal, a reporter for Bangladesh Times, following their investigative report on the illegal construction of a boundary wall encroaching onto a public road in the Tanpara area of Nikunja, Dhaka.

According to the victims, the incident began shortly after the report was published last Saturday (March 7). The accused individuals allegedly gathered in front of the journalist’s residence and issued threats. 2threatsSoon afterward, they initiated an organized propaganda campaign on social media aimed at tarnishing the reputation of the father and son.

Investigations indicate that the accused—identified as Sabuj Fayez and Raihan Sanvim—had been constructing a boundary wall and staircase by illegally occupying approximately two feet of the public road. After the publication of the report exposing the alleged encroachment, the individuals reportedly began spreading defamatory posts and fabricated allegations against the journalists.

Sources claim that the accused have been using their personal Facebook accounts along with several fake profiles to circulate misleading information. However, physical verification of the site reportedly found no evidence supporting the claims made in those posts.

Local residents stated that the accused do not possess any private land in front of their house and that the construction was being carried out by encroaching on space meant for public use.

Local sources further alleged that Sabuj, Sanvim, and members of their family were long-time affiliates of Awami League politics. However, following recent political changes, they have reportedly attempted to alter their public identity while continuing to assert influence in the area through such controversial actions.

“They had previously left space for the road, but now they are gradually reclaiming it, which is clearly illegal,” said a neighbor, requesting anonymity.

In contrast, Jahid Ikbal and his son are widely known in the community for their involvement in social welfare initiatives, particularly their role in advocating for a ban on auto-rickshaws within Nikunja. Concerned residents believe the propaganda campaign is a deliberate attempt to harass a professional journalist and divert public attention from the alleged illegal land encroachment.