STAFF CORRESPONDENT

The Daily Star yesterday marked the final day of its 35th anniversary celebrations, with the scars of the December 18, 2025 arson attack still on full display.

Guests were greeted not by a traditional gala but by exposed brick and soot-blackened pillars, where the acrid, lingering scent of charred debris clung to the air.

After visiting the exhibition, Law Minister Asaduzzaman said the scene was not something that could leave anyone with a pleasant feeling.

“Freedom of the press is deeply linked with democracy. An attack of this nature on a newspaper, regardless of difference of opinion, is, I believe, an attack on the heart of democracy.

“We want this situation to end, and we want Bangladesh to move forward on the path of press freedom. These [memories] are like a nightmare. ... Let the nightmare end,” he said.

Also at the event, Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman said the space The Daily Star has created for itself in Bangladesh’s journalism landscape is unparalleled. “I sincerely hope the daily continues this journey and sets new examples in journalism.”

State Minister for Information and Broadcasting Yasser Khan Choudhury said, “What I saw today -- the destruction -- is deeply saddening and unfortunate. I hope no one stands as an obstacle to freedom of speech, whether it is The Daily Star, other newspapers, media outlets, or television channels.”

Transparency International Bangladesh Executive Director Iftekharuzzaman said that seeing the exhibition was both painful and inspiring. “The attack on The Daily Star was an attack on an institution that symbolises independent and free media in Bangladesh. In other words, it was an attack on the country’s media, and on the expectation and aspiration for a free press.”

Commenting on the way the attack was carried out, he questioned the role of the then

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