Sports journalist organisations have strongly condemned a police assault on reporters and issued an ultimatum to the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF), demanding immediate action against those responsible. The organisations have also called for guarantees that such incidents will not recur in the future.

The Incident

According to reports from Dhaka Tribune and New Age published on Thursday (12 November) evening, multiple sports journalist bodies jointly issued the ultimatum. The incident occurred when journalists were covering a sporting event and were attacked by police. Several reporters were injured, and their cameras and other equipment were damaged during the assault.

Demands Put Forward

The journalist organisations have placed three demands before SAFF. Firstly, a swift investigation and action against the police personnel involved in the assault. Secondly, SAFF must issue a formal apology for the incident. Thirdly, assurances must be given to ensure the safety of journalists during any future tournaments. The organisations have warned that if SAFF fails to comply with these demands within the next 48 hours, they will launch a tougher movement.

SAFF's New Initiative

Meanwhile, on the same day, SAFF announced the introduction of Remote VAR (Video Assistant Referee) technology starting from the semi-finals of the upcoming tournament. According to a separate New Age report, this technology will be used for the first time in South Asia. The implementation of Remote VAR is expected to make refereeing decisions more accurate.

Reactions and Next Steps

Following the ultimatum from the journalist organisations, SAFF has yet to issue an official response. However, leaders of the organisations have stated they are awaiting a positive response from SAFF. They have also indicated that if necessary, they will seek support from international sports journalist bodies.

This unified stance by sports journalists has put the region's top football governing body under significant pressure. SAFF's decision within the next 48 hours will determine how the situation unfolds.