Irina Bokova, Director-General of UNESCO, today urged an investigation into the killing of broadcast journalist Shantanu Bhowmick, who died during violent political clashes outside Agartala, capital of the northeastern state of Tripura, on 20th September.

"I condemn the killing of Shantanu Bhowmick," said the Director-General. "I trust the authorities will conduct an investigation into this killing and bring its perpetrators to justice. It is essential that journalists be able to keep us informed of events without fearing for their lives."

Shantanu Bhowmick, a reporter for cable television channel Dinraat, was attacked while covering clashes between supporters of rival political factions. Police found the journalist after the violence subsided and took him to hospital where he was pronounced dead.