Gazipur: Bangladesh Federal Union of Journalists (BFUJ) Secretary General and Bangladesh Sammilito Peshajibi Parishad (BSPP) Member Secretary Kader Gani Chowdhury emphasized the role of journalists in portraying the true picture of society. Speaking at an Iftar mahfil organized by the Journalists’ Union of Gazipur (JUG) at the Gazipur Zila Parishad Auditorium, Chowdhury highlighted the media’s role as a societal mirror and its journalists as watchdogs.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Chowdhury stated that journalists must be vocal against social injustices, irregularities, oppression, and deprivation of rights. He urged journalists to work fearlessly and diligently, despite facing threats and challenges. The event was presided over by JUG President Delwar Hossain and attended by notable figures such as BFUJ acting President Obaidur Rahman Shahin and Gazipur Superintendent of Police Dr. Chowdhury Md Jaber Sadek.
Chowdhury noted the decline in courageous and investigative journalism due to insufficient state support. He mentioned that journalists face harassment, intimidation, and oppressive laws, leading to self-censorship and a lack of media independence. He warned that objective journalism is at risk as journalists avoid reporting on sensitive issues due to pressure from influential circles.
He concluded by saying that journalists should not expect rewards for objective journalism, especially as some have shifted towards power-oriented journalism by accepting privileges. Chowdhury expressed concern over the financial transactions involving journalists, which have raised questions about the integrity of journalism. He called for accurate and impartial news reporting, urging journalists to exercise objectivity beyond party influences.