Dhaka: Expressing deep concern over misleading reports published by various media outlets regarding recent clashes between police and Inquilab Moncho, Chief Adviser's Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam emphasized the government's expectation of responsible journalism.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Alam highlighted the unprecedented freedom enjoyed by media over the past 18 months, yet criticized their failure to perform basic journalistic checks.
Alam noted that during the clashes on Friday, Abdullah Al Jaber, a longtime associate of Shaheed Sharif Osman Hadi, was injured. He stated that dozens of Inquilab Moncho supporters also received treatment at Dhaka Medical College Hospital. A red-banner post on Jaber's Facebook account claimed he had been shot, using the term "gulibiddha," which implies being hit by live bullets. This post went viral, escalating tensions.
Alam criticized major media houses for treating the Facebook post as fact, spreading misinformation through photocards and headlines. He pointed out that the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) confirmed no shots were fired, as police no longer carry lethal weapons. The Director of Dhaka Medical College Hospital also confirmed that none of the protesters had been shot.
The press secretary stressed the seriousness of news gathering, warning that mistakes could incite violence and chaos. Alam noted that media outlets failed to verify information and amplified misinformation, contributing to an explosive situation. Statements from the Interim Government, DMP, and DMCH eventually helped calm tensions.
Alam recalled a previous incident where inaccurate reporting following an Air Force fighter jet crash fueled violence and confined officials for hours. He warned that yesterday's reckless journalism nearly led to a similar outcome. Alam concluded by urging journalists to reflect on their responsibility, as they often do for governments and powerful individuals.