DRU demands withdrawal of IGP’s statement, apology within 24 hours

Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU) has strongly condemned and protested the statement of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Md Ali Hossain Fakir regarding journalists. The organisation has demanded withdrawal of the statement and public apology within 24 hours. Otherwise, DRU has warned of announcing tough programmes.

On Monday (October 26) at a programme in Chak Bazar of Old Dhaka the IGP said, “If they don’t get money from drugs, journalists are writing that police is ineffective. Such reports are published in various national media.”

Protesting this statement of the IGP, in a statement given on Monday DRU President Abu Saleh Akon and General Secretary Mainul Hasan Sohel have said that such blanket remarks regarding the professionalism and honesty of journalists are contrary to independent journalism. Publishing news about drug trade, crime, irregularities and corruption is part of the professional responsibility of journalists. Giving such a statement while holding a responsible post like IGP is unacceptable.

In the statement the DRU leaders have said that if any police member has an allegation against a journalist, it has to be settled through legal process on the basis of specific information and evidence. Blanket negative remarks can damage the dignity of the journalist community as well as the public’s confidence in the media.

The DRU President and General Secretary have demanded that the IGP immediately withdraw the statement and seek public apology. They have said that if apology is not sought within the next 24 hours, Dhaka Reporters Unity will announce tough programmes to protect independent journalism and the dignity of journalists.