Shujan concerned over interference with freedom of expression

Shushashoner Jonno Nagorik (SHUJAN) has expressed deep concern over the private television channel Ekhon TV issuing show cause notices to four journalists.

In a statement on Friday, the organization said that Ekhon TV has issued show cause notices to four journalists for expressing their opinions on social media in favour of reforms and referendum. It is also alleged that they have been forced to go on a seven-day work stoppage. The statement also mentioned that steps have been taken to prevent them from entering the office by providing their photos to security personnel.

Questioning whether the TV authorities can impose any kind of 'control' on the freedom of expression of working journalists, Shujan said that the show cause letter mentions the Facebook posts of the journalists concerned. It has also been ordered to delete the posts; otherwise, the TV and journalists may face problems, the notice states.

Shujan called on the owners and editors of Ekhon TV to immediately clarify their position and policies on the matter. At the same time, the organization has sought the intervention of all concerned, including the Ministry of Information, to ensure access to the newsroom of the four journalists, seeking a quick and rational solution.