Khulna Journalists Condemn Khulna Medical College’s Ban on Photography and Interviews

Authorities at Khulna Medical College Hospital (KMC) have imposed a ban on photography and interviews within the hospital premises. According to the directive, anyone wishing to take photographs or conduct interviews must first obtain written permission from the hospital director. The order has drawn strong objections and condemnation from local journalists.

Various journalist associations in Khulna issued a joint statement denouncing the decision as a “direct interference in press freedom” and “a threat to free, fair, and independent journalism.” The organizations demanded the immediate withdrawal of the order.

In separate statements, the leaders said the directive would not only hinder journalists from performing their professional duties but also obstruct the flow of crucial public-interest information — something that is “completely unacceptable in a democratic society.”

They further stated, “The move to keep a government institution, directly involved in public service, beyond media scrutiny is extremely concerning for a democratic system. The media is not merely a channel of information; it is a powerful tool for protecting public interest. Restricting media freedom in reporting on healthcare, administration, and accountability undermines the people’s constitutional right to information.”

The signatories to the statement include: SM Habib, Convener of the Khulna Chapter of the Professional Journalists’ Protection Forum; Md. Hedayet Hossain Molla, Member Secretary; Mostafa Jamal Poplu, President of Khulna TV Reporters’ Unity; Rakibul Islam Mati, General Secretary; Md. Azizul Islam, President of Khulna TV Camera Journalists’ Association; Md. Shahjalal Molla Milon, General Secretary; Suman Ahmed, President of Khulna Crime Reporters’ Association (KCRA); and Ahmad Musa Ranzu, General Secretary.

The directive, signed by Khulna Medical College Hospital Director Dr. Kazi Md Ainul Islam on October 9, came to public attention on Saturday, October 11.

The official circular stated that some media personnel had been taking photographs of patients inside the hospital without prior permission, which was deemed “undesirable.” It added that such activities were causing “harassment for both patients and doctors” and disrupting normal medical services.

“Khulna Medical College Hospital accommodates around 2,000 patients daily, despite having only 500 beds. The movement of journalists within the hospital premises is hampering regular healthcare services and causing unnecessary delays,” the order noted.

It concluded with a directive stating that “no media personnel shall take photographs or conduct interviews within the indoor or outdoor sections of the hospital without written permission from the Director.”