DRU Voices Concern Over Forced Leave of Four Ekhon TV Journalists
The Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU) has expressed deep concern over the decision to place four journalists of Ekhon TV on mandatory leave and bar them from entering the newsroom following a Facebook post controversy. Among the four, three are permanent members of the DRU.
The journalists sent on compulsory leave are Md. Mujahidul Islam (Shuvo), Mahmud Rakib, Mohammad Azharuzzaman (Azhar Limon), and Belayet Hossain. The first three are permanent members of the organization.
On Thursday, February 19, DRU President Abu Saleh Akon and General Secretary Mainul Hasan Sohel expressed the organization’s concern on behalf of its Executive Committee.
In a statement, the journalist leaders said that the action taken by Ekhon TV authorities against the four journalists over an old post on the social media platform Facebook is undesirable. They noted that punitive measures against journalists for expressing opinions contradict the principles of free media practice and go against the right to freedom of expression. They welcomed the assurance given by the Information Minister to take necessary steps regarding the matter.
DRU leaders emphasized that media organizations should protect the dignity and rights of journalists. They expressed hope that Ekhon TV authorities would resolve the issue in a respectful manner.
President Abu Saleh Akon and General Secretary Mainul Hasan Sohel stated, “We clearly urge the Ekhon TV authorities to immediately reinstate those who have been sent on compulsory leave. Such decisions against journalists are undesirable and unacceptable. The decision must be withdrawn promptly and the concerned journalists reinstated.”
They further warned that otherwise, Dhaka Reporters Unity would take necessary steps to safeguard the interests of its members.
DBTech/DHE/RA/OR
