Stop extrajudicial killing, enforced disappearance
Speakers tell seminar; urge stronger role of journos
Eminent citizens yesterday expressed concern and frustration over the government's role in dealing recent incidents of abductions and enforced disappearances.
They alleged every ruling government used law enforcers to satisfy their motives, which led the lawmen towards activities like murder and abduction.
The speakers were addressing a seminar organised by ABM Musa-Setara Musa Foundation to mark the 87th birthday of eminent journalist ABM Musa at Jatiya Press Club yesterday.
Stressing that law enforcing agencies should be free of political influence, they also urged journalists to play a braver role against extrajudicial killing, abductions and enforced disappearances.
On this occasion, the foundation also honoured language movement veteran and noted journalist Kamal Lohani with lifetime achievement award.
Former Assistant Editor of daily Samakal Abu Sayeed Khan said abduction, enforced disappearance and extrajudicial killing are sheer violation of human rights.
“The country has a legal way to tackle crime. There is no need to go beyond it but the reality is opposite,” he said in his memorial speech on enforced disappearance at the programme.
He also said that journalists in Bangladesh can no longer work freely as they face aggression from influential groups if they write against them.
Dhaka University (DU) Emeritus Prof Anisuzzaman said, “Abduction and enforced disappearance is a matter of concern now, and it is anti-civilisation.”
“But, we all know that it has been occurring frequently,” he said while speaking as the chief guest. He urged the newsmen to play a stronger role in this regard.
Prof Anisuzzaman recalled ABM Musa as a pioneering journalist who is worth following. He said young newsmen will be benefited if they follow him.
Citing the pressure on journalists, Prothom Alo Joint Editor Sohrab Hasan said journalist are now living in a culture of fear.
Nagarik Oikya Convener Mahmudur Rahman Manna alleged government comes up with excuses and counter allegations when someone is abducted or goes missing.
Lawmaker Shirin Akhter added, “Abduction and murder are bad activities. None can support it or speak on its favour.”