‘Ensure press freedom and freethinking’
Transparency International Bangladesh has called upon the government to ensure fundamental rights, including the security of journalists and create an amiable ambience for freethinking, freedom of the press and the right to the free flow of information.
They also demanded the abolishment of the Digital Security Act which has been used arbitrarily to muzzle the media to protect the interest of the ruling party.
In a press release issued on the eve of World Press Freedom Day yesterday, TIB Executive Director Dr Iftekharuzzaman said it is the responsibility of the government to ensure that the media can play its role as the fourth pillar of the state.
"Unfortunately, the number of media houses has increased phenomenally but the practice of free and bold journalism has reduced proportionately," observed Iftekharuzzaman.
"The degradation of Bangladesh in the World Press Freedom Day 2022 Index proves how alarmingly press freedom has decreased in our country. According to this reliable research, journalists are made accused in one in every four DSA cases," he said.
TIB believes that the lack of exemplary punishment for the attack on journalists and the fear of DSA have created a fearful environment, entrapping media workers in self-censorship.
TIB also urged the government, media owners and stakeholders to ensure risk allowance for journalists, along with regular salary, health security and an amicable environment to work freely.
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