DUCSU discusses media’s role during July Uprising

Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) organised a seminar on Friday to commemorate the courageous role of the media during the July Uprising, the struggle to publish the truth, and the sacrifices of journalists martyred while performing their duties.

The event, titled "The role of the media in the July Uprising and our martyred journalists", took place at the DUCSU conference room at 11am.

DUCSU Assistant General Secretary Mohiuddin Khan presided over the seminar, while Liberation War and Democratic Movement Secretary Fatima Tasnim Juma moderated the session.

Speakers at the seminar included Shamsi Ara Zaman, mother of martyred journalist Tahir Zaman Priyo, Samakal journalist Rajib Ahmed, Bangladesh Free Press Initiative joint convener Silmi Sadia, Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS) Sub-Editor Tausiful Islam, Daily Agamir Soami journalist Amjad Hossain Hridoy, Dhaka University Journalists Association President Manzoor Hossain Mahi, Daily Ittefaq Multimedia In-charge and Multimedia Reporters Association (MRA) President Fakhrul Islam, and Prothom Alo Reporter Abdullah Al Noman.

Addressing the gathering, the speakers highlighted that journalists carried out their duties under intense pressure, threats, and physical danger to present the truth to the public during the July Uprising. They noted that many media workers sustained injuries while several others sacrificed their lives, marking their contribution as a unique chapter in the history of Bangladeshi journalism.

Shamsi Ara Zaman demanded justice for her son's murder during her address. "I want justice for the murder of my son, Tahir Jaman Priyo. If the July Charter and the necessary reforms to the constitution are not implemented, the aspirations of July cannot be kept alive," she said.

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Journalist Rajib Ahmed stressed the need for self-criticism within the media sector regarding past limitations before and after the movement.

Reconciliation requires acknowledging these mistakes, he said, adding that media houses must learn from past experiences to build a responsible and people-oriented press.

The participants urged authorities to ensure media freedom, protect responsible journalism, and maintain an accurate flow of information during times of crisis. They also demanded effective state initiatives to preserve the memory of the martyred journalists.