DRU protests defamation case against five journalists

The Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU) has expressed concern and protested the filing of a defamation case against five journalists, including Channel 24 Executive Director Zahirul Alam and Editor Faisal Alam, calling for an impartial and lawful resolution of the case.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, DRU President Abu Saleh Akon and General Secretary Mainul Hasan Sohel expressed the organisation's concern and protest on behalf of its executive committee.

The other journalists named in the case are Rajib Khan, head of multimedia at Channel 24's investigative programme Searchlight; Assignment Editor Maksud Un Nabi; and Chief News Editor Mohammad Abdul Qayyum (Tuhin).

The statement also mentioned Channel 24 Managing Director AK Azad and news reporter Zahid Hossain.

The DRU leaders said anyone aggrieved by a report published or broadcast in the media has the opportunity to seek redress by following existing laws and journalistic principles. However, filing cases against journalists over published reports is concerning for press freedom and the normal functioning of the media, they said.

They described investigative journalism as an important means of ensuring accountability in a democratic society, adding that any complaints about a report should be resolved through the appropriate legal process.

They also said harassment or pressure on journalists while they perform their professional duties is unacceptable.

The DRU leaders demanded an impartial and lawful resolution of the case filed against Faisal Alam and the other journalists concerned. They also urged the relevant authorities to ensure press freedom and the professional safety of journalists.

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Speaking about the case, journalist Faisal Alam said Channel 24 aired a report titled 'Case exists, but no trace of plaintiff or witnesses: Investigation surrounding judge creates a stir' in its regular news bulletin and its 9pm investigative programme Searchlight on 9 October.

Following the broadcast, former Lalmonirhat Joint District and Sessions Judge Mohammad Ariful Islam, who is currently attached to the Law and Justice Division, filed a defamation case against seven journalists, Faisal Alam said.