Crime Reporters Association of Bangladesh (CRAB) on Monday strongly condemned and protested against what it described as objectionable remarks made by Inspector General of Police (IGP) Md Ali Hossain Fakir about journalists, demanding that he withdraw his sweeping comments on their professional integrity and responsibility within 24 hours.
The organisation warned that it would launch a strong, united programme with other journalist organisations if the remarks were not withdrawn within the stipulated time.
At an event in Old Dhaka’s Chawkbazar on Monday, the IGP said, “Journalists write that the police are ineffective when they do not receive money from drug dealers. Such reports are published in various national media outlets.”
In a joint statement on Monday evening, CRAB President Mirza Mehedi Tamal and General Secretary M M Badshah said such comments from a senior official holding the highest position in the police force were undesirable and concerning.
They said ensuring an effective police role in eliminating drugs was essential, while independent journalism also played a crucial role in ensuring accountability for police activities.
If any journalist is accused of taking money from drug dealers, the allegation can be investigated on the basis of specific evidence and legal action can be taken accordingly, the CRAB leaders said.
However, making such allegations against journalists as a whole without any specific evidence does not reflect responsible conduct, they added.
The leaders said journalists were responsible for monitoring the activities of the police and other state institutions, exposing irregularities and corruption, and bringing issues of public interest to the attention of the people.
Portraying journalistic reports or criticism of police effectiveness as a reaction to not receiving money from drug dealers raises questions about the environment for independent journalism, they said.
Such remarks could create negative perceptions of journalists among the public and put them in an embarrassing position while carrying out their professional duties, the statement added.
The CRAB leaders called on the IGP to withdraw the remarks immediately and take a responsible position on the issue.
Otherwise, they warned, the organisation would join hands with other journalist bodies to launch a united programme to protect journalists’ dignity, freedom and professional rights.