Journos demand apology for derogatory remarks 

Three journalists’ organisations have condemned Inspector General of Police (IGP) Md Ali Hossain Fakir for alleging that journalists portray police as ineffective when they do not receive money from drug traffickers, demanding that he retract the remarks and issue a public apology.

Speaking at an event in Chawkbazar, Old Dhaka on October 26, the police chief remarked, “When journalists do not receive money from the drug trade, they write that the police are ineffective. Such reports are published in various national media outlets.”

In separate statements, the Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU), Crime Reporters Association of Bangladesh (CRAB) and Law Reporters Forum (LRF) described the comments as irresponsible, offensive and detrimental to independent journalism.

The DRU’s statement, signed by President Abu Saleh Akon and General Secretary Mainul Hasan Sohel, demanded that the IGP retract his remarks and apologise publicly within 24 hours, warning of a rigorous course of action otherwise.

The leaders maintained that reporting on drug trafficking, crime, irregularities and corruption was an integral part of journalists’ professional responsibilities. Sweeping allegations against the journalistic community by a senior state official undermined professional integrity and eroded public trust in the media, they observed.

The CRAB statement, signed by Office Secretary Ismail Hossain Imu, also demanded a retraction within 24 hours. President Mirza Mehedi Tamal and General Secretary M M Badshah warned that the association would coordinate a united response with other journalists’ organisations if the demand remained unmet.

They stressed that effective police action against drug trafficking and independent scrutiny of law enforcement were equally essential to accountability.