Today, on May 3, the World Press Freedom Day is being celebrated with the theme \u2018Information is the product of the people\u2019. This year the day is carrying a very important significance. Due to Corona, the media is facing various professional and financial risks. In addition, the widespread misuse of the Digital Security Act has created many obstacles for journalists to perform their professional duties. In fact, this legislation has become one of the main obstacles of free and independent journalism. Although there are many online and offline newspapers, the country’s media has been going through severe criticism in recent times due to various reasons including gender insensitivity and business and political influence.<\/p>\n
Bangladesh is ranked 152nd by Reporters Without Borders in their recently released World Media Freedom Index 2020. In this year\u2019s index, Bangladesh is at the bottom among the neighboring countries. Explaining Bangladesh\u2019s position in the index, it is said that the increased violence against journalists by police and influential people during the coronavirus crisis and lockdown in 2020 is a matter of concern. According to RSF, due to the Digital Security Act, the self-control of journalists in Bangladesh has reached an unprecedented level. Editors want to avoid the risk of closing down prisons or media outlets for good reason.
\nAccording to ASK documentation from national dailies and own sources, , in the last four months (January-April 2021), 91 journalists have been victims of torture and harassment. On the other hand, 122 people have been accused in 65 cases under the Digital Security Act and 45 people have been arrested. In April alone, 74 people were convicted in 46 cases, amongst whom many are journalists. It is often seen that the activists or supporters of the ruling party are filing cases under this legislation. Again, those who are being prosecuted are being arrested quickly; most of the time they are not being granted bail. As a result, they have to go to jail. Allegations of the death of imprisoned writer Mushtaq Ahmed in jail and the torture of a cartoonist Kishore arrested under the Act have exacerbated existing fears and insecurity among journalists, which is seriously affecting their professional responsibilities.<\/p>\n
While it is possible to prevent any rumors, misinformation or propaganda through the dissemination of accurate information to the public during disasters or pandemics, access to information and independent journalism have become difficult in the current context. In this regard, to ensure the freedom of the media, Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK) is demanding immediate amendments to the Digital Security Act following consultations with various parties. At the same time, it is calling for a proper investigation and trial of every incident of harassment of journalists, despite the involvement of influential individuals. In order to protect the rights of the people, free media is essential for the establishment of a democratic, accountable, just and human rights-based state and it is the responsibility of the government to create an environment and structure where the media can perform its professional duties independently.<\/p>\n
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