CHARGHAT (RAJSHAHI), March 5, (V7N) — Abu Said Chand, the Member of Parliament for the Rajshahi-6 (Charghat-Bagha) constituency, has called upon journalists to exercise full independence in their reporting, even if it means criticizing him or his political party. Speaking as the chief guest at a reception hosted by the Charghat Press Club on Wednesday afternoon, the MP emphasized that freedom of expression is central to the country's current path of reform.
MP Chand noted that media autonomy had been severely curtailed in the past, but asserted that the current administration, led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, envisions a landscape where journalists work without fear.
Key Directives to the Media
Accountability: "If there is any mistake by me or my party, you should write it down. Only then will we be able to perform our duties properly," the MP stated. He urged reporters to fearlessly expose any irregularities involving himself or his local activists.
Investigative Integrity: Regarding the recent murder of a Ward BNP President in Charghat’s Sipaipara, MP Chand specifically requested journalists to talk directly to eyewitnesses and the victim's family to uncover the "real truth," stressing that he does not want any innocent person to be framed.
Social Evils: The MP declared a "war on drugs" and illegal pond digging, instructing local administration to take strict action regardless of the perpetrator's political influence.
Commitment to Local Development
During the event, MP Chand promised his full support for the construction of a dedicated building for the Charghat Press Club, aiming to provide a stable professional hub for local media personnel.
The program was presided over by Charghat Press Club President Nazrul Islam Bachchu and moderated by General Secretary Mizanur Rahman. Other senior local BNP and Jubo Dal leaders also addressed the gathering, echoing the call for a peaceful, injustice-free township.
The MP’s remarks come at a time when the interim government is reviewing several digital and media-related laws to ensure they align with international standards of press freedom.
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