THAKURGAON, May 29, (V7N) — LGRD and Cooperatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir today called on journalists to remain united to protect their rights and ensure media freedom.

“Responsible and objective journalism can play an important role for the welfare of the country and the nation,” he said at a views-exchange meeting with journalists at Mirza Ruhul Amin Auditorium.

Noting that journalism is a very challenging profession, Fakhrul, also BNP Secretary General, said there is no scope to belittle journalism.

Journalists have a huge role in shaping society and the state, but irresponsible journalism is harmful to the country and the nation, he added.

He also told journalists that before publishing news, they must take the statement of the accused or opposing party.

The BNP secretary general said that due to lack of unity among journalists, many do not receive fair salaries under the wage board award.

Calling for unity instead of division, he said a new opportunity has been created in the country after the July mass uprising and “we must utilize that opportunity to work for the country and the people.”

Describing the Family Card programme as a groundbreaking initiative, he said he hoped it will empower women.

District BNP President Mirza Faisal Amin, General Secretary Poygam Ali, Municipal BNP President Shariful Islam Sharif, Sadar Upazila BNP President Abdul Hamid, Acting President of Thakurgaon Press Club Lutfor Rahman Mithu, and journalists from various print, electronic, and online outlets in the district attended the meeting.

END/TKR/RH