Dhaka, May 02 (V7N) — On the occasion of World Press Freedom Day, Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami has called for ensuring media freedom and a safe working environment for journalists across the country.

In a statement issued on Saturday night, the party’s Secretary General and former MP Mia Golam Parwar extended greetings and congratulations to journalists, media workers and all concerned.

He described the media as the fourth pillar of the state, saying that an independent, neutral and responsible press plays a vital role in establishing democracy, human rights and justice.

Parwar said there is no alternative to a free media in reflecting the hopes, aspirations, problems and prospects of the people. However, he expressed concern that journalists in Bangladesh are often facing harassment, attacks, legal cases and obstacles in exercising their freedom of expression while performing professional duties.

He emphasized that ensuring the safety of journalists and protecting their right to freely express the truth are essential for building a democratic and welfare-oriented state.

Urging the government to take effective measures, he called for protecting media freedom, ensuring the safety of journalists and maintaining transparency in the flow of information.

At the same time, he stressed that the media must present news responsibly, objectively and ethically.

The statement also expressed hope for building a Bangladesh where the media can operate freely without obstacles in revealing the truth.

END/SMA/AJ