DHAKA, Sept 26, 2024 (BSS)- Speakers at the discussion here today said prominent journalist Ataus Samad always talked against injustice and oppression as he was an symbol of principle and ethical journalism.

Samad was outspoken person for independence of press in his whole life and he did not exercise any power during his professional life, they said at the discussion arranged by Ataus Samad Smriti Parishad marking his 12th death anniversary at Jatiya Press Club.

The celebrated journalist worked for British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) for over 12 years and served in different Bangla and English dailies.  
Senior journalist Rafiqur Rahman presided over the meeting and poet and journalist Shamima Chowdhury conducted it.

Former president of Jatiya Press Club Shawkat Mahmud, Prothom Alo’s joint editor Sohrab Hassan, convener of Jatiyatabadi Journalist forum poet Abu Saleh, Managing Director of the Bangladesh Journalist Welfare Trust Muhammad Abdullah, BFUJ vice-president AKM Mohsin, Jatiyatabadi Muktijoddha Dal president Ishtiaq Aziz Ulfat, acting secretary general of BFUJ Basir Jamal, journalist leader Jahangir Alam Pradhan, among others, took part in the discussion. 

Shawkat Mahmud said journalist Ataus Samad had to perform his duties under tremendous pressure during the Awami League and Ershed regimes.

But, Samad did not bow down to any evil force, rather he told in favor of freedom of journalists. He was always devoted to helpless people.

Sohrab Hassan said Ataus Samad was an educator for journalists. His journalism was based on objectivity and truthfulness.  

M Abdullah said Ataus Samad was a famous journalist and he fought his whole life against fascists.

Abu Saleh said Ataus Samad had played a vital role in the Liberation War and worked for the country.

AKM Mohsin urged the interim government to stop torture and filing of false case against journalists.