RANGPUR, Nov 14, 2024 (BSS) - Managing Director of Bangladesh Journalist Welfare Trust (BJWT) and former President of BFUJ Muhammad Abdullah has said the interim government is working to provide all kinds of protection to professional journalists.
 
"The BJWT will stand by the helpless journalists and their families. There will be no compromise on the issue of transparency and impartiality. Only those who actually deserve the trust's assistance will receive assistance," he said.
 
Abdullah said this while speaking as the chief guest at the BJWT's welfare grant cheques distribution ceremony among journalists from different districts of Rangpur division at the Deputy Commissioner's conference room this afternoon.
 
On the occasion, a views-sharing meeting titled 'Things to be done for the financial security and welfare of journalists' was arranged there with Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Rabiul Faisal in the chair.
 
Journalists' leader Muhammad Abdullah said no more obstacles are being created in independent journalism. A decision has already been taken to repeal the Cyber Security Act.
 
"The obligation of private televisions to broadcast news on BTV has been lifted. Now who will be on TV talk shows and who will not be there is no longer determined," he said.
 
Abdullah said Information Advisor Md Nahid Islam has taken various steps for the welfare of journalists.
 
The BJWT is already working on a new plan to ensure their welfare and financial security. The program of providing scholarships to the children of journalists has started.
 
"The Information Advisor has instructed to bring indigent and senior journalists under the monthly allowance," he said.
 
He also mentioned that those who corrupted journalism and humiliated the journalistic community in the times of fascism will have to face accountability.
 
At the ceremony, donation cheques were handed over to 24 people from different districts of Rangpur division.
 
Rangpur Journalists' Union General Secretary Sarkar Mazharul Mannan moderated the event with Union President Salequzzaman Salek as special guest.
 
Dinajpur Journalists' Union President GM Hiru, Rangpur Sommilito Journalists Samaj Member-secretary journalist Liaqat Ali Badal, former Rangpur Press Club President Mahbub Rahman, Daily Dabanol Editor Mostafa Sarwar Anu, Rangpur Reporters' Club Vice-president Golam Mostafa Ansari, Rangpur Journalists' Union Vice-president Chonchol Mahmud, its Joint General Secretary Rezaul Karim Manik, Rangpur City Press Club former General Secretary Humayun Kabir Manik and Bangladesh Photojournalists' Association, Rangpur President Mominul Islam Ripon, among others, spoke.