Canceling Press Accreditation Cards in droves: DRU's concerns

Staff reporter:

 Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU) has expressed concern over the cancellation of press accreditation cards. DRU President Syed Shukur Ali Shubo and General Secretary Mohi Uddin expressed concern over this incident in a joint statement on Saturday (November 16).

 In the statement, the leaders said that the Directorate of Information (PID) canceled the accreditation cards of 167 journalists in three rounds. The list includes the names of many professional journalists, who are permanent members of Dhaka Reporters Unity. The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting can cancel or review anyone's accreditation card based on specific complaints and evidence of offences. But canceling the accreditation card without specific allegations and evidence of crime is a hindrance to the freedom of the press.

Urging to refrain from taking such rash steps, the leaders also said that the government should take effective steps to ensure independent journalism. Otherwise independent journalism will become precarious.