Md. Kamal Uddin:
Ahmed Kabir is a well-known name in the media arena of Chittagong. He has been doing journalism with dedication, honesty and professionalism for a long time. While performing his duties as the editor of the national daily Daily Economy, he has taken up the pen against various irregularities, corruption and inconsistencies. Has that pen caused any hindrance to anyone’s interests today? That is the question that is now swirling in the public mind. Invisible conflict of interest behind the allegations Ahmed Kabir has been accused under serious sections in the case filed at Khulshi Police Station. The allegations include extortion, assault and threats to kill. But the information obtained by the investigative team of the Journalists Development Council after conducting an on-site investigation contradicts the details of the charge sheet. The investigation revealed that there is already a local discussion that there are allegations of fraud and forgery against the plaintiff Mohammad Siraj. It is also known that the dispute began over a dispute regarding financial transactions. It is alleged that Ahmed Kabir owed the plaintiff money; To avoid paying the dues and create pressure, a criminal case has been resorted to. Meeting in prison: A journalist’s plea On February 28, a delegation of the Journalists’ Development Council went to the Chittagong prison and met Ahmed Kabir. He said in a firm voice – this case is completely false, motivated and vindictive. He was not a fugitive, he was ready to cooperate in the investigation. Yet he was quickly arrested and sent to prison – which raises questions about the normal legal process. A working editor, who is regularly present at the newspaper office, whose permanent address and professional identity are clear – was a case and arrest made against him in such a strict manner without a preliminary investigation? The answer to this question is now the demand of the hour. The question of freedom of journalism Journalism is not just a profession, it is the conscience of society. If a false case is filed against a journalist, it goes beyond the boundaries of personal harassment and becomes an attack on the freedom of the media. If today an editor can be sent to prison in a motivated case, tomorrow another one will be afraid to speak the truth. This culture of fear is a bad sign for democracy. The role of the police and the expected impartiality have also raised questions about the role of some officers of Khulshi police station in this case. It is alleged that the case was registered and the arrest process was completed quickly through dishonest coordination with the plaintiff.
We believe that there are still honest officers at all levels of the police administration who are not in favor of using the law for personal or group interests. Therefore, the direct intervention of the Honorable Police Commissioner of Chittagong Metropolitan Police, Mr. Hasib Aziz, is the demand of the hour. It is very important to ensure a neutral and transparent re-investigation of this case, to verify the past activities of the plaintiff and the nature of the financial dispute, and to uncover the real truth. Call for Justice Ahmed Kabir is a professional journalist, an active member of the Journalists Development Council, and a responsible voice in the media. The conscious community of society needs to come forward to protect his honor, professional dignity, and personal freedom. If it is proven that the case is false and harassing, legal action must be taken against the filer and those involved, this is the essence of the rule of law. We believe in justice. The truth will come out one day. Ahmed Kabir’s release, restoration of honor, and an impartial investigation are all three demands that are fair and logical in the eyes of the times today. No matter how wide the web of lies is, the light of truth will eventually cut it.