The Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU) has expressed deep concern over the decision by Ekhon TV to place four of its journalists on compulsory leave and bar them from entering the newsroom. The statement, issued on Thursday by DRU President Abu Saleh Akon and General Secretary Mainul Hasan Sohel, identified the affected journalists as Md Mujahidul Islam (Shuvo), Mahmud Rakib, Mohammad Azharuzzaman (Azhar Limon), and Belayet Hossain. The first three are permanent members of the DRU.

According to the DRU statement, the action was taken in connection with old Facebook posts by the journalists, which the organization described as an unwarranted measure. The leaders said that punishing journalists for expressing opinions contradicts the principles of media freedom and violates their right to free expression. They welcomed the information minister’s assurance to take action and emphasized that media institutions should uphold journalists’ dignity and professional rights.

The DRU leaders demanded that Ekhon TV immediately reinstate the journalists and withdraw the decision. They warned that if the decision is not reversed, the organization will take necessary steps to protect its members’ interests.