STAFF CORRESPONDENT

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman made it clear that the government does not want any innocent journalist to remain in jail, according to Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon.

Tarique had made the remarks during a meeting with the Newspaper Owners’ Association of Bangladesh (Noab), the minister said at a discussion marking World Press Freedom Day at the Tothyo Bhaban auditorium in Dhaka yesterday.

“While talking to [Noab], he [PM] said that we don’t want any journalist to remain in jail without committing a crime,” Swapon said. The meeting took place on April 21.

Swapon also said the government will ensure, in principle and under the law, professional security for all journalists.

Defamation cases and other legal complexities will be brought under institutional management through the Press Council, he said.

He said no individual or institution in the government would dictate terms to or call any media house.

“In our election manifesto and 31-point declaration, the BNP pledged to respect impartial

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