DRU concerned over abrupt shutdown of Alokito Bangladesh

Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU) has expressed concern over the sudden closure of the print edition of Bangla daily Alokito Bangladesh and padlocking of the main gate of its office.

On behalf of DRU executive committee, the organization's president Rafiqul Islam Azad and general secretary Riaz Chowdhury made their statements in this regard on Sunday.

Alokito Bangladesh authorities on April 4 shut down the newspaper's print edition without discussing with its employees and journalists (many of them are DRU members), said DRU leaders. According to them, the employees of the newspaper have outstanding wages of three months.

Alokito Bangladesh authorities have said the decision was taken as part of cautionary measures to ensure the health safety of the employees amid Covid-19 outbreak; however, there is no specific mention of when the printing will resume, the journalist leaders pointed out.

Moreover, though the operation of the online edition is supposed to continue there is no directive for reporters on where to send their stories.

DRU leaders asked Alokito Bangladesh authorities to come to a peaceful and immediate solution to the problem, including payment of the due wages.

Otherwise, DRU said it will go on tougher movement to ensure the rights of its members. DRU leaders also warned that the Alokito Bangladesh authorities solely will have to take the responsibilities of any unwanted situations arising as a result of that.