JU JCD apologizes to journalists over vaccine program row
JU Correspondent
The Jahangirnagar University (JU) Unit of Bangladesh Jatiotabadi Chhatra Dal issued a formal apology to journalists on Monday for actions and remarks following a controversial Jagonews24 report on its suspended Hepatitis-B vaccination program.
The apology was delivered during a 5:30 PM meeting with the Jahangirnagar University Journalists’ Association (JUJA) at its office.
The controversy began after an April 24 Jagonews24 article, titled “Awami MP’s Rehabilitation, Program Suspended Due to Share Distribution Conflict,” claimed internal disputes led to the postponement of the vaccination initiative, originally announced on April 20.
A central Chhatra Dal statement accused journalists of spreading “false information,” followed by reported threats and pressure on the reporter, Saikat Islam.
JU unit Chhatra Dal leaders, including Convener Jahir Mohammad Uddin Babar, Member Secretary Wasim Ahmed Anik, and Joint Convener Shah Mohammad Foysal, expressed regret at the meeting.
Addressing the meeting, Babar said, “We apologize for any misunderstanding that disrupted our cordial ties with journalists. We hope to restore mutual respect and cooperation.”
JUJA President Mehedi Mamun said, “Journalists publish news from the place of professionalism, not as adversaries of anyone. Offensive comments from anyone in response to published news are unexpected and unfortunate. Although belatedly, Chhatra Dal has expressed regret, and we thank them for it. At the same time, we hope that they will always exhibit professional conduct at the organizational level.”
