Journos linked with fascists, supported genocide, to be brought to book: Nahid

Journalists who were directly associated with the fascist government, as well as worked as instigators and supported the genocide, will be brought to book, Adviser Nahid Islam said today (13 October).

"[But] If any journalist or their family feels they are being harassed because of any wrongful cases filed against them, they can contact the government for assistance," he said while distributing aid to the injured admitted in Dhaka Medical College Hospital.

He also said, "A committee has been formed in the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to investigate if any wrongful cases are being filed."

Adviser Asif Mahmud and the hospital's Director Brigadier General Md Asaduzzaman, were present at the time.

They handed over cheques amounting to Tk1 lakh to family members of 30 individuals who were injured during the July protests. The aid was provided by the July Shaheed Smriti Foundation. 

About treatment abroad for the injured, Nahid said necessary measures will be taken as per the advice of doctors.

He also said they will bear the expenses for those who received treatment in different places before coming to the DMCH.

On cases against the injured protesters, the adviser said a legal team is working in this regard, adding, "We will hold trial in the Special Tribunal."

Referring to those martyred and injured during the mass uprising as heroes of the country, he said, "Let's recognise their sacrifice . . . we're requesting that we don't divide the martyrs and the injured by any party or banner. We shouldn't use them for our own political interests."

An injured named Jamal Hussain requested the adviser to arrange monthly allowance for the elderly and employment for the youth. 

Regarding cases being filed against protesters in different places, Adviser Asif said the Ministry of Home Affairs will soon taken necessary measures in this regard.

Any police personnel involved in killing protesters wouldn't be spared, he added.

Both advisers inquired about the current condition of the injured taking treatment in the hospital and assured providing them necessary support.

So far, over Tk1.71 crore has been distributed to 176 individuals.

July Shaheed Smriti Foundation Secretary Mir Mahbubur Rahman Snigdha, the foundation's general secretary, said 33 individuals at the National Institute of Ophthalmology received Tk33 lakh, while 59 individuals treated at the National Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedic Rehabilitation (Nitor) received Tk5,931,300.

"This is not the end. This support will continue."

He also said a helpline number and website have been launched for the victims. The number 16000 can be reached from 10am to 6pm to report problems or seek assistance.