Journos cannot be forced to reveal sources: HC

Journalists cannot be pressured to reveal the source of information used in their news, the High Court (HC) said in a judgement on Sunday.

If anyone has any complaint about any news, they should go to the Press Council first before filing it to the HC, observed the court.

The HC bench of Justice Md Nazrul Islam Talukder and Justice Kazi Mohammad Izarul Haque Akand made the observation in a 51-page full text of its judgement disposing a petition by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) against a journalist.

The bench gave its verdict on the ACC petition seeking actions against a journalist for a news story published in a national Bangla daily regarding the corruption of a government official.

Deputy Attorney General AKM Amin Uddin Manik said the HC in its verdict said journalists can gather information from anywhere. They can go to government and semi-government offices for information. But they cannot be forced to disclose the sources of their news.

“We have no hesitation in saying that journalists are not bound to disclose the sources of their news. The constitution and the law have ensured their protection,” the court said in its full judgment, referring to the Indian Supreme Court.

It said Article 39 of the constitution ensures freedom of expression. Media is the fourth pillar of the state and an integral part of democracy.

The role of journalists in protecting democracy and the rule of law is undeniable, said the court, adding that the job of the media is to make people aware.

The court said the media can play an important role against the widespread corruption in the country.

However, the HC said, “Yellow journalism is not acceptable and supportable. The media should focus on portraying the true image of the society.”