Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami has reaffirmed its commitment to upholding freedom of speech and protecting journalists' rights, as the nation marks June 16—widely remembered as the "Dark Day of Newspapers." In a statement issued by the party’s Secretary General and former lawmaker Professor Mia Golam Porwar,, Jamaat condemned the repressive media actions of the BAKSAL government in 1975 and promised to defend democratic values if entrusted with state power.
Golam Porwar recalled that on February 24, 1975, the then government formed BAKSAL, effectively ending multi-party democracy in Bangladesh. As part of its authoritarian clampdown, on June 16, 1975, the regime cancelled the publication of all newspapers except four state-controlled outlets—Dainik Bangla, Bangladesh Times, Ittefaq, and Bangladesh Observer. This sweeping censorship left thousands of journalists, employees, and technicians jobless, driving many into poverty and despair.
Calling the day “a tragic milestone in the history of press freedom,” Golam Porwar said the suppression of independent media led to “starvation and half-starvation” for those affected. He stated that democracy was exiled from the country, and the voice of the people was silenced.
“If the people give Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami the opportunity to govern through democratic elections, we will ensure full press freedom, protect journalists’ interests, and promote a constructive media environment,” Golam Porwar pledged.
Highlighting the vital role of media in a democratic society, he referred to newspapers as the “fourth pillar of the state” and urged journalists to remain vigilant, truthful, and responsible. “The people expect the media to call white as white, and black as black—to raise awareness, support development, and defend the nation's sovereignty,” he said.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
