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Decency in press photographs

Sunday, 29 July 2007


In the recent days, some published press photographs have been found having lack of consciousness of all concerned. These photographs carry the names of the people whose offense is yet to be proved. Even in cases, those disclose the names of the children who have no involvement with the criminal activities. Such a press photograph was also published recently in many newspapers in which names of the children who are rescued from the traffickers were disclosed by tagging their names with their dresses.
But the question is that is this the right way to make readers aware of persons whoever they are alleged criminals or victims? From ethical point of view, is this acceptable?
It is well know that name of any alleged person should not be disclosed until his or her offense is proved after trail. This practice is maintained in many countries which even do not disclose the names of the criminals after trail from the point of view that they should be given a scope for rehabilitation into the society again.
Practically hardly any media in our country do this kind of practice. It has so far been found that names of the alleged persons were published inside of the reports. But the practice of pointing them out in photographs cannot be welcomed in any conscious society. The authorities concerned should think of this.
Shahinur Chowdhury
Rajarbagh
Dhaka