Dhaka, June 26 (V7N) – Legal Advisor Asif Nazrul has said that although lies are being spread against the government and its advisors, no legal action has been taken in response. He made these remarks during a special dialogue organized by the Media Reform Commission at a hotel in the capital on Thursday morning (June 26).

“Terrible lies are being told about the government and about me personally,” said Asif Nazrul. “Not only has no case been filed against those spreading these lies, the government has not even issued a protest. I often face unfair lobbying. When I do not give in to them, the abuse begins. I’m called an Indian agent. I’ve left such rumors to the conscience of the people.”

Highlighting the need for institutional reform, he said, “The most pressing reforms are needed in the judiciary and police. Efforts are underway to improve the judiciary, including the digitalization of courts. Though it’s a time-consuming process, two courts in Dhaka and Chattogram have already been digitized.”

Nazrul acknowledged the prevalence of false and politically motivated cases in the country. “Many people are arrested in false cases. We are working to prevent that. Now, cases are being reviewed and investigated before action is taken. Unfortunately, many false cases are filed to serve personal interests.”

He also addressed concerns over press freedom, stating, “So far, cases have been filed against 266 journalists, but only 15 have been arrested. These are not government-initiated cases. Often, complainants misuse the legal system, and the police have limited options to intervene at the filing stage.”

When asked about the ongoing bail issues of journalists Shakil Ahmed and Farzana Rupa, the Legal Advisor clarified: “The Law Ministry does not interfere in bail decisions. Judges operate independently. Only the court can explain the grounds for denial of bail.”

END/RH/AJ