Information and Broadcasting Minister Andaliv Rahman Partha has said that democracy in the country survives because journalists are present. He described journalism as one of the important pillars of democracy.

He made the remarks as the chief guest at the 43rd founding anniversary of the Bangladesh Crime Reporters Association (CRAB), held Wednesday evening at the National Theatre Hall of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy.

Highlighting the risks and challenges faced by crime reporters, the minister said crime journalists work under considerable risk and often have to pay a high price for their profession. He said adequate measures have yet to be developed to ensure sufficient protection for journalists working in Bangladesh.

“I have recently taken charge of this responsibility. I do not know how much I will be able to accomplish, but we have to work through a systematic process,” he said.

Addressing journalists, Andaliv Rahman said, “You will find me by your side whenever you need assistance. You can come and speak to me directly. As someone with a political background, I can easily understand your problems.”

The minister said all 15 departments and organizations under his ministry are important to him and that he has responsibilities toward each of them. He also described it as a major challenge to bring everything back onto the right track after what he characterized as a system that had become corrupted over the past 17 years.

“Building a new structure on an empty plot is easy. But renovating an old and dilapidated building and making it functional again is much more difficult,” he said.

Pledging his support for journalists in any reasonable need, the Information and Broadcasting Minister said, “Whenever you feel it is necessary, contact me. We will work together to solve the problems. The government stands beside you.”

CRAB President Mirza Mehedi Tamal chaired the event, while the organization’s General Secretary M M Badshah moderated it. National Press Club President Hasan Hafiz, former and current CRAB leaders, and crime reporters from various media outlets were also present.