Dhaka, Dec. 26 -- The heartbeat of an independent and sovereign state is the right of its citizens to speak fearlessly and the freedom of the media.

Journalism is not just a means of disseminating information, but it is also a mirror of power, where the mistakes and shortcomings of the ruler and the inconsistencies of society are reflected.

Critical journalism or constructive criticism is the bulwark of democracy that blocks the path of dictatorship.

But when we look at the history of the last 53 years of Bangladesh, a cruel truth is revealed-the word 'criticism' has repeatedly been considered 'treason' or 'personal enmity' on the soil of this country.

The freedom that was supposed to be enjoyed in this land, achieved through the grea...