Journalism is not merely about chasing news — it is a fight that demands responsibility, courage, and the ability to confront the challenges of the time. Young journalist Tariq Litu has embodied this fight through his relentless work, highlighting the realities of marginalized communities and fearlessly exposing corruption. For this dedication, he has been honored with the “Charon Journalist Ratan Sarker Memorial Award 2024.”
The award was handed over to him on Wednesday (July 30) in a modest ceremony held at the Abdus Salam Hall of the National Press Club in Dhaka. The event was organized by the Bangladesh Mofossol Sangbadik Forum (BMSF). Chairman of the BMSF Trust Board, Ahmed Abu Zafar, presented the award to Tariq Litu.
Prominent attendees at the event stated,
“Tariq Litu is not just a journalist; he is the embodiment of courage, honesty, and accountability in local journalism.”
Currently serving as the News Editor of Liberty News, Tariq Litu has previously worked at several leading Bangladeshi media outlets, including Samakal, Jago News, and Jaijaidin. His reporting has mainly focused on critical issues like corruption, administrative irregularities, environmental destruction, and land grabbing.
Tariq Litu began his journey in journalism while studying at Gopalganj University of Science and Technology, where he founded the university’s first press club in 2016. Later, in his home region of coastal Koyra Upazila in Khulna, he established the “Koyra Journalists’ Forum.” What began as student activism evolved into a professional career marked by dedication, consistency, and relentless effort.
Litu’s journalism has never been event-driven or personality-focused. He has always prioritized investigative reporting. By exposing the crimes of corrupt elites, forest bandits, and land grabbers, he has sparked nationwide conversations. Whether uncovering looting in Koyra or reporting on the sufferings of coastal residents, his work has always centered on the public interest.
This dedication has not come without cost. He has faced threats, physical assaults, and legal harassment, but never backed down. Instead, each obstacle strengthened his resolve to speak the truth.
Beyond journalism, Tariq Litu is also socially active, contributing to climate awareness campaigns, humanitarian aid efforts, disaster preparedness programs, and educational support initiatives in the Khulna coastal region. His work on the challenges of life and livelihood in the Sundarbans-adjacent communities goes beyond the newsroom — he has been physically present on the ground.
In his remarks upon receiving the award, Tariq Litu said, “This award isn’t mine alone — it belongs to the thousands of grassroots journalists across the country who continue to hold their pens amidst adversity. I believe journalism must always stand for truth and justice — no matter the cost.”
He added, “Those of us working in the field need to be given the opportunity to speak the truth. If that happens, both the state and society will benefit.”
LND/SAE
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