Information Adviser Seeks Resurgence of Vibrant Media in Bangladesh

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Prime Minister’s Information and Broadcasting Advisor Zahed Ur Rahman on Sunday urged media outlets to engage in strong, logical criticism of the government, emphasizing the need to foster a robust and vibrant press in the country. He made the remarks at a discussion meeting in Dhaka’s Dhanmondi, held to observe World Press Freedom Day.

Addressing the gathering, Mr. Rahman stated that a democratically elected government engaging in conflict with the media is ill-advised. He reiterated that the current administration is committed to avoiding any actions that could jeopardize its relationship with the press, aspiring for a truly dynamic media landscape in Bangladesh.

The advisor also recounted being a victim of “fake photocards” circulated on social media, alleging that one such card falsely attributed a statement to him claiming the government was implementing load shedding for public welfare. He described receiving abusive tags when the manipulated image was shared, noting a concerning trend of “misinformation” and “disinformation” spreading through such content, even mirroring tactics seen in some mainstream outlets.

Mr. Rahman further alleged that a mainstream media outlet had misrepresented his statements to create “fake news.” He condemned such practices as unjust, asserting that the government would address them through legal and equitable means, while also calling on the media itself to play a crucial role in countering false narratives.

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Promising swift action on media reforms, the advisor committed to holding a prompt meeting with the Media Reform Commission to discuss and implement feasible measures. He also addressed calls from media personalities and civil society representatives for the release of journalists detained since August 5, confirming that the Prime Minister is personally reviewing the matter, which was raised during a meeting with the Newspaper Owners’ Association of Bangladesh (NOAB).

In a separate development, Mr. Rahman disclosed an initial decision to establish a special cell within the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) to monitor cyber violence against women. This cell will operate in coordination with relevant ministries, and the government intends to adopt a stringent approach to genuine cases of online abuse targeting women.

Turning his attention to state broadcaster Bangladesh Television (BTV), Mr. Rahman highlighted concerns over its financial performance, noting its annual budget exceeds 320 crore Taka while generating only 15 to 16 crore Taka in revenue. He stressed the need for a re-evaluation of BTV in the context of a flourishing private media sector, expressing the government’s aim to transform the broadcaster to genuinely serve public welfare.