DHAKA: The government has announced plans to issue more efficient accreditation cards for journalists, aiming to streamline access and enhance media operations. This decision follows discussions with various journalistic bodies and seeks to address recent inconveniences experienced by media personnel regarding entry restrictions at the Secretariat.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam communicated the government’s commitment to improving the accreditation process during a meeting held by the Chief Adviser’s Press Wing. The meeting included representatives from the Bangladesh Federal Union of Journalists, Dhaka Union of Journalists, Dhaka Reporters’ Unity, and the Secretariat journalist association. Alam expressed regret over the limited entry for journalists at the government’s administrative hub, which had sparked concerns within the media community.
During the dialogue, journalist leaders acknowledged the government’s efforts to expedite temporary entry passes for over 200 journalists, which served as an interim solution to the access issues. Alam reiterated the government’s dedication to devising a more journalist-friendly accreditation system, assuring that no media personnel would be adversely affected by the upcoming changes.
In light of the discussions, the attending journalist groups agreed to submit their proposals to enhance the accreditation card system and entry protocols at the Secretariat. Alam emphasized the government’s commitment to upholding press freedom and ensuring the unhindered flow of information, while also prioritizing national security.