Dhaka: Information and Broadcasting Adviser Md. Mahfuj Alam today called upon all private television channels to develop and publicly disclose their own code of conduct to enhance transparency and accountability to the public. He made this appeal during a view-exchange meeting with a delegation from the Association of Television Channel Owners (ATCO), held at the ministry's meeting room.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the adviser emphasized that publishing a code of conduct would enable the public to assess whether a channel is adhering to its declared standards, thereby reinforcing accountability. He also noted that the government is consulting with stakeholders to facilitate the digitalization of cable TV networks and has already conducted an initial view-exchange meeting on the subject, with further discussions planned.
The adviser elaborated that the government aims to develop a comprehensive policy on cable TV digitalization, informed by input from various relevant sectors. He also referred to ongoing discussions with the Posts and Telecommunications Division and Bangladesh Satellite Company Limited concerning Television Rating Points (TRP), expressing optimism that a decision would soon be made to enhance transparency and standardization in the TRP system.
ATCO leaders, who were present at the meeting, underscored the immediate necessity for digitalizing cable TV and advocated for establishing a definitive timeline for its implementation. They highlighted the significance of incorporating stakeholders' insights in the formulation of laws or policies related to private TV channels. Furthermore, ATCO representatives stated that private TV channels are currently operating without government interference or pressure.
The meeting was attended by Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting Mahbuba Farjana, ATCO Treasurer Zahir Uddin Mahmud Mamun, and Directors Mostafa Kamal, Abdus Salam, Navidul Haque, and Tipu Alam Milon, among others. Earlier, Adviser Mahfuj Alam briefed journalists on various ministry issues.