Dhaka: Information and Broadcasting Adviser Md. Mahfuz Alam today emphasized the critical role of mass media in combating rumors and misinformation. 'At the same time, people's distrust in the mass media must be removed,' he stated during a workshop on 'Prevention of bad journalism in the media and presentation of objective news' held with members of the Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU) at the Bangladesh Press Council in the city.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the workshop was organized by the Bangladesh Press Council. Mahfuj highlighted the deliberate spread of rumors and misinformation, which he noted has intensified during the 15-year rule of the previous government. He expressed concern over certain media outlets spreading panic rather than fostering public awareness regarding recent earthquakes.
Mahfuz Alam stressed the importance of restoring public trust in the media to prevent misinformation and potential chaos in the country. He urged the media to adopt a responsible approach, especially with the upcoming national elections in mind.
Discussing the Bangladesh Press Council, Mahfuz described it as a quasi-judicial institution that had been rendered ineffective by the former government. However, he noted that the current interim government is working to revitalize the council, thereby enabling journalists to seek recourse from it concerning their rights.
He called upon the Press Council to assert its role within the framework of existing laws. The event was presided over by the Chairman of the Bangladesh Press Council, Justice AKM Abdul Hakim, with Information and Broadcasting Secretary Mahbuba Farjana serving as a special guest.
The workshop also featured remarks from the daily Financial Express Editor Shamsul Haque Zahid and DRU President Abu Saleh Akon, among others. Fifty journalists from various outlets participated in the workshop, which concluded with the distribution of certificates to the participants.