Dhaka: Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon today announced that the government will adopt a 'zero tolerance' stance against any unethical obstruction or interference in the professional activities of mainstream media personnel. He emphasized that ensuring a fully independent and transparent media environment remains one of the government's primary objectives.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the minister made these remarks in response to reporters' inquiries at his office in the Secretariat. Journalists sought his reaction to a recent incident where mainstream media workers were allegedly attacked by security guards and cleaners while collecting news at a private institution. They demanded justice and protection for media professionals following the incident.
Swapon stated, "I am gathering more detailed information about the incident. However, it is clear that the professional safety of journalists was not ensured within the concerned institution." He underscored the media's responsibility to present all sectors of society transparently to the public, highlighting that both the state and society have a duty to assist journalists in fulfilling this responsibility.
The minister also commended the professionalism of television journalists, noting that there is no room for distorting information in television journalism due to live broadcasts. He mentioned that the Prime Minister has consistently advocated for a culture of accountability and that such incidents will be assessed and evaluated in that context.
Swapon conveyed that editors, media owners, and leaders of journalists' organizations from mainstream news outlets recently met with the Prime Minister. They expressed satisfaction with their ability to carry out professional duties independently, free from government control or pressure.
He assured journalists that following recent political changes, the new government has had to address numerous cases filed due to public anger and protests. However, he emphasized that the Prime Minister has instructed that no mainstream journalist should face harassment or false charges without irrefutable evidence and specific allegations.
"If there is concrete evidence of wrongdoing, the matter will proceed in accordance with the country's existing laws," he added. Swapon expressed gratitude to mainstream media organizations for their positive and responsible role during the government's first 100 days in office and extended his greetings to media professionals and the public on the occasion of the holy Eid-ul-Azha.