Dhaka: Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon announced that the government is drafting a policy to provide institutional protection to the media, acknowledging its role as the fourth pillar of a modern democratic state. “The government has been working with topmost priority in formulating policy for ensuring safeguard to the media as like the executive, legislative, and judicial branches,” Swapon stated during his visit to ailing journalist Ismail Hossain Negaban at Bangladesh Medical University Hospital this morning.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the absence of a structured institutional framework has left the media vulnerable to gaps in state protection and support. Swapon emphasized that a free and responsible media serves the interests of both the public and the state. He also outlined government initiatives aimed at improving journalists’ living standards, including efforts through the Journalists’ Welfare Trust and plans to include senior journalists in a pension scheme. “Significant progress has already been made in this regard,” he noted.
Swapon reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring a dignified working environment for journalists, whom he described as part of a highly important and respected profession. He expressed concern over the challenges faced by senior journalists, whose personal hardships demand state attention and support. During the event, Managing Director of the Bangladesh Journalists’ Welfare Trust Basir Jamal and Trustee Board member Khondkar Kawshar Hossain were also present.
The minister showed his support for the ailing journalist by inquiring about his treatment and wishing him a swift recovery. In a gesture of financial assistance, Swapon handed over a cheque of Tk 100,000 to the journalist on behalf of the Journalists’ Welfare Trust.