Dhaka: Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan announced the government’s initiative to develop a comprehensive roadmap aimed at ensuring professional dignity, a proper pay structure, and overall security for journalists. He emphasized the need for collaboration with journalist leaders to address these professional challenges effectively.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the minister made these remarks during a views-exchange meeting following an iftar and doa mahfil organized by the Crime Reporters’ Association of Bangladesh (CRAB) at the Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU). He discussed the legal limitations posed by the “Rules of Business” in implementing the wage board and ensuring journalists’ security, suggesting potential reforms to provide lasting solutions.
Swapan highlighted the importance of digital rights, equating them with fundamental needs such as food and healthcare. He stressed the need for digital empowerment and modernization of state media like Bangladesh Television (BTV) and Bangladesh Betar, to ensure comprehensive information access.
Addressing issues of professionalism, he noted complaints about misuse of journalistic identity and proposed future discussions with media owners and unions to address these irregularities. The event, chaired by CRAB President Mirza Mehdi Tamal, featured contributions from other notable journalists and officials.