Dhaka: The government has announced the formation of an advisory committee to aid in the establishment of a media commission, as confirmed by leaders of the Editors’ Council following their meeting with Prime Minister Tarique Rahman.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the decision was made during a meeting held at the Cabinet Division’s Public Administration conference room at the Secretariat. The meeting was attended by leaders of the Editors’ Council and the Prime Minister. Editors’ Council President and New Age Editor Nurul Kabir stated that the discussions focused on the current media environment and the laws impacting the sector. The council highlighted the undemocratic elements within existing media regulations and agreed that these issues require reassessment.
Nurul Kabir expressed the necessity of creating a consultative committee with all relevant stakeholders to establish a democratic media framework in Bangladesh. The committee is expected to work through June and produce a final report by July, which will serve as the basis for formulating a new democratic media law. The discussions also addressed various challenges and unhealthy practices prevalent in the media sector, with assurances given to the government of continued engagement as long as democratic conduct is maintained.
Additionally, the rampant misinformation and disinformation on social media and other platforms were noted as damaging to society, including the journalistic community. Nurul Kabir emphasized the importance of collaboration to dismantle barriers obstructing credibility and public trust in the media.
The Daily Star Editor Mahfuz Anam revealed that a list of 282 journalists facing legal challenges, including 94 implicated in murder cases, was presented to the Prime Minister. Although the list may not be exhaustive, it was compiled earnestly. The Prime Minister acknowledged the list and tasked the Information Minister with investigating and initiating appropriate actions.
The meeting also included discussions on strengthening the Press Council, resolving cases against journalists, settling outstanding advertisement dues for newspapers, revising conditions for newspaper declarations, and addressing media freedom and journalists’ safety. Several policy decisions were made to enhance the independence and effectiveness of the Press Council.
The Editors’ Council expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister, noting the absence of obstacles in performing their duties during the government’s initial three months in office. A lunch hosted by the Prime Minister concluded the meeting, followed by a group photograph with the attendees.
The session was attended by prominent media figures, including Editors’ Council President and New Age Editor Nurul Kabir, General Secretary and Banik Barta Editor Dewan Hanif Mahmud, The Daily Star Editor Mahfuz Anam, Prothom Alo Editor Matiur Rahman, and others. Government representatives included Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon, State Minister Yasser Khan Choudhury, and Prime Minister’s Information Adviser Dr. Zahed Ur Rahman.