Dhaka: Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon today asserted that the media is currently enjoying the highest level of freedom in independent Bangladesh. “No restrictions have been imposed on journalists in carrying out their professional duties during the tenure of the current government. Our government has ensured an environment where journalists can work independently. The media has never enjoyed such a level of freedom in independent Bangladesh before,” he stated.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the minister made these remarks while addressing an event marking the 5th founding anniversary of the Sangbadik Surokhha O Kallayan Foundation (Journalists’ Protection and Welfare Foundation) at the Information Bhaban in the capital. Swapon emphasized that the Prime Minister is a firm believer in the complete freedom of the media.
However, Swapon urged caution to prevent the misuse of this freedom, which could lead to yellow journalism or blackmailing. He noted that complaints are regularly received about propaganda and extortion through social media platforms and fake news portals, and stressed that such malpractice must be curbed to protect professional journalists.
Discussing the interplay between politics and journalism, Swapon highlighted that while the primary responsibility of politics is to serve the people, journalists have the duty to scrutinize whether political power is being used for public welfare. He warned that those who have misused journalism in the past to support fascism and other crimes are being identified and will face legal action.
Outlining future plans, the minister revealed that the government is working to develop a modern, transparent, and healthy digital media ecosystem encompassing print, electronic, online, and OTT platforms. The Information Ministry has initiated discussions with newspaper owners, editors, and journalism leaders, and these consultations will be ongoing.
Regarding the protection and welfare of journalists, Swapon advocated for the inclusion of journalism under modern labor and industrial laws to establish a robust institutional foundation for the profession. He also called upon the foundation to uphold the dignity of journalism and ensure the well-being of journalists.
The event was moderated by the organization’s General Secretary Talukder Rumi and attended by Senior Vice-President Abdullah Al Mamun, Vice-President Omar Faruk Jalal, Joint General Secretary Tofayel Ahmed, and journalists from various media outlets.