Dhaka: Information and Broadcasting Adviser Md. Mahfuj Alam has emphasized that the country’s media should be accountable to the people and must stand for the truth to restore its trust. He addressed this issue while speaking as the chief guest at a function honoring the families of martyred journalists and injured media personnel from the July mass uprising at the DFP auditorium.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam also spoke as a special guest at the event, which was organized by the Bangladesh Journalist Welfare Trust (BJWT) with Managing Director Muhammad Abdullah presiding over the program. The event began with a one-minute silence in memory of the July martyrs, followed by prayers for the eternal peace of their departed souls.
Mahfuj Alam highlighted the importance of press freedom, stating that if the media desires independence, it must also accept accountability. He criticized the media for failing to apologize for past affiliations with dictatorial regimes and assured that no media house has been forced to broadcast anything. He pointed out that some media houses have attempted to undermine the spirit and unity of the mass uprising in recent months.
The adviser shared that the government is working on implementing the 12 points of the Reform Commission, including the Journalist Protection Act and the Ninth Wage Board. Efforts are also underway to train and rehabilitate injured journalists. Broadcasting and online policies are being prepared and will be implemented in the coming months.
Mahfuj Alam criticized the one-sided nature of television journalism during the curfew, noting that footage was repetitively shown, particularly speeches by Hasina. He described the July mass uprising as a potential beginning of a new Bangladesh, emphasizing that such change requires continuous struggle over time.
Shafiqul Alam paid tribute to frontline journalists, noting that July 2024 was both the best and worst period for journalism in Bangladesh. He recalled the sacrifices of journalists like Mehedi Hasan, Taher Zaman, and Abu Taher Md. Turab, while criticizing others who compromised journalistic integrity for power.
He praised the courage of journalists on the ground during the movement, asserting that the revolution was successful due to their efforts. Additional figures from the Information and Broadcasting Ministry and other media organizations also contributed to the discussions at the event.