Dhaka: Information and Broadcasting Secretary Mahbuba Farjana today emphasized the strong and enduring relationship between the ministry and the journalist community, reaffirming the ministry's ongoing support for journalists. "The ministry of information always stands by journalists and will continue to do so in the future," she stated.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the statement was made during a cheque distribution ceremony organized by the Journalists Welfare Trust, held at the DFP Auditorium of the Information Building. The event aimed to distribute financial support to the families of deceased, sick, and insolvent journalists. The secretary also stressed the importance of verifying reports before publication to ensure accuracy in news dissemination.
Secretary Mahbuba Farjana highlighted the necessity for journalists to adhere to ethical standards and codes of conduct, stating that following these principles benefits everyone and helps prevent the spread of false or misleading information. She remarked on the current period of transformation, urging that it be managed with patience and prudence, and acknowledged the crucial role journalists play during such times.
The ceremony was presided over by Mohammad Abdullah, Managing Director of the Bangladesh Journalists' Welfare Trust, and featured speeches from several notable figures, including Principal Information Officer Md. Nizamul Kabir, Director General of the Department of Films and Publications Khaleda Begum, and National Press Club General Secretary Ayub Bhuiyan. Other speakers included BFUJ Acting President Obaidur Rahman Shaheen, BFUJ Vice-President Khairul Bashar, PIB Director General Faruk Wasif, Dhaka Union of Journalists General Secretary Khurshid Alam, and Journalist Welfare Trust member Shaheen Hasnat.
During the event, a total of TaKa 1.63 crore was distributed among the families of journalists as financial support, underscoring the ministry's commitment to the welfare of the journalist community.