Chattogram:State Minister for Land and Chattogram Hill Tracts Affairs Barrister Mir Mohammed Helal Uddin today commented on the dangers of false, politically motivated news, stating that it could lead to instability affecting both the government and the public.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the state minister emphasized that such instability poses a threat to the nation's economic progress and democratic journey. He urged journalists to focus on publishing objective, fact-based news. These remarks were made during a discussion titled "Measures for the Welfare of Journalists" at the July Revolution Memorial Hall of the Chattogram Press Club, organized by the Bangladesh Journalists' Welfare Trust and the Chattogram Metropolitan Union of Journalists (CMUJ).
During the event, welfare grants from the Trust were distributed to journalists from the greater Chattogram region. Barrister Helal recalled the contributions of Shaheed President Ziaur Rahman in allocating land for both the National Press Club and the Chattogram Press Club and criticized the removal of a plaque bearing Rahman's name, urging for its preservation with due respect.
Kader Gani Chowdhury, Managing Director and Chief Editor of Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, and Mohammad Abdul Bashir (Bashir Jamal), Managing Director of the Bangladesh Journalists' Welfare Trust, spoke as special guests. The event was attended by CMUJ President Mohammad Shah Nawaz, Chattogram Press Club President Zahidul Karim Kochi, and other notable figures. CMUJ General Secretary Saleh Noman moderated the event.
Addressing the recent garment worker protests in Gazipur, Barrister Helal noted that workers' legitimate demands had been considered, but alleged that elements of fugitive fascist forces were inciting vandalism and anarchy. He urged journalists to verify facts before reporting, highlighting the importance of the ready-made garment sector to Bangladesh's economy. The state minister called for constructive roles from all parties to support the country's overall situation.
He concluded by stressing the importance of media professionals having a voice on public issues while maintaining impartiality.