Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan has said that the government has undertaken various initiatives to develop the media as a strong and technology-driven sector. He noted that the government is working to ensure the highest level of media freedom. “During the election, our party pledged to build a strong and technology-driven media; in line with that goal, the government has already taken multiple steps,” he added.
The minister made these remarks while speaking as the chief guest at a discussion meeting and iftar gathering titled on the significance of the holy month of Ramadan, organized by the Gournadi Press Club at the Gournadi Upazila Parishad auditorium in Barishal.
The Information Minister said that people have lost confidence in Bangladesh Television (BTV). To restore this trust, efforts are underway to ensure the overall development of BTV, along with examining how much autonomy can be granted to the state broadcaster in alignment with government objectives. He emphasized that to make BTV and Bangladesh Betar time-appropriate, it is essential to ensure the free flow of information. He also stressed the need to build technological capacity to protect people from misinformation.
He further stated that there should not be multiple press clubs within the same area. Instead, a single press club should be formed and strengthened as an effective platform. “A press club cannot be strengthened through division. Everyone must come together voluntarily under one press club and continue working collectively,” he said.
Addressing the administration, the minister urged officials to extend cooperation so that press clubs and media outlets can operate freely. He also called for vigilance to ensure that journalists do not face any বাধা while carrying out their responsibilities.
The event was presided over by Gournadi Press Club President Jahurul Islam Jahir. Among others present were Upazila Nirbahi Officer Md. Ibrahim, Assistant Commissioner (Land) Md. Mehedi Hasan, Additional Superintendent of Police Abu Saleh Md. Ansar Uddin, Barishal North District BNP member Mizanur Rahman Khan Mukul, Barishal Press Club President Aminul Islam Khasru, Gournadi Upazila BNP Convener Bir Muktijoddha Syed Sarowar Alam Biplob, along with leaders of journalists’ forums, business leaders, and media professionals.
DBTech/Press Release/EK/OR
