London-based journalist Kamal Ahmed has called for changes to the existing system of regulating the media, particularly in the way television channels are controlled. Speaking online at a discussion titled “Restoring Trust in the Media: What Reforms Will Ensure Media Freedom?” held on Saturday afternoon at the International Mother Language Institute in Segunbagicha, Dhaka, he highlighted the need for a reform in the current media supervision system.
Ahmed noted that in the case of television channels, control primarily rests with the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC), which is entirely under government control. According to him, the BTRC operates in accordance with the government’s directives, resulting in media being tightly controlled. He argued that under this system, the media cannot reflect the aspirations and expectations of the general public and therefore, it is imperative to change the existing framework.
He questioned whether the platforms we now refer to as ‘media’ truly serve that role. “Do they follow the slogans written under their mastheads?” he asked.
He also pointed out that the media is being run through compromises and self-regulation. While accountability should primarily be to the readers, viewers, and listeners, he emphasized the need for effective supervision to ensure this accountability. “It cannot be left to the government alone,” he stated.
The discussion, moderated by Saeed Kabir, also featured remarks from Professor Giti Ara Nasreen of the Department of Mass Communication and Journalism at the University of Dhaka and journalist Ashraf Kaiser. Both speakers raised concerns about the accountability and transparency of the media in Bangladesh, and they echoed the call for reforms that would ensure media freedom and empowerment.
The event was organized by Voice for Reform, a citizen platform inspired by reformist thought following popular student and public uprisings.
