Nahid Islam, Advisor for Information and Broadcasting, has urged media professionals to exercise caution in disseminating false news and rumors while fostering constructive criticism. He made this appeal during a meeting with outgoing executive members of the Dhaka Reporters’ Unity (DRU) at the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting on Tuesday (November 26). Senior officials, including Secretary Mahbuba Farzana, were present.
Representing the DRU, attendees included Joint Secretary Mizanur Rahman, Treasurer Zakir Hussain, Organizational Secretary Khalid Saifullah, Office Secretary Rafiq Rafi, Women’s Secretary Mahmuda Dolly, Sports Secretary Mahbubur Rahman, Hospitality Secretary Mohammed Salim Ullah Mezbah, Welfare Secretary Tanvir Ahmed, and Executive Members Habib Rahman, Saeed Shipon, Mohib Ullah Mohib, Rafiq Mridha, and Shariful Islam.
Cybersecurity Laws and Media Reform Commission
Addressing the media, Islam noted progress on cybersecurity laws, stating, “We have already made a decision regarding the Cybersecurity Act. Other laws are under review, and our reform committee will thoroughly evaluate them. Minimizing legal barriers will promote independent journalism.”
He emphasized the government’s commitment to media reforms, highlighting the establishment of an independent Media Reform Commission tasked with consulting stakeholders to present a framework for implementation. “The Commission will work autonomously, and the government will take steps to implement its recommendations after further consultations with stakeholders,” he said.
Call for Unity Among Stakeholders
Islam underscored the collaborative nature of the media ecosystem, saying, “Journalism and media involve diverse stakeholders with conflicting interests. For example, in discussions about the Wage Board, editors, owners, and reporters often represent different sides. We must work together to find common ground.”
On Misreporting and Social Disruption
The Advisor stressed the adverse impact of false reporting and rumors, urging media professionals to prioritize factual reporting to prevent public confusion and societal unrest. “Media must play a responsible role in presenting the truth. Without this commitment, chaos and misinformation can undermine society,” he remarked.
Constructive Criticism Welcomed
Islam welcomed constructive criticism of the government’s work, noting, “We acknowledge our limitations and mistakes. Constructive feedback helps us reflect, improve, and rectify our actions. The government values such input as beneficial.”
Commitment to Truth and Reconciliation
Referring to the media’s accountability, he added, “Over the past 16 years, the role of media should be clear—who stood against public interest and who did not. If mistakes were made, acknowledging them and seeking forgiveness from the people is essential for reconciliation.”
Secretary’s Remarks on Accuracy and Equality
Information Secretary Mahbuba Farzana stressed the importance of verifying information before publication and highlighted the heightened responsibility of the media following anti-discrimination movements. She also assured support for transferring the DRU building lease in DRU’s name, recognizing its critical role in promoting balanced reporting.
The meeting concluded with a collective commitment to strengthen media practices, ensuring truth, accountability, and societal harmony.
