Staff Reporter :
Information and Broadcasting Adviser Md. Mahfuz Alam on Monday stressed that the mass media must take a firm stand against the spread of rumors and misinformation.
Speaking at a workshop titled “Prevention of Bad Journalism in the Media and Presentation of Objective News” held at the Bangladesh Press Council with members of Dhaka Reporters Unity (DRU), he said the media also needs to work to rebuild public trust.
Mahfuz Alam noted that misinformation is now widespread, saying, “Rumors and false information are being circulated deliberately. The trend intensified during the previous government’s 15-year tenure.” Referring to recent earthquake-related coverage, he said, “Instead of educating the public, some media outlets created unnecessary panic. This is unfortunate.”
He warned that if people lose confidence in the media, it becomes easier for anyone to mislead them, creating instability in the country. Restoring credibility in the media is therefore essential, he said.
The adviser also expressed hope that the media would act responsibly during the upcoming national elections.
Discussing the role of the Bangladesh Press Council, Mahfuz Alam said it serves as a quasi-judicial body, but the previous administration had rendered it ineffective. The present interim government has initiated steps to revitalize the institution, he added.
He said journalists can bring their concerns to the Press Council as part of their professional rights, and urged the Council to exercise its authority effectively within the current legal framework.
The workshop was presided over by Bangladesh Press Council Chairman Justice AKM Abdul Hakim. Information and Broadcasting Secretary Mahbuba Farjana attended as the special guest, while Financial Express Editor Shamsul Haque Zahid and DRU President Abu Saleh Akon also spoke.
Fifty journalists from various media organizations took part in the event, and certificates were distributed after the workshop.
