Owners, editors too liable for wage board scam
Staff Reporter :
Kamal Ahmed, the head of the Media Reform Commission, has drawn attention to the shared responsibility of media owners, editors, journalist leaders, and the government in perpetuating corruption linked to the Eighth Wage Board.
Speaking at a meeting with journalists from the Rajshahi division on Tuesday, he highlighted systemic issues within the media industry and called for comprehensive reforms.
Ahmed pointed out that the commission’s forthcoming report aims to provide actionable recommendations that could benefit any future government.
“We are preparing a roadmap that prioritises sustainable media practices and addresses the root causes of corruption,” he said during the meeting held at the district administration’s conference room.
A significant portion of the discussion focused on journalists’ financial security.
Ahmed asserted that independent journalism cannot thrive unless reporters and media professionals are financially stable.
He accused media owners of disproportionately benefiting from the Eighth Wage Board while journalists’ conditions remain stagnant.
“The failure to implement the wage board fairly has allowed media owners to exploit increased advertising rates, while journalist leaders have failed to protect their peers’ interests,” he stated.
Ahmed also proposed setting minimum educational qualifications for journalists to uphold industry standards.
He expressed concerns about the proliferation of media outlets over the past 15 years, often established for political gain rather than genuine demand.
“We must question whether the surge in media outlets aligns with the public’s needs or serves other agendas,” he remarked.
The meeting also saw active participation from journalists across eight districts in the Rajshahi division.
They proposed the formation of a robust press council, the removal of political influence from media operations, and reforms in the Department of Films and Publications (DFP).
Other recommendations included the establishment of a minimum wage for journalists, the implementation of online media policies, and the abolition of restrictive laws that stifle press freedom.
Ahmed’s remarks underscore the urgent need for structural changes in the media landscape.
His critique of the existing system and call for accountability among all stakeholders aim to create a more transparent and equitable media environment.
The commission’s final report, set to be released soon, is expected to address these pressing issues comprehensively.
