Repeal ‘undemocratic’ media laws
The Editors’ Council has demanded the repeal and amendment of what it called “undemocratic provisions” in existing media laws, saying outdated statutes are restricting press freedom and damaging Bangladesh’s image abroad.
The demand was made at a meeting between Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and members of the Editors’ Council executive committee at the Secretariat on Sunday.
In response, the prime minister directed the information minister to complete a review of the media-related legal framework by June and take visible steps by July.
“The government does not see itself as a regulator of the media, but rather as a facilitator. A strong media is an essential pillar of the state,” the prime minister said.
The council placed particular emphasis on Declaration Form B under the Printing Presses and Publications (Declaration and Registration) Act, 1973.
The provision requires publishers to declare that they will not print anything “contrary to the interests of the Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh.”
The Editors’ Council described the clause as unconstitutional and incompatible with democratic norms, demanding its immediate repeal.
The council said many media-related laws currently in force are outdated and work as structural barriers to press freedom. It also said such laws invite international criticism of Bangladesh’s media environment.
To expedite reform, the council proposed either forming a dedicated Media Commission or significantly strengthening the existing Press Council.
The prime minister’s instruction to the information minister to show measurable progress by July was viewed by the editors as a positive first step, although they said they would closely monitor follow-up actions.
The meeting also discussed the need for a self-regulatory framework within the media industry.
In response, the Editors’ Council said it plans to draft and adopt a formal code of conduct for journalists by July 2026, reflecting the industry’s willingness to balance press freedom with accountability.
The council also raised concerns over cases filed against journalists, saying many such cases appear to be harassment or politically motivated.
The editors said legitimate investigations into credible allegations should continue through proper legal channels, but cases intended to intimidate the press are unacceptable and must be handled transparently through the judicial process.
The prime minister assured them that the issue would be discussed with the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon, State Minister Yasser Khan Choudhury and the prime minister’s Information and Broadcasting Adviser Zahed Ur Rahman attended the meeting.
Editors’ Council President and New Age Editor Nurul Kabir, General Secretary and Banik Barta Editor Dewan Hanif Mahmud, The Daily Star Editor and Publisher Mahfuz Anam, Prothom Alo Editor and Publisher Matiur Rahman, Manabzamin Chief Editor Matiur Rahman Chowdhury, The Financial Express Editor Shamsul Huq Zahid, Inqilab Editor AMM Bahauddin, Suprobhat Bangladesh Editor Rusho Mahmud and Karatoa Editor Mozammel Haque were also present.
