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Information minister calls for proper authority to define journalists
Published : Thursday, 23 July, 2026 at 4:39 PM
Observer Online Report
Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan on Thursday said there should be a proper authority to determine who qualifies as a journalist, stressing that such decisions must be made in line with the Constitution, existing laws and relevant regulations.
The minister made the remarks while addressing the 34th meeting of the Press Accreditation Committee and the inaugural meeting of the newly reconstituted committee at the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting's conference room at the Secretariat in Dhaka.
During the meeting, Swapan urged committee members to ensure that every decision reflects the Constitution, prevailing laws and regulations. He also called for prudence, wisdom and an inclusive approach in decision-making so that the committee's decisions gain broad public acceptance.
He said the government must act not from a partisan political perspective but as a representative elected by the people, with equal responsibility toward all citizens.
Describing the media as a pluralistic space, the minister said coexistence among people with diverse opinions, perspectives and beliefs is essential. He emphasized that the committee should avoid narrow or biased decisions and instead adopt an inclusive approach that accommodates the widest possible range of stakeholders.
Swapan said the true strength of political leadership lies in making acceptable and inclusive decisions, particularly in difficult and sensitive situations.
He also noted that the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting is one of the state's most politically sensitive ministries, warning that even a minor mistake in decision-making could have significant political and social consequences in the future.
The minister urged committee members to look beyond immediate concerns and consider the long-term impact of their decisions, adding that the credibility of the committee would depend on the wisdom, experience and foresight of its members.
The meeting was chaired by Principal Information Officer Syed Abdal Ahmed. Information and Broadcasting Ministry Secretary (Routine Charge) Md Shah Alam, senior ministry officials and members of the Press Accreditation Committee also attended the meeting.
-HIS
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Editor : Iqbal Sobhan Chowdhury
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Published by the Editor on behalf of the Observer Ltd. from Globe Printers, 24/A, New Eskaton Road, Ramna, Dhaka.
Editorial, News and Commercial Offices : Aziz Bhaban (2nd floor), 93, Motijheel C/A, Dhaka-1000.
Phone: PABX- 41053001-06; Advertisement: 41053012; 01793317829, 01550707291, E-mail: [email protected], [email protected] Online: email: [email protected] 41053014; 01550707297 Advertisement: 01550707296
