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State Minister for Information and Broadcasting Mohammad Ali Arafat emphasized the crucial role of journalists in combating falsehoods and promoting a healthy political environment in Bangladesh.
Speaking at the cheque distribution ceremony of the Bangladesh Journalist Welfare Trust (BJWT) at Tathya Bhaban, he urged journalists to stand firm against misinformation and uphold the truth for the nation`s progress on Sunday.
Arafat highlighted the impact of eradicating falsehoods from politics and society, envisioning a positive transformation in the political landscape. He specifically pointed out propaganda efforts by the opposition party BNP against the government, underscoring the need for journalists to counter such narratives with factual reporting.
He drew parallels between Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina`s commitment to press freedom and her father, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman`s advocacy for a free and responsible press.
Jatiya Press Club (JPC) President Farida Yasmin, MP, spoke at the function as the special guest with BJWT Managing Director Shubash Chanda (Badol) in the chair.
The state minister acknowledged the establishment of BJWT as a testament to the government`s journalist-friendly policies, providing financial assistance to journalists facing hardship.
He criticized vested interests for misrepresenting facts, particularly regarding the MoU between Bangladesh and India on regional connectivity.
Arafat clarified that the MoU does not permit the transport of dangerous goods like arms and explosives through the railway network, contrary to opposition claims.
Emphasizing the importance of truthful journalism, Arafat condemned the spread of falsehoods as intellectual corruption that misguides the public. He urged journalists to critique government actions based on facts rather than spreading misinformation. Arafat reiterated the government`s openness to constructive criticism but emphasized the detrimental impact of false narratives on national discourse.
The BJWT ceremony saw the distribution of Taka 2.22 crore among 294 journalists in the latest phase of fiscal year 2023-2024, totaling Taka 6.16 crore distributed among 784 journalists. Principal Information Officer (PIO) Md Shahinoor Miah and Dhaka Union Journalists (DUJ) representative Sohel Haider Chowdhury also shared their perspectives at the event, emphasizing the trust`s role in supporting journalistic integrity and welfare.
In conclusion, Arafat`s address underscored the government`s commitment to supporting a vibrant and truthful media landscape in Bangladesh, urging journalists to uphold their responsibility in promoting transparency and countering falsehoods for the nation`s advancement.
