United News of Bangladesh

Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon on Sunday said the government has initiated the process of forming a strong Media Commission aimed at building an independent and responsible media framework in the country. “Regulation does not mean control; rather, the government wants to play the role of a facilitator in ensuring a healthy and normal environment,” the minister said at a discussion, marking the World Press Freedom Day, 2026 at the ministry in the capital. This year’s Bangladesh theme for the observance of the day is: “Independent and Responsible Media: A Key Partner in Establishing a Culture of Accountability.” The minister said the media sector is a vast and complex system and that the government does not want to impose decisions unilaterally. “We will form an advisory committee involving representatives from all sides under the leadership of a widely accepted media expert. Based on the committee’s well-considered recommendations, a permanent Media Commission will be established. We believe this will ensure full freedom and protection for the media,” he said. He said the initiative would be implemented through continued dialogue with the Editors’ Council, journalists’ organisations, media owners and other relevant stakeholders. Reaffirming the government’s commitment to journalists’ professional safety and legal protection, the minister said no journalist would be jailed without committing an offence. “As a matter of policy, the government will ensure professional protection for all journalists under the law. Defamation cases and other legal complexities will be brought under institutional management through the Press Council,” he added. Zahir Uddin said the global media landscape is currently passing through a complex reality where journalists face growing risks in conflict zones while the rapid expansion of digital platforms, social media and artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the nature of information flow. “As a result, new challenges surrounding the media have emerged, and these can no longer be addressed through conventional thinking,” he said. He said the issue of media freedom and responsibility remains highly significant and the government wants to build an independent, strong and responsible media system in the country. The minister said  the government does not believe in interfering in the media and reiterated its commitment to fearless, objective and unbiased journalism. To combat the spread of misinformation and disinformation in the digital era, he emphasised the need for strong fact-checking mechanisms within every media organisation. “No news should be published without verification and institutional mechanisms must be developed for this purpose,” he said. He also noted that the media is not merely a business or industry but a crucial component in maintaining balance within the state and society, adding that the sector would receive necessary policy support and patronage. Speaking at the event, Bangladesh Press Council Chairman Justice A K M Abdul Hakim said efforts are underway to make the Press Council more effective in ensuring journalists’ professional rights and legal protection. “Without media freedom, democracy and the rule of law cannot be established. However, accountability must accompany freedom. Rights are inseparably linked with duties and responsibilities. Ignoring limits and jurisdictions in many cases can create disorder in society. Journalists must maintain high ethical standards and professional discipline,” he said. S M Shamim Reza, professor of the Department of Mass Communication and Journalism at University of Dhaka, presented the keynote paper at the event. Among the speakers at the discussion were Matiur Rahman Chowdhury, president of the Newspapers Owners Association of Bangladesh (NOAB) and Editor-in-Chief of Manabzamin; Abdus Salam, secretary general of  Association of Television Channel Owners (ATCO) and chairman of Ekushey Television; Dewan Hanif Mahmud, general secretary of the Editors’ Council and editor of Bonik Barta and Hasan Hafiz, president of the Jatiya Press Club. Additional Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting Md Shah Alam delivered the welcome speech at the programme. Earlier in the morning, a colourful rally was organised to mark World Press Freedom Day 2026. Senior officials from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and its affiliated departments and agencies joined the rally.    

Ten children died from measles and symptoms consistent with the highly contagious but preventable disease in the country in 24 hours till 8:00am on Sunday, according to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS). Of the new deaths, one was confirmed as measles-related, while the remaining nine were classified as suspected. Of the suspected deaths, highest four were recorded in Dhaka. With this, the total number of confirmed deaths from measles has risen to 50 and suspected deaths to 244 since March 15. According to DGHS data, a total of 1,166 suspected measles cases were recorded in the past 24 hours. Since March 15, the total number of suspected cases has reached 40,491. During this period, 95 new confirmed measles cases were reported, bringing the total number of confirmed infections to 5,313. Since March 15, a total of 27,816 suspected measles patients have been hospitalised, while 24,090 of them have recovered.

A Dhaka court on Sunday sentenced three people to life imprisonment for killing a source of Detective Brach (DB) of police in 1999. Judge of the Dhaka Additional Metropoltian Session Judge Court-4, Mosaddek Minhaz handed down the punishment. The lifers are Habildar Md Billal Hossain, Constable Abdur Rauf and manager of DB Canteen Anwar Hossain. The court also issued warrants for their arrest as all of them were tried in absentia. According to the prosecution, Jalal Ahmed Shafi, a source of DB police, left his Lalmatia residence in Mohammadpur Police Station area at around 3:00am on March 20, 1999, for the DB office with his vehicle license and chequebook. Later police recovered the decomposed body of Jalal from the water tank of the DB office on March 25, 1999. Later, the then sub-inspector of Ramna Police Station, SM Ali Azam Siddique, filed a case in this connection. After identifying the body, Abbas Uddin, son of Jalal, filed another case on April 4, 1999.

A total of 1,23,33,840 sacrificial animals are ready in the country for Qurbani (sacrifice) during Eid-ul-Azha this year, Fisheries and Livestock Minister Mohammed Aminur Rashid said on Sunday. “The total number of animals suitable for sacrifice has been estimated at 1,23,33,840, while the projected demand stands at 10,106,334,” he said while speaking at a press conference held at the Secretariat. As a result, around 22,27,506 animals are likely to remain surplus this year, the minister added. Citing the latest data from the Department of Livestock Services (DLS), he said the available animals include 56,95,878 cattle and buffaloes and 66,32,307 goats and sheep. Besides, there are 5,655 animals of other species, such as camels and dumba (fat-tailed sheep). The total availability of sacrificial animals was 1,24,47,337 during Eid-ul-Azha last year. At that time, it was initially estimated that there could be a surplus of over 20,68,000 animals. However, actual figures showed that 91,36,734 animals were sacrificed, leaving a surplus of around 33.10 lakh. State Minister Sultan Salauddin Tuku, Secretary Md Delwar Hossain, DLS Director General Md Shahzaman Khan were present at the press conference.

Media leaders, editors and rights advocates on Sunday  stressed the urgent need for self-regulation, institutional reform and greater accountability to rebuild public trust in Bangladesh's media. They made the observations at an interactive discussion organised by UNESCO and Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) at Meghomala Auditorium of MIDAS Centre in Dhanmondi, marking the World Press Freedom Day 2026. The event was convened under the theme, "Rebuilding Public Trust: Media Independence and Democratic Accountability in Bangladesh." TIB Executive Director Iftekharuzzaman moderated the programme. Speaking at the event, Iftekharuzzaman said self-regulation is a fundamental and indispensable component of a free and responsible media and self-regulation can only function effectively within a supportive political and governance framework. Without such an environment, he said self-regulation risks becoming a tool for control and surveillance rather than a mechanism for genuine independence. He also expressed concern over existing digital regulations, describing some as draconian and questioning whether they would be used to support or suppress media self-regulation. The media must develop and enforce its own code of conduct in an environment conducive to freedom, he said Iftekharuzzaman further warned that self-regulation can be misused as a slogan to justify political control over the media. When partisan political interests dominate the media landscape, the very concept of self-regulation becomes deeply compromised, he added. Referring to past controversies involving The Daily Star and Prothom Alo, he said those incidents were not solely the result of mob pressure or government failure."There were inspirers and rejoicing institutions within the media sector itself," he said, urging the industry to confront its internal shortcomings and ensure accountability. Kamal Ahmed, Consulting Editor of The Daily Star and head of the Media Reform Commission under the interim government, emphasised that self-regulation is essential to restoring public confidence in the media. "The sooner we establish effective self-regulation, the sooner public trust will return," he said. He called for a comprehensive code of ethics covering newspapers, television, radio and online platforms. Such standards should be enforced by an independent regulatory or facilitative body, ideally a media commission, he said. Kamal also spoke of "malicious actors" who exploit media ownership for personal, financial or political gain. Some individuals invest in media outlets not to serve the public but to conceal wrongdoing or secure unlawful advantages, said Kamal. Such actors must eventually be removed to create a healthier, more disciplined media environment. He added that the government's role should be to provide legal recognition, policy support and institutional backing to media organisations that comply with ethical standards and directives issued by an independent media commission. Reaz Ahmad, Editor of Dhaka Tribune, stressed the importance of establishing autonomous and functional institutions to protect press freedom. He said that even government-affiliated bodies should operate independently with their own budgets. If Bangladesh's existing institutions prove ineffective, he suggested considering successful international models. He also proposed that press councils could be established through initiatives led by the media community itself. World Press Freedom Day, proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 1993, is observed globally to reaffirm press freedom and freedom of expression as essential pillars of democratic governance and sustainable development.

Hasnat Abdullah, chief organiser (Southern region) of the National Citizen Party (NCP) and Cumilla-4 MP, on Sunday accused Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed of effectively admitting to “political hypocrisy” over electoral commitments, while alleging that Law Minister Md Asaduzzaman had repeatedly misled parliament regarding judicial administration. Speaking at a national convention on energy, economy, human rights, reform and referendum organised by his party at Kakrail in the capital, Hasnat Abdullah said the Home Minister had openly conceded in parliament that his party accepted all decisions taken by the interim government solely to secure electoral participation – commitments they now have no intention of honouring. "This is nothing but hypocrisy towards the people of this country." Turning to police reform, he alleged that the government has no genuine interest in restructuring the Police Commission, adding that the force continues to be used as a political instrument, a pattern he said persisted for 17 years. Hasnat Abdullah noted that the minister has concentrated all authority over transfers and promotions within the police force in his own hands. "Police officers are human beings, too. We want their security ensured. Reform is necessary for that, yet the government is paying no heed." On judicial reform, he accused the Law Minister of misleading parliament. While the minister claimed that judicial postings and promotions fall outside his jurisdiction, the NCP leader said the reality on the ground tells a different story. "On paper, it may not be under the Law Minister, but in practice, judicial appointments and promotions flow directly from his hands." Drawing a pointed parallel with the ousted Awami League government, he warned that the current administration is increasingly bent on concentrating power. "Just as Sheikh Hasina kept all authority centralised, this government too wants everything in its own hands. But they are forgetting that even Hasina, at the height of her power, could not survive." Hasnat Abdullah also claimed that voters who backed the BNP now feel deceived, saying the government has already begun betraying public trust and is heading down the path of fascism. He called on supporters to reorganise and vowed that all such attempts would be collectively resisted.  

Prime Minister's Adviser on Policy and Strategy Dr Zahed Ur Rahman on Sunday said the government is committed to fostering a ‘healthy and constructive’ relationship with the media, emphasising that a democratically elected government should never be in conflict with the press. "The Prime Minister also shared this view. We want a healthy media environment where criticism is welcomed," he said at an interactive discussion jointly organised by UNESCO and Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) at  MIDAS Centre in the capital to mark World Press Freedom Day 2026. The event was convened under the theme, "Rebuilding Public Trust: Media Independence and Democratic Accountability in Bangladesh." Dr Zahed encouraged media outlets to continue offering constructive criticism, assuring that the government would carefully consider such inputs in policymaking. TIB Executive Director Iftekharuzzaman moderated the programme. The event was held in two phases. During the inaugural session, Iftekharuzzaman delivered the welcome address and introduced the theme and objectives of the programme. Opening remarks were delivered by Susan Vize, Head of Office and UNESCO Representative to Bangladesh, and Paola Castro Neiderstam, First Secretary for Human Rights, Democracy and Gender Equality at the Embassy of Sweden. The second phase featured an interactive panel discussion and audience dialogue. The panelists included Kamal Ahmed, Consulting Editor of The Daily Star; Fahim Ahmed, Chairman of the Broadcast Journalists Center; senior television journalist Shahnaz Munni; and Reaz Ahmad, Editor of Dhaka Tribune. The discussion was followed by an open floor session where journalists, experts and participants exchanged views on the challenges and prospects of independent journalism in Bangladesh. Addressing the gathering, Zahed said the government has taken seriously the growing problem of cyberbullying, particularly targeting journalists and women. He said the Prime Minister's Office will establish a dedicated cell to monitor cyberbullying. The government is committed to protecting media freedom while tackling digital abuse, he added. Zahed also confirmed that the government would hold discussions with the Media Reform Commission. He stressed the need for self-criticism within the media, observing that prolonged autocratic rule had significantly influenced media culture. Many journalists who entered the profession over the past 15 to 17 years may have developed a different understanding of journalism, contributing to internal challenges, he added. He said media organisations must reassess their understanding, standards and boundaries of journalism. Questioning the current relevance of state-owned broadcasters, Zahed said Bangladesh Television (BTV) and Bangladesh Betar are no longer central sources of news in an era dominated by private media. He said BTV operates on a budget exceeding Tk 300 crore while generating only around Tk 15-16 crore in revenue, making it heavily subsidised. He questioned what BTV currently offers beyond news and suggested that it should focus more on public welfare and national interest. Zahed expressed hope that BTV would be utilised in a manner that genuinely serves the public as a national broadcaster. Emphasising the importance of media literacy, he said such education should begin at the school level, where foundational learning takes place. He observed that media literacy remains particularly weak across South Asia and many other regions, worsening media-related challenges. Zahed underscored the need to distinguish between subjective opinions  including harsh criticism and outright fake news. World Press Freedom Day, proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 1993, is observed globally to reaffirm press freedom and freedom of expression as essential pillars of democratic governance and sustainable development. At a crucial juncture in Bangladesh's ongoing reform process, the organisers said the event aimed to provide a platform for reflection on the role of independent and professional journalism in promoting transparency, countering misinformation and fostering informed democratic participation. The programme brought together government representatives, media professionals, civil society members, academics, development partners and youth to discuss the challenges facing the media and identify practical ways to strengthen media credibility and restore public trust.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Sunday joined the opening ceremony of the Deputy Commissioners' Conference-2026 at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium in the capital. At around 10:20am, he walked from his office at the Secretariat to the auditorium to join the programme, said his Additional Press Secretary Atikur Rahman Rumon. People standing on both sides of the road greeted the Prime Minister, and he responded by waving at them. PM tells youngsters to prepare for future responsibilities through education and sports Deputy commissioners from across the country are participating in the four-day conference, where administrative activities, development plans, and ways to improve public services are expected to be discussed.

Zamil Ahamed Limon, one of the two Bangladeshi doctoral students at the University of South Florida who were murdered in the United States, has started his final journey for home in coffin. An Emirates flight carrying the mortal remains of Limon departed from Orlando International Airport at 8:50pm local time on Saturday. The flight is scheduled to land at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka at 8:40am on Monday. Killings of two Bangladeshi students in US: Limon’s body to arrive on May 4 Seheli Sabrin, Consul General of the Consulate General of Bangladesh in Miami, and Consul Tuing Aye were present at the airport and personally oversaw the repatriation process, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Sunday.

Cultural Affairs Minister Nitai Roy Chowdhury has said that unhealthy cultural practices must be countered through the promotion of healthy culture. He warned that drug abuse has spread across the country, affecting young people, including school and college students. He described it as a planned conspiracy and said the situation requires urgent attention. “In such a situation, no one can remain indifferent. If a locality catches fire, even a temple cannot be saved,” he said. The minister made the remarks while speaking at an event organised by music institution Sur Saptak at the theatre hall of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy on Saturday. He said that just as a weapon is needed to resist an attack, the country’s rich and long-standing cultural heritage is the strongest tool to counter negative influences, according to a PID handout. He added that the Ministry of Cultural Affairs will work to further strengthen cultural activities across the country to address these challenges. The minister also announced that Rabindra Jayanti will be celebrated nationwide on May 8, including at Shilaidaha in Kushtia, while Nazrul Jayanti will be observed across the country on May 25, including in Trishal, Mymensingh. The programme was chaired by Sur Saptak founder and noted musician Ferdous Ara. Among others, State Minister for Cultural Affairs Ali Nawaz Mahmud Khayyam, Agriculture Secretary Rafiqul E Mohamed, UCB Managing Director and CEO Mohammad Mamdudur Rashid, and SMC Managing Director Taslim Uddin Khan were present.