State Minister for Information and Broadcasting Yeaser Khan Choudhury on Monday said the government has no intention of controlling the media, assuring that the media will continue to function independently in the country.

“We do not want to control the media, we have no intention to control the media, and we will not control the media. Media will remain free,” he said while speaking at a ‘BSRF Dialogue’ organised by the Bangladesh Secretariat Reporters Forum (BSRF) at the Secretariat Media Centre.

Responding to a journalist’s question about ensuring a fear-free environment for journalism, the state minister questioned whether reporters were still afraid, saying the situation had changed compared to the past.

He said the government had already demonstrated in the last two months that it does not intend to interfere in media freedom, adding that media outlets will continue to operate independently. “The Prime Minister’s policy is very clear – media will not be controlled in any form,” he said.

Yeaser Khan said he wants to use his experience in the ministry to contribute positively and sought cooperation, suggestions, and constructive criticism from journalists.

He urged media professionals to point out mistakes in a way that benefits both the media and the people of Bangladesh, stressing the importance of constructive engagement.

The state minister also said the government is not interested in remaining stuck to past issues but aims to move forward, focusing on building a modern and orderly Bangladesh.

He emphasised the need to prevent obscenity and moral degradation in television, online platforms, and other media, saying the government will work to promote ethical standards through the media.

Yeaser Khan called on journalists to help highlight moral values and strengthen ethical messaging through media platforms, adding that the ministry would make sincere efforts in this regard.

The event was chaired by BSRF President Masudul Hoque and moderated by General Secretary Ubaydullah Badal. Chief Information Officer Yakub Ali was also present.