PM asks media
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday called upon the media to play a more responsible role in disseminating news and programmes, saying there should be more responsibility alongside freedom.
The newspapers, private television and radio channels have been enjoying maximum freedom, and through this, the people are getting scope for expressing their opinion, she said.
“But sometimes we witness lack of responsibility from some mass-media,” she added.
The premier made the remarks while inaugurating a programme marking four decades of the state-owned Bangladesh Television (BTV).
Hasina said freedom is a matter of enjoyment, but it also creates responsibility. “So all concerned should have that responsibility.”
She also said the media have to be more careful before publishing or airing any news and programmes as people of all ages — from children to elderly — read newspapers and listen to TV news.
Hasina delivered her speech through videoconference from her Gano Bhaban residence in the capital.
Terming her government as media-friendly one, the premier said “My government during its previous term in 1996 first approved the private satellite TV channel.”
After assuming office this time, her government has endorsed 16 new TV channels including Sangsad Television, and seven radio stations that have ensured free flow of information, she added.
Information Minister Hasanul Haque Inu spoke at the function from BTV’s Rampura station, while BTV Director General M Hamid delivered the welcome address at Gano Bhaban.
Prime Minister’s adviser HT Imam and Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad, among others, were present at the function at Gano Bhaban.
Source: The Daily Star
