Info Adviser for forming independent media commission

Information and Broadcasting Adviser Nahid Islam said the government is considering forming an independent media commission.

On the first day in charge of the ministry, he said this while exchanging views with journalists at his secretariat office on Sunday (August 18).

“We have primarily thought about forming an independent media commission. We will determine its framework through discussions with journalists. We want to take these initiatives based on feedback from the journalist community,” the advisor said.

When asked about cases being filed allegedly out of personal clash, he said, “We have instructions to ensure that no action is taken against those who were not involved in crimes. If cases are filed, they will be resolved based on clear investigations. The Ministry of Law has been given specific instructions in this regard.”

The adviser also mentioned that the government is considering structural reforms across all ministries to achieve long-term benefits. This includes discussions on revising various laws, addressing journalists’ salaries, and modernising institutions under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

The greatest strength of the media is its impartiality. He expressed concern that similar to the political divide between the Awami League and BNP, the media also appears divided along partisan lines, Nahid said, urging journalists to avoid such divisions and to speak for the people from a neutral standpoint.

Regarding the investigation into the murders of journalists Sagar and Runi, he said, “The government is seeking a swift resolution to the murders. There would be no delay or deception in this matter.”