Editor’s Council urges PM to abolish repressive media laws

The Executive Committee of the Editors’ Council has called for the repeal and amendment of what it described as “undemocratic” provisions in media-related laws during a meeting with Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Sunday.

The meeting took place at the Cabinet Division conference room at the Secretariat, where members of the Editors’ Council raised concerns over restrictions on press freedom and the need for responsible journalism, said a press release.

The council said several existing media laws are outdated and create obstacles to press freedom. It specifically objected to a declaration required for newspaper publication under the Printing Presses and Publications Act of 1973, arguing that it contradicts constitutional principles and contains undemocratic provisions.

The Editors’ Council also proposed the formation of a Media Commission or strengthening of the Press Council to reform the media sector. The prime minister reportedly directed the information ministry to complete reviews by June and take visible steps by July.

Council members additionally raised concerns about what they described as harassment cases filed against journalists. They stressed that while allegations against journalists should be investigated through proper legal procedures, politically motivated or harassment-based cases should not be accepted.

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Editors’ Council leaders call on PM

The prime minister assured the delegation that he would discuss the matter with the home ministry and said the government wanted to act as a supporter rather than a controller of the media. He also emphasised the importance of strong media institutions in the state.

The meeting was attended by Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon and State Minister Yasser Khan Choudhury.

Editors’ Council President and New Age Editor Nurul Kabir, General Secretary and Bonik Barta Editor Dewan Hanif Mahmud, The Daily Star Editor Mahfuz Anam, Manab Zamin Editor Matiur Rahman Chowdhury, Prothom Alo Editor Matiur Rahman, The Financial Express Editor Shamsul Huq Zahid, Dainik Inqilab Editor AMM Bahauddin, Suprobhat Bangladesh Editor Rusho Mahmud, and Dainik Karatoa Editor Mozammel Hoque were present at the meeting.