'Abuse of media freedom unacceptable'

Prime Minister’s Additional Press Secretary Atikur Rahman Ruman has claimed that the media have been working freely in the country since the incumbent government took office.

At the same time, he said responsibility is equally important alongside media freedom.

He made the remarks at a press conference held at the Prime Minister’s Office on Saturday afternoon to mark five months of the BNP government.

Ruman said there had been no institutional interference in news reporting since the government assumed office.

“The media are working freely, and everyone can see that,” he said, stressing that responsible journalism is essential alongside freedom.

Referring to media coverage of the ongoing movement demanding the education minister’s resignation, the additional press secretary said some digital platforms have further aggravated the situation by disseminating exaggerated and provocative content.

He further said attempts to create confusion by spreading motivated reports, fake photocards and rumours continued despite legal restrictions concerning the banned Awami League and Sheikh Hasina.

Stating that the government believed in media freedom, Ruman said any abuse of that freedom to spread rumours, disinformation or create instability is unacceptable.

He said the government expected all media outlets to continue practising responsible and professional journalism by verifying information.