Govt considering Bar Council-style registration for journalists: Info minister

The government is considering amending the Press Council Act, 1974 to introduce minimum educational qualifications for journalists and a registration system similar to that of the Bar Council, Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon said today.

Responding to a question from Hasnat Abdullah MP during the question-and-answer session at the parliament, the minister said the government remains committed to ensuring media independence, professionalism, accountability and responsible journalism.

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"The government does not support unauthorised, unprofessional or unethical activities in the name of mobile journalism," he said.

Swapon said the proposed amendment to the Press Council Act, 1974 aims to make the law more effective. It includes provisions to determine minimum educational qualifications for journalists, introduce a Bar Council-style registration system, impose effective measures including financial penalties for publishing false, harassing and unethical news, and empower the Press Council to investigate and take action on its own initiative in cases involving rumours, fake news, hate speech or reports against the national interest.

He also said training programmes are continuing to improve journalists' professional skills.

"The government has not yet taken any decision on introducing a separate licensing system for mobile journalists; however, the matter may be reviewed in light of changing realities and needs," he added.

Replying to a question from Mohammad Zahirul Islam, the minister said the Ninth Newspaper Wage Board Award had been implemented at the Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS) from the date its gazette was published. However, due to differences between journalists and newspaper owners over income tax payments, the Ninth Wage Board has not been fully enforced. Several writ petitions related to its implementation are currently pending before the High Court.

Responding to a question from reserved-seat MP Selina Sultana, Swapon said the government is considering reviewing and updating policies on advertising in electronic media in line with changing technological environments, the growth of digital broadcasting, the expansion of online and OTT platforms, and the need to align with international standards.

In response to a question from reserved-seat MP Arifa Sultana, he said podcasts, blogging and influencer-based digital content are regulated under existing laws, rules and policies.

He added that the government is examining the formulation of a modern policy framework that balances freedom of expression and public interest with the rapid growth of digital media and technological change. Necessary measures will be taken based on stakeholder feedback.

Replying to a question from Moktar Ali MP, the minister said Bangladesh currently has 3,338 registered newspapers.

Answering a question from Dhaka-18 MP S.M. Jahangir Hossain, Swapon said that if a person aggrieved by a report that violates journalistic ethics files a complaint with the Press Council, and the council finds the accused guilty following a hearing, it issues a verdict of caution, censure or reprimand against the offender.