Government Pledges Strong Action Against Misinformation, Says Adviser Zahed

Government Takes Strong Stance Against Media Misinformation, Adviser Warns

The government will implement strict measures against misinformation and disinformation in the media, Prime Minister’s Adviser on Information and Broadcasting Dr. Zahed Ur Rahman announced Tuesday. Speaking at a press conference at the Press Information Department (PID), Rahman made it clear that photocards created with false information will not be tolerated.

“The government will take a strong stance against misinformation and disinformation in the media and will not allow any photocards created using false information,” Rahman stated firmly during the April 28 briefing.

The adviser’s comments came in response to a recent incident involving misrepresentation of his statements about a national canal excavation program. He explained that the government initiative includes plans to restore 1,260 kilometers of canals across the country, with 561 kilometers (44.55%) already completed.

“This means nearly half of the canals under the programme,” Rahman clarified. “However, a photocard was created claiming that I said half of the country’s canals have already been excavated. This was not done by an anonymous source but by a well-known national daily.”

Rahman expressed particular concern that the misinformation came from an established media outlet rather than an individual social media user. He noted that fact-checkers had already identified and debunked the claim as deliberate disinformation.

“We must be serious about misinformation and disinformation. The government will not tolerate this—from any side,” he emphasized. “There is a significant difference between an individual spreading such content and an institution doing so.”

The government’s crackdown on false information comes amid growing concerns about media integrity and the spread of misinformation through traditional and social media channels. Media watchdogs have increasingly highlighted the dangers of fabricated news and manipulated imagery in eroding public trust in institutions.

While taking a firm position against misinformation, Rahman stressed that legitimate criticism of government policies remains not only acceptable but encouraged. “There are many areas where the government can be criticised. Bangladesh is a large and complex country. Even with maximum effort, there will be shortcomings. Genuine criticism is welcome,” he said.

Rahman specifically addressed journalists attending the press conference, urging them to maintain professional standards: “I request you to ensure that journalism remains journalism.”

The adviser reiterated the government’s commitment to accountability, stating that officials want to remain answerable to the media throughout their tenure. “I want to see more criticism of the government in the media—logical and constructive criticism that makes the environment vibrant. But please, no misinformation or disinformation,” he added.

The canal restoration program mentioned by Rahman represents a significant infrastructure initiative aimed at addressing water management issues across Bangladesh. The project’s 44.55% completion rate marks substantial progress in efforts to improve drainage, reduce flooding, and enhance water resources management in a country where water-related challenges remain a persistent concern.

Media experts note that distinguishing between legitimate criticism and deliberate misinformation presents complex challenges for both government regulators and journalists. While protecting the public from false information serves an important purpose, implementation of such policies requires careful consideration to avoid inadvertently restricting press freedom or legitimate political discourse.

As the government moves forward with its stance against media misinformation, the effectiveness of this approach and its impact on press freedom in Bangladesh will likely remain subjects of ongoing public debate.