Indian Media and Awami League Spreading Disinformation About Bangladesh, Says Press Secretary

Bangladesh’s government has accused Indian media and the former ruling party of orchestrating a disinformation campaign against the interim administration, raising concerns about cross-border tensions and media ethics.

Speaking at a policy conclave on Monday, Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam claimed that “India is deliberately spreading misinformation and disinformation” about Bangladesh, citing publications from prominent Indian news outlets, including one of India’s most widely read Bengali-language dailies.

“For the first time in 18 months, we have observed Indian media circulating alarming false narratives about Bangladesh,” Alam said at the event hosted by Dhaka International University Journalists’ Association. “No government in our 54-year history has faced such a situation. They spread lies every day, fuel hatred, and even major Indian dailies and television channels are involved.”

The accusations come amid Bangladesh’s political transition following the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League government in August after mass protests. The interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, has been working to establish stability while promising democratic reforms and new elections.

According to Alam, the disinformation campaign presents a “serious threat to our government and democracy” at a critical juncture for Bangladesh. He expressed particular concern about foreign narratives suggesting that religious minorities would face threats even after democracy is restored in the country.

Bangladesh and India have historically maintained close ties, with the Awami League government fostering strong relations with New Delhi during its 15-year rule. The current allegations could signal growing diplomatic tensions between the neighboring countries as Bangladesh charts a new political course.

Media experts at the event highlighted broader challenges facing journalism in the digital era. Dhaka International University Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Zahidul Islam pointed to artificial intelligence as a factor that has “significantly amplified disinformation, leaving the state confused and vulnerable.”

Dr. Sheikh Mohammad Shafiul Islam, who chairs DIU’s Media Studies Department, described misinformation as a “structural crisis reinforced by social media algorithms, political polarization and weak media literacy.” He advocated for comprehensive solutions involving media policy reforms, education initiatives, and critical thinking development.

Daily Protidin Editor Maruf Kamal Khan offered self-reflection on the media’s role, suggesting that Bangladesh’s press had previously failed its responsibility to represent ordinary citizens. “We often talk about the ‘media,’ but for a long time we failed to speak for the common people. Instead, we promoted one side and tried to eliminate the other, which itself contributed to misinformation,” he said.

Khan added that despite the end of what he termed a “fascist system,” the media has not fully transformed its approach, calling for journalism that truly represents public interests.

The allegations come at a time when Bangladesh is navigating complex political terrain. Since the formation of the interim government, the country has been working to address economic challenges, restore public trust in institutions, and prepare for elections that would return the nation to democratic governance.

The event concluded with the presentation of the M I Patwari Best Reporting Awards to four journalists for excellence in reporting for 2025.

Media analysts note that accusations of cross-border disinformation campaigns reflect growing concerns about information warfare in South Asia, where historical rivalries and current geopolitical interests often shape media narratives across national boundaries.