Verify facts before publishing news, says information minister

Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan has said that no news based on speculation should be published without proper fact-checking.

He said that various news and information are now being circulated on social media, including YouTube and other digital platforms, which often create confusion. Therefore, news should always be verified before publication to ensure accuracy.

The minister made the remarks at an exchange of views meeting with journalists at the Pabna Press Club last night (4 April).

He also said that Pabna Press Club has a strong tradition in the country and that its sense of unity could serve as an example nationwide.

He added that the current government is working to bring journalists together and establish press clubs in every district.

The BNP government has already taken steps in this regard, giving high priority to the media.

He further said that the government values constructive criticism from the media and is working accordingly.

The meeting was chaired by Pabna Press Club President Akhtaruzzaman Akhter.

Among others, Pabna Sadar MP Advocate Shamsur Rahman Shimul Biswas; Pabna District BNP Convener Habibur Rahman Habib; former Pabna Press Club presidents Shivjit Nag and ABM Fazlur Rahman; Pabna District Bar Association President Advocate Masud Khandaker; photographer Khaled Hossain Parag; Vice-President SM Alauddin; former editor Utpal Mirza; journalist Rajiur Rahman Rumi; and Dr Naresh Madhu were present.

The programme was moderated by the club's literary and cultural secretary, Yad Ali Mridha Pavel, while General Secretary Zahurul Islam delivered the welcome speech.

Earlier yesterday evening, the Information Minister inaugurated the eight-day Pabna Book Fair at Freedom Fighter Rafiqul Islam Bakul Swadhinata Chattar.