Media plays vital role in strengthening democracy: State minister

State Minister for Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Aninda Islam Amit has said the media has an indispensable role in building a strong foundation for democracy.

Speaking at the inauguration of a three-day training workshop on multimedia, fact-checking and AI organised by the Press Institute Bangladesh (PIB) in Jashore today (20 June), he said, "The beauty of democracy lies in tolerance of differing opinions. The media plays a vital role in strengthening democracy."

Amit said Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and his family have been among the biggest victims of misinformation and propaganda in the past, yet they have chosen not to "seek revenge."

"Instead, he has demonstrated tolerance and restraint," the state minister said.

Amit alleged that under the previous fascist regime, many journalists were forced to publish false reports and urged the media to report facts accurately rather than seeking to please political leaders.

"There is no need to write false stories to please the BNP or me. Publish the truth with accurate information," he said.

The state minister also called for greater cooperation between the administration and the media to build a drug- and crime-free Jashore.

"If I provide the names of those involved in drug trading and other crimes, it might be viewed through a political lens. Therefore, identify the perpetrators through the administration's own intelligence and the eyes of the media. Take action against them," he said.

He urged both the administration and media professionals to work hand in hand to eliminate crimes from society.