Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon on Friday underscored the importance of responsible, accurate and objective journalism in helping citizens understand state governance and make informed decisions, warning that distorted information can fuel confusion, conflict and social disorder.
Speaking as the chief guest at the Annual General Meeting 2026 and Silver Jubilee celebration of the Law Reporters Forum (LRF) at the Supreme Court Bar Association building, the minister said journalists—particularly those covering the judiciary—carry a special responsibility as the public depends on their reporting to assess the transparency and fairness of the judicial process.
Describing the media as the "fourth pillar of the state", Swapon said citizens' ability to evaluate governance relies largely on objective reporting. Drawing an analogy with a mirror, he said that just as a flawed mirror distorts a person's reflection, journalism that lacks objectivity presents a distorted picture of the state and society, although the truth itself remains unchanged.
Referring to rapid technological advances, the minister said the digital age and artificial intelligence (AI) have created both opportunities and challenges, including the proliferation of convincing fake images, videos and misinformation. He stressed the need to modernise existing legislation to address these emerging threats.
Swapon said the government has already begun work on a new cyber law through a cabinet committee comprising the foreign, home, ICT and information ministers. He said effective legislation would require contributions from law reporters, legal professionals and other experts, urging them to begin preparing recommendations.
He also called on the LRF to play an active role in legal reforms while continuing to uphold truth, accuracy and objectivity in journalism.
The programme was chaired by LRF President Hasan Jabed and moderated by General Secretary Moneruzzaman Mission. Among those present were Attorney General Barrister Md Ruhul Quddus Kajal, BNP Law Affairs Secretary Barrister Badruddoza Badal, legal experts, political leaders and senior journalists.