State Minister for Information and Broadcasting Yasser Khan Choudhury today called upon all those involved in the film and television industry to remain united and vocal in safeguarding democracy and people's voting rights and preventing the resurgence of fascism in the country.

“Everyone must play a responsible role in protecting democracy and voting rights achieved through a bloodstained mass uprising. If fascism returns, it will undermine the country's democracy and people's rights. It would also amount to betraying the blood of those who sacrificed their lives in the struggle for democracy,” he said.

Yasser was speaking at a views-exchange meeting with representatives of various organisations in the film and television industry at the ministry.

“It is not enough to remain aware individually to prevent resurgence of fascism; people must also raise awareness among others and encourage their participation in this effort,” he observed.

He said democracy and people's voting rights had been established in the country through a mass uprising at the cost of many lives. 

“Preserving these achievements is everyone's responsibility,” he said.
Regarding various demands and problems raised by representatives of the film and television industry, he said the government is working to establish a trust fund for the welfare of artistes, technicians and other professionals in the industry.

He said discussions would be held to decide whether the trust should be established under the Information and Broadcasting Ministry or Cultural Affairs Ministry.

Directors’ Guild Bangladesh President Shahiduzzaman Selim, Actors' Equity Bangladesh President Azad Abul Kalam, Television Playwrights' Association General Secretary Mezbah Uddin Suman and Directors’ Guild Bangladesh General Secretary Faridul Islam spoke at the meeting.