Bangladesh Federal Union of Journalists (BFUJ) Secretary General Quader Gani Chowdhury declared that no media outlet in the country will be allowed to operate without implementing the wage board. Speaking on Saturday, January 31, at a meeting with journalists at the VIP Lounge of Chattogram Press Club, he said all journalists must receive wage board benefits and announced plans for a nationwide rally in Dhaka to press the demand to the government.

Chowdhury criticized the disparity between journalists in Dhaka and those outside the capital, noting that many regional journalists do not receive wage board payments. He also demanded two weekly holidays for journalists, similar to other professions. During his remarks, he condemned what he described as partisan journalism and interference in press clubs, asserting that press institutions should be run by members’ opinions, not political or government influence.

He emphasized unity among journalists as the only way to protect their rights and dignity, warning against any attempts to control or politicize press organizations.