Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan told Parliament that the government does not support unauthorized, unprofessional, or unethical activities under the name of mobile journalism. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring media freedom, professionalism, accountability, and responsible journalism. The minister made these remarks while responding to a parliamentary question on Wednesday.

He said a proposal has been made to amend the 1974 Press Council Act to make the council stronger, more effective, and media-friendly. The proposed amendments include setting minimum educational qualifications for journalists, introducing a registration system similar to the Bar Council, imposing financial penalties for false or unethical reporting, and empowering the council to investigate and act on fake news, hate speech, or content against national interest. The minister also noted that the government is reviewing policies on electronic media advertising and digital content to align with technological changes and international standards.

Swapan added that the government is considering a balanced policy framework for podcasts, blogging, and influencer-based digital content, ensuring harmony between freedom of expression and public interest.