The government has again warned media outlets to refrain from publishing news, statements or promotional material concerning former prime minister Sheikh Hasina, described in the report as being in India. At a regular briefing at the Information Department conference room in the Secretariat on August 4, Prime Minister’s Information and Broadcasting Adviser Dr. Zahed Ur Rahman said a court injunction bars promotional reporting about her. He said appropriate action would be taken if the restriction is violated.

Asked about reports that Hasina may deliver a speech on August 5, described as the date of the government’s fall and her departure, Zahed said newspapers had previously been instructed on broadcasting her statements. He said publishing reports that she would speak, or publicizing such a speech, would violate the court ruling and prompt government action.

Zahed said the government is not a court and is responsible for implementing court orders. He said anyone who believes blocking the broadcast of Hasina’s statements is wrong may challenge the ruling in court. Otherwise, he said, all institutions and individuals have a duty to comply with the order.