The Editors’ Council has called for the repeal and amendment of what it described as “undemocratic provisions” in existing media laws, demanding full press freedom in Bangladesh. The council also proposed either the formation of a dedicated Media Commission or strengthening the Press Council to ensure effective media reforms.
The demand was raised during a meeting between Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and the executive committee members of the Editors’ Council at the Secretariat on 17 May, according to a press release.
During the discussion, the Editors’ Council said many existing media laws are outdated and act as barriers to press freedom, while also damaging Bangladesh’s international image.
They specifically pointed to the “Form B” declaration requirement under the Printing Presses and Publications (Declaration and Registration) Act, 1973. Under this provision, publishers must declare that they will not publish anything “contrary to the interests of the Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh.”
The Editors’ Council said this clause is inconsistent with the Constitution and carries an undemocratic character, urging its immediate repeal.
They further proposed either the establishment of a dedicated Media Commission or strengthening the Press Council to ensure timely reforms. In response, the Prime Minister instructed the Information Minister to complete a review by June and begin visible steps by July.
The Prime Minister also stressed the importance of a self-regulatory framework for the media. In this context, the Editors’ Council informed the meeting that it plans to prepare and adopt a “Code of Conduct” for journalists by July 2026.
The issue of alleged harassment cases filed against journalists was also discussed. The Editors’ Council said lawful investigation should proceed in credible cases, but warned that “harassment or politically motivated cases” against journalists are unacceptable. They urged that all allegations be handled through proper legal and transparent judicial processes.
The Prime Minister assured that the matter would be discussed with the Home Ministry. He also said the government does not consider itself a regulator of the media but rather a facilitator, adding that a strong media is an essential pillar of the state.
The meeting was attended by Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon, State Minister Yasser Khan Choudhury, and Prime Minister’s Information and Broadcasting Adviser Zahed Ur Rahman.
Members of the Editors’ Council present included President and New Age Editor Nurul Kabir, General Secretary and Banik Barta Editor Dewan Hanif Mahmud, The Daily Star Editor and Publisher Mahfuz Anam, Prothom Alo Editor and Publisher Matiur Rahman, Manabzamin Chief Editor Matiur Rahman Chowdhury, Financial Express Editor Shamsul Huq Zahid, Inqilab Editor A.M.M. Bahauddin, Suprobhat Bangladesh Editor Rusho Mahmud, Mohammad Shariful Alam Chowdhury, Fahima Begum Priya, Romena Akter and Karatoa Editor Mozammel Haque.
