Media Commission for Journalism Protection Law

Media Reform Commission chief Kamal Ahmed on Saturday recommended for a Journalism Protection Law, backed by a draft ordinance submitted to the government. 

Speaking at a press briefing outside the State Guest House Jamuna after presenting the commission’s report to Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, Ahmed stressed the need to shield journalists from threats and harassment.  

“For objective journalism, safety is essential,” Kamal Ahmed said, citing physical attacks and legal pressures that stifle independent reporting. The proposed law aims to ensure state protection for journalists. 

Ineffective Press Council

The commission also criticised the Press Council as “ineffective,” proposing its merger into a new National Permanent Media Commission to oversee all media—newspapers, TV, and online—while addressing public grievances over false reporting.  

Kamal Ahmed noted the Press Council’s limited scope, outdated since 2014 plans for a broader broadcasting commission stalled. The new body, he said, would safeguard journalists’ rights and offer redress for media errors.