LGRD and Cooperatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir spoke today at a views-exchange meeting with journalists at the Mirza Ruhul Amin Auditorium in Thakurgaon. Photo: BSS

THAKURGAON, May 29, 2026, (BSS) - LGRD and Cooperatives Minister Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir today called upon journalists to remain united to protect their rights and ensure media freedom. 

“Responsible and objective journalism can play an important role for the welfare of the country and the nation,” he told a views-exchange meeting with journalists at Mirza Ruhul Amin Auditorium here today. 

Noting that journalism is a very challenging profession, Fakhrul, also BNP Secretary General, said there is no scope to belittle journalism. 

Journalists have a huge role in shaping society and the state but irresponsible journalism is harmful to the country and the nation, he mentioned. 

Addressing journalists, he also said that before publishing news, one must take the statement of the accused or opposing party. 

The BNP secretary general said due to lack of unity among journalists, many do not receive fair salaries as per the wage board award. 

Calling for unity instead of division, he said that a new opportunity has been created in the country after the July mass uprising and “we must utilize that opportunity to work for the country and the people”. 

Describing Family Card programme as a groundbreaking initiative, he   hoped it will empower women. 

District BNP President Mirza Faisal Amin, General Secretary Poygam Ali, Municipal BNP President Shariful Islam Sharif, Sadar Upazila BNP President Abdul Hamid, Acting President of Thakurgaon Press Club Lutfor Rahman Mithu, and journalists from various print, electronic and online media outlets of the district were present at the meeting.