The government has urged the private television channels to portray the real situation and not to sensationalise any news on violence.
The call was made in a meeting among the representatives of several private TV channels and some senior ministers.
Industries Minister Amir Hossain Amu said trade and businesses are normal despite the ongoing violence.
“Some 50,000 to 60,000 vehicles are plying the roads and highways every day but media is not aware of that,” Amu said.
In reply to a query, the minister said no specific direction was given to the media representatives.
Maasranga TV Managing Director Anjan Chowdhury said after the meeting: ‘’We have agreed not to sensationalise the news on violence and subversive activities in the country…We will not telecast any news that may harm the country’s image.”
Boishakhi TV Chief Editor Monjurul Ahsan Bulbul, Mozammel Babu of Channel 71 and Ahmed Jubayer of Somoy TV were present at the meeting.
Meanwhile, BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia voiced concern over the issue saying it might deprive people of knowing the truth, reports UNB.
“A fresh censorship has been imposed on the media so that people cannot know the facts...In the name of consultation with the TV channel owners, they [ministers] gave them a gentle threat,” said BNP chief’s adviser Shawkat Mahmud after a meeting with her last night.
