Yasser Khan Choudhury, State Minister for Information and Broadcasting, has announced that information complexes will be constructed in every district of the country in a phased manner.
He noted that under the current project, construction work has already commenced in 26 districts.
State Minister made these remarks as the chief guest during the foundation stone laying ceremony for the Divisional Information Complex at Shikarilkanda in Mymensingh city on Saturday.
During his speech, the state minister emphasised that the free flow of information will be ensured in accordance with the prime minister’s directives, and media freedom will be upheld.
However, he urged all parties to refrain from disseminating false and fabricated information, expressing specific concern regarding the spread of misinformation on social media.
Addressing the issue of transparency, he warned that no corruption would be tolerated in the construction of these complexes. He stated that stern action would be taken against anyone involved in irregularities or those attempting to exert undue influence over the project.
Minister further mentioned that the complexes would provide dedicated facilities for local journalists, and the government is considering leasing out portions of these buildings as alternatives to dilapidated press clubs.
Information Secretary Mahbuba Farjana also addressed the event, noting that these information complexes will play a vital role in preventing rumours and misinformation while strengthening the connection between journalists and the general public.
The project, which carries an estimated cost of approximately Tk20 crore, is scheduled for completion within 18 months. The modern facility will house various amenities, including offices, a library, an internet cafe, a newsroom, a digital archive, a conference room, a colour lab, and a cineplex.
The ceremony was presided over by the Director General of the Department of Mass Communication, Md Abdul Jalil. Special guests in attendance included the Vice-Chancellor of Bangladesh Agricultural University, AKM Fazlul Haque Bhuiya; Additional Chief Engineer of the Public Works Department, Mohammad Monirul Islam; Project Director Md Moniruzzaman; and Deputy Commissioner Md Saifur Rahman, among other high-ranking officials.
