A parliamentary panel has called for the history of 1990 and 2024 mass uprisings to be preserved alongside the 1971 Liberation War at Bangladesh Film Archive.
The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Information and Broadcasting Ministry stressed incorporating these pivotal events when archiving nationally important documentaries and historical records.
The emphasis was laid on Tuesday during the committee’s second meeting at the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban, presided over by Committee Chairman Amanullah Aman.
The meeting also reviewed the operations and activities of various departments and agencies under the ministry.
BTV’s role and public accountability
During the session, the committee highlighted the need to consider the social impact of Bangladesh Television’s (BTV) programmes and news broadcasts.
It noted that BTV’s purpose is not to transform into a commercial television channel, but to function as a media institution accountable to the state and society.
Consequently, the committee stressed the necessity of clearly defining the institution’s goals and objectives.
The meeting further said news must be broadcast with a full understanding of its significance, giving priority to relevance. It also emphasised producing and broadcasting programmes that carry acceptability among the public.
Discussions were held on presenting a comprehensive list, complete with names and designations, of officers sent on compulsory retirement or deprived of promotions over the last 17 years across departments and agencies under the ministry at the next meeting.
A list of programmes and activities cancelled during the same 17-year period will also be submitted at the next session.
Transparency, inspections, and Durga Puja
The committee underscored the importance of ensuring transparency and accountability in all activities under the ministry.
In addition, a decision was taken to inspect the facilities of Bangladesh Television (BTV) and Bangladesh Film Development Corporation (BFDC).
In view of the upcoming Durga Puja, the meeting recommended that all present extend full cooperation and play an active role so that members of the Hindu community can celebrate their religious festival smoothly and freely.
At the outset of the meeting, the minutes of the committee’s first meeting were confirmed subject to amendments.
Committee members including Information and Broadcasting Minister Andaleeve Rahman, State Minister Yasser Khan Choudhury, among others attended the meeting.
