Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in Parliament on Wednesday said action will be taken as per law against the media if they spread untrue information to create confusion among the people.She said this while responding to a tabled starred question from M Tajul Islam (Comilla-9) during the PM’s question-answer hour.
Hasina said it was true that a section of mass-media, taking advantage of the freedom of press in the country, try to create confusion among the people by spreading untrue information.
She said the freedom of press has been established in the country as per Article 39 of the Constitution. This Article also mentions that such freedom will be enjoyed subject to some restrictions.
“So, none of us is above the law. If anyone is engaged in anti-law activities, it will be dealt with as per the laws of the land.”
The Prime Minister said that if anyone is aggrieved by any news, he/she could seek justice under the Bangladesh Press Council Act, 1974.
“Besides, he/she can also seek remedy as per the existing criminal and civil laws of the country.”
Replying to another question from opposition member Lutfur Rahman Kajal (Cox’s Bazar-3) Hasina said the government is waiting for the ADB fund for land acquisition in respect of 128-kilometer Dohazari-Cox’s Bazar rail line that will require Tk 1,852.35 crore. The work is scheduled to be completed in 18 months.
“The government has requested the Asian Development Bank (ADB) for project aid of US$ 350 million,” she said, adding that the land acquisition for the project will begin if ADB provides the fund.
The Prime Minister said that the consulting firm has already started its work for detailed design with updated feasibility of the project under ‘Technical Assistance for Sub-regional Transport Project Preparatory Facility’. (Source: UNB)
