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Nat'l broadcast policy goes to cabinet today

Media professionals hope it won't curb broadcasters' independence

Staff Correspondent
Media professionals and experts are in favour of a national broadcast policy that would not curb broadcasters' independence, but rather help ensure professionalism in both reporting and programmes.
The draft national broadcast policy is expected to be placed at today’s cabinet meeting for approval with proposals for banning broadcast of anything that demeans the armed forces or law enforce-
mentagencies.
The draft also seeks a ban on broadcast of any statement or footage of a government official who can sentence people for criminal offences.
Asked about the proposed bans, Prof AJM Shafiul Alam Bhuiyan, chairperson of Film and Television Studies Department at Dhaka University, said those provisions were nothing new, and they were already mentioned in existing censorship code.
Shafiul Alam, who was involved in formulating the draft, said there would be no restrictions on broadcasting reports on members of the armed forces or law enforcement agencies or government officials if they commit crimes or get involved in illegal activities.
Broadcasters will not be allowed to broadcast news of any mutiny, chaos and violent incidents which may hamper public interests, according to the draft that incorporated objectives and provisions regarding licensing and contents of news, programmes and advertisements.
"The proposed draft has given the authority concerned more power that can be misused. It will be very tough for the media to work independently if such a policy is implemented," said Sanaullah Lablu, chief operating officer of Radio ABC.
He said the draft left out many recommendations that came up during discussions between the government and the stakeholders.
Shykh Siraj, director (news) and general secretary of Association of Television Channel Owners (ATCO), said there should not be any policy which would curb broadcasters' independence.
Referring to the social media, he said none can hold back any information in the era of information technology. He hoped the government would consider all of the ATCO's recommendations about the policy.
Once the draft is approved, an independent broadcast commission will be formed to oversee programmes and recommend applicants for broadcast licence.
The draft policy, however, didn't mention any timeframe for the formation of the commission.
The commission will monitor TV and radio programmes to ensure accountability of the stations and protect public interests. It will also prepare and enforce a guideline for broadcasters.
The country's president will appoint the chairman and members to the commission upon recommendations from a search committee comprising journalists, academicians and development activists.
According to the draft, the broadcasters will have to air government-approved programmes on issues of national interest, and programmes of the president and the prime minister.
The draft policy has come under criticism from the advertising community for being unclear and unreasonable.
The government held a series of consultations and discussions with stakeholders after it moved to formulate a broadcast policy last year.
Ain O Salish Kendra has expressed deep concern, saying the proposed policy might curb the broadcasters' independence.