BNP Legal Affairs Secretary Barrister Badruddoza Badal today spoke at the annual general meeting (AGM) of Supreme Court Reporters Forum at Dhaka Club. Photo: BSS

DHAKA, June 20, 2026 (BSS) - BNP Legal Affairs Secretary Barrister Badruddoza Badal today said that the present government has never created any obstruction to objective journalism and will not do so in the future.

"This government has never created any obstruction to objective journalism and will not do so in the future. 

During the past 16-17 years, lists were  provided on what print media could publish. In the case of electronic media, there were instructions on whose interviews could be taken, and who could or could not be invited to talk shows. 

Such restrictions on journalists do not exist under this government, and will not exist in the future," he said.

The senior jurist came up with the observations while addressing the annual general meeting (AGM) of Supreme Court Reporters Forum at Dhaka Club here this afternoon.

Presided over by outgoing SRF President Masudur Rahman Rana, the AGM was addressed by International Crimes Tribunal Chief Prosecutor Md Aminul Islam, BNP Legal Affairs Secretary Barrister Badruddoza Badal, Supreme Court Bar Secretary Advocate Mohammad Ali, and senior lawyer Advocate Mohammad Shishir Manir.

Supreme Court Bar Association Secretary Mohammad Ali said that almost every television channel and newspaper now carries one or more Supreme Court-related news items daily.

Journalists have made this coverage acceptable and well-established, he added.

Mohammad Ali also said that during the meeting between the newly-elected committee of Supreme Court Bar Association and Chief Justice, they would certainly raise the issue of allowing journalists' access to the Appellate Division. 

The presence of journalists is essential for ensuring transparency in the judiciary, he added.