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DHAKA, July 1, 2026 (BSS) - State Minister for Railways, Road Transport and Highways Habibur Rashid today said there is no alternative to disseminating truthful, verified and objective information for preventing the spread of rumors and misinformation.

"In today's world, information is the greatest source of power,” he said while addressing as special guest the inaugural ceremony of ‘Prantik Kanthaswar.’ the media centre of the Bangladesh Ansar and Village Defence Party (VDP), at its headquarters in city’s Khilgaon area here this morning.

He said that in this era of technology, false or misleading information can cause significant harm to individuals, society and the state. 

Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan attended the function as the chief guest while Director General of the Bangladesh Ansar and Village Defence Party Major General A.M. Sajjad Mahmud presided over the event.

Habibur Rashid said responsible dissemination of information is an urgent necessity in the present time.

"I believe ‘Prantik Kanthaswar’ will serve as a reliable platform for disseminating truthful and verified information. At the same time, it will appropriately highlight the force's achievements, innovations and public welfare activities before the people," he said.

Referring to his experience in the road transport and railway sectors, the state minister said the members of the Bangladesh Ansar and Village Defence Party have been performing their duties with dedication and professionalism in ensuring the security of highways, bridges, key installations and industrial establishments across the country.

He said the force has also played a commendable role during national and local elections, religious festivals, natural disasters and other national emergencies, although many of its significant contributions do not receive adequate public attention.

Habibur Rashid said that if the platform is operated with transparency, accountability and professionalism, it will not only disseminate news about the force but also bring stories of development, potential and the success of people from remote areas to the national stage.

He added that Bangladesh is advancing rapidly on the path of development and progress and responsible media have a crucial role to play in ensuring that the benefits of the country's unprecedented infrastructure development reach the people.