Press Secretary Alleges Indian Media, AL Spread Disinformation

Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam speaks at a policy conclave titled ‘Misinformation: Challenges to Governance and Democracy’ at the central auditorium of Dhaka International University on Monday.

Indian media outlets and the ousted Awami League are spreading disinformation about Bangladesh, Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam said on 2 February.

“We have seen newspapers, including some of the most widely read Bengali dailies in India, publishing false information. India is deliberately spreading misinformation and disinformation,” he said at a policy conclave titled ‘Misinformation: Challenges to Governance and Democracy’ held at the central auditorium of Dhaka International University.

The event was organised by the Dhaka International University Journalists’ Association (DIUCA).

Shafiqul Alam said disinformation is being generated from both local and external sources.

“For the first time in 18 months, Indian media has circulated alarming false narratives about Bangladesh. No government in our 54-year history has faced such a situation. Lies are spread daily, fueling hatred, with even major Indian dailies and television channels involved. This poses a serious threat to our government and democracy,” he said.

The Press Secretary added that while the government is working toward smooth democratic transitions and fair elections, a narrative is being promoted abroad suggesting minorities would not be safe even if democracy is restored in Bangladesh.

Daily Protidin Editor Maruf Kamal Khan highlighted the media’s responsibility in countering disinformation.

“We often talk about the media, but for a long time we failed to speak for the common people. Instead, we promoted one side and tried to suppress the other, which contributed to misinformation. Even after the end of the fascist system, we have not fully freed ourselves from that mindset. The media must become the true voice of the people,” he said.

DIU Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr Zahidul Islam noted that the rise of AI has significantly amplified disinformation, leaving the state vulnerable and confused.

Dr Sheikh Mohammad Shafiul Islam, Chairman of DIU’s Media Studies Department, described misinformation as a structural crisis reinforced by social media algorithms, political polarisation, and weak media literacy. He called for a comprehensive approach, including strong media policies, education reforms, and the promotion of critical thinking.

Other speakers at the event included Mahfuzur Rahman, Editor of United News of Bangladesh (UNB), and Fasih Uddin Mahtab, former President of the Bangladesh Secretariat Reporters Forum (BASF).

The programme concluded with the presentation of the M I Patwari Best Reporting Awards to the top four journalists of 2025.