Govt intensifies fight against online misinfo: Swapon

The government has undertaken a series of nationwide initiatives to prevent rumours and misinformation spread through online media and social networking platforms, Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon said in parliament on Monday, reports UNB.

Replying to a tabled question from ruling party lawmaker Md. Abdul Mannan (Brahmanbaria-5), the minister outlined several measures being implemented to combat disinformation and promote the responsible use of digital platforms.

Swapon said a specialised Rumour Prevention and Fact-Checking Committee has been operating round the clock at the headquarters of the Press Information Department.

Through this committee, the government promptly verifies facts and disseminates official statements and rebuttals to both public and private media outlets whenever misleading or false information circulates on social media.

The minister said regional information offices under the Press Information Department are also closely monitoring online news portals and social media activities in their respective areas.

"These offices work alongside the headquarters to identify and address misinformation at the local level," he said.

To enhance public awareness, he added, the department's Feature Wing regularly prepares special articles and feature reports on combating misinformation, cyber harassment and malicious propaganda. "These awareness materials are published in national dailies and online news portals to educate citizens and encourage responsible digital engagement."