Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon on Monday said journalism must serve the people and should not function as a propaganda tool for any vested interests.
He made the remarks while addressing the Charge Handover and Farewell Ceremony 2026 of the Jahangirnagar University Journalists' Association (JUJA) held at the Senate Hall of the university, report agencies.
"Journalism is not merely a profession; it is a responsible field that stands for humanity, democracy, and truth," he said, adding that there is a fundamental difference between a propaganda outlet of any corporate entity and a genuine media institution working for the welfare of the people.
The minister emphasised that the people are the owners of the state and the government must remain accountable to them at all times, noting that a free and independent media plays a crucial role in ensuring such accountability.
Highlighting the challenges in the media landscape, he said, the growing influence of corporate interests and the spread of biased narratives pose serious threats to professional journalism, urging journalists to remain vigilant, research-oriented, and committed to truth.
At an another programme at the university, Information minister said films are not merely a source of entertainment but a powerful medium that shapes human perspectives, thoughts and consciousness.
He made the comments while addressing as the chief guest at a two-day festival at the ZahirRaihan Auditorium of of the university, marking the birth anniversary of legendary filmmaker Satyajit Ray.
"Films are not just for entertainment; they are a powerful medium to construct human mindset, worldview and consciousness," he said.
"A creative work be it a film or a book can bring about a profound transformation in human thinking, even a paradigm shift," he added.
The festival was jointly organised by Jahangirnagar University History and Heritage Society and the Indian Council for Cultural Relations.
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