Abdullah: Expressing displeasure over the “unfounded” media narratives on Bangladesh, chief adviser’s press wing said the people of both Bangladesh and India deserve better than to be subjected to fear-mongering and divisive propaganda.  It is imperative that media organisations adhere to ethical journalism, verify facts and refrain from spreading unverified claims that damage bilateral relations, it said.

The CA’s press wing said the recent spate of unfounded stories in certain Indian media outlets, such as The Economic Times, India Today and others, alleging coups or instability within the Bangladesh Army, are not only baseless but also deeply irresponsible. By peddling such narratives, these media outlets not only jeopardise journalistic integrity but also risk inflaming unnecessary tensions between two neighbouring nations, said the press wing.

“We urge these outlets to retract such stories, issue clarifications and recommit to responsible reporting. If creating rifts is the sole purpose of such propagandist outlets, both nations need to unequivocally abhor, dispel and discredit them. Ignoring such propaganda in the plea of free speech is tolerance of radical misinformation,” it said. In a rejoinder shared with the media, the CA’s press wing said such disinformation campaigns undermine the principles of non-interference and severely diminish respect while also eroding the credibility of the media outlets involved.

Bangladesh is a stable, democratic nation with strong institutions, including its armed forces, who have consistently demonstrated professionalism and commitment to protecting national interests, safeguarding the people and the constitution, it said. These sensationalist reports, which are completely devoid of factual evidence, appear to be driven by an agenda that prioritises speculation over truth, harming the spirit of regional cooperation and mutual respect, the rejoinder reads.