Unleashing the current state of Mass media in Bangladesh

Introduction

In the dynamic tapestry of Bangladesh's media landscape, the role of mass communication stands as a powerful force, intricately woven into the fabric of societal progress, cultural identity, and information dissemination. The current state of mass media in Bangladesh unveils a compelling narrative of evolution, where traditional and modern mediums converge to shape public discourse and influence the collective consciousness of a nation on the rise.

As Bangladesh navigates the complexities of a rapidly changing globalized world, the role of mass media becomes increasingly pivotal. From the traditional avenues of print and broadcast to the expansive realms of digital platforms, mass communication serves as a bridge that connects diverse communities, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries.

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This exploration aims to delve into the multifaceted dimensions of mass media in Bangladesh, shedding light on its influence on public opinion, cultural dynamics, and socio-economic development. As the nation embraces technological advancements and witnesses a surge in media accessibility, understanding the current state of mass communication becomes imperative for deciphering its impact on the collective psyche of the Bangladeshi populace.

Through an examination of the present landscape, we embark on a journey to unleash the intricate interplay between media, society, and cultural identity in Bangladesh. This exploration not only seeks to dissect the mechanics of information dissemination but also endeavors to capture the essence of how mass media contributes to shaping the narrative of a nation in flux.

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Evolution and Challenges: The Bangladeshi Media Post-1990

After 1990, in a changed global economic and political situation, the scenario of Bangladeshi media was also changed as consistent with global and regional media scenarios. Globalization demands market liberalization along with the liberalization of media as well. In that process, though the government of Bangladesh always heavily controlled the state-owned radio and television channels, in the early 90s, they were permitted to broadcast the satellite channels commercially. As a result, the Bangladeshi audience was flooded by immense of foreign television channels, which had only the experience of Bangladesh Television (BTV) before the 1990s.

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The electronic media of Bangladesh is expansive at the moment. Now there are eight private satellite channels, that broadcast entertainment programs and news, in general. There are two FM radio channels, the major programs of which are music and news. In media discourse, community radio is a much-talked issue but the government has yet to permit any community radio. According to the National Media Survey (NMS) in 1998, the national reach of the various media was radio at 39%, television at 42%, newspapers/magazines at 15%, and cinema at 17%. (Chowdhury, 2003: 107)

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Just after the landmark of 1990, there was a ‘boom’ of print media. In 1990, the beginning of globalization and the ending of direct and indirect military rule, of more than one decade, occurred simultaneously. On December 6, 1990, the first Caretaker Government, which was formed to arrange a free and fair election in the process of democratization, withdrew a newspaper control regulation from the Special Powers Act, of 1974. With this step, obtaining registration for a newspaper became easier. In a country of 130 million people, though only about 1.3 million copies of newspapers are sold daily, there were 300 dailies in Bangladesh at the end of the millennium. (BCDJC, 2003: 4) For electronic media, there was one TV and another radio channel owned by the government. But for print media, it is an all-private-ownership show, mostly by corporate companies, which replaced politicians.

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According to NMS in 1998, 15% of the population read newspapers at least once a week. But newspaper reading is still an urban habit. Around half of city dwellers (44%) read newspapers against 10% in rural areas. (Chowdhury, 2003: 107) According to a study conducted by the Press Institute of Bangladesh in 1994, the findings of which were released in 1998, only 12% of the readerships consider newspapers credible and about 55% believe that there is a freedom of expression. The factors here include government intervention, pre-censorship, political pressure, obstacles put forward by different quarters, lack of neutral outlook, and dependence of newspapers on government advertisements. (Rahman and Ahmed, 2004)

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Although Article 39 (2) of Bangladesh's constitution guarantees (a) the right of every citizen to freedom of speech and expression and (b) freedom of the press, there are 20 constraining laws, including the Official Secrets Act, designed to repress freedom of expression. The specific areas of restrictions are related to the security of the state, friendly relations with foreign states, public order, decency or morality, contempt of court, defamation, or incitement to an offense. After the strong demand from journalists and civil society, the government decided to introduce the Right to Information Act in 2007.

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However, since 1990, Bangladeshi newspapers have enjoyed a moderate level of press freedom as far as government control is concerned. But the electronic media is deprived of enjoying that freedom. Not only the state-owned BTV or Bangladesh Betar (the radio channel), but private TV channels are also under close supervision of the government. In 2007, the military-backed present Caretaker Government, which took power on January 11, 2007, after a series of political violence, ruled a state of emergency and the media went again under control and lost the gained freedom.

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Press freedom in Bangladesh is also restrained by the physical harassment of journalists in Bangladesh. Six journalists were killed and 282 injured, mostly the local reporters, in attacks across the country in three years till December 2003. (Rahman, 2004: 7) According to a study by Reporters Sans Frontiers (RSF), Bangladesh’s position is 118th in terms of press freedom and it is because ‘political parties constantly endanger the lives of journalists’. (Rahman, 2004: 8) The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) on March 5, 2004, described Bangladesh as the most violent country for newspersons in Asia. (Rahman, 2004: 71) Besides governmental control by-laws and strict watch and physical harassment against journalists, corporate control by advertising and other media business-related matters, restricts media from performing proper journalism.

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Mass Media's Dual Role: Shaping Societal Values and Overlooking the Neglected

The primary concern of mass media is to uphold social values and set up new agendas that can play a role in developing people ?'s perceptions as well as attitudes toward society. The role can both be positive and negative. Mass media have the power to set up a national agenda, which is quite able to gain mass attention very easily. It can even bring about a massive change in people’s thoughts, culture, behavior, and many aspects relating to the daily life of man ( Maxwell, 2002). Mass

media is a vitally important part of society, for it determines what to present in front of society. Even it sorts out the reports, and distinctly regulates everything relating to exposures of media that reaches the people, ( Wallack L, Dorfman L, Jernigan D, Themba M., 1993). Activities of mass media include all the races, subraces, tribes, minor groups of subraces, or neglected minorities of the world at the same time to researchers and it varies from place to place. In our society challenged people are ignored very heartlessly. The media tries to develop the

situation but the awareness has not taken control over man’s daily practice.

Even the people related to mass media in our country have not yet adopted a moderate means to respect these neglected groups. These people are not only neglected by society but also the belonging researches are somehow silenced. Nobody wants to think over these grave matters seriously.

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The state of Mass Media freedom in Bangladesh

In a troubling trend, Bangladesh grapples with the erosion of press freedom, exacerbated by the controversial Digital Security Act (DSA) enacted in October 2018. The DSA, ostensibly designed to maintain digital harmony and public order, has instead evolved into a potent tool for suppressing perceived criticism, notably independent journalism scrutinizing government actions. This legislation empowers authorities with sweeping capabilities to block or remove digital content deemed harmful, leading to concerns about its potential misuse.

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Section 25 of the DSA, in particular, imposes severe penalties, including imprisonment, for publishing or broadcasting content that insults or humiliates individuals or disseminating knowingly false information. Moreover, the law targets those spreading hatred or assisting in committing crimes under the Official Secrets Act, 1923. Critics argue that the DSA has been wielded to curtail journalism rather than fulfill its intended purpose of protecting journalists from online harassment.

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A report by the Centre for Governance Studies (CGS) in October 2021 shed light on the alarming situation, revealing that of over 1,500 cases filed under the DSA in the preceding 20 months, only two had been resolved. The study identified a disproportionate number of cases initiated by ruling party activists against perceived critics, including journalists. Notably, the law's broad scope has led to charges against individuals for insulting political leaders, such as the country's prime minister.

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Data underscores a worrying escalation in the use of the DSA to quash dissent. In 2020, 457 people, including 75 journalists, faced prosecution under the act, marking a significant increase from the 63 cases recorded in 2019. Journalists argue that the law has failed to protect them from online harassment, raising concerns about its effectiveness and potential for abuse.

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The cases of journalist Shafiqul Islam Kajol and cartoonist Ahmed Kabir Kishore exemplify the abuses associated with the DSA. Kajol faced enforced disappearance, torture, and imprisonment for alleged DSA violations, while Kishore was arbitrarily detained and tortured before being released without explanation. These instances highlight the detrimental impact of the DSA on freedom of expression and the potential for it to be wielded as a tool of repression.

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Additionally, Bangladesh grapples with the longstanding issue of impunity in journalist murders. Investigative reports indicate that killers of journalists enjoy impunity, with investigations often leading nowhere or being suspended. Even high-profile cases, such as the murders of Sagar Sarowar and Meherun Runi in 2012, have seen little progress.

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The challenges to press freedom have intensified amid the COVID-19 pandemic, with journalists arrested for reporting on the government's pandemic response or exposing corruption. The recent arrest of investigative journalist Rozina Islam further underscores the precarious environment for journalists, sparking both domestic and international condemnation.

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While the government has expressed intentions to pass a data protection law, concerns linger over its potential impact on investigative journalism. Critics fear that, if enacted in its current form, the law may further restrict journalistic freedom by excluding certain government agencies from compliance.

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Bangladesh's media landscape, though diverse, grapples with a lack of legal safeguards for journalists and media professionals. The absence of laws to protect journalists, media outlets, and their sources contributes to an environment where accountability and transparency face significant challenges. In the absence of robust legal protections, journalists in Bangladesh continue to operate under the shadow of potential reprisals, fostering an atmosphere of fear and self-censorship.

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Bangladesh’s Media Under Siege

The media industry, one of the world's largest, plays a crucial role in shaping public opinion and fostering societal awareness. In Bangladesh, however, this vital institution faces persistent challenges to its freedom, notably exacerbated by the Digital Security Act (DSA) passed on October 8, 2018.

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The DSA, initially introduced to address digital security concerns, has raised widespread criticism for its impact on democratic rights and freedom of speech. Despite Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's assurance of respecting public opinion and supporting freedom of expression, human rights organizations like Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch argue that the DSA creates a hostile environment for these freedoms.

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Bangladesh's media landscape has a history of struggles for freedom. Since independence, various regimes, including military dictators and democratic governments, have imposed controls, making it challenging for media to operate independently. Even before the DSA, Bangladesh faced scrutiny from global watchdogs for media freedom restrictions.

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According to global rankings, Bangladesh consistently ranked low on press freedom indices, such as the Committee to Protect Journalists' Global Impunity Index and Reporters Without Borders' World Press Freedom Index. Statistics from Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK) revealed a concerning rise in professional harassment of journalists, with 207 cases reported in 2018.

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The DSA, replacing and expanding the Information and Communications Technology Act, was criticized by Transparency International Bangladesh and other advocates. It granted extensive powers to law enforcement agencies, allowing searches and arrests without court warrants based on assumptions of digital offenses. This raised fears among journalists, social activists, bloggers, and writers about the potential abuse of these provisions to stifle dissent.

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The impact of the DSA on the media became evident as Reuters reported a climate of fear among journalists. The law's strengthened defamation provisions contributed to self-censorship, limiting the industry's roles and responsibilities. Law enforcement agencies gained near-totalitarian powers, affecting not only journalists but also democratic thinkers and social media activists. Criticism of government policies on social media dwindled, and arrests under the DSA generated anxiety within civil society.

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Photographer Shahidul Alam's arrest for alleged misinformation during student protests exemplified the DSA's chilling effect. While the government claims the law protects the innocent, concerns persist that it might be wielded to suppress dissenting voices.

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Bangladesh's media grapples with a prolonged history of restrictions, with the DSA being the latest challenge. As the industry navigates this environment, concerns about its impact on democratic principles and freedom of expression continue to loom large.

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Media as the Fourth Pillar: Unveiling the Bangladeshi Mediascape

In the intricate fabric of state governance, the media stands as the fourth pillar, shouldering the responsibility of a vigilant watchdog over the executive, legislature, and judiciary. This pivotal role extends beyond the national borders of Bangladesh, echoing global trends where the 'politico-commercial nexus' has emerged as a central determinant of media viability.

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The examination of this nexus revolves around the intricate dynamics of media ownership and policymaking, with a specific focus on television media and its relationship with the National Broadcasting Policy 2014. Despite the rise of social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube, television maintains its stronghold in Bangladesh's media landscape, wielding unparalleled influence in setting news agendas. A staggering 80% viewership among a population of 165 million underscores its significance as the primary source of news and entertainment.

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However, this dominance is nuanced by the reality that a substantial portion of the population lacks personal access to television sets, relying on communal settings like tea shops for exposure. This scenario sets the stage for a complex case study reflecting Bangladesh's journey through neoliberal transformation, capital integration, wealth concentration, and class inequality, as observed by scholars like Muhammad (2015) and Rahman (2020).

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Within this landscape, institution-building emerges as a critical factor shaping the contours of the media. The narrative underscores the intertwined forces of political and economic powers, challenging preconceived notions about media independence. Rather than the media influencing political and economic powers, the argument concludes that the Bangladeshi media landscape is predominantly shaped by these formidable forces, marking a distinctive power dynamic (Rahman, 2020). In essence, this informative analysis unravels the multifaceted layers of Bangladesh's media evolution, providing insight into the interplay of power and influence that defines its current mediascape.

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Navigating Challenges: Future Perspectives on Bangladeshi Media Viability

The landscape of Bangladeshi media is undergoing a transformative yet challenging phase, marked by a struggle to adapt to the digital transition. A recent program delved into the pressing issues faced by the media industry, shedding light on the impediments and potential pathways forward.

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At the heart of the discussion was the unveiled report titled "Leadership or Stagnation: The Future of Media Viability in Bangladesh," a collaborative effort by the Management and Resources Development Initiative (MRDI) and Fojo Media Institute of Sweden. The report underscored the stark divide in media audiences, emphasizing the dominance of television in both urban and rural spheres.

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According to the study, while online media, particularly Facebook, plays a significant role in rural areas, newspapers maintain their importance among middle-aged and older urban audiences. The report also revealed a concerning lack of media literacy, especially among the youth in rural areas, who perceive Facebook as synonymous with the entire internet.

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Ross Settles, an adjunct professor at Hong Kong University, highlighted the complex economic structure of the media industry in Bangladesh. While acknowledging the potential of digital media, he expressed concerns about regulatory complexities, citing the ambiguous Digital Security Act, which poses risks to news reporting.

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The discussion touched upon challenges such as shrinking advertisement revenue, self-censorship due to intense competition and barriers, and the impact of regulatory environments. The need for accurate data to formulate informed plans for the media industry was a recurring theme. Stakeholders emphasized the necessity of collaborative efforts to compile reliable data that would contribute to the sustainability and realism of media plans.

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Addressing ownership concerns, participants discussed the idea that ownership should belong to journalists, emphasizing the importance of stability in democracy for a free media.

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Looking ahead, the consensus pointed toward the future of the media industry residing in digital content. Matiur Rahman, editor of the Daily Prothom Alo, advocated for independent media funded by their resources. He acknowledged the challenges but stressed the resilience of journalism in overcoming obstacles.

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The dialogue recognized the evolving nature of media and the imperative for strategic shifts toward digital initiatives, with an emphasis on mobile journalism (mojo). As the media in Bangladesh stands at a crossroads, the call for adaptability, data-driven strategies, and a commitment to journalistic independence resonates as key components for a viable future.

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Present Status of Mass Media in Bangladesh:

Diverse Landscape:?Bangladesh's mass media landscape has evolved significantly, encompassing various platforms, including print, broadcast, and digital media. It features a mix of state-owned and private outlets.

Digital Dominance:?The digital space has witnessed substantial growth, with increased internet penetration and the rise of online news portals. Social media platforms play a crucial role in information dissemination and public discourse.

Television and Radio:?Television remains a dominant source of news and entertainment, with several private satellite channels alongside state-owned channels. FM radio channels also contribute to the media landscape.

Challenges:?Media freedom faces challenges, including legal constraints such as the Digital Security Act (DSA), concerns about journalist safety, and occasional government scrutiny, impacting the ability to report freely.

Print Media:?While the number of newspapers has grown since the post-1990 era, the readership pattern is urban-centric. Print media continues to be a significant source of information for a portion of the population.

Technological Advancements:?The media industry is adapting to technological advancements, with a focus on digital content creation, mobile journalism, and online streaming services.

James Augustus Hickey and the Gazette Concept:

Historical Significance: James Augustus Hickey is recognized as the first journalist of the Indian subcontinent. In 1780, he founded "The Bengal Gazette" in Calcutta (now Kolkata), which is considered the first major newspaper in the region.

Gazette Concept:?"The Bengal Gazette" introduced the concept of a regular publication containing news, opinions, and advertisements. It covered diverse topics, including local events, European news, and advertisements for goods and services.

Impact on Journalism: Hickey's initiative laid the foundation for modern journalism in the Indian subcontinent. The Gazette played a pivotal role in shaping public opinion, providing a platform for expression, and acting as a medium for the exchange of ideas.

Challenges Faced: Hickey faced challenges from colonial authorities due to the Gazette's critical content. His efforts, however, demonstrated the power of the press as a tool for disseminating information and influencing public discourse.

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Legacy:?The Bengal Gazette's legacy endures as a pioneering example of journalistic endeavors in the subcontinent. It set the stage for the development of a vibrant and diverse media landscape over the centuries.

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Comparative Reflection:

Technological Evolution: The present status of mass media in Bangladesh reflects a technologically advanced and diverse landscape, driven by digital platforms. In contrast, Hickey's era had a print-centric approach with the introduction of newspapers.

Freedom of the Press:?While Hickey faced challenges from colonial authorities, the present status of media in Bangladesh involves navigating legal complexities like the DSA. Press freedom remains a dynamic aspect influenced by both historical and contemporary factors.

Diversity in Content:?The Gazette concept introduced by Hickey covered a wide range of topics, similar to the present media landscape in Bangladesh, which addresses local, national, and global issues across various platforms.

Public Influence:?Both historical and present media in Bangladesh play a significant role in influencing public opinion, shaping societal values, and contributing to the development of a collective consciousness.

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In summary,?the evolution from James Augustus Hickey's pioneering Gazette concept to the present mass media in Bangladesh showcases a journey marked by technological advancements, changing content dynamics, and ongoing challenges related to press freedom. The fundamental role of media in shaping public discourse and fostering awareness remains a common thread connecting these historical and contemporary contexts.

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Conclusion:

The exploration of the current state of mass media in Bangladesh reveals a landscape characterized by dynamic shifts, challenges, and opportunities. The post-1990 era marked a significant transformation with the liberalization of media, opening the floodgates to foreign television channels and ushering in a boom in print media. However, the journey towards a free and vibrant media environment has been marked by a complex interplay of political, economic, and societal factors.

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The electronic media in Bangladesh has experienced expansion, with eight private satellite channels offering a mix of entertainment and news programs. FM radio has also found its place in the media landscape, though the eagerly anticipated community radio remains elusive due to governmental constraints. The National Media Survey of 1998 provides a snapshot, indicating radio and television's widespread reach, while newspapers maintain their urban-centric readership.

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Despite constitutional guarantees of freedom of speech and expression, Bangladesh grapples with constraining laws, physical harassment of journalists, and a complex media landscape. The introduction of the Right to Information Act in 2007 was a step towards enhancing press freedom, but subsequent political shifts and emergencies have seen fluctuations in media freedom.

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The Digital Security Act (DSA), enacted in 2018, emerges as a powerful yet controversial tool, stifling perceived criticism and raising concerns about freedom of expression. The Act's impact on journalists and its use to curtail dissent underscore the delicate balance between security concerns and press freedom.

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Media's role as a societal watchdog and agenda-setter remains crucial, influencing public opinion and contributing to social awareness. The emergence of social media platforms adds a new dimension, yet concerns about regulation and the use of such platforms persist.

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As the media grapples with challenges like self-censorship, political pressures, and economic constraints, stakeholders recognize the need for adaptability and innovative approaches. The debate on media ownership, regulatory frameworks, and the impact of digital transitions underscores the complexity of the media landscape.

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The current state of mass media in Bangladesh reflects a nation at the crossroads—navigating the legacy of the past, grappling with contemporary challenges, and envisioning a future that balances freedom of expression with responsible journalism. The ongoing dialogue on data-driven strategies, digital initiatives, and journalistic independence signals a collective recognition of the evolving nature of media, offering glimpses into a media landscape poised for transformation.

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Reference:

Bangladesh’s Media Under Siege 2019 Khadija Farhana Choudhury https://thediplomat.com/2019/03/bangladeshs-media-under-siege/

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Bangladeshi Mediascape: Political and Corporate Power (2022) Asif Bin Ali & Olav Muurlink

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BCDJC (Bangladesh Centre For Development, Journalism and Communication) (2003);?Madhyam?(Bangladesh Media Directory); BCDJC; Dhaka.

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Chowdhury, Afsan (2004).?Media in Times of Crisis: National and International Issues. Shrabon. Dhaka.

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Rahman, Golam and Ahmed, Helal Uddin (2004).?Banglapedia: National Encyclopedia of Bangladesh. Multimedia CD. Asiatic Society of Bangladesh. Dhaka.

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Rahman, Mahfuzur (2004).?The State of Media in Bangladesh. News Network. Dhaka.

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Representations of Challenged People on Media of Bangladesh: A

Thematic Analysis of Content: (2017) Mustak Ahmed https://www.ru.ac.bd/socialsc/wp-content/uploads/sites/65/2022/07/10.-Mustaque-Ahmed_OK-153-174.pdf

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The state of media freedom in Bangladesh (2021) https://ipi.media/the-state-of-media-freedom-in-bangladesh/

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The ecosystem of Bangladesh media is fragile (2021) Dhaka Tribune: ?https://www.dhakatribune.com/bangladesh/236445/speakers-ecosystem-of-bangladesh-media-is-fragile

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