Information and Broadcasting Minister Andaliv Rahman Partha has said government-run television channels have been instructed to broadcast news of opposition parties proportionately alongside that of the ruling party.

He made the remarks on Tuesday (August 25) in response to questions from journalists at a press conference on the progress of various government activities held at the Press Information Department’s conference room at the Secretariat.

The minister said Bangladesh Television (BTV), Parliament TV and other state-run television channels would not broadcast only news about ministers and lawmakers from the ruling party. News, activities and statements of opposition lawmakers, as well as opposition parties outside Parliament, must also be covered proportionately.

Andaliv Rahman Partha said, “At least their views—whether they are against the government, in favor of it, or in the interest of the people—must be highlighted. That is democracy.”

He said the government had taken a decision on the matter and that the relevant authorities were instructed on Tuesday to take the necessary steps to implement it.