Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan has said that criticising the government is not a crime, but speaking against the state constitutes an offence.

He made the remarks on Sunday (Aug. 2) while addressing a discussion marking the anniversary of the Department of Mass Communication and Journalism at the University of Dhaka.

The minister said journalism has reached a position in the history of civilization where, although it is not constitutionally recognized as a formal organ of the state, it has become an indispensable part of the state.

He said the role of journalism extends beyond gathering information or uncovering the truth; it also carries the responsibility of directing that truth toward the public good. However, he noted that maintaining objectivity becomes difficult when an individual or institution operates with predetermined goals, as discovered facts may conflict with personal interests or prior expectations.

The minister further said that in modern governance, the state is an important instrument. Whether a ruler uses state power for public welfare or as a tool of oppression depends on his intentions and outlook. Without accountability, and without making it clear to all concerned, governance loses direction, he added.

University of Dhaka Vice-Chancellor Prof. Dr. A. B. M. Obaidul Islam attended the event as the special guest.

The keynote speaker was New Age Editor Nurul Kabir, while the session was chaired by Prof. Kazi Mohammad Mahbub Rahman, acting chairman of the Department of Mass Communication and Journalism. Faculty members, students, and other invited guests were also present at the programme.