Dhaka, Jun 09 (V7N) – Prime Minister's Information Adviser Dr. Zahed Ur Rahman said on Tuesday that both Bangladesh and India are seeking to move beyond the nature of bilateral relations that existed before the political changes of August 5.
Speaking at a briefing at the Secretariat, Dr. Rahman said both countries are interested in developing a new framework for relations following the formation of the government led by Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus.
Commenting on the issue of border push-ins, the Information Adviser said he does not believe India is using the matter as a tool to pressure Bangladesh.
“I don't think India wants to put pressure on Bangladesh through push-ins. Rather, it appears to be linked to India's internal political dynamics,” he said, adding that similar issues were reflected in the election commitments of political forces in West Bengal. He expressed hope that the situation would be resolved through appropriate measures.
Addressing the spread of misinformation on social media and digital platforms, Dr. Rahman said the government is preparing to take stricter action against the dissemination of false information.
He noted that fabricated statements are often attributed to public figures through manipulated photo cards and that logos of established television channels are sometimes misused to spread misleading content. To combat such practices, he said, a legal panel is being formed and groundwork is already underway.
On the upcoming local government elections, the adviser said individuals affiliated with the Awami League would not face restrictions in participating as independent candidates, as local government polls are non-partisan in nature.
“There is no scope for using party positions or titles in these elections,” he said, emphasizing that the current administration remains committed to public welfare and democratic participation.
Responding to reports that Bengali, History and Philosophy departments may be removed from Honors-level education, Dr. Rahman clarified that no final decision has been taken.
He said the departments will continue to exist at the Honors level, although discussions are ongoing regarding whether they will remain available in all institutions.
The Information Adviser also announced that student council elections will be held in phases across universities and major colleges throughout the country as part of efforts to strengthen student representation and democratic engagement on campuses.
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