(BSS) - Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon today stressed that responsible, accurate and objective journalism is essential for helping citizens understand state governance and make informed decisions, warning that distorted information can create confusion, conflict and social disorder.

Speaking as the chief guest at the Annual General Meeting-2026 and Silver Jubilee celebration of the Law Reporters Forum (LRF) at the Supreme Court Bar Association building, the minister said journalists, particularly those covering the judiciary, have a special responsibility as the public relies on their reporting to assess the transparency and fairness of the judicial process.

Describing the media as the "fourth pillar of the state," Swapon said citizens` ability to evaluate governance depends largely on objective reporting.

Comparing the media to a mirror, he said just as a flawed mirror distorts a person`s reflection, a lack of objectivity presents a distorted picture of the state and society, even though truth itself remains unchanged.

Highlighting rapid technological changes, the minister said the digital era and artificial intelligence (AI) have created new opportunities as well as challenges, including the spread of convincing fake images, videos and misinformation.

He underscored the need to modernise laws to address these emerging threats.

Swapon said the government has already initiated work on a new cyber law through a cabinet committee comprising the Foreign Minister, Home Minister, ICT Minister and himself.

He said effective legislation would require input from law reporters, lawyers and other experts, urging them to begin preparing recommendations.

The minister also called on the LRF to contribute to legal reforms and uphold truth and objectivity in journalism.

The event, chaired by LRF President Hasan Jabed and moderated by General Secretary Moneruzzaman Mission, was attended by Attorney General Barrister Md. Ruhul Quddus Kajal, BNP Law Affairs Secretary Barrister Badruddoza Badal, legal experts, political leaders and senior journalists.