The Editors' Council of Bangladesh has strongly condemned the interim government’s decision to cancel press accreditations for 167 journalists, arguing that the move threatens press freedom and could significantly undermine the country’s democratic environment. The council warns that the revocation risks fostering censorship and creating a restrictive atmosphere for the media, a step backward for democratic standards in Bangladesh.

According to the Dhaka Tribune, the Press Information Department (PID) has revoked these accreditation cards in three separate phases. Among the affected are numerous experienced journalists, including editors and seasoned media professionals, sparking widespread concern within the Editors' Council and the broader media community. Many worry this decision could set a chilling precedent for the press in Bangladesh.

While the Ministry of Information holds the authority to investigate possible misuse of press accreditations, the Editors' Council contends that rescinding press cards without specific allegations or clear evidence could set a “dangerous precedent.” The council, in a formal statement, emphasised that the move jeopardises press freedom and is counter to democratic values, echoing restrictive policies often associated with past authoritarian regimes.

“The action threatens press freedom and undermines a democratic environment by risking censorship and creating a restrictive media atmosphere,” the Editors' Council stated, highlighting the parallels to undemocratic practices of the past.

The Editors' Council has called on the Ministry of Information to avoid measures that lack clear charges or substantiated evidence and to halt actions that could be perceived as attacks on media independence. Instead, the council urged the government to uphold policies that promote free, democratic journalism, which it views as essential to a democratic society in Bangladesh, according to the Dhaka Tribune. The council believes that only through supporting independent journalism can Bangladesh maintain its commitment to democracy and a free press.