State Minister for Information and Broadcasting Yasser Khan Chowdhury has said that the government, led by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, remains firmly committed to objective journalism and an independent media.Speaking at a ceremony marking the 24th anniversary of private television channel NTV on Friday, the state minister said the government strongly believes in ensuring a free and responsible press. He praised NTV for its role in safeguarding democracy and supporting the country's democratic movement in the past, expressing hope that the channel would continue to uphold the same commitment in the years ahead.

"The government believes in objective reporting and a free media. NTV played a commendable role in the struggle to uphold and restore democracy in Bangladesh, and I hope it will continue to maintain that tradition," he said.

Referring to NTV's journey, Chowdhury noted that the channel, which began broadcasting nearly 24 years ago with the slogan "On the Path to the Future with Time," has earned widespread popularity through its objective news coverage and contemporary programming.

He said NTV has not only gained the trust of audiences at home but has also established a strong reputation among Bangladeshi expatriates around the world.

The state minister congratulated the channel's management, journalists, producers, technicians, and all other staff for their dedication and hard work, which, he said, have helped NTV achieve its current position.

Expressing optimism about the future, Chowdhury said he expects NTV to continue playing a leading role in the development of Bangladesh's media landscape, just as it has consistently stood in support of democracy over the years.