Trust between a nation and its people is crucial. For Bangladesh, this trust is being tested by targeted disinformation campaigns. Officials claim that Indian media outlets are spreading false narratives about the country.

Army Refutes Coup Allegations

The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Directorate issued a press release on March 11. It refuted claims of a coup and a breakdown in the Bangladesh Army’s command chain.

These allegations were published by The Economic Times and India Today. The ISPR described them as baseless and part of a deliberate disinformation campaign.

“The Bangladesh Army remains strong, united, and fully committed to its constitutional duties under the able leadership of the Chief of Army Staff,” the statement emphasized.

The ISPR affirmed that the command chain is intact and that all members, including senior generals, are unwaveringly loyal to the constitution and the people of Bangladesh.

The press release also criticized The Economic Times for publishing similar false reports in January. It urged Indian media to seek official clarifications before publishing unverified claims.

Fact-Checking Misinformation

In February, Rumor Scanner, a reputable fact-checking body known for its rigorous verification process, reported multiple instances of misinformation. Nine false narratives involving Bangladesh were traced to Indian media.

Three incidents were also linked to Indian social media accounts. Half of the 20 communal misinformation cases identified in February originated from Indian accounts.

Press Wing Rebukes Indian Media

On January 31, the Chief Adviser’s Press Wing, a key communication arm of the interim government, dismissed a report by Ananda Bazar. The Indian daily had alleged unrest within the Bangladesh Army.

The press wing called the report baseless, comparing it to a “Bollywood romcom.” It accused Indian media of hybrid warfare tactics.

Such disinformation, it said, aims to destabilize Bangladesh and support Sheikh Hasina, the ousted former leader. The wing called on Indian media to uphold ethical journalism.

Targeted Smear Campaigns

On February 3, 2025, Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam criticized the Indian media, accusing them of waging a propaganda war against the interim government.

On February 8, Alam alleged that millions of dollars were spent to discredit Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus. He claimed that Indian media framed Yunus as a militant leader.

Alam called the portrayal of the July uprising as a conspiracy, a deliberate attempt to distort history. He emphasized the need to preserve an accurate account of the movement.

Documenting the July Uprising

On February 17, Alam attended a documentary screening on the uprising. He praised the documentaries for highlighting grassroots involvement.

“Each of our documentaries on the popular uprising is a slap for the Indian media,” he said. He also noted the significant role of women in the movement.

Alam stressed the importance of preserving graffiti and artworks related to the uprising. Proper documentation, he said, is crucial to countering disinformation.

A Call for Responsible Journalism

Bangladesh’s leaders have sent a clear message. Disinformation and false narratives will not go unchallenged. Ethical journalism and truth must take precedence to ensure trust and dignity in international relations.