Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan today said the attack on The Daily Star reflected the difficult path the newspaper has had to navigate over the years.

“When a programme is taking place upstairs while the signs of destruction remain downstairs, it shows just how difficult a journey The Daily Star has had to endure,” he said.

The minister made the remarks at The Daily Star office during the newspaper’s 35th anniversary celebration.

He said The Daily Star would continue moving forward despite adversity and a hostile environment.

“One of the biggest challenges facing the media today is telling the truth. Presenting accurate, objective news -- rather than reporting based on assumptions -- remains a major challenge,” he said.

The minister said he expected The Daily Star to remain committed to ensuring every report is objective for its loyal readers.

Asked about the attack on The Daily Star and Prothom Alo on December 18 last year, Swapan said the government had already condemned all attacks on media outlets and pledged to take every necessary step to prevent such incidents.

“After the incident, we did everything that needed to be done from our side,” he said.

He said the media must place the highest priority on objectivity rather than promoting any ideology.

“If that is not ensured, the media may fall into the trap of ideological conflict. As a conscious reader, and in view of The Daily Star’s current challenges, I urge its policymakers to give this issue serious attention as well,” he said.