Barguna Sadar Correspondent

 International Right to Information Day was observed in Barguna through a rally, human chain, survey presentation, and discussion meeting emphasizing free access to authentic information to counter digital misinformation.

The Barguna District Administration organized the event in collaboration with the Conscious Citizens Committee (Sanak), Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB), and Shuktara Mahila Samity under the theme: "To counter misinformation in the digital age, we need free access to information, not restriction of information."

The program commenced on Monday morning, with a rally and human chain, followed by a discussion session at the Golden Jubilee Conference Room of the Deputy Commissioner's Office. Acting Deputy Commissioner of Barguna Animesh Biswas presided over the discussion, which was moderated by former Sanak President Monir Hossain Kamal.

Sanak Barguna President Adv. Md. Anisur Rahman and Barguna Press Club President Mohammad Hafizur Rahman attended as special guests. Other notable speakers included We Can Bangladesh Coordinator Shahbaz Mohammad, former Barguna Press Club President Chittaranjan Shill, Daily Dipanchal Editor Mohammad Mosharraf Hossain, District NGO Forum President and journalist Zakir Hossain Miraj, District Fisheries Officer Mohammad Ziauddin, District Children's Affairs Officer Mohammad Rafiqul Islam, Executive Director of Shuktara Mahila Samity Kajal Rani Das, and Barguna Sadar Hospital ACG Coordinator Adv. Sohel.

Prior to the main discussion on Monday, September 28, 2026, organizers presented a survey evaluating the official web portals of 71 government institutions in Barguna district, assessing current data availability and public accessibility standards.

Addressing the gathering, speakers highlighted that ensuring citizens' right to information is essential for transparency and institutional accountability. They emphasized that instead of restricting data flow, public and private bodies must proactively publish accurate information on updated web portals to prevent digital rumors and uphold the Right to Information Act.