BMM Editorial: Significant ethical questions have been raised by recent claims against journalist Soma Islam in the field of journalism, where the pursuit of truth and impartiality is of utmost importance. Soma Islam, well-known for hosting the talk show "Metrosem to the Point" on a well-known private television network in Bangladesh, is accused of stifling opposing views, bullying visitors, and behaving rudely both at work and beyond it._x000D_
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The importance of professional behaviour and journalistic ethics in Bangladesh is underscored by the recent charges made against journalist Soma Islam. Maintaining neutrality and impartiality while allowing guests to freely voice their opinions is crucial for journalists. Free speech and fairness are violated when hosts bully them and keep them from speaking. Behaving badly towards junior journalists also reflects poorly on one's professionalism and fosters a hostile work atmosphere._x000D_
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Agenda-Setting and Authoritarian Media Models:_x000D_
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The Agenda-Setting Theory is one analytical framework that may be used to examine Soma Islam's behaviour. According to the hypothesis, media sources can influence public opinion by giving some subjects more attention than others. It calls into doubt Soma's journalistic integrity and the range of viewpoints offered on her talk show if she persistently pushes a particular narrative that is in line with the administration while silencing alternative voices._x000D_
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Similar to this, the authoritarian media model is used when media organisations act as a spokesperson for the government in power, stifling criticism and advancing certain political objectives. It's possible that Soma's supposed actions against competing viewpoints and her support of official discourse are signs of an unbalanced media landscape._x000D_
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Media Capture and Dependency:_x000D_
The idea of "media capture" refers to the practice of media organisations closely aligning themselves with the goals of the government, possibly undermining their independence. Concerns about a possible reliance are raised by Soma Islam's acceptance of government benefits, which might have an impact on her journalism career. Such a reliance might compromise the reporting standards of impartiality and equity._x000D_
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Organisational Misbehaviour:_x000D_
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Concerns about organisational misbehaviour are brought to light by reports of Soma Islam's unprofessional conduct with junior journalists both within and outside of the office. Harassment in the workplace and poisonous surroundings can have a negative effect on journalistic ethics, impacting not only the quality of news coverage but also the journalists' well-being._x000D_
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The allegation made against Soma Islam highlights the careful balance that journalists have to strike between their responsibility as society's watchdogs and possible outside influences. Her actions raise ethical questions that need to be thoroughly investigated, with a focus on preserving journalistic independence, integrity, and public confidence in the media.
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