Information Adviser Nahid Islam announced that journalists would be permitted to enter the Secretariat from Monday (30 December), using temporary passes.
"Until today, we have not allowed anyone to enter the Secretariat. This is why you cannot access it today," he said while speaking to journalists at the secretariat’s gate on Sunday (29 December).
Nahid Islam explained that the investigative committee formed to probe the recent fire incident in the Secretariat was expected to submit its preliminary report by Sunday.
He further stated that over 3,000 accreditation cards had been issued in the past, though not all cardholders were bona fide journalists.
"We need to scrutinise this matter carefully. Based on journalists’ applications, we will arrange for new permanent passes within a stipulated time. Until then, a limited number of journalists will be issued temporary passes," he said.
The adviser assured that discussions would be held with journalist associations both within and outside the Secretariat to finalise a system for issuing these temporary passes.
"From Monday, you will be able to enter the Secretariat with temporary passes. All existing passes will be cancelled," the adviser added.
Regarding accreditation cards, he highlighted that the current number, exceeding 3,000, was unmanageable and included numerous fake credentials.
"Permanent passes will be issued based on the policy and following due applications. The application process will begin tomorrow or the day after," he elaborated.
Consultations with journalist organisations or editors will be conducted if necessary to initiate this process.
