Dhaka, Dec 30 (V7N) — After days of restrictions following a major fire at the Secretariat, journalists were finally allowed entry around 2 PM on Monday. This decision came after a period of uncertainty and frustration among reporters who were initially denied access earlier in the day despite assurances from government officials.

Journalists had gathered in front of Gate No. 1 of the Secretariat on Monday morning, expecting entry based on assurances from Home Affairs Advisor Lt. Gen. (retd) Md. Jahangir Alam Chowdhury. However, they were initially turned away, prompting many to express their displeasure at the situation.

Eventually, temporary passes were issued, allowing journalists to enter the Secretariat from 2 PM onwards.

The decision follows a meeting on Sunday, December 29, between leaders of the Bangladesh Secretariat Reporters Forum (BSRF) and Lt. Gen. Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, where it was assured that journalists would be allowed entry with temporary passes starting Monday.

In a related development, Information and Broadcasting Ministry Advisor Md. Nahid Islam announced on Sunday that all existing passes for entry into the Secretariat would be cancelled, with new passes to be issued soon. A small number of temporary passes were provided to journalists in the interim, and the process for applying for new passes is expected to be announced shortly.

The fire incident at the Secretariat has led to heightened security and administrative measures, including a review of access protocols. Journalists expressed hope for a more streamlined process moving forward.

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