Dhaka, Dec 28 (V7N)— The Ministry of Home Affairs has clarified that the recent decision to restrict journalists' access to the Secretariat is temporary. A final decision on this matter will be made after discussions with the Ministry of Information.

In a statement issued on Saturday, Faisal Hasan, Public Relations Officer of the Ministry of Home Affairs, explained that the restriction was imposed in light of the ongoing investigation into the fire incident at the Secretariat. He assured that a positive decision would be made soon following consultations with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

The statement read: "Dear journalist brothers and sisters, Assalamu Alaikum. Good morning. In view of the ongoing investigation into the fire incident at the Secretariat, the above decision has been taken regarding the access of journalists. The decision is temporary. A positive decision will be taken soon in a meeting with the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting."

Earlier, an order signed by Special Assistant to the Principal Advisor, Khoda Baksh Chowdhury, announced the cancellation of temporary Secretariat entry cards issued to private individuals, along with the suspension of accreditation cards for journalists. However, the government has assured that the issue of canceling journalists' accreditation will be reviewed shortly.

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