Bangladesh Betar began broadcasting in 1939 during the British colonial period as the ‘Dhaka Broadcasting Centre.’ From 1975 to 1996, it was known as Radio Bangladesh, after which it was renamed ‘Bangladesh Betar.’ As the country’s first state-run audio broadcaster, it played a historic role in shaping public opinion during the Liberation War through the ‘Swadhin Bangla Betar Kendra.’ For many years, it remained a trusted source for people across the nation, from villages to cities by broadcasting news, dramas, music, and educational programs. However, over time, Bangladesh Betar too has largely turned into a one-dimensional propaganda outlet. Broadcasting the statements of the government and the ruling party seems to have become its primary function. In the digital age, when smartphones and online platforms are in everyone’s hands, such outdated and biased presentation is gradually distancing the new generation from this medium.
