Bangladesh Betar withdraws controversial 'dress code' directive

Bangladesh Betar has officially withdrawn its controversial 'dress code' directive for news presenters following widespread criticism on social media and across different sectors.

The state-run broadcaster issued a new office order on Sunday (May 24) cancelling the earlier instruction related to presenters’ attire, which had sparked debate over personal freedom and gender sensitivity.

In the latest order signed by Bangladesh Betar Director General (Acting) A S M Jahid, authorities confirmed that the previous directive regarding dress regulations for news presenters would no longer remain in effect.

The controversy began after an office order issued on May 4 by Central News Organisation Director Tania Naznin outlined specific dress guidelines for male and female news presenters, particularly in the context of Facebook Live news broadcasts.

Under the earlier directive, female presenters were instructed to wear sarees or salwar-kameez with orna, avoid large forehead dots, and refrain from wearing the orna on one side. Male presenters, meanwhile, were advised to wear full-sleeve shirts with ties, although panjabis were allowed during festivals and special occasions. The directive also discouraged the use of T-shirts and sleeveless undershirts.

The order drew sharp reactions after copies of the directive circulated widely on social media. Critics described the move as unnecessary interference in personal appearance and questioned the need for such detailed restrictions in a professional newsroom environment.

Many also argued that separate instructions targeting women’s clothing and appearance reflected gender bias, saying professionalism in news presentation should be judged by delivery, language, and journalistic standards rather than attire.

Amid growing criticism and public debate, Bangladesh Betar ultimately decided to revoke the directive, bringing an end to the widely discussed dress code controversy.