Crisis and Potential of Bengali-Language Journalism in Blockchain Technology

Bengali-language media has long faced various challenges. Especially in the digital age, when global media is advancing with technological innovations such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and data journalism, there is a fear that Bengali-language journalism is falling behind. In this context, blockchain technology is opening doors of possibility for Bengali-language journalism on one hand, while creating various challenges on the other. First, it is necessary to understand what blockchain actually is. In simple terms, blockchain is a decentralized digital ledger where once information or transactions are recorded, they cannot be altered. Each block is cryptographically linked to the previous block, so the authenticity of information can be verified and no central authority is needed. The core features of this technology are transparency, immutability, and decentralization. In journalism, the greatest potential of blockchain lies in verifying the authenticity of information. Currently, fake news is a major problem in Bengali-language online media. Much information spread on social media is published without verification. Using blockchain technology, the source of news, time of publication, and editing history can all be stored in an immutable ledger. As a result, anyone can verify who published what, when, and how. This will increase the credibility of the media. Second, blockchain can create a new model for funding journalists. Currently, many Bengali-language media outlets depend on advertising revenue. This dependence often prevents journalists from working independently. Through blockchain-based micropayment systems, readers can directly pay journalists. Again, through tokenization, ownership of media outlets can be shared among readers. This can make media financially independent and free from pressure by advertisers. Third, blockchain can ensure copyright protection for journalists. The writings of Bengali-language journalists are often republished on various platforms without permission. If each writing has a unique timestamp and hash on the blockchain, proving ownership becomes easier. However, technology alone is not enough; appropriate legal frameworks and awareness among journalists are necessary. But along with possibilities, the challenges are no less. The first challenge is technological complexity. Blockchain technology is still difficult for ordinary people to understand. There are very few educational materials on this technology in Bengali. Without training arrangements for journalists, they will not be able to use this technology. The second challenge is the conflict between regulation and freedom. Many countries have strict rules regarding blockchain and cryptocurrency. If journalists accept blockchain-based payments, they may face legal complications. Again, in the name of decentralization, there is a fear of harassment, rumors, and illegal content spreading on some platforms. The third challenge is economic inequality. Using blockchain technology requires high-speed internet, smart devices, and digital wallets. Many journalists and readers in remote areas of Bangladesh and West Bengal are deprived of these facilities. As a result, there is a fear that this technological development will become urban-centric. The fourth challenge is journalistic ethics. In blockchain, information becomes immutable. But in journalism, when false information is published, it needs to be corrected. If false information remains permanently in an immutable ledger, it can be misleading for readers. Therefore, how a correction policy will work in a blockchain-based news system needs deep thought. Another important aspect is the linguistic challenge. Most blockchain documentation and smart contracts are written in English. Creating blockchain-based applications in Bengali is still at an early stage. Integrating blockchain with Bengali Unicode, fonts, and natural language processing is a complex task. However, the good news is that some initiatives are already visible. Some Bengali-language online platforms have started working on blockchain-based content verification systems. Some educational institutions have launched courses combining blockchain and journalism. Internationally, blockchain-based journalism platforms like 'Public' and 'Civil' have created possibilities for localization in Bengali. In the future, the influence of blockchain on Bengali-language journalism is expected to grow further. But this requires coordinated efforts. Government, educational institutions, media houses, and technology companies must work together. Blockchain training modules in Bengali must be created for journalists. Digital literacy among readers must be increased. Legal frameworks must be created in such a way that innovation is not hindered, but abuse is also prevented. Finally, it can be said that blockchain technology is a double-edged sword for Bengali-language journalism. If used properly, it can increase the transparency, independence, and credibility of the media. But if used haphazardly, it can create new types of inequality, surveillance, and complexity. Therefore, along with utilizing the potential of technology, it is important to be aware of its risks. The future of Bengali-language journalism will depend on how we can use this technology ethically and inclusively.