We are more linked to the internet in this magical virtual world. As our online connections grow, cyber security is more crucial than ever.
The interim government of Bangladesh has repealed the much-discussed and criticized Cyber Security Act of 2023 and issued a new Cyber Safeguard Ordinance. On Wednesday, the Ministry of Law officially announced the ordinance through a government gazette. It stated that nine controversial sections of the previous law have been canceled, and all ongoing cases, investigations, and penalties related to those sections will be suspended.
End of a Controversial Cyber Security Law
The Cyber Security Act, enacted during the Awami League government in 2023, faced criticism from the outset. In particular sections 21, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 31, and 34 sparked intense debate.
These sections included—
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Defining spreading defamatory information about the Liberation War, the national flag, and Sheikh Mujibur Rahman as punishable offenses
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Identity fraud and impersonation
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Collecting personal information without permission
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Sending threatening, false, or intimidating messages
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Publishing defamatory content
Human rights groups, cyber experts, journalists, and the general public expressed concerns about misuse of these sections and interference with freedom of expression, demanding the law’s repeal.
After assuming power, the interim government promised to reconsider the law. On December 1, 2024, a draft of the new Cyber Safeguard Ordinance was published on the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Division’s website, inviting public feedback until December 4.
Read More: Cybersecurity: How to Stay Safe in a World That’s Always Online
The first draft also sparked some controversy. After approval by the Advisory Council on December 24 and final amendments on May 6 the ordinance was approved again.
At a press conference, legal advisor Dr. Asif Nazrul said that “The ordinance went through 25 drafts before finalization. Based on feedback from various levels, the ordinance now reflects a people-friendly approach.”
What Has Been Removed in the New Ordinance of Cyber Security?
The new Cyber Safeguard Ordinance completely removes nine controversial sections of the old law. The gazette states that all cases, investigations, tribunal verdicts or fines related to these sections will be considered null and void. This is a significant step expected to protect many journalists, activists, and ordinary citizens from legal harassment.
Technology and human rights circles have welcomed the move as a bold and democratic decision. Rasheda Islam the executive director of the Bangladesh Human Rights Forum, said that “This decision reflects the government’s commitment to freedom of expression. We hope all future digital laws prioritize the rights of the people.”
Cyber security expert Anisur Rahman said that “It is essential to prevent abuse of the law while giving importance to cyber safety. The new ordinance is an effort to maintain this balance.”
Though detailed analysis of the new ordinance is still underway, society has breathed a sigh of relief for now. In this technology-driven era, protecting information is essential, but equally important is safeguarding citizens’ rights. Many believe the interim government’s move could be a positive milestone on the path to building a Digital Bangladesh.
