Highlights
- Sending obscene or abusive messages may lead to up to 2 years in jail or a Tk 1.5 crore fine under new Telecom Law
- Repeatedly calling someone without reason will be treated as a criminal offence
- Unauthorized wiretapping to be punishable by jail and heavy fines
- OTT platforms, social media, and online messaging apps must register and share data if required
- A new Bangladesh Telecommunication Commission to regulate the sector
Draft Law Published for Public Opinion
The Posts and Telecommunications Division has recently published the draft of the Bangladesh Telecommunication (Amendment) Ordinance 2025, introducing stricter penalties for crimes related to telecommunication.
The draft has been made public on the division’s official website for citizen and stakeholder feedback. People can share their opinions until November 15, 2025.
Read More: 5 BNP Activists Shot in Ruajan Upazila, One Critically Injured
Punishments for Obscene or Abusive Messages
According to Section 69, anyone sending obscene, threatening, offensive, or indecent messages, pictures, or videos through any telecommunication or wireless device will face up to two years in prison or a fine of up to Tk 1.5 crore, or both.
In case of serious offences, the punishment may extend to five years of imprisonment.
“অশ্লীল, ভীতিকর, অপমানজনক বা অশোভন কোনো বার্তা, ছবি বা ভিডিও পাঠালে দুই বছর পর্যন্ত কারাদণ্ড বা সর্বোচ্চ দেড় কোটি টাকা অর্থদণ্ড বা উভয় দণ্ড হতে পারে।”
Translation: “Sending obscene, threatening, offensive, or indecent messages, pictures, or videos can result in up to two years in prison or a fine of Tk 1.5 crore, or both.”
Unwanted Repeated Calls to Be Punished
Under Section 70, repeatedly calling a person without a valid reason will now be considered a punishable offence.
Violators may face a fine of Tk 1 lakh or six months in jail if the fine is not paid.
“নিজেই তৈরি করুন নিজের অনলাইন স্টোর — কোনো কোডিং জ্ঞান ছাড়াই!”
Illegal Wiretapping Considered a Serious Offence
The ordinance also imposes a two-year jail term or Tk 1.5 crore fine for those found guilty of unauthorized wiretapping or eavesdropping on private conversations.
OTT and Internet-Based Services Under Regulation
Internet-based services — including OTT platforms, social media, online messaging apps, and video streaming services — will now be required to register with the government.
They must provide data to security agencies when necessary for national security or public order.
Operating any telecom or foreign OTT service without government permission will also be a punishable offence.
Formation of a New Telecom Regulatory Body
A new independent authority called the Bangladesh Telecommunication Commission will be formed.
This five-member commission will be responsible for licensing, policymaking, spectrum allocation, and ensuring compliance with technical standards in the telecom sector.
The amendment aims to strengthen digital discipline, ensure citizens’ safety, and bring accountability to online and telecommunication services.
Source: News 24
