Spectrum, Sovereignty, Safeguards: Protesters Rally to Save Teletalk
A human chain was held in front of the National Press Club on Thursday (May 7), demanding an end to alleged domestic and foreign conspiracies to destroy the state-owned mobile operator Teletalk Bangladesh Limited.
The program was organized by the State and Public Interest Protection National Committee. Speakers at the event said that several recent decisions taken for Teletalk—particularly the allocation of important spectrum—indicate prospects for the company’s development.
They alleged that Teletalk has long lagged behind due to policy discrimination, lack of investment, and mismanagement. At present, they claimed, vested domestic and foreign interests are colluding to push the company toward collapse, which they described as alarming for the country’s telecommunications sector.
At the human chain, Mohammad Mohiuddin Ahmed, President of the Bangladesh Mobile Phone Consumers Association, said a state-owned operator is essential to maintain competition in the market. He noted that Teletalk’s low-cost services keep other operators under pressure. He warned that if Teletalk weakens, a syndicate could emerge in the market, leading to higher prices for data and voice calls.
He placed several demands before the government to transform Teletalk into a profitable and competitive entity. These include: halting domestic and foreign conspiracies against Teletalk; implementing a transparent and accountable restructuring plan; resolving outstanding liabilities; ensuring professional management; and introducing independent audits to safeguard state assets.
Speakers further said that any attempt to weaken or destroy Teletalk could pose a threat to the country’s digital security and sovereignty. They also warned of tougher programs in the future if their demands are not met.
The human chain was presided over by the organization’s Convener Muhammad Aziz Sarker. Among others, Mizanur Rahman Miju, Raju Ahmed Khan, Siddiqur Rahman, student leader Mizan, human rights activist Sadhana Mahal, and Masud Hasan Badal also spoke.
DBTech/MA/EK/OR
