Govt to Introduce ‘Cyber Protection Act 2026’ to Tackle Online Rumors and AI-Generated Defamation

The government is taking strict legal measures to prevent propaganda and misinformation targeting the head of government and other important political and social figures on social media platforms. In particular, work has begun on a new amendment titled the “Cyber Protection Act 2026” to ensure the rapid removal of defamatory and harmful content created using artificial intelligence (AI).

Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed disclosed the information on Monday (8 June) while responding to a question from reserved-seat lawmaker Helen Jerin Khan in Parliament. In the absence of a representative from the Ministry of Information, the Home Minister responded under the provisions outlined in a letter from the Chief Whip.

The minister said the proposed law would compel international technology platforms such as Meta and Facebook to remove controversial content within a specified timeframe. He added that two additional draft laws aimed at controlling online-offline gambling and narcotics are also in the final stage and could be passed during the current parliamentary session.

Expressing concern over the misuse of freedom of expression on social media, the Home Minister said that misleading and defamatory content is being spread in cyberspace in the name of freedom, targeting the country’s head of government, family members and other significant political and social personalities. He noted that the meaning of “freedom” now needs to be redefined.

He further stated that the government has already started drafting legal reforms to counter misinformation and propaganda. The proposed amendment will modernize the definitions of rumor and defamation while introducing stricter punishment for offenders.

Responding to a supplementary question regarding the lack of expected cooperation from Meta and Facebook, the minister said neighboring countries have enforced legal frameworks requiring Meta to take action within 24 hours.

He explained that Bangladesh’s current laws lack such strict provisions, which is why international platforms often ignore requests sent by the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) and instead point to weaknesses in local legislation.

The minister added that the new law would impose mandatory timelines for content removal and grant law enforcement agencies, BTRC and other authorized government bodies full authority to block and request the transfer of online content.

Highlighting efforts to curb crimes in both virtual and physical spaces, he said the government is also modernizing the colonial-era Gambling Prevention Act of 1867. A new “Gambling Prevention Act” aimed at tackling online gambling, betting and related drug trafficking is currently in its final stage and may be introduced during this parliamentary session.

On narcotics control, the Home Minister said amendments to the Narcotics Control Act are also being prepared. He noted that officials of the Department of Narcotics Control currently lack authorization to use firearms, leaving them vulnerable against heavily armed drug traffickers.

According to the minister, the proposed law will ensure legal support for laboratory facilities, advanced training and the establishment of dedicated dog squads to make the force self-sufficient. He expressed hope that these strengthened legal frameworks would soon meet public expectations and help prevent social disorder.

//DBTech/SBO/MI//