Government Plans Tougher Cyber Laws and Digital Tracking System to Combat Online Harassment

The government is planning a series of legal, technological and institutional measures to combat online harassment, hate speech, cyberbullying and digital violence, with a particular focus on protecting women in digital spaces.

The proposed initiatives include stricter legislation against cyber violence and online sexual harassment, faster investigation and prosecution of cybercrime, and the establishment of specialized institutional mechanisms to strengthen cyber security.

Under the plan, a dedicated intelligence unit and a Cyber Crime Tracking System will be created to monitor and investigate violence and abuse targeting women. The government also intends to launch nationwide awareness campaigns through mass media and religious institutions to discourage online abuse and promote responsible digital behavior.

The Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Division is prioritizing women-friendly cyber security training while integrating digital safety and data protection education into the national education system to equip students with essential cyber security skills.

For the FY2026–27 national budget, the government has allocated Tk 1.676 billion (Tk 167.6 crore) under the program titled "Ensuring Cyber Security and Reducing Violence Against Women."

In his budget statement to the state-run Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS), Finance Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury reaffirmed the government's commitment to protecting women's dignity and safety.

He said creating a women- and child-friendly workplace remains one of the government's top priorities and emphasized that a zero-tolerance policy will be strictly enforced against workplace violence and sexual harassment.

The Finance Minister added that the government's election manifesto places special emphasis on eliminating gender-based violence and expanding economic opportunities for women. He also highlighted gender budgeting as a key policy tool for ensuring equitable allocation of public resources and building an inclusive and discrimination-free society.

Meanwhile, the Cabinet Committee formed to finalize the draft Cyber Protection (Amendment) Act, 2026 held a meeting on July 15 at the Secretariat to review proposed amendments. The meeting discussed strengthening cyber security, safeguarding citizens' digital rights and ensuring a safer digital ecosystem in response to the rapidly evolving technology landscape. Several recommendations were approved to make the proposed law more modern, practical and effective.

Policy analysts believe that combining stronger legislation, technology-driven cyber monitoring, public awareness campaigns and digital safety education will play a significant role in building a safer online environment across Bangladesh.
//DBITEC/ETO/ENA//