BTRC and ICT Department ordered to remove fugitive Sheikh Hasina's statement
The government has re-issued a strict directive urging all media outlets to refrain from broadcasting speeches or statements by ousted and fugitive Sheikh Hasina. In a fact sheet published on Tuesday, August 4, the government expressed deep concern over certain outlets violating the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) ban and warned of firm legal consequences under the National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA) frameworks.
Tuesday, August 4: The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, ICT Division, and the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) have been instructed to completely block, remove, and prevent the publication or broadcast of all previous hate speeches and current statements made by deposed and fugitive Sheikh Hasina. The directives were highlighted in an official government fact sheet released today (Tuesday, August 4).
The fact sheet cited that the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) had previously imposed a blanket ban on broadcasting speeches by Sheikh Hasina—an accused in the July-August genocide case—which aligns with the core spirit of the July Uprising. The National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA) also requested media houses to comply with legal provisions in the interest of national security. However, the government expressed grave concern that while a section of the press adhered to court rulings, certain media entities continued to disseminate her statements. The government expressed gratitude to outlets respecting the ban.
Addressing a press briefing on government progress today, Prime Minister's Information and Broadcasting Advisor Dr. Zahed Ur Rahman warned that action will be taken against anyone defying the court order.
"We will remind everyone once again not to broadcast her statements, as court orders are binding," Dr. Zahed Ur Rahman stated. "If anyone feels aggrieved and believes Sheikh Hasina's speeches should be broadcast, they can approach the court and challenge the verdict. But until the court alters its ruling, abiding by the current directive is mandatory for every institution and individual."
Responding to a query regarding Sheikh Hasina’s return to the country, the Prime Minister's Advisor remarked, "It sounds quite laughable. We have an extradition treaty and wish to bring her back in custody anyway. If she says she wants to return on her own, she is welcome—we are prepared, and we will ensure complete justice."
//DBTech/ISO/SME//
