Cyber Security Act Being Amended to Protect Speech and Dignity: Law Minister

Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Md. Asaduzzaman has announced that the Cyber Security Act is being amended to strike a balance between preserving freedom of speech and safeguarding individual dignity. He made the remarks while responding to journalists following the 'US Constitution Day Celebration' event at the Dhaka University Senate Bhaban on Thursday morning (September 17).

The Minister shared that the proposed "Cyber Security (Amendment) Act, 2026" is currently at the draft review stage under a five-member cabinet committee formed by the government. He emphasized, "While we must uphold freedom of speech and expression, we must also ensure that an individual's personal reputation is not damaged. Demands regarding this have come from opposition parties as well. Hon'ble Prime Minister has instructed thorough scrutiny and stakeholder engagement before finalizing the law, given its direct link to civil expression."

However, Minister Asaduzzaman issued a clear warning that the government will take decisive action against anonymous online news outlets or social media channels attempting to spark social instability or disseminate fake news. Addressing concerns over digital crimes, AI-driven fraud, and yellow journalism, he assured that the government holds no intention to curb press freedom, but rather aims to build an effective legal shield for citizens and legitimate media practitioners.

Simultaneously, the Minister affirmed the government's commitment to strengthening the National Human Rights Commission to uphold constitutional governance and rule of law. The Ministry of Law is actively reviewing public consultation feedback and suggestions from civic organizations and media groups regarding the revised draft.

Earlier, U.S. Ambassador Brent T. Christensen joined Law Minister Mohammad Asaduzzaman, MP; Dhaka University Pro-Vice Chancellor Professor Abdus Salam; and constitutional experts, academics, and students at Dhaka University's Senate Hall to mark U.S. Constitution Day. In his speech, Ambassador Christensen highlighted how constant debate, the continuous search for consensus, and the American Constitution’s emphasis on the separation of powers, judicial independence, and the right to keep adding amendments has resulted in a resilient Constitution that has inspired democracies around the world for over 200 years.  

The Constitution Day program featured a public ceremony, panel discussion, an essay competition, a quiz contest, and an American Founders Museum exhibition. 
//DBTech/IH/JTNO/SME/MIST//