Commenting that the Digital Security Act was not enacted to control the freedom of expression or the media, several steps have been taken to prevent the misuse of the Digital Security Act, said Minister for Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Anisul Haque.
He said so, while speaking as the Chief Guest at a discussion on ‘Digital Law and Freedom of Expression in Bangladesh’ at BRAC University in Mohakhali, on Sunday (21 May).
The Minister said at an event organized by the Office of the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Bangladesh and BRAC University that the Digital Security Act is not being used to control freedom of expression or the media. A sustainable solution is needed in this regard. As part of this solution, some amendments will be made to the Digital Security Act.
The law minister also said that dialogue and discussion are key to a democratic society. The government therefore feels encouraged to consult with various sections of society and international organizations.
He said the government had held lengthy discussions with the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights on the Digital Security Act, received some of their inputs and was reviewing it.
Anisul Haque said that women are often harassed online, which needs to be addressed. Defamation of the country, government or any person through arbitrary misuse of digital space will not be allowed.
He said, as per the need of the times, all the countries are currently being run in the digital space. We need to protect our national interests and those who are targeted and vulnerable to digital attacks. This is why Digital Security Act is needed. Therefore, there is no question of repealing this law. However, the law is being reviewed to amend it. It must be considered.
Gwen Lewis, United Nations resident coordinator in Bangladesh, National Parliament Member Ahsan Adelur Rahman, BRAC University Vice-Chancellor Professor Syed Mahfuzul Aziz, Senior Journalist Manjurul Ahsan Bulbul, Professor Dr. Kaberi Gayen and others spoke. After the lecture, the participants took part in an open discussion and asked the panelists various questions about the Digital Security Act.
