The government is addressing concerns surrounding the Cyber Protection Ordinance 2024, which recently drew criticism for provisions such as cyberbullying and arrest without warrants. According to Faez Ahmed Taiyab, Policy Advisor (Coordination & Reform) at the ICT Division, the provision for cyberbullying will now be excluded from the ordinance and included under sexual harassment laws.
Speaking at a discussion event titled “Digital Transformation and Data Vision: IT Revolution in Youthful Bangladesh,” organized by the National Civic Committee on Tuesday night at the committee’s central office in Banglamotor, Mr. Taiyab shared updates about the ordinance.
The interim government recently approved the draft of the Cyber Protection Ordinance 2024, which has faced criticism over several provisions. Responding to these criticisms, Mr. Taiyab stated, “For seizure, search, and arrest, law enforcement will notify the court within 24 hours. The provision for arrest without a warrant has been narrowed to apply only in cases of hacking critical information infrastructure.”
He also highlighted future plans, stating, “As part of our responsibilities, we are strategizing advancements in areas like semiconductors and cybersecurity where Bangladesh needs progress. Only sensitive data will be required to be stored in local data centers. Necessary revisions will be made to modernize the Cyber Protection Ordinance by considering public feedback. Our future initiatives include drafting a Data Protection Act, establishing the Bangladesh National Data Avenue, and ensuring digital transformation across government ministries.”
Discussing further steps, Mr. Taiyab added, “Collaboration between industries, academia, and the government is essential. We will establish necessary labs and training facilities in both public and private universities. Additionally, efforts are being made to end monopolistic practices in ICT and telecom sectors left behind by previous authoritarian governments, which will result in reduced internet costs and improved internet speed.”
Regarding PayPal’s availability in Bangladesh, Mr. Taiyab explained, “Bangladesh currently lacks an address verification system, which is essential for PayPal. Additionally, PayPal requires both inward and outward financial transactions. No institution in Bangladesh continuously monitors financial scams. Unless these issues are resolved, bringing PayPal to Bangladesh will remain challenging, though discussions are ongoing.”
The event also featured remarks by Sarjis Alam, Chief Organizer of the National Civic Committee, who expressed frustration with the growing corruption among politicians. “We only see their political lives, not how they earn their livelihoods. Politicians must focus on skill development for sustainable earnings. With effective communication skills, these barriers can be overcome,” he stated.
Mr. Alam presented several recommendations to the ICT Policy Advisor, including:
- Compiling an account of the ICT initiatives led by Sheikh Hasina’s son, Sajeeb Wazed Joy, and canceling projects designed for exploitation.
- Exploring ways to engage youth active on social media and mobile platforms in productive activities.
- Simplifying the promotion of ICT initiatives and opportunities to make them accessible.
- Ensuring the efficient use of existing buildings rather than constructing new ones.
The meeting was attended by Mohammad Azahar Uddin Onik, a central member of the committee, and Member Secretary Akhtar Hossain, alongside Sarwar Tushar, Joint Convener, and ICT Cell members Mohammad Azahar Uddin Onik and Tina Nandi.
