The interim government has taken a principle decision to repeal the Cyber Security Act, which has been criticized as a tool for harassment, particularly against journalists and various professionals.

The decision was made on Thursday (November 7) during a meeting of the advisory council, chaired by Chief Advisor Dr. Muhammad Yunus, held at his office in Tejgaon, Dhaka. 

Following the meeting, Environmental Advisor Syeda Rizwana Hasan disclosed government’s decision to media.

The Cyber Security Act has faced widespread criticism, with many alleging it was often misused to target journalists and others. 

Recently, advisors within the interim government began discussing the need to repeal or amend the law. Information and Broadcasting Advisor Md. Nahid Islam indicated earlier this week that the law would be repealed soon.

Prior to this, Legal Advisor Asif Nazrul had stated that the government should repeal the Cyber Security Act and replace it with a new law focused on cybersecurity, prioritizing citizen protection.

Originally introduced as the Digital Security Act during the Sheikh Hasina government, the law was later reformed as the Cyber Security Act but continued to face public and media backlash. The interim government, led by Dr. Yunus, has now taken a decisive step towards its repeal.

BDST: 1634 HRS, NOV 07, 2024
MSK/SMS