No Govt Can Legally Shut Down the Internet, ICT Special Assistant to CA

No government, including the current interim administration, can legally shut down the internet, as provisions allowing such actions under the Telecommunication Act of 2001 are being removed, according to Faiz Ahman Taiyeb, the Special Assistant (ICT) to the Chief Adviser.

Taiyeb emphasized that the interim government is also working to lower internet prices further, with a goal of aligning them with regional rates.

He made these remarks during the opening session of a four-day investment summit on April 7, at the session titled "Bangladesh Startup Connect" held at a city hotel.

"I want to make it absolutely clear that this government has no intention of shutting down the internet at any point, and we are committed to ensuring that future governments will not have the legal ability to do so either," Taiyeb said.

He outlined four key steps the government is taking to protect internet access. The first is the recognition of internet as a civic right in the newly declared Cyber Safety Ordinance, which is expected to be published by the end of next week.

"Second, the previous government's Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for internet shutdowns has been halted, and the ministry will no longer prepare any SOP for such actions," Taiyeb continued. "Third, the updated Regulatory and Licensing Guidelines for Non-Geostationary Orbit (NGSO) Satellite Services Operators have no provision for internet shutdowns. Lastly, we are working to repeal the relevant provision in the Telecom Act of 2001 that permits internet shutdowns, ensuring that no future government, including ours, can legally disrupt internet services."

Regarding internet pricing, Taiyeb assured that the government is focused on reducing costs while simultaneously improving the quality and accessibility of internet services. "Our goal is to lower internet prices while enhancing its usability. Additionally, we are placing significant emphasis on data governance, with a particular focus on interoperability," he said. "This will enable all government ministries to share data, making it more accessible to startups and businesses and fostering a more connected and efficient digital ecosystem."

Taiyeb concluded by reiterating the government’s commitment to advancing the ICT sector and ensuring that both the economy and the public benefit from improved internet access and digital services.