Bangladesh seeks public input on proposed cyber law changes
Bangladesh has opened a public consultation on amendments to the Cyber Protection Act 2026 that would introduce a new offence for circulating online ‘rumours’ and revise rules on disinformation and other online content.
Bangladesh’s Information and Communication Technology Department opened a public consultation on 13 September on proposed amendments to the Cyber Protection Act 2026. The changes are intended to revise several provisions of the law, including those dealing with online content.
One of the proposed changes would introduce Section 26A, creating an offence related to the online circulation of ‘rumours’. The draft defines a rumour as unsubstantiated or unverified information, news or claims that cause or may cause public confusion, panic, agitation or social unrest.
A violation could result in up to 10 years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to Tk 4 million (approximately US$33,000), or both. The draft would also define ‘disinformation’ and amend provisions concerning defamation, online bullying, and the blocking or removal of online content.
The proposals have raised concerns among press freedom organisations. The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has called for the provisions to be withdrawn or substantially revised, arguing that their broad wording could undermine press freedom. CPJ also said the draft would allow courts to suspend or cancel the licences of news outlets found to have violated the law.
Similar concerns were raised during a 10 September consultation with print and electronic media. Several editors argued that provisions from Bangladesh’s now-defunct Digital Security Act 2018 had been carried over into the proposed legislation.
The Digital Security Act had itself faced criticism over its impact on journalists and online expression. CPJ has linked the proposed amendments to those concerns, noting that at least 255 journalists were charged under the 2018 law between 2018 and 2023.
Information and Broadcasting Minister Andaleeve Rahman said the government was not seeking to suppress free thought, press freedom or journalists. He said the aim was instead to prevent disorder on social media and protect social harmony.
The proposed amendments follow an earlier review of the legislation by a government committee. In July, the ICT Division said the review was intended to adapt the law to technological changes, strengthen cybersecurity, protect citizens’ rights and support a safer digital environment. The committee recommended further changes before the draft is finalised.
The legislation remains under consultation, and its final provisions have yet to be determined.
