Dhaka: The government has announced the decision to repeal the controversial Cyber Security Act-2023, which was established by the ousted Awami League regime. The council of advisers sanctioned the draft of the Cyber Security Act (Repeal) Ordinance - 2024 during a meeting at the Chief Adviser's Office in Dhaka's Tejgaon, chaired by Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus. According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Chief Adviser's Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam stated that the previous Awami League government had transformed the Digital Security Act into the Cyber Security Act, maintaining its original objectives. Alam explained that the act aimed to suppress dissenting voices and caused harassment to many individuals, including those from minority communities. The council of advisers has resolved to repeal the act and establish a new law to safeguard vulnerable groups, such as women and children, in cyberspace and protect financial institutions like banks. Alam also noted the council's decision to document the expe nditures related to 'Mujib Year.' A comprehensive list will be created to detail how funds were allocated by various ministries and sectors, revealing that not only public funds but also private companies' resources were used under duress for commemorative activities. Many were compelled to set up Mujib Corners and construct sculptures, leading to a significant expenditure, which the documentation aims to quantify. Additionally, the council discussed the draft for the Smoking and Tobacco Products Use (Control) (Amendment) Ordinance, 2024, deciding to form a high-power committee led by Finance Adviser Saleh Uddin Ahmed. Given that approximately 35 percent of the population smokes tobacco, which affects public health yet contributes significantly to revenue, the committee will reevaluate the tobacco control law. The advisers also agreed to update the drugs list of Essential Drugs Company Limited (EDCL), focusing on extending the list to protect impoverished individuals affected by high medicine prices. A task force will be established to engage with concerned stakeholders to address this issue. Chief Adviser's Deputy Press Secretaries Abul Kalam Azad Majumder and Apurba Jahangir were present at the press briefing.
