Dhaka: Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology Adviser Md Nahid Islam today announced that the interim government is creating a distinct framework to address the pressing issue of cyber bullying, which predominantly impacts young girls across the nation. This development was shared during a meeting with a delegation from The Carter Center, a US-based nonprofit organization, at the ICT Tower in Agargaon.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Nahid Islam, who also serves as the information and broadcasting adviser, highlighted the significance of the student-led uprising in July and August, which marked a pivotal movement in the country. He noted that during this period, the internet was shut down, effectively concealing information about enforced disappearances and killings, thereby infringing upon the public’s right to information. He emphasized that the interim government is committed to preventing such occurrences in the future and ensuring uninterrupted access to information for all citiz
ens.
During the meeting, Jennie K. Lincoln, Senior Advisor of The Carter Center, expressed their efforts to enhance the quality of life for women in Bangladesh through the application of the Right To Information Act. She stressed the importance of empowering women in accessing information to ensure their rights and promote social accountability.
Nahid Islam criticized the previous government for engaging in corruption under the guise of digitalization, which hindered people from enjoying the anticipated benefits and resulted in “digital discrimination.” He assured that the interim government is focused on eradicating this issue by increasing digital literacy through necessary training and public awareness initiatives.
The advisor further explained how information dissemination is managed nationwide, with each ministry having public relations officers responsible for spreading information across the country. These efforts are closely monitored by the Office of the Chief Adviser. Additionally, he mentioned t
hat commissions formed for institutional reforms have launched websites to gather public opinions, inviting feedback from The Carter Center representatives.
The meeting was attended by ICT Division Secretary Shish Haider Chowdhury, The Carter Center Bangladesh Chief of Party Sumana Sultana Mahmud, and senior officials from the ministry, reflecting a collaborative approach toward improving information accessibility and combating cyber bullying in Bangladesh.