Dhaka:The government is taking measures to ensure that the proposed Cyber Security (Amendment) Act does not become oppressive, specifically aiming to prevent victimization of journalists or media outlets, as stated by Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed. This announcement was made during a press briefing at the Secretariat following a consultation meeting with media representatives at the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the proposed law will only be finalized after extensive consultations with stakeholders and thorough consideration of their recommendations. The draft amendment bill was previously presented to the Cabinet, which directed authorities to engage in comprehensive discussions with IT experts and other stakeholders involved in cyberspace. Subsequently, the draft was published on the government website to solicit feedback from the public, including input from various institutions, human rights organizations, students, and cyberspace users.
The government's second consultation with editors, senior journalists, and representatives from media associations occurred on Monday. At the initial meeting on September 10, editors were encouraged to submit their perspectives either in writing or through the website. Many participants at the latest meeting shared their views and committed to providing written recommendations.
A proposal was made during the meeting to hold detailed discussions between media and cyber experts to ensure the law includes necessary safeguards for the media. The government has welcomed this proposal, affirming that there is no intention to target the media with the legislation. Safeguards proposed include mandatory court approval before any action is taken against or the arrest of a journalist, a measure deemed appropriate and logical by the government.
Stakeholders have been given an additional 15 days to submit formal recommendations, which will be reviewed for potential inclusion in the draft. A specific timeframe for resolving cases or appeals will also be considered to prevent indefinite legal uncertainty.
A special coordination mechanism will be established to finalize the draft, with the Principal Information Officer as the focal point. Coordination will be conducted by the Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology, and the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. Involvement from the Editors' Council, Electronic Media Association, and a panel of cyber experts will ensure comprehensive input within the next 7 to 15 days.
Following revisions, the draft will be republished for public feedback before being submitted to the Cabinet. After Cabinet approval, the bill will be presented to Parliament for further discussion, incorporating perspectives from both ruling and opposition parties as well as insights from outside seminars and symposiums.
The primary goal of the proposed law is to create a balanced legal framework to protect the country, society, and young people from cybercrimes while complying with international standards and safeguarding social and religious harmony, family values, and indigenous culture.