Dhaka: The telecom regulator has instructed all mobile phone operators to offer 1GB of free internet to users on July 18, in observance of “Free Internet Day”. The initiative is part of the government’s effort to commemorate the July Uprising.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the decision was made during a meeting of the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) on July 8, chaired by the commission’s vice chairman. Top officials of mobile operators have confirmed the issue, saying that they have received a directive from the telecom regulator regarding the free internet.
Talking to BSS, Taimur Rahman, Chief Corporate and Regulatory Affairs Officer of Banglalink, said: “We respect and support the initiative to honour those who lost their lives last July.” He added that they are currently assessing the feasibility of the government’s request and exploring other options if required. Additionally, they are considering using their digital infotainment platform, Toffee, to offer something special in remembrance of last July.
Shahed Alam, Chief Corporate and Regulatory Officer at Robi Axiata Limited, stated that whether bonus data or gifts will be given to customers on any special occasion is essentially a commercial decision. He emphasized the importance of factors like network load and customer interest in making such decisions.
The initiative carries particular weight this year, marking the first anniversary of the internet blackout imposed by the then Sheikh Hasina-led government on July 18, 2024, during a crackdown on quota reform protests. The unrest culminated in her ouster weeks later, in early August.
According to the directive, BTRC approved the decision following instructions from the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications aimed at reflecting public aspirations and promoting digital freedom. To ensure smooth execution, operators have been asked to notify users in advance via SMS and extend full cooperation in observing the day.
The order suggested a SMS, mentioning, “No one will take away freedom to use the internet. On the occasion of July Uprising Day, (you are) receiving 1GB of data on July 18 with validity for 5 days.” BTRC emphasized that this symbolic gesture of digital freedom aligns with the spirit of the July Uprising and serves the broader public interest.
However, senior officials from a mobile operator noted that telecom companies are still obligated to pay taxes on all distributed data. They called for clarity from the government on whether the free data will be tax-exempt, adding that operators must also cover network transmission and delivery costs. “BTRC needs to clarify whether other stakeholders will support this effort,” the officials said.