Post by : Rameen Ariff

The interim government of Bangladesh has formally warned all media outlets, including print, electronic, and digital, to refrain from publishing statements made by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. This directive follows a tribunal's recent verdict that sentenced Hasina to death in absentia for alleged crimes against humanity during the protests led by students last year.

In a press release issued on Monday, the National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA) expressed its serious concern regarding the distribution of statements from the convicted and fugitive Sheikh Hasina. The NCSA indicated that such remarks could include orders or appeals that might incite "disorder, violence, or criminal acts," threatening national stability and peace.

The agency underscored the need for media houses to act "responsibly and cautiously," highlighting that the comments from the former leader could jeopardize public order, particularly in light of Bangladesh’s ongoing political unrest.

“Need for Responsible Journalism,” Says NCSA

The cybersecurity watchdog warned that airing comments from individuals legally identified as fugitives constitutes a violation of the Cyber Security Ordinance in Bangladesh. Authorities can take action to remove or block any content perceived to be harmful to national integrity or inciting communal tensions.

Additionally, the warning cautioned against using false identities, hacking, or accessing restricted systems to disseminate provocative material—offences that could incur penalties of up to two years in prison and fines of up to 10 lakh Bangladeshi taka.

Despite emphasizing its commitment to press freedom, the NCSA urged media outlets to refrain from amplifying any "violent, inciting, or criminally provocative" remarks from a convicted figure.

Sheikh Hasina’s Downfall

This warning arrives amidst significant developments in Bangladesh’s political landscape. Sheikh Hasina, who has led the country for over 15 years, was ousted following substantial student-led protests last year. Her government's severe backlash against demonstrators incited national outrage, compelling her to leave the country.

On August 5 of last year, Hasina entered India, where she has remained since being declared a fugitive by Bangladeshi courts. The International Crimes Tribunal subsequently convicted her for crimes against humanity linked to the violent suppression of student protests, culminating in her death sentence.

The Importance of This Moment

This media restriction underscores heightened tensions in Bangladesh, as the interim government seeks to regain control and ensure order. With Hasina actively making statements from abroad, authorities are apprehensive that her words may reignite protests or disrupt the already delicate political climate.

As Bangladesh navigates through this period of uncertainty, the international community is closely monitoring the situation, particularly as calls from Dhaka for India to extradite Sheikh Hasina grow stronger.

This recent warning represents one of the government’s most assertive efforts to manage the national narrative and avert new waves of unrest.

#Global