Telecom consumers, technology entrepreneurs, and experts gathered on November 27 to call for constitutional protection of internet access and data privacy in Bangladesh. The demand for internet access as a fundamental right and the inclusion of data protection clauses in the new constitution was the focus of a citizens’ dialogue organized by the Bangladesh Mobile Phone Consumers’ Association (BMPCA).
AKM Fahim Mashroor, former President of the Bangladesh Association of Software and Information Services, supported the proposal, emphasizing the vital role of the internet in Bangladesh’s connectivity and economic activities. He highlighted the severe consequences of the internet shutdown during the July student and public uprising, where mobile internet was blocked for 13 days, broadband for 8 days, and social media platforms for about 15 days. The shutdown caused an estimated loss of $10 billion, affecting sectors like banking, insurance, healthcare, and technology.
BMPCA President Mohiuddin Ahmed stated that the internet is no longer just a communication or entertainment tool but has become a fundamental human right in many countries.
Aminul Hakim, President of the IIG Association of Bangladesh, echoed the call for stronger data protection, citing incidents like the central bank reserve heist and previous leaks of citizens’ personal information. Barrister Asaduzzaman Fuad, a political analyst, underscored the internet’s importance in empowering the current generation.
The event also featured discussions from technology expert Tanvir Hasan Zoha, telecommunications expert Mustafa Mahmud Hussain, and State Reform Movement activist Didarul Bhuiyan.
