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In a move to safeguard digital rights and align with international norms, the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications has instructed the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) to remove the provision that allows internet shutdowns under the current telecom legislation.

The directive, issued in a letter to the BTRC chairman last Monday, was signed by Fayez Ahmed Taiyeb, Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser overseeing security affairs in the Telecom and ICT ministry.

“To prevent any arbitrary internet shutdowns by government or private entities, the original Bangladesh Telecommunication Act, 2001 must be amended,” reads the directive, quoting Taiyeb.

The reform proposal is part of a broader overhaul of the telecom regulatory framework aimed at enhancing transparency, accountability, and compliance with international standards.

A key focus of the directive is the restructuring of the National Telecommunication Monitoring Center (NTMC), the agency responsible for electronic surveillance.

“In line with international best practices, there should be only one designated surveillance gateway, with other law enforcement agencies operating under judicial or quasi-judicial oversight,” the directive states.

It further underscores that all lawful interceptions within the telecom system must be governed by clearly defined legal standards to ensure legitimacy and avoid misuse.

The directive marks a significant policy shift towards a more open and rights-based digital governance structure in Bangladesh.