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Published : 18 Nov 2025, 02:58 AM
The National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA) has asked media outlets not to air statements of convicted individuals in the interest of national security and warned that “legal” action could be taken otherwise.
On Monday night, the Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology issued a media statement communicating NCSA’s request.
The statement followed widespread publication of Hasina’s reactions to the International Crimes Tribunal ruling by several print, electronic and online media platforms.
The NCSA said broadcasting the statements of sentenced and absconding accused “violates” the Cyber Security Ordinance, 2025.
The statement explained that such content can “disrupt social stability, incite violence, disorder, and criminal activity, and contravenes the ordinance”.
The agency highlighted Section 8(2) of the ordinance, which authorises law-enforcing agencies to remove or block digital or electronic media content that threatens national integrity, security, public order, spreads racial or religious hatred, or incites violence.
It also cited Section 26(1), noting that publishing or broadcasting hate, racial animosity, or incitement to violence under a false identity or illegal access constitutes an offence.
Under Section 26(2), violators may face up to two years’ imprisonment or a maximum fine of Tk 1 million.
The NCSA said it respects journalism and freedom of expression, but urged media to refrain from airing any statements from sentenced or absconding individuals that are “violent, disorderly, criminal, provocative, or inciting, while considering potential legal liability”.
