Explaining Bangladesh's Digital Security Act

The Digital Security Act in Bangladesh

The Digital Security Act, enacted by the Government of Bangladesh in October 2018, was introduced under the pretext of ensuring citizens' safety. However, several provisions of the law are overly broad and vague, granting excessive punitive authority to law enforcement agencies.

One such provision allows authorities to seize equipment, arrest individuals, or search premises without a warrant. Over time, the Act has become a powerful tool for the government and its supporters to suppress dissent and restrict freedom of expression. Alarmingly, the law permits charges to be filed against individuals even before any offense has occurred, based solely on suspicion.

Moreover, another clause allows anyone—including government supporters—to file cases against others, regardless of whether they are personally affected. This has been widely exploited over the past three years, creating a culture of fear among those who wish to voice criticism against the government.

Since its introduction, hundreds have been charged under the Act. In a recent research study analyzing 754 cases involving approximately 1,800 accused individuals, it was revealed that the law has been applied extensively and indiscriminately. Among those arrested, 20% were journalists, 22% were political figures, while others included businesspeople, students, and ordinary citizens—demonstrating the wide-ranging impact of the legislation.

Bangladesh has witnessed a steady erosion of democratic norms since 2011. The controversial elections of 2014—boycotted by the opposition—and 2018—marred by serious irregularities—have deepened this democratic backsliding. The Digital Security Act has not only contributed to this decline but also symbolizes it.

Ultimately, the Act has fostered a climate of fear, silenced opposition voices, and severely curtailed freedom of expression in the country.