The National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA) has urged all print, electronic and online news outlets to refrain from disseminating statements made by "convicted and fugitive Sheikh Hasina," citing risks to national security and public order.
In a press release issued today, the agency said it is "deeply concerned" that some media organisations are broadcasting or publishing remarks from the convicted fugitive. According to the NCSA, those statements contain directives or calls that may incite "violence, disorder and criminal activities," as well as disrupt social harmony.
The agency noted that airing statements from convicted and fugitive individuals is a violation of the Cyber Security Ordinance 2025. Under Section 8(2), law enforcement authorities may take necessary action to remove or block content that threatens national integrity, security or public order, spreads ethnic or religious hatred, or directly incites violence.
Section 26(1) further states that using a false identity or illegally accessing systems to publish or disseminate hate speech, ethnic incitement, or calls for violence is a punishable offence. Section 26(2) prescribes penalties of up to two years' imprisonment and/or fines up to Tk 10 lakh.
The NCSA emphasised that it respects freedom of the press and freedom of expression. However, it called on all media houses to avoid publishing any violent, instigating or criminally provocative statements from convicted individuals and to remain mindful of their legal responsibilities. "We urge the media to act responsibly in the interest of national security," the release said.
The statement was signed by Muhammad Jasim Uddin, public relations officer of the Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology Ministry.