Cyber Security Act will not be allowed to become oppressive: Salahuddin

Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed has said the government is taking the utmost care to ensure that the proposed Cyber Security (Amendment) Act, 2026 does not become an oppressive law and that no journalist or media organisation falls victim to its misuse.

The legislation will be finalised only after obtaining the views of various stakeholders and holding extensive consultations, the minister said during a press briefing after a consultation meeting in the conference room of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting at the Secretariat today (28 September).

On measures to protect journalists working across print, electronic, and online media, he said a crucial proposal was made during the meeting to make prior court approval mandatory before taking action against or arresting any journalist.

The government considers the proposal highly appropriate and reasonable, he added.

He noted that formal recommendations from stakeholders on the issue will be received within the next 15 days, after which the provision will be incorporated into the bill.

The minister also said a provision will be included to set a specific time limit for disposing of cases or appeals so that no individual remains in legal limbo indefinitely.

Referring to the discussions, Salahuddin said, "The Daily Star Editor Mahfuz Anam has put forward an important proposal. He suggested taking more time for detailed discussions involving media and cyber experts to ensure the media is not harmed or victimised in any way, and to guarantee necessary saving clauses or safeguards within the law."

"The government has gladly accepted the proposal," the minister stated.

"We did not want to formulate this law targeting the media, nor do we want that now. Our main objective is to ensure that no journalist falls victim to the misuse of this law," he added.

Revised draft to be published again

Describing the next stages of the legislative process, Salahuddin said the revised draft will be published on the relevant government website again before being sent to the Cabinet, based on the recommendations received.

This will allow members of the public and stakeholders to submit their views once more, he said, adding that suggestions considered acceptable will also be incorporated into the draft.

"The bill will then undergo a final review at an inter-ministerial meeting before being placed before the Cabinet for approval. If approved by the Cabinet, it will be introduced in parliament as a bill."

The minister said it will not be rushed through parliament.

He said the final decision will be taken after parliamentary discussions involving both the government and opposition, as well as views expressed at seminars and symposia outside parliament.

Focus on cybercrime, social harmony and culture

Explaining the main objectives of the proposed Cyber Security (Amendment) Act, the minister said the government wants to develop a balanced law capable of protecting the country, society and, in particular, young people from various forms of cybercrime and criminal activities.

He said the legislation will also seek to protect social and religious harmony, family bonds and the country's culture, while remaining aligned with international standards.