Bidisha Ershad writes open letter to Tarique Rahman

Bidisha Ershad has written an open letter to BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman regarding his promise of “free internet in every household”. She recently shared the open letter in a Facebook post, in which she praised the pledge while also raising several important questions about its implementation plan.

The Facebook post is reproduced below:

Mr Tarique Rahman,

Today, you represent millions of people in Bangladesh and have become a symbol of hope for many citizens. The younger generation, in particular, wants to see you as a modern and forward-looking leader. They wish to believe that under your leadership, Bangladesh can become a more technology-driven, inclusive and progressive nation.

Ahead of the election, you have made several significant commitments on behalf of the BNP at various rallies—most notably, the provision of free internet at schools, colleges and universities, as well as at airports, bus terminals and railway stations, followed by the promise of “free internet in every household”. You have also pledged to construct multi-storey buildings in the Korail slum and to introduce a family card system.

These initiatives are undoubtedly linked to improving people’s quality of life, and many citizens have welcomed them with appreciation. Nevertheless, as a conscious citizen, I would like to place a few humble questions before you. These questions are not meant as criticism, but rather stem from a genuine interest in better understanding your plans.

First, Bangladesh is a country of nearly 200 million people. Ensuring completely free internet nationwide for such a large population presents enormous technological and financial challenges. Could you please briefly explain what kind of infrastructure and economic model your government is considering to achieve this goal?

Second, internet services are currently operated as a business by telecom operators. In this context, citizens are curious to know how the government plans to coordinate with them. Do you believe this initiative can be implemented through a public–private partnership?

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Third, many people cite Singapore as an example. However, Singapore’s size, population and economic structure are very different from those of Bangladesh. It would help the public better understand your vision if you could clarify which international model you consider most suitable for Bangladesh.

At the same time, I would like to respectfully suggest a few realistic possibilities which you may consider if you deem them appropriate:

• Expansion of public free Wi-Fi zones across the country

• Affordable high-speed internet for low-income families

• Stronger network coverage in rural areas

• Special internet facilities for students

Mr Tarique Rahman, your promise has undoubtedly raised expectations among the people. I believe that presenting a clear and transparent roadmap for turning this promise into reality would further strengthen public confidence.

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I sincerely hope that you will receive these questions in a positive spirit and, in the future, present your vision for building a digital Bangladesh more clearly before the nation. I am the mother of a special child, and when my son, Eric Ershad, learned that you plan to deliver free internet to every household, he was very happy (even though he does not personally need it), because his education, music and all aspects of his life are dependent on the internet.

With respect,

A conscious citizen

Bidisha Ershad

(Mother of Eric Ershad)