Concerns grow over Cyber Security Ordinance 2025

The newly enacted Cyber Security Ordinance 2025 draws criticism from civil society and political leaders, who argue that the law undermines fundamental rights instead of protecting citizens.

Speaking at a seminar titled “Cyber Security Ordinance 2025: How Much Protection Does It Offer?” held at the Dhaka Reporters Unity on Saturday, BNP Standing Committee Member Nazrul Islam Khan said the ordinance lacks sufficient safeguards for public freedoms.

“Despite some amendments, the law still contains vague provisions and reintroduces clauses that allow previously released individuals to be rearrested. This is both illogical and unjust,” he said.

Nazrul also expressed concerns over broader legal implementation, especially about labour rights.

“Even today, 20%-25% of workers do not receive formal appointment letters, and their employment terms remain unclear,” he said.

He stressed the need for greater public awareness of legal rights, especially among marginalised groups such as women, children and workers.

Reflecting on the country’s history of political struggle, he said, “From the Language Movement and the Liberation War to the recent July-August movement, our people have always fought for justice. But how many more lives must be sacrificed?”

Nagorik Oikya President Mahmudur Rahman Manna, who chaired the seminar, strongly condemned Section 35 of the ordinance, which permits warrantless arrests.

“Despite official assurances, law enforcement regularly exceeds its authority. This ordinance must be repealed,” he said.

Nagorik Oikya Organising Secretary Sakib Anwar presented the keynote.

Other speakers included Abdul Hai Shikdar (BNP chairperson’s adviser), Bazlur Rashid Firoz (general secretary, Bangladesh Shomajtantrik Dol), Nazmul Haque Prodhan (general secretary, Bangladesh Jatiyotabadi Somajtantrik Dol), Didarul Bhuiyan (finance secretary, Rashtro Songoskar Andolon), Shahidullah Kaiser (general secretary, Nagorik Oikya), Akram Hossain (chief coordinator, NCP Dhaka North), and Fahim Mashroor (co-coordinator, Voice for Reform).