The interim government of Bangladesh has assured that internet services will remain uninterrupted during the upcoming election, and journalists will be able to report freely.
Home Adviser Lt Gen (retd) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury confirmed the matter on Sunday.
Speaking to journalists after a meeting with administrative and law enforcement officials from Chattogram Division at the World Trade Centre in Chattogram City, Jahangir Alam warned that anyone attempting to disrupt internet access during the election period would face legal consequences.
“Internet will remain open. Journalists are here to reveal the truth. If they cannot report freely, the public will be deprived of accurate information,” he said, emphasising the importance of independent reporting.
“Earlier, such opportunities did not exist. Media and social platforms were either under control or served as mouthpieces. That will not happen this time,” he added.
Home Adviser Jahangir Alam Chowdhury also outlined the deployment of the army, navy and air force to ensure security across Chattogram’s varied geography, including hills, plains and coastal areas.
He expressed satisfaction with the readiness of administrative and law enforcement agencies, stating that “if preparations continue as planned, the elections will be fair, festive and impartial.”
Chattogram Divisional Commissioner Dr Md Ziauddin, District Deputy Commissioner Zahidul Islam Miah, DIG of Chattogram Range Md Ahsan Habib Palash and other senior officials attended the meeting.
The comments highlight the government’s dual focus on ensuring a secure digital environment and protecting media independence, reflecting lessons learned from past elections and increasing public expectations for transparency.
