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BMPCA Proposes to Include Internet in Constitution as a Fundamental Right
Rtv News
11 Dec 2024, 15:45
Photo: File Picture
The Bangladesh Mobile Phone Consumers' Association (BMPCA) has proposed to include the Internet as a fundamental right in the country's constitution.
In a statement sent to the media on Wednesday (December 11), the organization submitted this proposal to the Constitution Reform Commission. It also suggested enacting laws to protect citizens' data.
The organization's president Mohiuddin Ahmed emphasized that telecommunications and internet services are recognized by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) under the United Nations. He noted that, like in other countries, the Internet has become an essential tool for daily activities in Bangladesh. Referring to the internet shutdown during the student protests in July, which lasted about 13 days for mobile internet and 8 days for broadband services, he highlighted that this disruption resulted in an estimated economic loss of $10 billion, according to economists and business leaders. He argued that the internet is no longer just a means of entertainment but is now an established fundamental human right.
Citing historical recognition, Mohiuddin Ahmed said, "In 2011, the United Nations Human Rights Council unanimously recognized the internet as a fundamental human right. Since this recognition, 42 other countries have also acknowledged the internet as a fundamental right."
Mohiuddin Ahmed stated that the current interim government has formed a commission for constitutional reform and amendments. He expressed hope that this time the internet will be included as a fundamental right in the constitution along with a clear mention of citizens' data protection. He further noted that stakeholders in the telecommunications sector also agree on the necessity of recognizing the Internet as a fundamental human right and ensuring data protection for citizens.
In the statement, the president of the Bangladesh Mobile Phone Subscribers Association outlined several demands and recommendations including:
Include telecommunications and the internet as fundamental rights for all citizens in the second part of the constitution (Articles 15 to 44).
Article 43(b) of the Bangladesh Constitution ensures the right to privacy in correspondence and other means of communication. However, in the modern era, the use of letters has diminished, replaced by internet-based communication tools. Therefore, the inclusion of data and information security on online platforms such as emails, apps, and social media is essential alongside traditional correspondence.
Recommendations:
- Introduce a new provision in the constitution to recognize the Internet as a fundamental right.
- Ensure affordable and fair access to internet services.
- Take initiatives to reduce the digital divide.
- Include a provision for data protection and privacy in the constitution.
- Follow models such as the United Nations' recognition of the internet as a human right and the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) in the constitutional amendments.
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ACC Probes Hasina Family's Purbachal Plot Scandal
Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her family members allegedly secured six 10-katha plots in the Purbachal New Town project through irregularities, abuse of power, and corruption. Based on these allegations, the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has initiated an inquiry against Sheikh Hasina, her sister Sheikh Rehana, and four other members of the Hasina family.
At a briefing on Thursday (December 26), ACC Director General Akhtar Hossain shared this information.
The six individuals under investigation are former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina; her son Sajeeb Wazed Joy; daughter Saima Wazed Putul; younger sister Sheikh Rehana; Rehana's son Radwan Mujib Siddiq Bobby; and her daughter Azmyna Siddiq.
The ACC director general stated that the investigation was prompted by allegations of acquiring Purbachal plots under illegal ownership.
This investigation follows a series of legal and corruption cases against Sheikh Hasina after she was ousted from power on August 5 through a student and public uprising. Since then, over 250 cases have been filed against her, including murder charges, some of which have been submitted to the International Crimes Tribunal.
Allegations of Financial Misconduct
Sources indicate that the FBI conducted a preliminary investigation into Sheikh Hasina and her son Sajeeb Wazed Joy. In the 2014 U.S. case United States vs. Rizvi Ahmed, Joy's name surfaced, leading to revelations of serious financial misconduct. The FBI uncovered evidence of significant financial irregularities and money laundering, involving funds transferred from Hong Kong and Cayman Islands accounts to banks in Washington, D.C., New York, and London. The Department of Justice (DOJ) and senior trial attorney Linda Samuels confirmed these findings in collaboration with FBI Special Agent La Prévotte, revealing $300 million had been transferred from Bangladesh to U.S. banks.
Broader Corruption Allegations
The ACC also disclosed other significant cases:
Former State Minister for Power Nasrul Hamid Bipu faces allegations of irregular financial transactions totaling BDT 6,000 crore.
Naogaon’s Atrai Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Kamal Hossain has been charged with fraudulently obtaining a civil service position.
The ACC noted that under government directive 13/A, Sheikh Hasina, her son Sajeeb Wazed Joy, daughter Saima Wazed Putul, sister Sheikh Rehana, and Rehana’s children secured six 10-katha plots in the diplomatic zone of Sector 27 in the Purbachal New Town project. These allocations were exposed through media reports, prompting the ACC to take action.
High Court Intervention
On December 15, the High Court issued a rule questioning the ACC’s inaction regarding allegations of embezzlement involving $5 billion (approximately BDT 60,000 crore) from the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant (RNPP) project. This rule followed a writ petition filed on September 3 by Bobby Hajjaj, chairman of the National Democratic Movement (NDM), seeking an inquiry.
Earlier, on December 22, the ACC had decided to investigate allegations of laundering $300 million by Sheikh Hasina and Sajeeb Wazed Joy. The ACC had previously formed a five-member team to probe allegations of BDT 80,000 crore corruption involving Sheikh Hasina, Sheikh Rehana, and their family in various projects. Both allegations are being investigated by the same team.
Vegetable Prices Down While Rice, Chicken Prices Soar; Soybean Oil Crisis Persists
The vegetable market has shown some relief for the past two weeks as increased supply has brought prices down. However, rising rice, fish, chicken, and oil prices have disappointed consumers.
Vegetable Prices Down
This information was revealed during a visit to several markets in Dhaka, including Karwan Bazar and Mohammadpur Agricultural Market, on Friday (December 27).
Traders attribute the price drop to a reduction in political group extortion during transportation and less disruption in the markets. If this trend continues, prices may decrease further.
Rokon, a vegetable vendor at Karwan Bazar, said, "Supply has increased compared to before. Over the past week, prices of some vegetables have dropped by up to Tk10 per kg. If supply remains steady, prices will drop further."
Current market prices:
Eggplant: 50–60 BDT/kg
Bitter Gourd: 70 BDT/kg
Okra: 50 BDT/kg
String Beans: 60 BDT/kg
Radish: 20–30 BDT/kg
Stem Amaranth (Loti): 60 BDT/kg
Snake Gourd (Chichinga): 50 BDT/kg
Pointed Gourd (Potol): 35–40 BDT/kg
Other vegetable prices include:
Papaya: 30–40 BDT/kg
Carrots: 40–50 BDT/kg
Cucumbers: 50 BDT/kg
Tomatoes: 120–130 BDT/kg
Flat Beans (Shim): 40–50 BDT/kg
Turnips: 25–30 BDT/kg
Cabbage: 40–50 BDT per piece
Bottle Gourd: 50–60 BDT each
Besides this, coriander leaves are being sold at 30 BDT per kg, onion flowers at 30-40 BDT, new potatoes at 50 BDT, and old potatoes at 60 BDT per kilogram. Depending on the quality, each cauliflower is priced at 40 BDT, cabbage at 40-50 BDT, and gourds are sold for 50-60 BDT each.
The price of green chillies has also decreased. They are being sold at 50-80 BDT per kilogram, while the wholesale price is 40-60 BDT. Additionally, red spinach bundles are being sold for 10 BDT, jute leaves for 10-15 BDT, Malabar spinach for 30 BDT, bottle gourd leaves for 40 BDT, radish leaves for 10 BDT, stem amaranth for 10-15 BDT, water spinach for 10 BDT, and spinach for 15-20 BDT.
Onion Prices Fall
Prices of onions, especially the Murikata variety, have decreased due to increased supply. Last week, Murikata onions were 70–80 BDT/kg, but now they sell for 50–60 BDT/kg. Imported onions and older domestic varieties have also dropped by 30 BDT/kg.
Chicken Prices Rise Again
Despite government-imposed price controls in September, chicken prices have surged since mid-December. Over the past two weeks, prices have increased by 30–40 BDT/kg.
Current chicken prices:
Broiler Chicken: 200–220 BDT/kg
Sonali Chicken: 320–350 BDT/kg
Desi Chicken: 550–600 BDT/kg
White Layer Chicken: 230-240 BDT/kg
Red Layer Chicken: 280-300 BDT/kg
Ducks, depending on the breed: 550-650 BDT/per piece
Soybean Oil Crisis
Soybean oil prices rose by 8 BDT/litre on December 9, but even two weeks later, supply has not normalized. Retailers report that oil companies are providing limited quantities, insufficient to meet consumer demand.
Unstable Rice Market
Despite the ongoing Aman harvest season, rice prices remain high. Over the past two weeks, prices for fine rice have increased by 4–8 BDT/kg, while medium and coarse rice have risen by 2–3 BDT/kg.
Current rice prices:
Miniket: 74–78 BDT/kg
Atash: 60–62 BDT/kg
Coarse Swarna: 52–56 BDT/kg
Nazirshail: 76–85 BDT/kg
There is no relief in the fish market either, as fish continues to be sold at previously increased prices. Currently, per-kg prices are as follows:
Rui: 380 to 450 BDT
Katla: 400 to 480 BDT
Farmed Shing: 550 BDT
Farmed Magur: 500 BDT
Farmed Koi: 240 to 280 BDT
Coral: 750 to 800 BDT
Tengra: 550 to 700 BDT
Farmed Pangas: 180 to 230 BDT
Tilapia: 180 to 220 BDT
Additionally, per kilogram prices for other fish are:
Boal: 750 to 800 BDT
Poa: 450 BDT
Pabda: 350 to 450 BDT
Aair: 850 to 900 BDT
Local Koi: 1,300 to 1,700 BDT
Shing: 1,400 to 1,500 BDT
Shol: 900 to 1,000 BDT
River Pangas: 900 to 1,200 BDT
Some fish varieties, like local Catfish (Shing) (1,400–1,500 BDT/kg) and Boal (750–800 BDT/kg), are priced beyond the reach of average consumers.
Traders blame insufficient supply and profiteering by unscrupulous businesses. Regular monitoring and action are needed to curb such practices.
Private Car Hit by Bus on Expressway, 5 Dead
A road accident on the Dhaka-Mawa Expressway has left 5 people dead and at least 10 others injured.
The incident occurred on Friday morning (December 27) near the Dhaleshwari Toll Plaza.
Reports indicate that a bus lost control and collided with a private car at the Dhaleshwari Toll Plaza in the morning. The accident claimed the lives of 5 individuals, including pedestrians, and left at least 10 others injured. The injured have been rescued and sent to the hospital.
Dewan Azad, Station Officer of the Srinagar Upazila Fire Service, stated that the injured were sent to Dhaka Mitford Hospital. Among them, five people died on the way to the hospital.
SSC Syllabus and Mark Distribution for 2026 Published
The National Curriculum and Textbook Board (NCTB) has published the revised syllabus and mark distribution for the SSC and equivalent examinations of 2026, reintroducing the division of streams for grades 9 and 10.
On Saturday (December 28), the NCTB announced the syllabus and mark distribution through a notice on its website. The syllabus includes a total of 32 subjects based on Science, Business Studies, and Humanities streams.
According to the announcement, for subjects without practical exams, questions will be distributed into 70 marks for written (essay-type) and 30 marks for multiple-choice questions (MCQs). Within the written section, 50 marks will be allocated for creative questions and 20 marks for short-answer questions.
For subjects with practical exams, the theoretical portion will carry 75 marks, and the practical portion will carry 25 marks. Within the theoretical section, 40 marks will be allocated for creative questions, 10 marks for short-answer questions, and 25 marks for MCQs.
Each creative question will carry 10 marks, each short-answer question will carry 2 marks, and each MCQ will carry 1 mark.
The division of streams for grades 9 and 10 had been abolished under the "New Curriculum" introduced by the Awami League government. However, following a change in government after mass movements, the interim government has reinstated the stream division.
Trainee Doctors Block Shahbagh Intersection
Trainee doctors have occupied Shahbagh in Dhaka, demanding an increase in their monthly stipends.
On Sunday (December 29), at around 11:30 am, postgraduate private trainee doctors blocked the Shahbagh intersection, demanding that their stipends be increased to 50,000 BDT.
Shahbagh Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Khalid Monsur told the media that the trainee doctors came onto the road around 11:30 am. The blockade halted traffic movement, causing commuters to suffer.
Earlier on December 21, the trainee doctors had set a deadline for increasing their monthly stipends. They warned that if their demands were not met, postgraduate private trainee doctors across the country would go on strike.
In response, the government increased their stipend by 5,000 BDT (from 25,000 to 30,000 BDT). However, the trainee doctors rejected this decision and announced they would continue their movement.
Application For 47th BCS Begins Today
The online application process for the 47th Bangladesh Civil Service (BCS) examination has officially begun. Applications opened at 10 am on Sunday, December 29, and will remain open until the evening of January 30.
A total of 3,688 officers will be recruited through this BCS. Among them, 3,487 positions are for cadre posts, while 201 are for non-cadre roles. Additionally, several new posts have been introduced.
For the first time, the age limit for applicants has been set at 32 years.
The viva voce (oral examination) marks have been reduced from 200 to 100.
Furthermore, the application fee has been lowered to Tk 200, down from the previous Tk 700. Candidates from minority groups, persons with disabilities, and third-gender applicants will pay a reduced fee of Tk 50, according to the Public Service Commission (PSC).
The PSC had initially announced that online applications for the 47th BCS would begin on December 10. However, the start date was postponed due to unavoidable circumstances. Although the government had earlier declared a reduction in application fees, the official notification was issued later, on December 11.
Government Directive on Tablighi Jamaat Sparks Saad Faction's Response
The Ministry of Home Affairs has issued a new notification regarding the overnight activities (Shabguzari) and the maintenance of peace and order at the Kakrail Mosque, a central hub for the Tablighi Jamaat in Bangladesh. In response, media coordinator for the Saad followers of Tablighi Jamaat, Md. Sayem, expressed hope for a fair resolution from the government on matters concerning Kakrail Mosque.
The notification, signed by Deputy Secretary Dr. Mohammad Abdul Salam, was issued on Sunday (December 29).
It stated that followers of Maulana Mohammad Jubayer and Maulana Saad should continue their respective Tablighi Jamaat activities in the mosques they have been using at the district and sub-district levels to maintain peace and order.
Md. Sayem, representing the Saad followers, alleged, "The Jubayer group is occupying various markaz (centers) and mosques across the country, obstructing our activities, committing severe injustices, and perpetrating mob justice and massacres nationwide. We hope the notification will address these issues promptly. We are optimistic that the administration will step in to resolve these complexities and play a sincere role. We urge them to avoid destabilizing the country and retreat from fratricidal religious conflict. Such actions are incompatible with Tablighi principles and diminish Islam's stature."
He further appealed to the government to ensure the basic and religious freedoms of all citizens impartially. "We are willing to sit down with both parties and responsible government officials to reach a resolution, as we have always sought to end this religious conflict," he said.
Additionally, he demanded the withdrawal of false cases filed against senior Tablighi elders and the unconditional release of Tablighi leaders, Shaikhul Hadith Maulana Zia Bin Qasem and Mufti Muaz Bin Noor, who have been unjustly detained.
