BNP: No major policy without election mandate

NN Online:
BNP has criticised the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission’s (BTRC) newly drafted Telecommunication Network and Licensing Regime Reform Policy 2025, calling it “untimely” and “inappropriate” in the lead-up to the national election.

Speaking at a press conference on Thursday at the BNP Chairperson’s office in Gulshan, the party’s Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said, “Unilaterally pushing through a policy of such national significance just before a general election is unacceptable.”

He acknowledged the intent behind the policy — including simplified licensing, promotion of technological progress, and enhanced digital access in rural areas — but warned that key concerns remain.

“While the initiative by BTRC is appreciated, BNP is worried about the rushed approach in finalising a policy that could reshape the telecom sector,” Fakhrul said. “Some provisions in the draft appear to disproportionately favour major Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) at the expense of SMEs and local entrepreneurs.”

He urged transparency and inclusive consultation in policy formulation, especially when it concerns digital equity and national interests. “Such decisions should not be taken in haste,” he added.

BNP, he said, remains committed to building an inclusive digital future and protecting the nation’s digital sovereignty.

Echoing Fakhrul’s remarks, BNP Standing Committee member Dr Abdul Moyeen Khan criticised the government for allegedly bypassing consultations with experts and political stakeholders. “We strongly oppose enacting such a critical policy in a rushed manner ahead of the election,” he stated.