Cyber Security Act to be amended to remove harmful AI-generated content: Home minister
Minister says new laws on online gambling and narcotics control are also ready for parliamentary approval
Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed today (8 June) told parliament that the government has started amending the Cyber Security Act to enable the swift removal of harmful and defamatory AI-generated content from social media platforms.
Replying to a question from reserved-seat lawmaker Helen Zerin Khan, the minister said the proposed amendments would require international technology platforms, including Meta, to remove disputed content within a specified timeframe.
He said the amendments would update definitions of misinformation and defamation and introduce stricter penalties for offenders.
Keep updated, follow The Business Standard's Google news channel
Salahuddin also alleged that defamatory and misleading content targeting the prime minister, her family members and other prominent figures has been spreading online under the guise of freedom of expression.
The minister said neighbouring countries already have legal provisions requiring platforms like Meta to remove content within 24 hours, while Bangladesh's existing laws do not include such enforcement measures.
Under the proposed law, the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) and other authorised agencies would also be empowered to block content and request user data from platforms.
He further said the government has finalised drafts of two new laws to curb online and offline gambling and strengthen narcotics control.
According to the minister, the proposed gambling law would replace the Gambling Act of 1867 and include provisions addressing online betting and related crimes.
He added that amendments to the Narcotics Control Act would strengthen the operational capacity of the Department of Narcotics Control through improved laboratory facilities, advanced training and legal provisions for establishing its own dog squad.
