BNP proposes fact-checking cell under EC to curb online propaganda
The party proposes that the fact-checking cell operate both centrally and at the upazila level through decentralisation
The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has proposed the formation of a fact-checking cell under the Election Commission (EC) to prevent online propaganda and misinformation.
Mahdi Amin, adviser to BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman, made the proposal during the fourth day of the EC's dialogue with political parties at the Election Bhaban in Agargaon this afternoon (19 November).
"We are talking about the responsibility of the Election Commission to ensure a level playing field. This is crucial not only on the streets and during elections but also online," Mahdi Amin said.
Keep updated, follow The Business Standard's Google news channel
He noted that over the past year there has been a sharp rise in cybersecurity threats, cyberbullying, and misinformation campaigns, including character assassination and widespread propaganda against candidates and political parties, often using artificial intelligence (AI).
Mahdi Amin proposed that the fact-checking cell operate both centrally and at the upazila level through decentralisation.
Candidates or parties could file complaints with the upazila assistant returning officer or directly with the central EC headquarters, he said.
He also highlighted that women candidates and politicians are increasingly targeted by online harassment and propaganda.
"It is possible to contact Facebook and YouTube to remove verified misinformation," he said, adding that internal resources such as NTMC, mobile operators, police DB, PIB, and CID could also support these efforts.
