Zunaid Ahmed Palak, the former state minister for posts, telecommunications, and information technology in Bangladesh, has recently come under scrutiny for his involvement in directing internet shutdowns during protests. The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission chair, Md Mohiuddin Ahmed, executed Palak’s verbal orders to cut off mobile internet services from July 15-16 and disrupt broadband services from July 18 to 23 and again on August 5. These actions were taken without any administrative approval, according to a press release issued by the ministry.
A seven-member committee was formed to investigate the internet shutdowns and submitted a preliminary report revealing that the National Telecommunication Monitoring Centre under the home ministry also directed the shutdown and restoration of mobile internet services between July 17-28 and on August 5. The investigation found no connection between the fire at the data center and the internet disruptions, debunking Palak’s claims that the two events were related.
The report concluded that Palak misled the public by falsely linking the fire to the internet shutdowns. This revelation has raised concerns about the misuse of power and the impact of such actions on the public. The shutdown of internet services during protests not only hinders communication and access to information but also disrupts essential services like utility bill payments, online banking, e-commerce, and digital communications.
The government’s decision to block social media platforms further restricted the flow of information and stifled freedom of expression during a time of unrest. The widespread violence over quota reform protests prompted the shutdown of mobile internet on July 17 and broadband internet on July 18. While the broadband connection was restored countrywide on July 24 and mobile internet on July 28, there were intermittent disruptions in service, with mobile internet and Facebook being blocked again on August 4.
The internet was fully restored on August 5, coinciding with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s resignation and departure from the country. These events highlight the complex interplay between politics, technology, and public welfare. The role of government officials like Zunaid Ahmed Palak in directing internet shutdowns raises questions about accountability, transparency, and the protection of citizens‘ rights to access information and communicate freely.
Moving forward, it is essential for authorities to uphold democratic principles, respect human rights, and ensure that decisions regarding internet shutdowns are made transparently and in the best interests of the public. The case of Zunaid Ahmed Palak serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible governance and the need to safeguard the digital rights of all citizens.