BNP on Thursday voiced concerns over the BTRC’s recently drafted ‘Telecommunication Network and Licensing Regime Reform Policy 2025’, saying that unilaterally enacting such a national policy ahead of the upcoming parliamentary election would be inappropriate.
“BNP believes that it won’t be appropriate to unilaterally enact such a nationally important policy at this time, especially considering the upcoming national elections,” said BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir.
He conveyed the party's observations on the policy during a press conference at the BNP Chairperson's Gulshan office.
“BNP has taken note of the recent initiative by the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) regarding the 'Draft Telecom Network and Licensing Reform Policy 2025'. While this initiative is commendable, we express apprehension about making hasty decisions in such a nationally important sector at this moment,” Fakhrul said.
He said the objectives of the policy are to simplify the licensing process, encourage technological advancement, and increase digital inclusion for the rural population which are certainly positive aspects.
The BNP leader, however, said analysing the draft policy, some serious issues can be found that could hinder equitable and sustainable development in the telecom sector.
BNP extends maximum support for national reform consensus: Salahuddin
“BNP, with a constructive mindset, is highlighting the potential weaknesses, ambiguities, and certain clauses within this draft that could unduly benefit large Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) – which might harm Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and local entrepreneurs,” he said.
Fakhrul said it is necessary to ensure caution, transparency and participation of relevant stakeholders in formulating such national-level telecom policies. “With the national election ahead, hasty decisions should not be made.”
He said his party pledged to continue working towards equitable development through digital connectivity and safeguarding national digital security and sovereignty.
Narrating the potential problems and challenges of the draft policy, the BNP leader said if the restriction on ownership across multiple services’ sectors is lifted, major mobile operators may establish monopolistic control in several areas. “This will reduce competition and push smaller companies further behind.”
He also said that SMEs could face a financial crisis if the draft policy is implemented. “Following deregulation, especially in the absence of clear guidelines on the assets and liabilities of local ISPs or small telecom operators, these smaller entities could fall into serious financial difficulties.”
Fakhrul said there is also a lack of clarity about the limit on foreign ownership, which could discourage investment and affect the stability of the sector. “Loopholes in cross-ownership could allow large companies to take over even more of the market.”
He urged the government to hold open discussions with all stakeholders, including SMEs, technology experts, and consumer organisations, before finalising such an important policy.
“A full analysis of the financial and social impact of the proposed policy should also be carried out. It is especially important to consider the possible harm to SMEs and local businesses, job losses and the overall impact on the economy,” the BNP leader said.
He warned that the draft policy favours large companies by giving them easier access to ISP and NSP licences. This could sideline SMEs, reduce competition and create monopolies, which would harm the wider economy.
Fakhrul said the policy does not provide clear guidance on satellite broadband and new digital services, which could confuse investors.
He also said the limits of enterprise services are unclear, especially when it comes to where mobile operators’ fibre-based business connections should be restricted. “This lack of clarity in the policy could lead to disputes and inequality,” he added.
BNP Standing Committee member Dr Abdul Moyeen Khan alleged that the government did not consult with relevant experts or political parties before formulating such a policy. “We do not support making such an important policy hastily before the election,” he said.