State Minister for Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology Zunaid Ahmed Palak on Monday (June 24, 2024) said a drive involving all concerned will be conducted to stop online gambling. Around 50 lakh people are involved in online gambling, the state minister told reporters after a meeting with French Ambassador to Bangladesh Marie Masdupuy at the secretariat. Read more: Finance Minister sees online gambling, hundi behind increasing money laundering When his attention was drawn to the issue of money laundering through online gambling, the state minister said, "We have exchanged views on online gambling. Our children of different ages are at serious risk. Even many elderly retired persons are coming in. Analyzing the data, we have seen how 50 lakh people have become involved in these gambling sites.” "We are trying to block illegal gambling sites. I'm also trying to create awareness. So that common people are not deceived by any such temptation.” A total of 2,600 gambling sites have already been blocked and now mobile apps are being blocked, he said adding “It's a continuous process, it will continue.” He said they sat with the Department of Telecom, National Telecom Monitoring Centre, Computer Council, BTRC and Cyber Security Agency to discuss blocking of these gambling sites. Read more: Online gambling apps to be stopped: Palak

Despite repeated efforts by the Power Division, no progress has been made in bringing the distressing overhead internet and satellite TV cables underground although power utilities are implementing their project in this regard. It has even not possible to make the operators of internet and satellite TV cables agreed to join the ongoing underground cabling projects of the power utility bodies. According to official sources, Dhaka Power Distribution Company Limited (DPDC) has been implementing its first project in the Dhanmondi area to take its all overhead transmission lines underground. “But despite repeated calls by the DPDC, no internet or TV cable operator agreed to join the project. They were even offered free of cost to join the scheme. But no response was received,”  a top official of the Power Division told UNB. In such a frustrating situation, recently the Power Division reconstituted its previous committee and also convened a meeting to find a solution to it. But finally the meeting was not held for unknown reasons. Dhaka’s air quality 3rd worst in the world this morning Member secretary of the reconstituted committee and director of the Power Cell Md. Salim Ullah Khan informed that the power Division’s efforts will continue. “But the other departments and agencies are not interested in cooperating with the Power Division’s efforts in this regard,” he told UNB. Sources at the Power Division blamed the Nationwide Telecommunication Transmission Network (NTTN) and internet service providers (ISPs) for the horrible situation of the overhead cables. After a number of meetings, the previous committee of the Power Division found it difficult to address the problem without their cooperation. According to its report submitted to Power Division, Summit Communications Limited (SCL) and Fiber@Home (FAH) have been working as NTTN in the city and they laid underground cables for operating their main internet network in the city while some 1734 legal and some 5,000 illegal internet service providing (ISP) companies have been operating as local ones to provide internet connections to homes and offices through overhead cables. As per the system, the ISPs are supposed to take connections from SCL and FAH to take internet service to homes and offices from the main network. Recently, Bahon Limited, another NTTN company, also joined the network.   But NTTN companies alleged that the ISPs are not taking connections from Label Distribution Protocol (LDP) or Access Point (AP) installed by NTTN as it will cost them financially, says the report. Rains likely in parts of Dhaka, 7 other divisions On the other hand, the report reveals, the IPS companies alleged that they do not prefer taking connections from LDP or AP as they do not get required and instant solutions from the NTTN companies if any problem takes place in any internet service connection. Besides, the NTTN are charging excessively in providing connections to the ISP companies from their LDP and AP, the report mentions quoting the ISP companies.       Under the circumstances, the ISP companies are hanging overhead cables indiscriminately and giving connections to homes and offices without following any rule or regulation, the report says, adding that only the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) can step in and resolve the conflict. Finally, the committee adopted an 11-point recommendation to have a solution and take all overhead cables underground through coordination with electricity distribution companies —DPDC and Desco. The committee found that the haphazardly hanged internet, security and satellite  TV cables are not only posing a great threat to the power distribution system, but also creating a major obstacle to the government’s move for the beautification of the capital. Rashed Amin Biduyt, an official of the Bahon Limited, said they are not joining the DPDC underground cabling project due to technical reasons as it will not fulfill its requirements to facilitate connections to ISPN. "But we're laying our own cables underground with the permission of the South City Corporation," he said. Read more: Installation of underground cables completed in Hatirjheel area

Cyberbullying has emerged as a widespread concern in the contemporary digital era, as harassment across diverse online platforms has become increasingly frequent. This type of bullying poses significant threats to the mental health and overall well-being of individuals. This underscores the importance of addressing this issue promptly and effectively.  What is Cyberbullying or Cyber Harassment? Cyberbullying, also known as cyber harassment, refers to the use of digital communication tools such as social media platforms, messaging apps, or online forums to intimidate, threaten, or harass individuals. This form of bullying encompasses various actions, including sending hurtful messages, spreading rumours, sharing embarrassing photos or videos without consent, and creating fake accounts to impersonate and harass someone.  Cyberbullying can occur anonymously, making it difficult to identify perpetrators. Also, it can have profound and lasting effects on the mental and emotional well-being of victims. Read more: '80% of cyberbullying victims are women' Types of Cyberbullying Harassment Harassment entails sending mean or threatening messages to someone online. It can be done through text messages, emails, social media posts, or online chat rooms. Exclusion  Exclusion involves intentionally leaving someone out of an online group or activity. For instance, a cyberbully might create a social media group and exclude their target. Outing and Doxxing  Doxxing includes sharing someone's private information online without their consent. For example, their home address, phone number, or embarrassing photos. Read more: Online bullying serious problem for 85% of Bangladesh youths: Survey Impersonation  Impersonation means creating a fake online profile and pretending to be someone else. The cyberbully can then use this fake profile to send mean messages or damage the victim's reputation. Trickery  Trickery mainly is deceiving someone into sharing personal information or embarrassing photos. For example, a cyberbully might create a fake survey to obtain personal details. Cyberstalking  This involves using technology to harass, intimidate, or threaten someone. This includes sending threatening messages or tracking the victim's online activity. Read more: Why are Suicide Rates Higher Among Men? Flaming  Flaming is described as posting angry or insulting messages on someone's social media page or online forum. Trolling  Trolling entails posting inflammatory or off-topic messages in an online forum to upset other users. Fraping  A frape happens when someone changes another person’s information on social media without them knowing or giving permission.  Read more: How to Protect Your Child from Sexual Abuse? Impacts of Cyber Harassment Emotional Distress  Cyberbullying can lead to profound emotional turmoil, including feelings of sadness, humiliation, and anger. Victims often experience heightened anxiety, constantly anticipating the next hurtful encounter, which undermines their sense of safety and well-being. Psychological Effects Research shows a significant correlation between cyberbullying and psychological challenges. Victims of cyberbullying frequently endure elevated levels of stress, anxiety, depression, and even suicidal ideation.  The relentless influx of derogatory messages and harassment often fosters sentiments of powerlessness and diminished self-worth. Also, the incessant negativity and pressure can prove overwhelming for those targeted. Read more: Students with Depression: Tips for Parents and Educators Social Isolation and Self-Esteem Damage  Cyberbullying can cause individuals to retreat from both online and offline social interactions, fearing additional harassment or scrutiny from their peers. This can foster feelings of isolation and solitude. Additionally, cyberbullying can profoundly impact an individual's self-esteem, as the recurrent attacks can engender feelings of worthlessness and insecurity.  Academic Consequences  The emotional distress caused by cyberbullying can impact victims' ability to concentrate on their studies and perform academically. Consequently, this can lead to a decline in grades and overall academic performance of the bullied person. Physical Health Issues  The prolonged stress and anxiety caused by cyberbullying can manifest in physical health problems such as headaches, insomnia, and gastrointestinal issues. Victims may also experience changes in appetite and energy levels. Read more: Digital Detox: Unplugging for Stress Relief and Mental Wellbeing Long-term Effects  The effects of cyberbullying can extend beyond the immediate harassment, affecting victims' long-term mental health and well-being. Some individuals may carry the trauma of cyberbullying into adulthood, impacting their relationships and overall quality of life. Bystander Effects  Observing cyberbullying can exacerbate mental health issues and foster an atmosphere of apprehension and vulnerability. It can instil fear of becoming a target, erode trust in online interactions and impact individuals' well-being.  What to do If You Experience Cyberbullying in Bangladesh Stay Calm It is essential to maintain composure and refrain from impulsive reactions to harassment. Responding to the bully may exacerbate the situation, as it gratifies their desire for a reaction. So, try to resist the temptation to engage with their messages or posts. Read more: Helicopter Parenting: Signs, Pros, Cons and How to Change Document Evidence It is important to document instances of cyberbullying, whether through screenshots of messages or posts or by noting down dates and times. This evidence will prove invaluable should you need to report the bullying at a later stage. Reach Out for Support It is highly recommended to discuss your experiences with a reliable friend, family member, another trusted adult, or mental health professional. They can provide valuable support and advice on navigating through the situation effectively. Block the Bully You may utilise privacy settings to block the person responsible for the harassment from reaching out to you further. Most social media platforms and messaging apps offer the option to block individuals. It can effectively prevent any further contact with them. Read more: Workplace stress affecting women in Bangladesh needs attention Report the Abuse to the Platform Utilising the available reporting tools to report instances of cyberbullying is crucial. Most social media platforms and online forums provide mechanisms for reporting abusive behaviour. Report the cyberbullying to the relevant website or platform, as they typically have anti-bullying policies and may take disciplinary action against the perpetrator, such as suspending their account. Seek Legal Advice In instances of severe cyberbullying, it is advisable to seek advice from a legal professional. The available remedies for cyberbullying may vary depending on individual circumstances. Victims are advised to seek legal counsel from a lawyer knowledgeable about cyberbullying and relevant laws for guidance. File a Report Victims of cyberbullying have the option to file a criminal complaint with the police under the Cyber Security Act of 2023. This act criminalises cyberbullying and imposes imprisonment and/or fines on offenders found guilty. Read more: Parliament passes Cyber Security Bill 2023 Cyber Crime Help Desk Bangladesh Police operates a Cyber Crime Help Desk for women (https://www.police.gov.bd/en/police_cyber_support_for_women) where victims can report incidents of cyberbullying and seek assistance. Evidence and proof (links, screenshots, etc) of cyberbullying can be forwarded via email to [email protected]  Also, victims can lodge complaints through multiple channels, including the dedicated hotlines at the Police Headquarters, the nearest police station or the official Facebook page of "Cyber Police Centre, CID, Bangladesh Police." Alternative Reporting Cybercrime victims also have the option to file complaints with the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) by calling their hotlines or emailing [email protected].  Read more: Sibling Bullying and Abuse: Reasons, Types, Signs and Prevention BTRC pledges to take action within 24 hours, with perpetrators brought to justice within 3 days of filing the complaint. The government has also introduced a cyber-crime helpline at +88-02-55007183 for victims to report their complaints. Consider Civil Suit Victims can pursue a civil suit for damages against the perpetrator, seeking compensation for emotional distress and reputation damage caused by cyberbullying. In cases of criminal intimidation, the perpetrator may be liable under the Penal Code 1860. Seek Restraining Orders Although the term "restraining order" is not specifically defined in Bangladesh’s law, victims can apply under relevant sections before a competent executive magistrate to prohibit a perpetrator from making unlawful contact. Read more: Should You See a Therapist? 8 Surefire Signs You Need Help Take Care of Yourself The emotional strain of cyberbullying can impact your mental well-being. You should prioritise self-care by reaching out to loved ones, participating in activities that bring you joy, and seeking professional assistance if necessary. Concentrate on self-nurturing activities to alleviate stress during this demanding period.  Verdict  Cyber harassment is a serious issue that can have profound consequences on individuals' lives. It is crucial to recognise the signs of cyberbullying, take proactive measures to protect oneself and seek support if victimised. By working together to combat cyberbullying, we can create safer and more inclusive online communities. Read more: Bullying in School: How to Protect Children and Deal with the Issue

The number of internet subscribers reached 131 million at the end of December, 2023, including nearly 7 million new users in the last year, showed the recently released data by the country's telecom regulator. The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) data showed that of the internet subscribers, some 118.49 million are mobile internet users and 12.88 million broadband internet users. Read more: US expresses concerns over Sri Lanka's controversial internet regulation law Meanwhile, with 10.61 million new mobile users in 2023, the number of subscribers in the country reached 190.81 million in December 2023. Bangladesh has currently four mobile companies in operation, three of them being foreign-backed cellphone operators. The number of subscribers of mobile operators Grameen Phone, Robi Axiata, Banglalink Digital Communications and Teletalk Bangladesh stood at 82.20 million, 58.67 million, 43.48 million and 6.46 million, respectively, at the end of December, the data shows. Read more: Internet, phone service gradually returns after vanishing for most of Gaza amid heavy bombardment

The High Court today (January 09, 2024) asked Bangladesh Telecommunication and Regulation Commission (BTRC) to remove the distorted re-composition of Bangladesh’s National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam’s timeless song “Karar Oi Louho Kopat” from all online platforms, including Facebook and YouTube. The HC bench of Justice JBM Hassan and Justice Razik-Al-Jalil passed the order after hearing a writ petition. Barrister Mohammad Humayun Kabir, on behalf of ten lawyers of the Supreme Court and a human rights organisation Law and Live Foundation Trust, filed the writ petition on December 6. Read: Benapole Express fire: Fire Service has no clue on the cause yet   Secretaries to the Information and Broadcasting Ministry, Information and Communication Technology Ministry, Cultural Affairs Ministry, Bangladesh Telecommunication and Regulation Commission and Kabi Nazrul Institute were made respondents. On November 19, Barrister Mohammad Humayun Kabir sent a legal notice to the respondents seeking directives to remove the “distorted” re-composition of the national poet’s song from all online platforms. Read: Pirojpur-2: Legal action recommended against Manju's wife   The original composer and lyricist of the song is National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam, according to the writ petition. Renowned Indian music composer AR Rahman re-composed the song which is used in the film “Pippa.” “Karar Oi Louho Kopat” is an immortal song and generations of listeners will be confused if both the familiar tune composed by Bangladesh’s national poet and the “distorted” version are available on online platforms, reads the writ. 

In Bangladesh, vehicle security issues have become a growing concern, necessitating the use of advanced GPS vehicle trackers to safeguard both individual and fleet vehicles. Recognized and approved by the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC), these GPS trackers offer effective solutions to address these security challenges. They adhere to local telecommunications standards, ensuring reliability, accuracy, and compatibility with local cellular networks. Moreover, these trackers prioritize security and data privacy, making them a trusted choice for mitigating vehicle security risks. Why Use a BTRC-approved GPS Vehicle Tracker Using a BTRC-approved GPS vehicle tracker in Bangladesh is the best choice for several reasons. BTRC-approved trackers adhere to local telecommunications standards, ensuring regulatory compliance. They are known for their reliability and accuracy, as well as their compatibility with local cellular networks.  BTRC-approved devices prioritize security and privacy, while also providing better customer support and warranties. Some insurance providers may even require their use, and they offer uninterrupted network access and easier integration with other systems. These trackers undergo quality assurance testing, guaranteeing a durable and reliable product.  The features and applications of these devices demonstrate a commitment to regulatory standards, and data privacy, while maintaining credibility and trust. Read more: 10 Best GPS Trackers for Motorcycles in Bangladesh 20 BTRC Registered GPS Trackers in Bangladesh in 2023 Bondstein Track My Vehicle Bondstein's Track My Vehicle GPS tracker offers comprehensive features for optimized vehicle tracking and management. Real-time tracking, a user-friendly web dashboard, and a remote engine disarm feature enhance security. Users can access over 24 analytical reports for mileage, location, and alerts, aiding fleet management and logistics cost savings. It seamlessly integrates with ERP systems, tracks expenses, and provides predictive maintenance alerts. With 24/7 customer support and nationwide technicians, it suits both individuals and businesses. Finder GPS Tracker Monico Technologies Ltd's Finder GPS Tracker is a leading GPS service provider in Bangladesh. Enlisted by the Survey of Bangladesh for map development, Finder offers reliable, licensed services. It provides standard features like real-time tracking, geofencing, and ignition and speed alerts.  Unique features include the 'SOS Button' for emergencies and 'PUSH-PULL SERVICE' for offline tracking. Registration offers five packages with prices from 4,500 BDT to 12,000 BDT and monthly charges from 300 BDT to 500 BDT. Infolink GPS Tracker Infolink GPS Tracker offers versatile tracking solutions, including the Smart GPS Tracker for leased vehicles and large fleets, featuring live tracking and engine status monitoring. The Lite GPS Tracker suits various vehicles with features like remote fuel cutoff and geo-fencing. The Standard GPS Tracker offers high-end features like door status detection and two-way communication for fleet management. The Personal GPS Tracker is solar-powered, suitable for cargo, ships, and employee-owned vehicles. The discreet Plug and Play GPS Tracker integrates into a USB charger, offering real-time GPS location and audio monitoring.  Prices range from BDT 4,000 to BDT 15,000 (excluding VAT) for the device, with monthly charges from BDT 250 to BDT 2,000 (excluding VAT), ensuring affordability and adaptability to users’ specific tracking needs. Sky Tracker Sky Tracker, a GPS tracker in partnership with Concox, a renowned GPS device manufacturer, offers features suitable for personal and business use. It provides real-time tracking, allowing users to monitor vehicle location, speed, and route through a user-friendly mobile interface.  Remote engine control adds security by enabling users to turn off the engine remotely. Trip reports, voice monitoring, over-speed alerts, power cut alerts, geofencing, and an emergency button enhance monitoring and security.  Priced at TK 350 for a monthly package, it includes 24/7 customer support and a 1-year warranty, making it a reliable and cost-effective choice for GPS tracking needs. Nexdecade Nexdecade Technology (Pvt) Ltd. offers a range of GPS tracking solutions for various vehicles and vessels. The BDN800 model comes with advanced features like real-time tracking, emergency engine blocking, history playback, and a generous 5-year replacement warranty. The BDN600 option provides real-time tracking, emergency engine blocking, an SOS alarm, and a 3-year replacement warranty for reliability.  BDN200 CAR is designed for four-wheel vehicles, offering real-time tracking, emergency engine blocking, geo-fence alerts, and a 1-year replacement warranty. BDN200 is intended for motorbikes and CNG vehicles, with essential tracking features and a 1-year replacement warranty.  Read more: Top 10 Smartphones Coming to Bangladesh in November 2023 BDCOM SmartTracker BDCOM SmartTracker, introduced by BDCOM Online Ltd., is Bangladesh's first automatic vehicle location system.  It offers fleet management, driver behavior analysis, alerts for unauthorized vehicle use, speed limit notifications, fuel consumption monitoring, safety features, anti-theft measures, real-time vehicle tracking, route maps, daily activity logs, SOS alarms, vibration detection, and remote engine immobilization.

The High Court today (August 28, 2023) directed Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) to remove all speeches and video content of BNP’s Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman from social media platforms.  Justice Md. Khasruzzaman and Justice Md Khairul Alam passed the order.  However, the courtroom witnessed a chaotic scene as pro-BNP lawyers were loudly protesting the order.   At one point, Justice Md. Khasruzzaman and Justice Md Khairul Alam left the courtroom amid the cacophony. Pro-BNP lawyers were shouting “shame, shame” while the justices were leaving the courtroom. BNP’s denial of state role and Tarique’s involvement in Aug 21 grenade attack wanes its credibility, political analysts say As of 2 pm, the justices did not return to the courtroom.  Barrister Kaiser Kamal, Law Affairs Secretary of BNP, said that a no confidence appeal against the bench had been submitted to the Chief Justice. The origin of this case traces back to 2015 when Nasreen Siddiqui Lina, a lawyer of the Supreme Court, filed a petition seeking a ban on Tarique Rahman’s videos on social media. No doubt Khaleda, Tarique and their men were completely involved in Aug 21 grenade attack: PM Hasina On January 7, 2015, during the hearing of the writ petition, a bench headed by  Justice Qazi Reza-ul Hoque and Justice Abu Taher Saifur Rahman issued an interim order alongside a ruling. The order inquired why instruction will not be given for prohibiting the publishing of Tariq Rahman's speeches. Multiple government officials and media figures, including the Information Secretary, Home Secretary, Law Secretary, Inspector General of Police, Director General of BTV, Chairman of BTRC, Chief News Editor of Ekushey TV, Editor of Kaler Kontho, and Tarique Rahman himself were made respondents. Zia was behind August 15 killings, Tarique behind August 21: Hasan Mahmud After an interval of eight and a half years, Kamrul Islam, a lawyer representing the writ petition, sought a hearing on August 2.  On August 8, as the case was being heard, a confrontation erupted between pro-AL and pro-BNP lawyers.

Cyclone Mocha is likely to hit the coastal areas of Bangladesh, especially Chattogram, Teknaf and Cox's Bazar, on Sunday (May 14, 2023). The Department of Posts and Telecommunications has already instructed all the subordinate agencies, including the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission, to complete necessary preparations to ensure that all types of telecommunications services continue during the disaster and post-disaster period to deal with the cyclone, according to a press release. The BTRC has also directed all the licensees concerned and all telecom operators providing telecommunication services to form emergency response teams and set up control rooms on Saturday. Read More: This is how Cyclone Mocha was named, plus all you need to know A 10-member emergency response team has been formed by the BTRC. The team will take measures in coordination with the telecom operators to ensure uninterrupted service, including round-the-clock monitoring of the telecommunications service system in the cyclone-affected areas, and will continue close contact with the concerned district and upazila administrations. Besides, the BTRC has also started a control room with three members. The two control room numbers are 01552202854 and 01552202886. The BTRC control room is coordinating between the monitoring team formed by the BTRC and how the licensees working in the coastal areas are working to deal with the Mocha. Besides, mobile operators, NTTNs, ISPs and other licensed officials concerned are taking necessary measures to inform the control room if they face any problem in taking action in the coastal areas, said the release. Read More: Cyclone Mocha may cross Cox’s Bazar between 9am and 3pm today, no possibility of turning into super cyclonic storm: BMD In view of the BTRC directive, the telecom operators have set up control rooms in their respective offices to ensure uninterrupted telecommunication services in the coastal areas and surrounding areas and adequate batteries, diesel generators, portable generators and additional vehicles have been arranged to travel during the disaster to ensure power backup to keep their network system active. Mobile operator Grameenphone has taken the initiative to provide special packages to provide free telecommunication services to the people of cyclone-affected areas. Grameenphone's emergency contact numbers are 01711505368, 0171108110101, 01711081804. Banglalink has said that special measures will be taken to make it easier to recharge mobile phones along with text messages and social media campaigns to make people aware of the cyclone situation. Banglalink's emergency contact numbers are 0196244565, 01911310795, 01962424706. Read More: Cyclone Mocha starts crossing Cox’s Bazar with speed of up to 215 kmph: BMD Robi customers will get emergency balance, minutes and internet by dialing *8# at any time. Robi's hotline number is 0181718368, 01819210350 Teletalk has taken steps to ensure commercial power supply along with adequate fuel supply by removing mechanical defects of all generators to ensure power supply at core site and hub site. Besides, a response team has been formed and a control room has been set up. Emergency Response Team Numbers- 01550155045, 015505155034, 0155015053. Control Room Number-02333315900, 0155515211. Bangladesh Telecommunication Company Limited (BTCL) has opened a control room to deal with the problem. The contact number of the control room is 0248317788. Read More: Cyclone Preparedness: Safety measures to follow before, during and after disaster The emergency contact number of the tower construction company edotco-, 01871006730. The summit's emergency contact number is 01791040385, 01711080484. Kirtankhola's emergency contact number is 01401159572 (Chattogram and Cox's Bazar) 01713479912 (Barisal). Frontier's Emergency Contact Number- 01810169540, 01810169548. ISPs, NTTNs and other telecom operators have taken steps and are constantly trying to keep their networks active in the areas likely to hit the cyclone during the disaster.

The Appellate Division of the Supreme Court on Tuesday ordered Grameenphone , Robi and Banglalink to pay dues of Tk 2500 crore as their spectrum acquisition fee including VAT to the government, National Board of Revenue and Bangladesh Telecommunication and Regulatory Commission (BTRC). A five-member bench of the Appellate Division led by Chief Justice Hasan Foez Siddique passed the order after rejecting their petition challenging the High Court order that had rejected their writ petition against imposing VAT (value added tax) on spectrum acquisition fee. Read more: Mobile operators must increase spectrum by December to provide better services to customers Of the total amount, Grameenphone has been asked to pay Tk 1,400 crore, Robi Tk 500 crore and Banglalink Tk 650 crore. Attorney General AM Amin Uddin represented the state while Barrister Reza-e-Rakib and Barrister Mostafizur Rahman Khan stood for BTRC and mobile companies, respectively. Talking to reporters, Attorney General Amin said the government has allocated spectrum for the three mobile operators and fixed charges on it. VAT (value added tax) was also added later by the government on the spectrum fee. The three mobile operators filed a writ petition challenging the VAT which was rejected by the High Court. Read more: BTRC's spectrum auction: Govt earns revenue of Tk 10,645 crore Later, they filed petitions to the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court challenging the High court order which was also rejected, he said.  Now, NBR and BTRC will realise the money as dues including charges and VAT from the three mobile operators.

Bangladesh Submarine Cable Company Limited (BSCCL), a state-owned telecommunications infrastructure agency, made a hefty Tk 250 crore profit on earnings of Tk 441.74 crore in the 2021-22 fiscal. The information was made public by the company’s Managing Director (MD) Md Azam Ali through an event held at the capital's Hotel Intercontinental on Saturday, at which Post and Telecommunications Minister Mustafa Jabbar was the chief guest. Speaking as chief guest, Jabbar stressed the need to turn BSCCL into a 'technologically competent institution' to meet the needs of the hour. “Submarine cable is a critical telecommunications infrastructure of the country. As a public company, BSCCL has a role to play for the country and its people. Providing affordable internet services is one of these roles,” said Jabbar. Stating the difference between the price of bandwidth in 2008 and now, Jabbar added that the government has been able to reduce bandwidth price to a great extent in the intervening years. “In 2008, each mbps bandwidth used to cost Tk 27,000, which has now come down to only Tk 240. In FY2017-18, BSCCL earned only Tk 1.4 crore as revenue, which has now surpassed Tk 400 crore. The government is working to provide high speed internet to each and every corner of the country following Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s pledge of a Digital Bangladesh,” Jabbar added. Mohammad Khalilur Rahman, Chairman of BSCCL and Posts and Telecommunications Secretary, Mohiuddin Ahmed, Vice Chairman of Bangladesh Telecom Regulatory Commission (BTRC) and Habibur Rahman, MD of Teletalk, among others, were present at the event.