The Council of Advisers on Wednesday gave final approval to the amended Bangladesh Telecommunication Ordinance, incorporating provisions to ensure that internet services are not shut down in the country even for a minute in the future.

Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam disclosed the decision while briefing reporters, saying the amendment modernises existing telecom laws and places strong emphasis on uninterrupted internet connectivity.

He said the ordinance strengthens the authority, effectiveness and accountability of the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC), while ensuring customer data privacy and service quality. The amendment also includes measures to curb fraud and illegal activities in the telecom sector.

Emphasising the importance of personal data protection, the press secretary said a committee would examine whether the National Telecommunication Monitoring Centre (NTMC) should be dissolved.

On the budget, Shafiqul Alam said the revised budget sets the revenue target at Tk 5.88 trillion. He expressed optimism that food inflation would decline to 7 percent in the current fiscal year, while GDP growth is expected to stand at 5 percent.

Referring to the Osman Hadi case, he said the government is giving it the highest priority. Although the prime accused has not yet been arrested, several people close to him have been detained. The government stands beside the family of Dipu Chandra Das, and the case will be tried under the Speedy Trial Act, he added.

The press secretary also said discussions are underway with the BNP regarding the security of Tarique Rahman, assuring that the government would provide him with the highest level of protection.

On the Awami League, Shafiqul Alam said the government’s position is clear, noting that the party’s activities remain banned and it will not be able to participate in elections. He also informed that the Advisory Council discussed the ongoing tensions between Bangladesh and India.