Social media-driven mobs, divisive content, and online chaos are emerging as major concerns ahead of the national election, yet neither the interim government nor the Election Commission (EC) has taken adequate measures to address them, said Debapriya Bhattacharya, a distinguished fellow at the Center for Policy Dialogue (CPD).

Speaking at an event titled “Open Discussion for Democratic Reconstruction: Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship” on Tuesday at the CIRDAP Auditorium in Dhaka, he expressed concern over the lack of proactive steps by authorities.

“Social media and artificial intelligence (AI) could play a significant role in spreading chaos and division in the upcoming national election. Signs of this are already visible. Ensuring proper control is crucial for a fair election, but I am yet to see sufficient awareness or effective initiatives from the government, EC, or law enforcement agencies,” he said.

Debapriya noted that the EC appears to lack both the capacity and the willingness to curb anti-women propaganda, misinformation targeting religious and ethnic minorities, and false information about candidates.

“Even when the highest level of government has taken minor measures, the EC and law enforcement have failed to translate these into meaningful action,” he added.

The program was organized by the Center for Governance Studies (CGS) and moderated by its President, Zillur Rahman. Panelists included former NBR Chairman Muhammad Abdul Mazid, Dhaka University’s Professor Shahidul Islam Zahid, and Dean M. A. Baki Khaleeli of the University of Asia Pacific School of Business.

Citing citizen discussions from eight cities, ranging from Rangpur to Rangamati, Devapriya said social media and AI are seen as the main tools for creating division and disorder in the country, potentially influencing the election negatively.

He also highlighted public concern over online hate and violence spilling into real life, stressing that no serious effort, capacity, or willingness has been demonstrated by the EC to address the issue.

Referring to international practices, he said, “Australia has banned social media use for children under 12, and Denmark is considering similar measures. Citizens believe responsible regulation is necessary, but authorities must also be mindful of the risks, as seen in Nepal.”

Reflecting on past experience, Debapriya recalled that during the July movement, the government had shut down the internet, demonstrating the power of social media. “The internet shutdown revealed the government’s moral defeat, and people quickly found alternatives,” he said.

On the digital governance front, he added, “There is an opportunity to control corruption through digital means. Citizens are calling for a unified national data repository to strengthen governance.”