I realise that there are quite a few negative psychological side-effects of being this hooked to social media, but, as long as I’m aware of them, I am happy with this new virtual life. I am, of course, talking about the formation of the ICT Act, Section 57 to be exact, which allows law enforcement to arbitrarily arrest any citizen for things they post on social media or any other electronic forum. Needless to say, this fear effect has made life quite hard for journalists who operate exclusively in the online sphere. As I was writing this very article, I stumbled upon a report of cases filed against a Jamuna TV journalist under Section 57 of the ICT Act. Provisions of the original ICT Act, particularly section 57, are also incompatible with the country’s obligations under Article 19 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.

Source: Dhaka Tribune July 09, 2017 13:07 UTC