UNB, Dhaka

Welcoming the law minister’s remarks about amending Digital Security Act (DSA), Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) yesterday demanded incorporating representatives from media and civil society in the committee formed to review and amend the law.

Although Law Minister Anisul Huq was late to admit that the act was misused, TIB is cautiously welcoming his statement, said a press release.

TIB demanded inclusion of the mentioned representatives to review whether the law is conflicting with human rights. The graft watchdog said not only journalists, but common people should also not be arrested immediately after cases are filed under DSA.

Referring to media reports, TIB said the law minister admitted to the misuse and abuse of DSA and mentioned the government’s initiative to ensure its best use by following global practices.

TIB Executive Director Dr Iftekharuzzaman said the government’s good sense was illustrated by the minister’s statement, which mentioned reviewing sections that undermine freedom of expression and dissent.

From the beginning of DSA’s enactment, the media and civil society objected to several sections of the act.