With the enactment of the Digital Security Act (DSA) 2018, the BTRC’s role has expanded into content regulation and security. The Commission frequently blocks websites and applications deemed harmful to national security or social order. While deemed necessary by the state, this has sparked debate regarding freedom of expression and the technical feasibility of content filtering.
: It manages the allocation of radio spectrum and oversees the deployment of ICT facilities to bridge the "Digital Divide" in Bangladesh. Leadership & Impact With the enactment of the Digital Security Act
1. Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) : It manages the allocation of radio spectrum
Despite the structural intent for independence, the appointment process of the Chairman and Commissioners—typically selected by the government for specific tenures—remains a point of discourse regarding the separation of powers between the state and the regulator. The BTRC also operates the , which is responsible for traffic monitoring, reflecting the dual role of regulation and national security oversight. The BTRC also operates the , which is
As the subscriber base grew to over 180 million active connections, ensuring QoS became a challenge. Issues such as call drops, network congestion, and inconsistent internet speeds remain prevalent. The BTRC has instituted QoS guidelines and fines, but enforcement remains a struggle against technical limitations and infrastructure deficits.