Prime Minister's Information and Broadcasting Adviser Dr Zahed Ur Rahman on Tuesday said the interim government would not tolerate cyberbullying, enforced disappearances, or extrajudicial killings, announcing that a panel of lawyers formed to address cyber-related legal issues would begin its work this week.
Speaking to reporters at the secretariat in the capital about reviewing the activities of the government, he said this democratic regime was committed to protecting freedom of expression while ensuring that the rule of law was maintained.
"We welcome criticism, satire, and even ridicule. Mistakes can be pointed out and debated. But no one should violate the law or take the law into their own hands," he said.
Dr Rahman said the newly formed lawyers' panel would examine complaints relating to cyberbullying and provide legal guidance on appropriate action.
Referring to misinformation and disinformation on digital platforms, he acknowledged that the issue remained difficult to manage but the government was taking measures to address it.
"The Digital Security Act was widely misused in the past. We are dealing with the consequences of that misuse. Many actions have already been taken, but give us some time," he said.
The adviser also announced that the first meeting on forming a commission to investigate enforced disappearances would be held on Tuesday, reiterating the government's zero-tolerance policy against enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings.
About the police, Dr Rahman said the force was still recovering from recent events and required time to regain public confidence.
"The police are going through trauma. They need some time, and we are working with them," he said.
Responding to a question on the government's performance, the adviser said the interim administration believed in democratic accountability rather than concentration of power.
"The previous fascist government thought everything it did was right. A democratic government does not function that way. The prime minister regularly reviews the performance of ministries and evaluates what they have achieved," he said.
He also said the government would complete six months in office in August and its performance would then be reviewed across ministries.
Based on the review, if the government found changes necessary, it would make the required adjustments, he added.
On compensation for victims of the Milestone College jet crash, Dr Rahman acknowledged delays in disbursement though investigations had been completed.
"The interim government gets time. We also have been in office for five months. It is unfortunate, and this is our failure. The government will certainly complete the compensation process," he said.
Regarding the sculpture of Bir Sreshtho Hamidur Rahman, the adviser said the existing structure did not adequately resemble the individual and a new one would be installed in a more appropriate location.
He also noted that two allegations had been raised over the matter, adding that there was no evidence of any militant connection.
Syed Abdal Ahmed, principal information officer of the Press Information Department, also spoke at the event, among others.
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