MAF seeks stronger cyber law to curb online gender violence

The Multiparty Advocacy Forum (MAF) today called for amendments to the Cyber Security Act, 2026 to introduce clear legal protection against technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV), saying the law does not adequately protect women from online abuse.

The forum made the demand at a press conference at the National Press Club, where it presented a six-point set of recommendations for a safe, inclusive and accountable digital environment, according to a press release.

Tap here to add The Daily Star as a trusted source

Democracy International organised the event under the B-SPACE project, funded by the United Kingdom’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Speakers said TFGBV should be recognised as a distinct and serious offence under the law. They noted that the Cyber Security Act does not clearly define TFGBV or “consent”, nor does it contain specific provisions to address newer forms of digital violence, including deepfakes, sextortion, cyberflashing, cyberstalking, doxxing and coordinated online harassment.

The forum recommended defining TFGBV and consent clearly, introducing provisions to address emerging forms of digital violence, ensuring safe and accessible complaint mechanisms and protecting victims’ identities.

It also called for effective measures to swiftly remove harmful content and preserve digital evidence, greater accountability for digital platforms, and compensation and prompt legal remedies for victims.

Speakers said TFGBV was not merely a cybercrime but a serious barrier to human rights, personal safety and the equal participation of women and marginalised communities.

They urged policymakers to make the Cyber Security Act more effective, victim-centred and responsive, and sought media cooperation in creating a safer digital environment and raising public awareness.

Nadia Pathan Papon and Sultana Jasmine Jui, members of parliament, spoke at the event.

Sayra Chandra Chakma, joint general secretary of the central committee of Chhatra Dal, and Golam Mostafa, joint convener of the Bangladesh Youth Federation, presented the written statement.

Enzamul Haque of the NCP and Nasrin Rahman Popi of Chhatra Dal moderated the programme.

Among others, Saidur Rahman Mintu, vice-president of MAF and joint convener of BNP at Dhaka South; Shahinur Nargis, member of MAF and office secretary of the central Mohila Dal; Alamgir Hossain Labu, organising secretary of MAF; Arafat Billah Khan, project implementation secretary; Hawa Akter Toha, assistant research secretary; and members Armanul Haque, Mohammad Ali Toha and Mousumi Sheikh were also present.