The internet connectivity on mobile networks nationwide has been halted without prior notice.

According to rights body activists, this unannounced internet shutdown is a violation of human rights in today's connected society.

The Association of Mobile Telecom Operators of Bangladesh (AMTOB), representing mobile network operators, declined to comment on the situation.

Out of the total 141.28 million internet subscribers in Bangladesh, the majority (127.84 million) use mobile networks and have been impacted by the disruption since midnight on Wednesday, according to rights organizations.

Mohiuddin Ahmed, president of the Bangladesh Mobile Phone Consumers’ Association (BMPCA), which oversees telecom services as a consumer rights body, stated that while the government can suspend internet connections for stability with proper notice, the current unofficial shutdown infringes on rights.

Internet access is now considered a human right. Although the telecom act allows the government to control the internet for state security, this unannounced shutdown is a violation of rights, Mohiuddin added.

BDST: 1345 HRS, JULY 18, 2024
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