Tribunal Bans Dissemination Speech by Former Bangladeshi's PM Sheikh Hasina in Media and Social Platforms

Tribunal Bans Dissemination of Hate Speech by Former PM Sheikh Hasina in Media and Social Platforms

The International Crimes Tribunal has issued an order prohibiting the dissemination of all forms of hate speech by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina through media outlets and social platforms. Additionally, the court has directed the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) to promptly remove any previously published hate speech by Sheikh Hasina from all platforms.

The tribunal, chaired by Justice Md. Golam Mortuza Majumder and comprising three judges, delivered the order on Thursday in response to a prosecution petition.

In recent days, social media platforms have seen a surge in the circulation of derogatory remarks allegedly made by Sheikh Hasina about the interim government from her residence in India. Prosecutors argued that such hate speech needed to be curtailed to prevent disruptions to the ongoing investigations.

Speaking to reporters, prosecutors explained, "Leaked statements and phone conversations attributed to Sheikh Hasina, which have been circulating on certain media and social platforms, contain remarks that could hinder the investigation process and intimidate witnesses and victims."

They further elaborated, "Globally, hate speech is a recognized offense. Our petition aimed to stop the propagation of such content and remove existing materials. The tribunal has granted our request and instructed BTRC to ensure the immediate removal of all hate speech and to prevent further broadcasts."

However, the tribunal clarified that this restriction does not apply to Sheikh Hasina's general or political statements.

When asked how the ban would be enforced on social media platforms controlled by international entities, Prosecutor Abdullah Al Noman told BBC Bangla, "We will provide a written court order to all relevant social media platforms. According to international rights standards, these statements by Sheikh Hasina constitute hate speech and incitement to hatred. Such content is not protected under freedom of expression, especially as outlined in Article 19 of international human rights law."

This ruling marks a significant move in regulating online content and addressing concerns regarding hate speech in Bangladesh.