At the time of writing these words, it has been 48 hours since the entire nation had any form of internet connection. This is unacceptable for any nation in the year 2024, but for a nation that prides itself on being a “Digital” Bangladesh is truly preposterous.
If we even put aside the millions whose day-to-day existence is being disrupted as a result of this internet blackout, and the millions whose livelihoods may be jeopardized as a result, that there is no concern shown for the life-saving need for the internet at hospitals is a cause for great concern.
We were informed that mobile data was switched off to curb the spread of “misinformation” regarding the ongoing protests. While it may be true that no social media means curtailing spread of misinformation, what the authorities have failed to grasp is that social media platforms have legitimate news sources that keep the people informed.
To this end, we must reiterate the Editors’ Council’s admonition that the lack of internet threatens the spread of misinformation further; the disruption of news circulation and the inability to fact-check has blocked the truth from being disseminated.
Furthermore, given the precarious situation of the nation, the lack of internet has only added to the fears within the common people, leading to rumours and fake news being spread simply by word of mouth, with a lack of credible sources to cite.
We have taken immense pride in being a digital nation for over 15 years; the numerous achievements that have come our way, from being on the cusp of graduating from an LDC and having a per capita income of over $2,500, to combating the worst of the Covid-19 pandemic, has occurred as a result of us embracing digitization.
Above all else, it is digitization that has given our nation the power to dream of creating a Smart Bangladesh by 2041.
But here we are today: No internet for every person in this country for two days and counting. How did this proudly digital nation reach a point where we are compelled to be without the internet?
No matter what the issues are, to deprive the entire nation of something as vital as the internet for days on end is simply inexcusable, and we have every right to be upset with the authorities and expect this to be resolved immediately.
Ultimately, we humbly ask: Is this smart?
This editorial piece was first published in the print edition of Dhaka Tribune on July 20, 2024.
