Information and Broadcasting Adviser Dr Zahedur Rahman on Tuesday said the interim government will not tolerate cyberbullying, enforced disappearances or extrajudicial killings, announcing that a panel of lawyers has been formed to address cyber-related legal issues and will begin work this week.
Speaking to reporters at the secretariat to review the activities of the government, the adviser said this democratic regime was committed to protecting freedom of expression while ensuring that the rule of law is maintained.
Cheif information officer Syed Abdal Ahmed also spoke, among others.
The adviser said: "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".
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 said 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.
On policing, 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 the 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 said the government would complete six months in office next month, after which its performance would be reviewed across ministries. If the government finds changes necessary based on the review, it will make the required adjustments.
On compensation for victims of the Milestone incident, Dr Rahman acknowledged delays in disbursing financial assistance despite investigations having 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 Hamidur Rahman, the adviser said the existing structure did not adequately reflect the individual's likeness and that a new sculpture would be installed at a more appropriate location by the government.
He also noted that two allegations had been raised over the matter, adding that there was no evidence of any militant connection.
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