Published :
Updated :
For all latest news, follow The Financial Express Google News channel.
The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) has introduced new regulations permitting the lawful interception of satellite-based internet services, a move that could impact the operations of providers like Starlink if they enter the market.
The guidelines titled "Regulatory and Licensing Guidelines for Non-Geostationary Orbit (NGSO) Satellite Services Operators in Bangladesh" were issued on Wednesday, outlining key requirements for satellite internet providers, including mandatory local infrastructure and compliance with surveillance laws.
The regulations mandate that any satellite internet service must establish at least one local gateway within Bangladesh, ensuring all user data is routed through the country's telecommunication system.
The provider must also connect to a licensed international internet gateway (IIG) for international data transmission.
These measures effectively grant the authorities the ability to monitor and, if necessary, shut down services within Bangladesh's borders.
Legal interception and government oversight
A crucial aspect of the new guidelines is the requirement for satellite internet providers to comply with lawful interception laws.
Article 26(4) of the BTRC guidelines states that service providers must allow government agencies to access their local gateway and provide necessary user data to designated authorities.
Companies must also implement technology to facilitate such data sharing, aligning with Bangladesh's existing Telecommunications Act 2001, Wireless Telegraphy Act 1933, and Telegraph Act 1885.
Rights groups have long criticised the broad scope of wiretapping provisions in Bangladesh's telecommunication laws, raising concerns about potential misuse and arbitrary application.
While some accept limited surveillance for national security purposes, critics argue that the lack of judicial oversight in Bangladesh's interception laws creates opportunities for excessive monitoring.
Starlink's possible entry and government directives
The government's push to regulate satellite internet comes amid efforts to expedite Starlink's launch in Bangladesh.
On February 13, Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus held a virtual discussion with Starlink founder Elon Musk regarding the service's potential entry. Following the discussion, he instructed the relevant authorities to facilitate Starlink's launch within 90 working days.
While the government has promoted Starlink as a way to expand high-speed internet access to remote areas, the guidelines indicate that the authorities will still retain the power to suspend or shut down services on national security grounds.
The guidelines state that if the "national security, integrity, sovereignty, stability, or harmony" of Bangladesh is compromised through a provider's infrastructure, the government may take immediate action, including licence revocation.
This contradicts earlier government statements that suggested Starlink's presence would prevent internet shutdowns, a contentious issue in Bangladesh.
The country experienced widespread internet blackouts during the political turmoil last year, including a five-day broadband shutdown and an 11-day mobile internet blackout.
Financial and licensing requirements
To obtain a license, companies must register with the Registrar of Joint Stock Companies and Firms before applying to the BTRC. The application fee is set at Tk 500,000, with an additional security deposit of Tk 25 million.
The licence will be valid for 10 years, with an annual renewal requirement. Service providers offering broadband internet will pay an annual registration fee of $30,000, while those offering Internet of Things (IoT) services will pay $10,000.
Revenue sharing will be waived for the first two years, after which licensees must contribute 3 per cent of their revenue. This rate will increase to 5.5 per cent starting from the sixth year of operations.
Scope of services and limitations
Under the new guidelines, satellite internet providers can offer broadband services, IoT, machine-to-machine communication, and Earth Station in Motion services, among others, with BTRC approval.
However, they will not be permitted to provide broadcasting services, direct-to-home television, terrestrial or satellite-based telephone services, or International Mobile Telecommunications.
Concerns over internet shutdowns
One of the most debated aspects of the new regulations is the government's ability to impose internet shutdowns despite earlier promises to safeguard uninterrupted access.
Bangladesh has opted for a satellite internet model that requires local ground stations rather than relying on inter-satellite links.
This means that internet traffic remains dependent on local infrastructure, allowing the authorities to restrict access if deemed necessary.
bdsmile@gmail.com