Bangladesh: Two youths booked under Cyber Security Act for alleged religious insult

Authorities in Netrokona's Kalmakanda upazila have filed a case against two young men under the Cyber Security Act following allegations that they posted content on Facebook intended to incite religious hatred. The incident has led to public unrest, with an agitated crowd vandalizing the homes of the accused.

Kalmakanda Police Station Officer-in-Charge Md Mostafizur Rahman confirmed the case against Papon Sarker, 28, a university student, and Sagar Sarker, 26, both from Charulia village. According to the First Information Report (FIR), Papon allegedly posted content from his Facebook account around noon on July 25 that could provoke religious animosity. Police stated that the post and subsequent comments were circulated on social media, potentially leading to religious hatred, hostility, and public disorder.

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An agitated crowd vandalised the houses of the accused. Police responded immediately and brought the situation under control. The law and order situation is now normal, and officers remain on alert to prevent any untoward incident.

Sub-Inspector Md Abdul Mannan filed the case under Section 26(1) of the Cyber Security Act. Police responded swiftly to the vandalism, bringing the situation under control and deploying additional forces to maintain law and order. Efforts are currently underway to apprehend the suspects, and further legal actions will be determined by the ongoing investigation. The police remain vigilant to prevent any further incidents.

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The post and comments on it were later circulated on social media and were capable of provoking religious hatred, hostility and public unrest.