Speech offence cases to go with repeal of CSA: Asif Nazrul

Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Adviser Dr Asif Nazrul today said the lawsuits filed over 'speech offence' will be dismissed simultaneously with the repeal of the Cyber Security Act.

"We are repealing the Cyber Security Act (CSA) and made the announcement long ago. There are some cases filed over 'speech offences'... all those cases will be dismissed automatically," he said.

"The cases those were filed against free minded people, people of different opinions, people who have been implicated in cases for their speeches and for their dissenting opinions... will be dismissed simultaneously with the repeal of the CSA," he added.

The law adviser, however, said the trial of the cases lodged over computer offence, like hacking, fraud and blackmailing would continue.

Asif Nazrul said this while addressing the DRU-Desh TV Best Reporting Award-2024 function as the chief guest at Dhaka Club this afternoon.

Castigating a section of journalist leaders, the adviser said they only worked to make their own fortune, not for changing the lots of the common journalists.
 
"There are some so-called journalist leaders, who are actually neither journalist, nor leaders. By holding the ordinary journalists hostages, they made huge money, became owners of houses and cars and became influential," Asif said.

"The present interim government has done nothing for harassment of the journalists. Neither the government nor the police filed any case against journalists," he said.
 
Addressing the function as the special guest Environment, Forest and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan said fearless and neutral journalism is very crucial for protecting democracy and environment. The present government is firmly committed to create congenial atmosphere for journalism.

Presided over by Dhaka Reporters Unity President Syed Shukur Ali Shuvo, the function was conducted by DRU General Secretary Mohi Uddin.

Former DRU president Shafiqul Karim and Desh TV Managing Director Arif Hasan also addressed the function, among others.