TLDR
- Bangladesh is drafting a new law to replace the outdated Gambling Act of 1867
- Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed said the draft is in its final stage and will go before parliament next session
- The new law targets online gambling, digital betting, and cyber-based betting activities
- Officials say online gambling poses a serious challenge to youth, the economy, and national security
- The announcement was made at a meeting with the Bangladesh Secretariat Reporters Forum in Dhaka
Bangladesh Plans to Overhaul Century-Old Gambling Legislation
Bangladesh is preparing to scrap its 159-year-old gambling law and replace it with modern legislation designed to address online betting and digital gambling. Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed confirmed the draft law is nearly complete.
Ahmed made the announcement on Sunday during a meeting with members of the Bangladesh Secretariat Reporters Forum at the Bangladesh Secretariat in Dhaka. He said the new law will be placed before parliament in its next session for approval.
The current law governing gambling in Bangladesh is the Gambling Act of 1867. It was written during the British colonial era and does not account for internet-based gambling or digital betting platforms.
Online Gambling Identified as Growing Threat
According to Ahmed, online gambling has become a serious problem for the country’s young population. He also said it threatens the national economy and security.
The minister stressed the need for updated legislation that reflects modern technology. He described the existing law as obsolete and unable to deal with current challenges.
The draft law is specifically designed to prevent gambling, betting, and online gambling activities. It aims to give authorities new tools to combat cyber-based betting operations.
Bangladesh has seen a rise in online gambling activity in recent years. The government views the new law as a necessary step to address this trend.
Ahmed also raised concerns about the misuse of social media platforms during the meeting. He pointed to the spread of fake stories and misleading information as threats to family values and the country’s image.
At the same time, the minister acknowledged the importance of a free press. He said reasonable limitations on freedom of expression are acceptable for the safety and betterment of the nation.
Forum Meeting Draws Media Representatives
The meeting was chaired by Bangladesh Secretariat Reporters Forum President Masudul Hoque. Principal Information Officer Syed Abdal Ahmed attended as a special guest.
General Secretary of the BSRF Ubaidullah Badal served as the moderator of the session. Reporters from print, electronic, and online media participated in the discussion.
Ahmed invited members of the media to take a positive approach in their role in society. He also recognized their work covering events across the country.
The discussion took place as the government moves forward with implementing a new legal framework for gambling and online betting. No specific timeline has been given for when parliament will vote on the draft.
Bangladesh joins a growing list of countries in Asia working to update their gambling regulations for the digital age. The shift reflects broader efforts to regulate online betting across the region.
The draft law remains in its final stage of preparation. The next parliamentary session will determine whether it moves forward as proposed.
