The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) has issued a new regulatory framework for satellite-based internet services, which includes provisions for lawful interception, paving the way for surveillance.
This new regulation applies to foreign satellite internet service providers such as Starlink, which is a subsidiary of SpaceX, the space technology company owned by Elon Musk.
The new guidelines, titled "Regulatory and Licensing Guidelines for Non-Geostationary Orbit (NGSO) Satellite Services Operators in Bangladesh," were released on Wednesday (March 26).
The guidelines are designed to ensure that any satellite-based internet service provider, like Starlink, complies with local regulations.
As per these guidelines, providers will be required to give local authorities access to their gateway systems and share necessary data for national security purposes.
In the 26(4) section of the guidelines, the BTRC allows authorities to tap into the communication channels of these services, ensuring that licensed providers cooperate with government bodies and law enforcement agencies when required.
The new guidelines also mandate compliance with the Telecommunication Act of 2001, Wireless Telegraphy Act of 1933, and other relevant regulations.
Starlink’s entry into Bangladesh is expected soon, following discussions between Professor Muhammad Yunus and Elon Musk on 13 February.
Yunus has instructed to ensure that necessary preparations for the service are completed within 90 working days.
In addition, service providers will be required to establish at least one gateway system within Bangladesh before offering services.
The guidelines encourage providers to set up additional gateways to ensure that internet traffic originating from local users is routed through these systems.
Furthermore, providers must link up with licensed International Internet Gateways (IIG) for carrying international internet traffic.
