Bangladesh State Minister for Posts, Telecommunication and Information Technology Zunaid Ahmed Palak said the government shut down mobile networks to curb spread of misinformation

The claim that the Bangladesh government, represented by State Minister Zunaid Ahmed Palak, shut down mobile networks to curb the spread of misinformation is accurate. According to multiple sources, including Business Standard and Hindustan Times, the government did indeed shut down mobile internet services in response to escalating violence and to prevent the spread of fake news on social media. This shutdown was part of broader measures taken during a period of significant unrest related to student protests and government job quota reforms. The shutdown lasted for 10 days, during which both mobile and broadband internet services were affected. The decision was publicly justified by Palak as necessary to maintain stability and curb misinformation. However, such actions have been criticized for their impact on human rights and economic activities, as highlighted by organizations advocating for open and secure internet access.