Archive · 18 Jul 2025
Bangladesh Interim Government Offers Free Data, Draws Criticism
The government in Bangladesh gave away 1GB of free internet data.
This was to remember when the internet was shut down during protests a year ago.
People were upset about the internet shutdown and protested against the old government.
Some people online made fun of the free data offer, saying it wasn't enough.
Others said the government should have focused on fixing the economy instead of giving free data.
Some also said the data couldn't be used for some things like videos or searching on Google.
The interim government of Bangladesh offered 1GB of free data to internet users.
The offer was made in response to the shutdown of the internet during the student protests a year prior.
The free data was available for five days to users of Grameen Phone, Bangla Link, Robi, and TeleTalk.
The announcement was met with criticism and mockery from some internet users.
Some residents questioned the timing of the free data offer, citing rising prices and inflation.
- Who
- The interim government and internet users.
- What
- The interim government offered 1GB of free data.
- When
- Announced on Friday.
- Where
- Bangladesh
- Why
- To commemorate the shutdown of the internet during the student protests.
Critics' View
Government View
Value of Free Data
Critics' View
The government's decision to offer free data is insubstantial given the underlying economic issues.
Government View
The government is providing free internet access in light of an important anniversary.
Appropriateness of Action
Critics' View
The free data does not properly address the initial issues that led to the shutdown.
Government View
The offer is a well-intentioned gesture to commemorate the shutdown during the protests.
- Free Data Amount
- 1GB
- Offer Duration
- Five days
- Eligible Providers
- Grameen Phone, Bangla Link, Robi, TeleTalk
- Context
- Anniversary of the July uprising