Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed spoke at a dialogue organised by the BSRF at the Secretariat media centre. Photo: BSS

DHAKA, May 24, 2026 (BSS) - Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed has announced a landmark legal initiative to repeal the outdated Gambling Act of 1867 and replace it with a modern law aimed at preventing gambling, betting, and online gambling.

“The drafting process of the new law is in its final stage and the bill will be placed in the next session of parliament for passage,” he said.

He made the remarks while speaking at an interaction with members of the Bangladesh Secretariat Reporters Forum (BSRF) in Bangladesh Secretariat here today. 

The minister said that the rise of online gambling and betting has become a major threat to the country’s youth, economy, and social stability, making it necessary to enact a time-befitting and technology-oriented legal framework.

Highlighting the importance of a free press, the minister said an independent media is essential for the overall reform and progress of society. 

However, he noted that reasonable restrictions are necessary in exercising freedom of the press and freedom of speech to protect state security and public order.

The minister also expressed concern over the uncontrolled misuse of social media, the erosion of long-standing family and social values, and attempts to damage the country’s image through artificial narratives. 

He urged media professionals to play a constructive role in raising social awareness on these issues.

The event was chaired by BSRF President Masudul Hoque and attended by Principal Information Officer Syed Abdal Ahmed, while General Secretary Ubaidullah Badal moderated the programme.

During the discussion, leaders of the Bangladesh Secretariat Reporters Forum along with journalists from print, electronic, and online media were present.