The Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) has decided to remove data packages with a three-day validity as a preventive measure against fraudulent practices in the telecom industry. Currently, 69.23 percent of purchased data packages in Bangladesh come with a three-day validity, making it the most popular option among consumers. The BTRC aims to reduce confusion among customers caused by the numerous short-term data packages offered by operators.
Telecom Minister Mustafa Jabbar addressed this issue during a press conference at the BTRC office in Dhaka. He emphasized the need for setting limits on operators to prevent cheating and protect consumer interests. The BTRC issued a directive on September 3, which will take effect on October 15. This directive discontinues internet data packages with three-day and 15-day validities and reduces the total number of packages to 40.
Although this move has faced opposition from operators and experts, the BTRC justifies its decision by highlighting the fraudulent practices associated with the three-day validity packages. By offering customers more data at a lower cost within a shorter period, operators often leave consumers unable to fully utilize their data allowance. This leads to customer dissatisfaction as unused data, purchased with their own money, goes to waste.
The BTRC acknowledges the concerns raised by operators and customers. However, in line with its responsibilities under the telecommunications act, the commission believes that removing the three-day validity packages will benefit both operators and customers in the long run. Mohammad Zulfikar, Secretary General at the Association of Mobile Telecom Operators of Bangladesh, argues that discontinuing these packages may limit business opportunities for operators and restrict customers’ choices. He urges the commission to reconsider its decision and make revisions accordingly.
By removing three-day validity data packages, the BTRC aims to safeguard consumers from fraudulent practices and ensure a fair and transparent telecom market in Bangladesh.