The Jatiya Sangsad (JS) today passed the Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) Bill, 2026, aiming to modernise existing legislation by incorporating provisions to ban not only entities but also their activities and propaganda.

With Speaker Major (retd) Hafiz Uddin Ahmad, Bir Bikram, in the chair, the bill was placed and moved by Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed in the House today. It seeks to replace the Anti-Terrorism Amendment) Ordinance, 2025, which was promulgated during the tenure of the interim government.

The legislation introduces significant amendments to Sections 18 and 20 of the Anti-Terrorism Act, 2009, with the objective of expanding the government's authority to curb not just the existence of an organisation, but its entire operational and digital footprint.

Under the revised Section 18, the government will have explicit authority to prohibit all activities of an entity, in addition to declaring it banned and listing it in the official schedule.

According to the statement of objects and reasons, the Anti-Terrorism Act, 2009 was enacted to prevent terrorist acts, ensure effective punishment, and address related matters. 

It allows the government, on reasonable grounds, to list individuals or entities involved in terrorism in the schedule through a Gazette notification.

However, the existing law does not explicitly provide for banning the activities of such entities. 

The amendment aims to address this gap and make the law more effective and up to date. The ordinance amending Sections 18 and 20 was earlier issued on May 11, 2025, during the interim government period.

One of the most stringent changes comes under Section 20, which introduces a comprehensive communication blackout for banned entities. The new provisions include a ban on issuing press releases, publications, and printed materials on behalf of such entities.

It also prohibits all forms of propaganda through mass media, online platforms, and social media. In addition, banned entities will not be allowed to organise rallies, meetings, assemblies, press conferences, or deliver public speeches.

The bill also includes a repeal and savings clause. Once enacted, it will repeal the Anti-Terrorism (Amendment) Ordinance, 2025, while ensuring that all actions taken under the ordinance remain valid under the new law.

The bill was later passed by voice vote.