Parliament passes bill allowing death penalty for online drug trafficking

Parliament has passed the Narcotics Control (Amendment) Bill, 2026, allowing the death penalty as the maximum punishment for online drug trafficking, supply, advertising, brokering or transactions. Under the new bill, physical recovery of drugs from the accused will not be mandatory for conviction in such cybercrimes.

The bill was passed by voice vote on Monday, July 13, with Deputy Speaker Barrister Kayser Kamal in the chair. Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed moved the bill for passage. Opposition proposals for public opinion, committee review and amendments were rejected by voice vote.

The new law criminalises illicit drug or psychoactive substance trade, supply, advertising, brokering or communication through cyberspace, websites, social media, mobile apps, online platforms or other digital media. It also covers transactions through digital payment systems, e-wallets, virtual assets or cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin.

The law states that physical recovery of drugs from the accused is not mandatory; digital evidence and transaction records can be used for prosecution. The maximum punishment is death or any term of imprisonment, with a fine of up to Tk 20 lakh.

If the crime is committed internationally or through organised criminal networks, the offender can be punished with imprisonment of any term, a fine of up to Tk 50 lakh, or both. Courts can also order blocking, seizure, forfeiture or state vesting of digital accounts, e-wallets, virtual assets and cryptocurrencies used in the crime.

The law also provides for establishing separate drug crime tribunals in crime-prone areas for speedy trial. It authorises the Narcotics Control Department to use modern firearms and form special dog squads to detect drugs and smuggling.

Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed said if any law enforcement personnel are involved in drug trade, they will not be spared, and administrative and legal action is already being taken against those facing such allegations.

The statement of objects and reasons said separate tribunals are being created for speedy trial due to increased drug addiction and crime. New provisions have been added to tackle technology-based drug crimes and strengthen the Narcotics Control Department's capacity to prevent cross-border drug smuggling.