Bangladesh launches SIM cards for 10,000 Rohingya in camps
Authorities say legal SIMs will curb crime and improve monitoring as part of efforts to regulate communication access
DHAKA, Bangladesh (MNTV) — Authorities have begun distributing mobile SIM cards to Rohingya refugees living in camps in southern Bangladesh, marking a major step toward regulated communication and digital inclusion for the displaced community.
The campaign was launched Monday at the Madhurchhara camp in Ukhia by Mohammad Mizanur Rahman, Refugee Relief and Repatriation Commissioner and additional secretary. According to Rahman, the first phase will cover 10,000 refugees across 33 camps in Ukhia and Teknaf, with plans to expand distribution later.
The initiative follows years of restrictions on mobile access in the densely populated camps, home to more than 1.4 million registered Rohingya, including some 800,000 who fled Myanmar’s Rakhine State after August 2017. Until now, Rohingyas were not permitted to legally use Bangladeshi SIM cards, leaving many dependent on unregistered or cross-border networks.
Local daily Prothom Alo reported that on the opening day, 100 Rohingya community leaders received SIM cards, while at least 500 will be provided daily from Tuesday onward. The RRRC said only refugees aged 18 and above will be eligible for authorised SIMs.
Rahman stated that the initiative will help uphold the rule of law, prevent criminal activity, and reduce the use of illegal communication channels often linked to drug trafficking and cross-border crimes.
“All unauthorized SIM cards used in the camps will be blocked,” he said, adding that the system will enable better technological monitoring and coordination.
Rohingya community leaders welcomed the decision, calling it a practical and long-awaited step. Kamal Hossain, president of the United Council of Rohang, said refugees had long relied on both Bangladeshi and Myanmar SIM cards due to lack of access. “Blocking illegal SIMs and introducing authorized ones is a commendable initiative by the government,” he said.
Analysts say the move reflects Bangladesh’s effort to strengthen digital governance within the world’s largest refugee settlement, while balancing humanitarian access with national security concerns.
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