Nab Facebook abusers, but don't shut it down

CRIMINALITY and immorality must be curbed swiftly and ruthlessly whenever and whenever they occur. In these days of advanced technology, there are certainly the many ways in which people can take advantage of such means as Facebook, mobile cameras and the like to indulge in activities which militate against social norms. That being the truth, there is equally another truth, which is that there are ways in which such individuals can be tracked down and punished. It is against such a reality that we believe those who have been misusing Facebook in Bangladesh should be taken to task.
In this connection, we condemn the uploading of indecent material about some leading personalities of the country on Facebook. While we certainly believe in the principle of freedom of expression, we also hold the considered view that such freedom must not give way to licentiousness, to a point where values will come under threat. The use of insulting or demeaning images against any individual on Facebook calls for stern action. However, taking action must not mean clamping a ban on the whole system. In the present instance, blocking Facebook, even temporarily, sends out the wrong message that the authorities are not only unwilling to tolerate dissent but are also uncomfortable with the rapid advances being made in technology. Today's world is an open world and Facebook is a part of it. Trying to ward off such a reality can only be seen as adopting a myopic outlook on matters around us. The ban on Facebook, from such a point of view, can only be considered as an attempt to stifle individual freedom.
We will surely appreciate strong action against those who misuse technology. In recent times, allegations of Facebook and mobile phones being utilized to undermine reputations, particularly of young women, have come up. Let the authorities go after the people behind such misdeeds by using, again, technology to nab them. But let not the bad deeds of a few make a casualty of technology itself. The choice is between insularity and openness. We opt for the latter. We, therefore, urge the government to withdraw the ban it has imposed on Facebook without delay.