ARSB Rules & Regulations for Members

This section establishes the society’s purpose and guiding principles.

Preamble: The ARSB is a national non-profit dedicated to promoting amateur radio as a service, hobby, and technical discipline. These rules reflect the legal framework of the BTRC (Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission) and ITU/IARU R3 best practices.
The Amateur’s Code (ARSB Endorsed): Members uphold the global Code emphasizing Consideration, Loyalty, Progress, Friendliness, Balance, and Patriotism. Operators should be models of ethical communication and helpfulness.
Compliance Sources: The rules are guided by the BTRC Guidelines, ARRL/RSGB/JARL operational models, IARU Standards, and the ARSB Constitution.

This section details the categories, privileges, and maintenance of membership.

2.1. General Members:
- Requirements: Must hold a valid BTRC-issued Amateur Radio License and assigned Call Sign.
- Privileges: Entitled to full privileges, including voting rights, participation in contests, net control, training roles, and eligibility for Executive Committee (EC) positions (after 2 years).
- Obligations: Must provide valid copies of the license and National ID/passport upon joining or renewal.
- Participation: Can transmit or operate radios independently; encouraged to pursue licensing through club resources.
2.2. Associate Members:
- Scope: Includes students, youth club participants, and those affiliated for special projects.
- Restrictions: May not vote or hold office, and must operate only under supervision during practical sessions.
2.3. Membership Validity & Renewal:
- Term: Membership is annual, renewable by December 30th each year.
- Fees: Decided annually by the EC (e.g., BDT 1,500/year as of 2025).
- Late Fees: Incur suspension of privileges until dues are cleared.
- Delisting: Failure to renew for 2 consecutive years may result in delisting.

This section addresses mandatory adherence to BTRC and international regulations.

3.1. Licensing Obligations:
- Members must not operate or import amateur radio equipment without a valid BTRC license and approval.
- Each transceiver, repeater, or amplifier must be registered as per BTRC guidelines.
- All call signs and station licenses must be kept current and documented with ARSB records.
3.2. Frequency and Band Plan Adherence:
- Power levels, emission modes, and bandwidth must conform to license specifications.
- Operate strictly within amateur bands allocated by BTRC.
- Intentional or accidental transmission outside assigned frequencies is prohibited and reportable.
3.3. Station Identification & Content:
- All transmissions must clearly identify the operator’s call sign at least every 10 minutes and at the end of each communication.
- Prohibited Content: No member shall engage in anonymous, encrypted, commercial, political, or profane broadcasts.

This section defines the behavior and technical conduct expected of all members on-air.

4.1. Code of Conduct:
- Behaviors: Operate with integrity, courtesy, and professionalism.
- Respect: Be patient and respectful, especially with newcomers.
- Prohibited Actions: Avoid deliberate interference, jamming, or exclusionary behavior.
- Content: Refrain from transmitting inflammatory, racist, religiously offensive, or vulgar content.
- Equipment: Maintain equipment in safe, interference-free condition.
4.2. Net Participation:
- Operators must follow net control instructions and protocols.
- Operators may be assigned as Net Control Station (NCS) based on experience.
4.3. Contests:
- Operators must log contest activity accurately and follow ethical guidelines.
- Logs must include time stamps, frequencies, modes, and call signs.

This section outlines the member’s role in disaster response and community activities.

5.1. Preparedness & Responsibility:
- Members are encouraged to be ready to serve during: Community response activities (search & rescue, disaster relief), National emergencies (floods, cyclones, blackouts), and Public awareness events.
5.2. Activation Protocol:
- Only licensed operators may be activated during emergencies.
- Emergency communications should prioritize: Life-saving transmissions, Coordination with government or NGOs, and Health and welfare messaging.
- All emergency traffic must comply with legal identification and logbook requirements.
- Yield frequencies during emergency activations, drills, or national disasters.

This section covers participation in club activities and educational roles.

6.1. Club Events:
- Members are expected to participate in scheduled field days, workshops, training sessions, and national contests.
- Licensed members may serve as instructors or station supervisors.
6.2. Training:
- Instructors/Mentors: Must be BTRC-licensed and approved by the EC.
- Courses: ARSB offers introductory and advanced courses.
- Safety: Participants must sign attendance and safety declarations for practical sessions.

This section covers the management, meetings, and financial transparency of the ARSB.

7.1. Executive Committee (EC):
- Eligibility: Elected biennially; only licensed members in good standing are eligible.
- Role: Responsible for interpreting these rules, managing funds, and executing club decisions.
7.2. General Meetings:
- AGM: Annual General Meeting held each year; Special General Meetings may be called.
- Quorum: 40% of eligible voting members must be present for AGM decisions to be valid.
- Voting: Motions may be passed by a simple majority unless stated otherwise.
7.3. Financial Integrity:
- Usage: All funds must be used solely for club development (equipment, training, events, outreach).
- Prohibition: No personal benefit may be derived by any member from ARSB assets.
- Transparency: Financial reports shall be published at the AGM annually.

This section details violations, penalties, and the process for appealing decisions.

8.1. Violations: Disciplinary action may result from: Illegal transmissions, Unauthorized use of call signs or frequencies, Verbal abuse or harassment, Misuse of club property or funds, or Operating without a valid license.
8.2. Actions: Penalties may include: Verbal/written warnings, Suspension of privileges, Termination of membership, and Reporting to BTRC and other public authorities.
8.3. Appeals:
- Members retain the right to appeal in writing to the Executive Committee.
- A final decision will be made within 30 days of submission.

This section defines how the rules themselves can be changed.

Process: Rules may be amended by majority vote of the Executive Committee or by vote at a General Meeting.
Notice: Proposed changes must be circulated to all members at least 30 days in advance.
Effect: Once adopted, amendments are binding on all current and future members.