Fifteen members of Amnesty International in the United Kingdom have expressed deep concern over the alleged torture, persecution, harassment cases, and prolonged detention without trial of journalists in Bangladesh. In protest against these incidents, they also issued a joint statement.
The concerns were expressed at a discussion meeting held on Monday, August 31, at the London Bangla Press Club in the UK. The event was organized to protest the alleged harassment, persecution, and prolonged detention of journalists in Bangladesh, as well as cases filed against them on various charges.
The meeting was chaired by human rights activist Dr. Anisur Rahman Anis. Members of Amnesty International, journalists, lawyers, and representatives from various sectors spoke at the event.
Speakers expressed concern over various incidents of alleged attacks on journalists and restrictions on freedom of expression and freedom of the press in Bangladesh. They also raised concerns about what they described as harassment cases filed against journalists, prolonged detention without trial, and allegations that some detained journalists have not received adequate medical treatment while in custody.
During the discussion, speakers claimed that at least 412 journalists have been implicated in various cases, including murder cases. They said these developments have raised concerns internationally about the safety of journalists, their ability to work independently, and the protection of freedom of expression in Bangladesh.
Among those who spoke at the meeting were Fazle Rabbi Smaran, Khandaker Tareq Raihan, Barrister Touhidul Alam Bahar, Advocate Mujibul Haque Moni, Jamal Ahmed Khan, Dr. Nobel Khan, Mustafizur Rahman Suhag, Ahad Chowdhury, Moshahid Ali Muhim, Khaled Ahmed Raj, and Masum Billah, among others.
The speakers called for impartial investigations into cases filed against journalists, due process and justice for detained journalists, and the creation of an environment in which journalists can carry out their professional responsibilities freely and safely.
