Reports from various newspapers in Bangladesh indicate that a murder case has been filed against these seven journalists, along with former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and 192 others, following the death of Nayeem Howlader, a 17-year-old HSC student at Shanarpar Rowshan Ara Degree College. Nayeem was shot dead during the anti-quota protests in Jatrabari, and the case was registered at Jatrabari Police Station on August 22, 2024.
Notably, journalist couple Shakil Ahmed and Farzana Rupa are currently on a four-day remand in connection with a separate murder case filed at Uttara East Police Station. Their arrest at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on August 21, 2024, further highlights the escalating crackdown on media professionals in Bangladesh.
Robert Simon, a prominent French human rights activist and Chief Adviser of JMBF stated, "Targeting journalists with false accusations and legal harassment is a gross violation of human rights and an attack on the democratic values that underpin society. Such actions set a dangerous precedent and serve as a chilling reminder of the growing threats to press freedom in Bangladesh."
Advocate Shahanur Islam, Founder and President of JMBF, added, "Filing false cases against journalists is a deliberate attempt to stifle free speech, suppress critical voices, silence independent journalism, intimidate the media, and undermine the foundations of press freedom in Bangladesh. This practice must stop immediately."
JMBF also expresses deep concern over the arrest and detention of Shakil Ahmed and Farzana Rupa, emphasizing that the timing and manner of their arrest raise serious questions about the abuse of legal processes to target individuals who are merely fulfilling their professional duties.
JMBF calls upon the interim government of Bangladesh, led by Prof. Dr. Muhammad Yunus, to immediately withdraw these baseless charges against all the journalists, release Shakil Ahmed and Farzana Rupa, and respect the fundamental rights of journalists to report the truth without fear of retribution.
JMBF further urges the government to reaffirm its commitment to press freedom, ensure the safety of all journalists, and cease using the judiciary as a tool for political repression.
JMBF will continue to monitor the situation closely to ensure press freedom and stand firm in our commitment to defending the principles of justice and human rights.
Thank you,
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