The case, brought by Md Baker at Khilgaon police station, accuses 180 individuals, including Mr. Panna, of involvement in the July 19, 2024, incident in Meradia Bazar during the anti-quota movement protests. This charge is clearly an attempt to stifle his advocacy for justice and human rights in Bangladesh, as well as retaliation for his criticism of the current government led by Chief Adviser Prof. Muhammad Yunus—a blatant violation of human rights.
Mr. Panna's recent outspoken critique of Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus' actions—particularly his "reset button" comment relating to the denial of the glorified history of the Liberation War of 1971, and the use of broad accusations in legal cases to intimidate and suppress opposition voices—reflects the crucial role human rights defenders play in holding governments accountable.
As Mr. Panna rightfully pointed out, such cases are "designed to intimidate people, hindering the pursuit of justice for the victims." This action against Mr. Panna is not only an attack on him personally, but it also undermines the independence of lawyers, the integrity of the judiciary, and the vital activities of human rights defenders.
In this context, French human rights activist and Chief Adviser of JMBF, Robert Simon, emphasised, “Targeting lawyers and human rights defenders like ZI Khan Panna is a clear tactic to silence voices of dissent and stifle the pursuit of justice. It is an alarming indication of the shrinking space for civil liberties and human rights in Bangladesh. We call on the international community to stand with those who are being unjustly targeted.”
Similarly, Advocate Shahanur Islam, Bangladeshi lawyer living in France and Founder President of JMBF, condemned the charges, stating, “The allegations against ZI Khan Panna are not just baseless—they are part of a broader strategy to discredit and suppress anyone who dares to speak against the government. It is essential for the global community to rally behind Panna and other defenders of human rights in Bangladesh who are facing persecution for their courage to stand up for truth and justice.”
JMBF believes that the case filed against ZI Khan Panna is a direct assault on the right to exercise free opinion and expression, which is not expected from the present interim government that came to power with the promise of ensuring human rights, especially freedom of expression.
JMBF urges the present government to take immediate action to ensure an environment where lawyers and human rights defenders can exercise their duties without fear of intimidation or unfair treatment. It is the responsibility of the authorities to protect those who are at the forefront of defending human rights and upholding justice, and to ensure that they can perform their roles without facing legal harassment or threats.
This case is not an isolated incident; it is part of a widespread pattern of human rights violations perpetrated in Bangladesh. For instance, on October 16, two lawyers, Mustafizur Rahman and Akram Hossain from the Dhaka Bar Association, were arrested on a baseless murder charge solely for fulfilling their roles as defense lawyers for two former ministers of the Bangladesh Awami League government.
JMBF urgently calls upon the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of Human Rights Defenders and the UN Special Rapporteur on the Independence of Lawyers and Judges to take immediate action. Their intervention is vital to ensure the safety of ZI Khan Panna and to address the increasing pattern of legal harassment and intimidation against human rights advocates in Bangladesh.
JMBF also urges the authorities to unconditionally drop all charges against ZI Khan Panna and release other lawyers, journalists, and human rights defenders who have been arrested and implicated in false and fabricated cases due to their professional activities. Such actions by state and political actors are a clear violation of international norms and threaten the very foundation of justice and human rights protection in the country.
JMBF believes that this case sets a dangerous precedent, aiming to intimidate those who speak up for the marginalized and vulnerable. The international community must act decisively to protect ZI Khan Panna and other lawyers and human rights defenders who are targeted by the present interim government due to their professional activities.
JMBF stands in solidarity with ZI Khan Panna and all other lawyers and human rights defenders who are facing repression for their commitment to truth and justice.
Thank you,
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