122 citizens demand immediate bail for economist Abul Barkat

A total of 122 citizens have issued a joint statement demanding the immediate release of eminent economist, teacher, researcher, and freedom fighter Professor Abul Barkat.

Dr Barkat, who served for nearly four decades as a teacher at Dhaka University and also as general secretary and later president of the Bangladesh Economic Association, was recently arrested on charges of corruption. Despite the absence of clear evidence, courts have so far denied him bail.

"We are deeply concerned that Professor Barkat has been sent to prison on allegations of corruption even before the trial process began. We have witnessed his simple and principled way of life and find his imprisonment unacceptable," reads the statement which was issued yesterday (17 August).

The signatories also highlighted the 72-year-old professor's serious health complications. He is a widower suffering from heart disease, post-stroke complications, lung problems, uncontrolled diabetes, and high blood pressure. He requires daily medication, five sessions of physiotherapy per week due to diabetic neuropathy, and has previously been hospitalised twice with severe pneumonia.

"In light of his deteriorating health and humanitarian considerations, we strongly urge that Professor Abul Barkat be granted bail immediately," the statement concluded.

The statement was circulated by Shamsul Huda, Executive Director of Association for Land Reform and Development (ALRD).