'Criticism of govt, state policies not a crime': ASK condemns arrest of journalist Anis Alamgir
The organisation warns that such arrests create fear among media professionals and set a dangerous precedent for suppressing dissent
Ain O Salish Kendra (ASK) has expressed deep concern and strongly condemned the arrest of journalist Anis Alamgir under the Anti-Terrorism Act, calling it a misuse of the law and an attack on freedom of expression.
In a statement today (15 December), the rights group noted that Anis Alamgir has recently been vocal in criticising various government policies and actions through television talk shows and other media platforms.
It said applying the anti-terrorism law against a journalist for expressing opinions falls outside the law's purpose and scope.
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ASK argued that using a strict law meant to combat terrorism against journalistic expression contradicts the principles of a democratic state and undermines press freedom.
It emphasised that criticism of government or state policies is not a criminal offence, and that independent and critical journalism is essential for accountable governance.
The organisation warned that such arrests create fear among media professionals and set a dangerous precedent for suppressing dissent.
"Freedom of expression is a fundamental right guaranteed by the Constitution of Bangladesh and cannot be curtailed through the misuse of harsh laws such as the Anti-Terrorism Act. Any legal concerns over statements or publications should be addressed through a fair, transparent and proper legal process, not through arrest," reads the statement.
The ASK urged the authorities to withdraw the charges of the Anti-Terrorism Act against Anis Alamgir and to refrain from using such laws to stifle dissent and journalism in the future.
Anis Alamgir arrested in anti-terrorism case, 3 others including Shaon accused
Anis Alamgir was taken into custody by the Dhaka Metropolitan Police's Detective Branch (DB) from Dhanmondi yesterday (14 December) and later taken to the DB office for interrogation.
He was arrested in an anti-terrorism case filed today (15 December) at Uttara West Police Station by Ariyan Ahmed, who claims to be a central organiser of the July Revolutionary Alliance.
