TIB warns of authoritarian practices after late-night interrogation of journalist, businessman
Urges government to explain how journalists or relevant business representatives participating in a press conference to express dissent or criticism regarding the implementation of NEIR may raise legal, ethical, or state-related issues
Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has expressed deep concern over the recent late-night detention and interrogation of a journalist and a business group leader, calling the incident a troubling reminder of past authoritarian-era surveillance and human rights violations.
In a press release issued today (20 November), TIB said the two individuals were taken from their homes by members of the Detective Branch (DB) without specific allegations, following dissent over the launch of the National Equipment Identity Register (NEIR) by the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC).
The organisation said the incident reflects "a culture of surveillance and fear," undermining the commitment to the rule of law and human rights.
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Such "opaque and unaccountable" actions, TIB noted, contradict law and human-rights-based reforms goals and threaten citizens' security, freedom of expression, and legal protection.
"Treating critics as enemies is self-destructive," the anti-graft watchdog warned.
TIB Executive Director Iftekharuzzaman said, "Taking individuals from their homes late at night without explanation, withholding allegations, and inconsistency in the security agency's remarks is a concerning continuation of authoritarian oppression."
This behaviour is not only a "violation of human rights" but also risks "undermining public trust" in state reforms, he said.
Iftekharuzzaman added if there are allegations, the law requires sending a formal notice and ensuring questioning in the presence of a lawyer at a regular time.
"Summoning people late at night, bypassing these obligations, is entirely unacceptable," he added.
In addition, he noted, "In this regard, we believe that all intelligence and surveillance agencies in Bangladesh, including those involved in this incident, need a fundamental reform."
Changing a few individuals is not enough; if surveillance and human rights violations continue under the guise of state security, the dream of a "New Bangladesh" will remain unfulfilled, Iftekharazzuman said, adding, "Moreover, those in positions of responsibility within the government must show the courage to reject the mindset that considers anyone who expresses dissent or criticism as an enemy."
TIB said, quoting a senior DB officer from media reports, that if an organisation holds a press conference opposing government policy, the state may need to "understand its purpose," which it described this approach as a violation of freedom of expression and right to peaceful assembly.
"Within a democratic framework, the act of questioning governmental policy or proposed legislation—specifically, in this instance, the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission's announcement regarding the implementation of the NEIR—expressing dissent, or offering criticism constitutes a fundamental constitutional right afforded to citizens, pertinent stakeholders, and diverse professional entities; there exists no rationale to construe such actions as criminal or as posing a security threat," he added.
The organisation said utilising intelligence services in connection with a valid press conference, which it described as an abuse of state authority, promotes an atmosphere of intimidation and fear.
"Failure to tolerate criticism and recognise the importance of dissent is a blatant interference with freedom of expression. Furthermore, according to Articles 37, 38, and 39 of the Constitution, any individual, organisation, or professional group is entitled to express opinions peacefully, hold assemblies, conduct press conferences, and critique policies," the release added.
TIB further urged the government to explain how journalists or relevant business representatives participating in a press conference to express dissent or criticism regarding the implementation of NEIR may raise legal, ethical, or state-related issues.
