'I feel trapped in interim govt, never felt so helpless,' says Asif Nazrul

Law Adviser Asif Nazrul has said he feels "trapped" after joining the interim government, citing rising pressure, smear campaigns, and false expectations from various quarters.

"People often approach me with unjust requests. When I refuse, they start verbally abusing me and label me an agent of India," he said at a seminar on press freedom and legal protection for journalists, organised by the Centre for Governance Studies at the Cirdap auditorium in Dhaka today (26 June).

"I feel so trapped after joining the government. I've never felt so helpless in my life," added the adviser.

He also criticised the ongoing spread of false cases, saying a section of lawyers and politicians had turned it into a business. "No one in the world can stop false cases if this culture continues."

On the issue of lawsuits against journalists, the adviser noted that while false cases were widespread, the number against journalists was not unusually high in comparison.

"The law ministry has not issued any instructions on granting or denying bail. Judges are independent," he said, in response to a question about the bail of journalist couple Shakil Ahmed and Farzana Rupa.

He added that almost all cases filed under the Digital Security Act have been withdrawn and reminded that only the High Court has the authority to dismiss cases once a charge sheet is submitted.

Also speaking at the event, Bobby Hajjaj, chairman of the Nationalist Democratic Movement, called for separating media ownership from management and converting outlets into non-profits to ensure independence.

MA Aziz, editor-in-chief of The Financial Post, said, "Journalists are also traumatised. Due to interference from owners and outside forces, journalists are facing increasing risks — including mob threats."