Dr Kamal, Prof Serajul voice for abolishing DSA

Gonoforum President Dr Kamal Hossain and Dhaka University Professor Serajul Islam Chowdhury have expressed solidarity with the protest of left-leaning political parties, who are demanding abolition of the Digital Security Act.

In written statements, that were read out at today's protest, they both urged for major changes to the law.

Dr Kamal Hossain said in the statement, "Free thinking, freedom of speech and freedom of the press have been diminished with the misuse of the Digital Security Act. Human rights bodies and civil society members have requested several times to amend the Act, however, the government has not taken any initiatives in this regard and rather increased its misuse."

"The death of writer Mushtaq Ahmed in custody is a prominent example of the misuse of this Act. An investigation into his death by an independent investigation council is a must. The general sentiment has been hurt by this incident that's why the demand for an unbiased investigation has arisen and the report of which should also be made public," he added.

"It is vital that the oppressive articles of the Act be changed with the view of the civil society," said Kamal Hossain.

"Is the state so weak that it would be embarrassed by the writings of an author?" DU Prof Serajul Islam Chowdhury put forward the question in his statement.

He noted that the duty of the government is to protect the freedom of thought and expression of the citizens.

"Sending someone to prison for writing and the death of that writer in captivity are both unjust and unacceptable acts," the statement read.

He also remarked that the government cannot expect to improve its image at home and abroad through this act.

Alongside swift and transparent probe into the death of Mushtaq Ahmed and serving justice to his family he demanded quick removal of the Digital Security Act.

"For digital crimes, the existing criminal laws are enough and they can be expanded if needed," he said in a written statement.