Journalist Anis Alamgir Arrested in Bangladesh Under Anti-Terrorism Act
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Responding to the December 15th arrest of journalist Anis Alamgir, Amnesty International has condemned the action as part of an alarming trend of targeting individuals perceived to support the Awami League. Alamgir was detained under the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA) following a complaint alleging he and four others spread propaganda in favor of the now-banned political party.
Amnesty International’s Response
Rehab mahamoor of Amnesty International stated,”Anis Alamgir’s arrest continues an alarming trend of individuals being targeted for being perceived to support activities of the now banned Awami League.Rather than misusing anti-terror legislation to silence people expressing their views and opinions, the interim government and authorities should instead be facilitating freedom of expression and association, including in the lead up to elections.”
Mahamoor further urged the interim government to respect its obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and to promptly release Alamgir.
Details of the Arrest and Charges
According to reports, Alamgir was arrested after a complaint accused him and four others of using social media and other media platforms to support the Awami League. He has been remanded for five days by a Dhaka metropolitan magistrate court. During a court appearance, Alamgir reportedly stated, “I am a journalist. I question those in power. I have been doing this for two decades. My job is not to bow to anyone.”
Background: ATA Amendments and Concerns
The ATA was amended in May of this year by the interim government to prohibit the activities of the Awami League. As the amendment, the law has been used against individuals allegedly supporting the party, including journalist Monjurul Alam Panna.
The use of anti-terrorism legislation to suppress freedom of expression and association is a violation of international law. Human Rights Watch has documented concerns about the misuse of the ATA in Bangladesh, noting its broad and vague provisions that can be used to target dissent. https://www.hrw.org/news/2023/12/19/bangladesh-journalists-targeted-under-anti-terrorism-law
Upcoming Elections and Human Rights
Bangladesh is scheduled to hold elections in February 2026. The interim government has a obligation to create an habitat that protects and promotes human rights for all citizens, regardless of their political affiliations. Ending the use of draconian legislation to restrict fundamental freedoms is essential for a rights-respecting society.
The continued use of the ATA against journalists and political supporters raises serious concerns about the fairness and inclusivity of the upcoming electoral process. International observers and human rights organizations will be closely monitoring the situation in Bangladesh to ensure that fundamental rights are protected.