Rapid Response Taskforce (RRT) expresses deep concern over the alarming violations of press freedom in Bangladesh, particularly in light of recent incidents from October to December 2024. At least 34 major cases are documented in leading newspapers and online portals that include killing, arbitrary detention, harassment, false and fabricated cases, etc., that expose the growing threats to human rights defenders, including journalists.
The brutal murder of journalist Swapan Bhadra, formerly of the Tarakanda Press Club and daily Swajan, underscores the grave risks faced by reporters investigating corruption and crime. His killing highlights not only the right-to-life violations but also the broader collapse of law and order, where impunity fuels further violence. Arbitrary detentions of journalists like Pradip Chowdhury (Daily Samakal) and Mehedi Hasan Sagar (Dhaka Tribune) raise serious concerns over politically motivated arrests and imprisonment. At the same time, the assault on The Daily Star’s Shahidul Islam while reporting exemplifies the increasing dangers journalists face, even when visibly identified. Judicial actions further stifle press freedom, as seen in the High Court’s contempt ruling against Daily Jugantor’s editor, publisher, and columnist. Similarly, the attack on Kalbela correspondent Jahangir Mahmud’s home in Rupganj and the legal case against Desh Rupantar’s Sonagazi correspondent, Abul Hossain Ripon, following an anti-discrimination protest, illustrate the mounting risks journalists face both on and off duty.
The recent mass revocation of press accreditation for 167 journalists further obstructs access to information and erodes public trust in the media. Concerns over the proposed Cyber Safety Ordinance further threaten free expression, and RRT urges a cautious approach, calling for extended consultation, stakeholder participation, and public engagement before any enactment.
While repealing the Cyber Security Act and dropping charges against human rights defenders under the Information and Communication Act, Digital Security Act, and the Cyber Security Act and examining and exploring media reform are positive steps; these measures are overshadowed by continued fundamental freedoms violations, including press freedom violations.
The RRT calls on the government to take immediate action, including transparent investigations into journalist killings, the release of those wrongfully detained, and the reinstatement of press accreditation unless credible evidence of misconduct exists. Upholding the rule of law is crucial to safeguarding press freedom.
Therefore, the RRT demands long-term measures to protect Human Rights Defenders and journalists across all sectors, including marginalised voices, ensuring a safe and enabling media environment. The Taskforce remains committed to defending digital and civic space in Bangladesh and beyond, advocating for free expression, access to information, and fundamental human rights and freedoms.
Signed,
Members of the Rapid Response Taskforce (RRT)
The RRT consists of 13 members, representing a diverse group of individuals including women, ethnic and religious minorities, youth, activists, lawyers, academicians, gender-diverse activists and representatives from civil society organizations under the project titled ‘Collaborative Actions for Promoting Digital and Civic Space and Combating Gender Disinformation’ funded by European Union, Free Press Unlimited, Article 19 and jointly implemented by VOICE and The Daily Ittefaq.
https://en.ittefaq.com.bd/10710/rrt-concerned-over-violations-of-press-freedom-in