“Freedom of journalism in danger”: BJC expresses concern over the arrest of journalist couple Shakil and Rupa

The Broadcast Journalist Center (BJC), the country's premier organization of broadcast journalists, has expressed deep concern over the arrest of journalist couple Shakil Ahmed and Farzana Rupa.

In a statement released today (24 August), the BJC also called for an end to the harassment and intimidation of journalists and for ensuring their safety and a conducive working environment.

The BJC asked the Chief Counsel, Legal Counsel and Information Counsel to intervene and ensure that Shakil and Rupa are provided legal assistance.

“The fall of the Awami League government has led to a new wave of attempts to suppress dissent, thereby jeopardising freedom of journalism. Media houses have been attacked and set on fire and many journalists have lost their jobs due to the occupation of media houses,” the statement said.

This atmosphere of fear calls into question the current government's commitment to press freedom, it said.

“Broadcast media in Bangladesh has faced numerous challenges under previous regimes, including repressive laws, authoritarian behavior, and questionable ownership. The recent student uprising raised hopes for a more independent journalistic landscape, but recent events have reignited concerns about these issues,” the BJC statement said.

It was mentioned that Shakil and Rupa had been remanded in custody in connection with a murder case and it was said that although their names were not mentioned in the original chargesheet, they were later included among the numerous “unknown accused”.

“While they can face criminal prosecution if found guilty of wrongdoing, the way they have been targeted raises concerns that human rights-violating tactics will continue to be used to silence dissent,” BJC said.

The organisation also called for a speedy trial in the case of the murdered journalist couple Sagar and Runi.