Shuddhashar FreeVoice notes with deep concern that despite the establishment of an interim government after last year’s popular uprising, there still remain serious threats to freedom of expression, civil rights, and the rule of law in Bangladesh. The recent attack in Lalmonirhat of a barber and his son is yet another grim example of the crisis. These mod attacks against ordinary civilians and the persecution, harassment, and false cases filed against dissident journalists, human rights defenders, and activists are inconsistent with the ideals of a democratic state. They also indicate a deep humanitarian and political crisis.
In clear violation of our democratic values, the Bangladesh Constitution, and international human rights treaties, journalists are being arrested and imprisoned on serious charges like murder without concrete evidence. This situation has created a culture of fear among a section of the population, making them fearful for their lives and livelihood.
At the same time, Islamist political forces under the banner of Tawhidi Janata have resorted to mob justice by taking the law into their own hands. Among their other objectives, this loosely-defined group appears hellbent on silencing and terrorizing women, mystics, minorities, and non-believers. They have obstructed women’s participation in sports and public activities, harassed women and supported misogynists, and stopped long-standing Sufi and regional cultural celebrations and events.
And just this week, in Sadar upazila of Lalmonirhat, barber Paresh Chandra Shil, 69, and his son Bishnu Chandra Shil, 35, were attacked by a mob for allegedly “hurting religious sentiments.” When crowds surrounded the police station where the father and son were later detained, the officer-in-charge of the Sadar police station was recorded in a video that went viral, reassuring the crowd: “I give you my word: as I have arrested them, I will ensure that they will face such a case in Bangladesh that they will either be sentenced to life imprisonment or executed…”
Not only is mob justice spreading like fire, but the legal system has no roots in due process and justice.
As disturbing as these events are, we are especially alarmed by the government’s inaction and its failure to prevent the spread of fear and vigilantism. Such inaction undermines efforts to establish democracy in Bangladesh, making the path forward even more difficult.
We believe that Bangladesh stands at a critical turning point. The repressive, centralized, and vindictive politics of the past decade poses a serious threat to both the state and society. It is high time we abandon it once and for all.
The 2024 mass uprising delivered a powerful response to the farcical elections, the enforced disappearances and killings of opposition leaders and journalists, extrajudicial violence, politically motivated cases, and the erosion of judicial independence. People from all walks of life participated in this movement, united not by political parties but by their strong desire to dismantle the repressive authoritarian rule that had taken over all aspects of their country.
In light of this situation, we urge the interim government to reject the politics of repression, adopt a policy grounded in media freedom and accountability, and abandon vengeful practices in order to restore public trust and deliver peace to the people. Justice must be ensured in all cases, the independence and impartiality of the judiciary must be upheld, and no journalist, activist, or citizen should be harassed or persecuted for their political beliefs or affiliations.
We demand the immediate and unconditional release of all individuals who are not facing specific, credible charges.
We want a fearless, just, equitable, and participatory democracy in Bangladesh. The moment is now.
Image Credit: Sharahdraws, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
