BJIM expresses grave concerns over detention without trial of 6 journalists

Bangladeshi Journalists in International Media (BJIM) has expressed serious concerns over the detention without trial of at least six journalists currently behind bars.

The detained journalists -- Farzana Rupa, Shakil Ahmed, Mozammel Babu, Shyamol Dutta, Shahriar Kabir, and Abul Hossain Ripon -- were arrested, mostly on murder charges related to the uprising in July, which led to the ousting of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina.

BJIM, in a press statement today, stressed that, regardless of the charges leveled against them, the detained journalists are entitled to fair treatment in custody, timely court hearings, the opportunity to refute and defend the allegations against them, and access to reasonable bail. Ensuring the protection of their judicial rights is paramount.

BJIM also raised similar concerns for other detained journalists, warning that prolonged incarceration without regular hearings risks constituting arbitrary detention and violates fundamental rights.