Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK) has expressed concern over allegations of crimes against humanity brought against journalists Farzana Rupa and Mozammel Babu before the International Crimes Tribunal in connection with the 2013 Shapla Chattar incident.
The rights organisation has also raised concern over the progression of judicial proceedings against the two journalists.
ASK said it was essential to uncover the truth behind allegations of deaths and human rights violations during the Shapla Chattar incident and bring those responsible to account. At the same time, it said the process must ensure justice, freedom of expression and the right to independent journalism.
The organisation said that in cases involving allegations of serious crimes, the role and responsibility of the individuals concerned must be determined on the basis of proper evidence.
It also stressed the need to carefully examine whether news reporting or editorial decisions relating to an incident had any connection with the alleged crime.
“Fulfilling professional journalistic duties and participating in or aiding a crime are not the same,” ASK said, adding that the two issues should therefore be considered separately.
Amnesty International, ARTICLE 19, CIVICUS, the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) and Human Rights Watch have also expressed concern over the allegations against Rupa and Babu.
In a joint statement issued on 15 July 2026, the organisations raised concerns over freedom of expression in relation to treating professional journalism and editorial decisions as crimes against humanity.
ASK said proceedings before the International Crimes Tribunal must adhere to the rule of law, impartiality, transparency and international standards of justice.
It said the gravity of the allegations could in no way curtail the accused persons’ right to defend themselves or their right to a fair trial.
Labelling an accused person as guilty before a court delivers its final decision in a sub judice matter is also contrary to the fundamental principles of justice, the organisation said.
ASK called on the relevant authorities to ensure that the ongoing judicial proceedings against Farzana Rupa and Mozammel Babu are conducted transparently, impartially and fairly, while safeguarding their legal rights and ensuring justice.
