The Commonwealth Journalists Association (CJA) has expressed deep concern over the continued detention of senior journalists, including its Vice President Shyamal Dutta as well as Mozammel Haq Babu, Farzana Rupa, and Shakil Ahmed of Ekattor TV.
In a statement, the CJA urged the Bangladesh government to honour its commitment to media freedom and its election pledge to withdraw politically motivated cases against journalists.
It also called for an immediate review of the cases, withdrawal of charges where no credible evidence exists, and the prompt release of those detained.
Shyamal, also editor of Bhorer Kagoj, is scheduled to appear before Bangladesh’s High Court on Tuesday. The charges against him include multiple murder cases which the CJA believes are retaliatory measures against his journalism, it said.
The journalists have been held for more than 18 months on murder‑related allegations. Despite nearly 600 days passing, no charge sheets have reportedly been filed, and no credible evidence has been presented publicly.
Such prolonged detention without due process raises serious concerns about the rule of law, press freedom, and protection of fundamental rights, the CJA said.
It also expressed particular alarm over reports that the arrests appear influenced by perceived political affiliations rather than demonstrable criminal conduct. “Journalism must never be criminalised on the basis of political perceptions or professional associations,” the statement said.
Humanitarian concerns were also highlighted. Reports indicate Shyamal Dutta suffers from cardiac and severe sleep apnoea conditions requiring proper medical care.
Journalist Mozammel, who underwent major surgery for prostate cancer in late 2023, is said to have been denied essential follow‑up treatment. Farzana Rupa was reportedly placed in a condemnation cell reserved for death‑row inmates for two weeks, raising questions about her welfare in custody.
The CJA reiterated that all journalists, regardless of editorial positions or perceived political leanings, are entitled to due process, humane treatment, and full protection of the law. It urged authorities to ensure justice is administered fairly, transparently, and without delay.
“A free and independent press is an essential pillar of any democratic society,” the statement said. “The continued incarceration of journalists without timely presentation of evidence undermines confidence in democratic institutions and weakens public trust in the justice system.”
The CJA called on the government to take immediate steps to resolve the cases in line with principles of justice, due process, and press freedom, including the release of Shyamal, Mozammel, Rupa, and Shakil.
