Press Release/9 March 2024

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BJIM condemns arrest of Sherpur journalist, demands immediate release​

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Bangladeshi Journalists in International Media (BJIM), is demanding the release of a journalist who was arrested while trying to obtain information legally.

 

Shafiuzzaman Rana, a reporter for the Bengali daily Desh Rupantor, was arrested in Sherpur district after requesting a receipt for a Right to Information request he submitted to a local government office. The clerk refused to provide a receipt, and when Rana persisted, the administrator called the police and had him jailed through a mobile court.

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BJIM believes Rana was simply exercising his legal rights as a journalist and citizen, and that his arrest is a violation of press freedom. We are calling for his immediate release, a neutral investigation into the incident, and improved professionalism from government officials.

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On behalf of all BJIM members,

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SAM Jahan, Convener, BJIM

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Faisal Mahmud, Member Secretary, BJIM

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