Arrest of Bangladeshi Journalist Anis Alamgir Escalates Concerns Over Press Freedom

Post by : Raina Nasser

Dhaka: Anis Alamgir, a journalist from Bangladesh, was detained by the Dhaka Metropolitan Police under the nation’s Anti-Terrorism law, drawing sharp criticism from advocates for press freedom and political analysts alike. This incident arises during increasing allegations that Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus' administration is clamping down on independent media in Bangladesh. Alamgir was apprehended after finishing a workout at a gym in Dhaka’s Dhanmondi-2 area on Sunday evening, subsequently placed on a five-day police remand by an Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate’s court.

Former Information Minister Mohammad Ali Arafat denounced the arrest, asserting it forms part of a wider initiative to stifle progressive and independent opinions. “Charges have been filed against four individuals, including journalist Anis Alamgir and actress Meher Afroz Shaon, under the Anti-Terrorism Act. This seems to be another method to intimidate those expressing independent thoughts,” Arafat commented. He stated that Muhammad Yunus has utilized this legislation to target political factions, journalists, artists, and academicians before, indicating a systematic approach to appease extremist factions.

The Anti-Terrorism case, registered at Dhaka’s Uttara West Police Station, also implicates actress Meher Afroz Shaon, model Maria Kishpatt, and media figure Imtu Ratish Imtiaz. The allegation, initiated by Arian Ahmed, a leading member of the July Revolutionary Alliance, claims that the accused have encouraged the rehabilitation of the Awami League, currently prohibited under existing regulations. Alamgir, who previously worked with Bangladesh Daily Ajker Kagoj, is recognized for his balanced critiques of Muhammad Yunus and his governance. Shaon, who previously ran as an Awami League candidate, had also experienced arrest this year and reported incidents of attacks on her family's residence.

The Editors’ Council of Bangladesh condemned Alamgir’s detention, highlighting it as a revival of historical state repression against journalists. The council stressed that any allegations against a journalist should be resolved via appropriate legal avenues and due process rather than punitive measures from the state. Critics maintain that this arrest demonstrates a substantial crackdown on press freedom and independent journalism in Bangladesh, intensifying existing tensions between the government and media entities.

Analysts caution that the escalating suppression of secular and progressive voices in Bangladesh threatens to erode democratic values and could steer the country towards increased authoritarianism. The arrest of Anis Alamgir has reignited important discussions regarding press freedom, government overreach, and the implications of anti-terror legislation in stifling dissent in Bangladesh.