Linked with our presentation of Probir Sikdar – Bangladesh.
Despite pledges by authorities to uphold the freedom of the press, journalists are frequently targets of attacks, intimidation and harassment. Dozens of journalists have been assaulted with impunity either by the police when covering demonstrations or by armed gangs affiliated to various political parties. In addition, several journalists have been arrested and accused of a range of politically motivated charges including sedition. They have been taken into custody for weeks or sometimes months and many of them have been tortured or ill-treated whilst being held.
Amnesty International has started the Human Rights Defenders Project aiming to increase protection and seeking justice for Human Rights Defenders (HRDs) in Bangladesh. The twelve month project hopes to initiate systemic change in the treatment of violence against Human Rights Defenders and public appeals will be a mechanism to help this process by raising international scrutiny and making the Government of Bangladesh more accountable to ensuring justice for these abuses. We will keep updating the project monthly, so stay tuned. Below is the case of Tipu Sultan and AI’s recommendations. Take Action Now to ensure his safety! (To read more, especially on the cases, go to this page of Amnesty International).