JusticeMakers Bangladesh, a human rights organization dedicated to upholding justice and protecting freedom of expression, is deeply concerned about the recent case filed under the Digital Security Act (DSA) against Mohd Jahangir Alam, a special correspondent of the news agency United News Bangladesh (UNB) and former vice president of JusticeMakers Bangladesh.
JusticeMakers Bangladesh strongly condemned this act and demanded immediate withdrawal of the case.
It also urged the authorities to reevaluate the application of this law and take immediate steps to safeguard the freedom of the press and protect the rights of journalists and human rights defenders.
On April 12, Hatirjheel Police Station Sub-Inspector Md. Al-Amin filed the case under the Digital Security Act against 21 people, including Jahangir.
Meanwhile, the High Court granted anticipatory bail to Jahangir in the DSA case filed with Hatirjheel Police Station.
Advocate Shahanur Islam, the Founder Secretary General of JusticeMakers Bangladesh and a prominent human rights defender in Bangladesh, called upon the relevant authorities to review the situation and withdraw the baseless case against Jahangir Alam.
Advocate Shahanur also emphasized the need to protect the freedom of the press, encourage responsible journalism, and create an environment that respects and upholds human rights and democratic principles.
Additionally, he expressed concern that the Digital Security Act has been a subject of great criticism since its inception, as it poses a threat to freedom of thought and expression.
Advocate Shahanur believes that the misuse of this law is creating an atmosphere of fear, particularly among journalists and human rights defenders who play a vital role in upholding the principles of democracy.
He also emphasized the continuous increase in cases filed under the Digital Security Act, despite widespread concerns about its impact on fundamental rights.
JusticeMakers Bangladesh expressed solidarity with Mohd Jahangir Alam and stands by his assertion that the allegations made against him are fabricated, false, and motivated. As a responsible and professional journalist and human rights defender, he has always fulfilled his duty with integrity and dedication.