Sen is among global intellectuals who have voiced support for Shahidul. Noam Chomsky, Arundhati Roy, PEN International, several photography associations and press bodies, including RSF and the Committee to Protect Journalists, have raised their voice for ShahidulAlam’s release.
"Freedom of expression, including through photojournalism, is extremely important for democracy. We’ve good reason to admire the work that ShahidulAlam has been doing with great skill and courage for many years. His work should receive praise and appreciation, rather than being ground for harsh treatment,” Sen told a group of Indian photographers who are running a campaign in support of Alam, reports Outlook India, an Indian magazine.
Police detained Alam on the night of August 5 and he was remanded for a week on charges of spreading propaganda and false information against the government.
Police charged Shahidul with using electronic media to instigate disorder in the country and spread fabricated information and rumours via social media.