Bangladesh editors condemn journalist arrest as repression

 JournalismPakistan.com |  Published: 16 December 2025 |  JP Asia Desk

The Editors' Council in Bangladesh has condemned the arrest of journalist Anis Alamgir under the Anti-Terrorism Act. Advocates warn that such actions threaten press freedom and recall a history of repression against journalists.

Summary

DHAKA — Bangladesh’s Editors’ Council and allied press bodies have publicly condemned the arrest of journalist Anis Alamgir under the Anti-Terrorism Act, warning that the action evokes past state repression against journalists and undermines press freedom. The council described the detention as unacceptable, noting that Alamgir was summoned to the Detective Branch office without specific charges before being formally arrested.

Context of concern

In a statement signed by Editors’ Council President Nurul Kabir and General Secretary Dewan Hanif Mahmud, the organization said similar practices of false cases, harassment, and arbitrary arrests occurred under earlier administrations, and that the latest incident appears to repeat that troubling pattern. The council emphasised that any allegations against journalists should be pursued through conventional legal channels with full due process, not through detentions without clear accusations.

Implications for press freedom

Rights advocates have also raised alarm over the use of strict laws against media professionals, with organizations such as Ain o Salish Kendra arguing that using anti-terror legislation against journalists contradicts democratic principles and creates fear among media workers. This coordinated response from journalistic bodies highlights growing industry concern about legal pressures and the potential chilling effect on independent reporting.

Journalist Anis Alamgir was placed on a five-day remand after being produced before a Dhaka court in the case filed at Uttara West Police Station. Three others, including actress Meher Afroz Shaon, were named alongside him in the police documents.

The condemnation from the Editors’ Council and other press freedom advocates underscores broader anxieties in Bangladesh’s media environment, where journalists have previously faced legal challenges and detentions. The council has reiterated calls for the withdrawal of baseless cases and urged authorities to uphold the rule of law, while newsroom leaders consider strengthening legal and safety protocols to support reporters at risk.

ATTRIBUTION: Reporting is based on verified statements from the Editors’ Council and related press freedom organizations.

PHOTO: Anis Alamgir (X)