Commonwealth Journalists Association urges Bangladesh to release three journalists absent clear criminal evidence

Commonwealth Journalists Association (CJA) has condemned continued detention of three senior Bangladeshi journalists accused in a crimes against humanity case linked to July 2024 Uprising.

International Crimes Tribunal on Monday ordered Shyamal Dutta, Mozammel Haq Babu, and Farzana Rupa held until trial. Prosecutors allege journalists made “provocative remarks” while questioning then prime minister Sheikh Hasina at a July 14, 2024, news conference.

CJA called ruling “extremely disturbing” for press freedom and said questioning political leaders “cannot, in itself, constitute a crime against humanity.”

Association also raised concerns over prolonged detention, evidence, and medical needs of Dutta and Babu. It urged authorities to review proceedings, ensure due process, and release journalists unless clear evidence supports an independently established criminal offense.

“The independence of the media is not a privilege granted by governments. It is an essential condition of a democratic society,” CJA said.