Bangladeshi Court Approves Detention of 2 Journalists Amid Protests

A Dhaka court has authorized police to interrogate journalists Shakil Ahmed and Farzana Rupa for four days in connection with the murder of a garment worker, VOA reported yesterday.

The worker had participated in recent student protests against Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who resigned and fled to India in early August. This incident highlights the increasing dangers faced by journalists in Bangladesh, where several have been injured or killed during ongoing protests.

Ahmed and Rupa, former employees of Ekattor TV, were arrested at the airport while attempting to travel to Paris. Authorities allege that the couple incited violence against Hasina’s former government. Human Rights Watch has voiced concerns regarding their detention, while the United Nations emphasized the critical need for journalist safety during transitions. U.N. spokesperson Stephane Dujarric stated that protecting journalists is essential for accountability in times of unrest.