Sunday, August 2, 2009

Extra judicial killings


Dear Sir/MadamI am a writer, journalist & human rights activists in Bangladesh. I have published three books. The books are '15 hours in total darkness', ‘Extra judicial killings & Revenge' and 'Militant Godfathers & other issues'. I have been working as a journalist from last 19 years. I have gathered experience on TV, Radio and Print media. For my reporting against extra judicial killings, corruption and Islamic militancy I was false charged with extortion during emergency period and I was arrested, brutal tortured and detained by the Army. Still I am in danger. I have been fighting against the conspiracy by Army and some corrupted political leaders.I want to help from you.Background of army torture: I am Jahangir Alam Akash, Rajshahi bureau chief of the ‘The Daily Sang bad’ and recently closed down 24 hours television channel ‘CBS News’ and Freelance Correspondent for the Radio German Deutsche Welle-DW (Bengali Service), Special Correspondent of NY Bangla (New York), Editor of the human rights news portal in Bangladesh ‘Human Rights Today’, Executive Director of Human Rights organization “Justice Foundation” and former General Secretary for the Rajshahi Union of Journalists (RUJ) and Rajshahi University press club.I have been engaged in journalism from last 19 years. I have completed BA (Hon ours) and MA in Philosophy from the University of Rajshahi and acquired a Post-Graduate Diploma in Civic Journalism from the Department of Mass Communication & Journalism of the same university. I also worked with Ekushey Television, Dainik Bangla, Banglar Bani, Ajker Kagoj, The New Nation, The Morning Sun and The Associated Press of Bangladesh (APB).I have been facing at least three extortion false charges which are fabricated. In my work I have on numerous occasions disclosed the atrocities of the RAB in cases involving human rights violations. Due to investigated reporting on extra judicial killings, corruption, militancy and violation of human rights, I have been facing false extortion cases one after another.Being a journalist and human rights activist, I was victimized and was tortured by Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) for my professional activities. On December 1, 2006, RAB murdered Ahsan Habib Babu, a Chatra (Students) League leader from Durgapur. On May 2, 2007 an accused terrorist Mohammad Benazir (BNP) was shot by RAB at his bedroom in front of his wife and minor daughter. On May 16, 2007 RAB tortured jail-guard Sahebul Islam. RAB was killed a Workers Party local Leader Kamrul Islam alias Majnu Sheikh in a litchi garden at Choto Bangram of Rajshahi on May 18, 2007.I reported these incidents in CSB News, Radio German Deutsche Welle and in the daily Sangbad. When one Benazir was shot on May 2, 2007 it was reported by me in CSB News. None of the RAB personnel, who were involved in the alleged operation, did agree to give their statements in front of television camera regarding the incident. In the evening, I send the report to my head office [Dhaka] from bureau office [in Rajshahi]. In a news bulletin broadcasted at 01.00am early in the following morning [3 May 2007], the report was screened on air.Then, at 9.33 pm on 3 May 2007 I received a call in my mobile phone number: [+88]01720084944 from RAB officer Major Rashidul Hasan Rashid from another mobile number: [+88]01714049431. I said ‘Greetings’ when I received the phone. As soon as I received the phone, the caller asked me that why the broadcasting of the news regarding the RAB’s operation was stopped just after airing only two bulletins. In reply, I told the person that ‘it is a matter of the head office’.He [Major Rashid] became annoyed with me and said, ‘you broadcasted this report intentionally.’ I replied,”it is my professional duty, not more intention at all.’ He [Major Rashid] asked, “Why did you broadcast the crying face and statements of Benzir’s wife and child daughter?” In response, I asked him, “Do you want to know it officially?”At this stage, Major Rashid became very rude and I cannot mention the words he shouted at me in my language [the language was very bad]; he was outraged and said, “If you fail to give the right answer that why did you broadcast the report, then I shall take actions against you” I said, “I have not committed any crime.” Major Rashid asked again, “Why did the other TV channels not broadcast the same report? You did it intentionally and you’re this particular action belongs to ‘anti-state activity’.”He [Major Rashid] again said, “Mind it, you, any of your colleagues and the camera of the CSB News are not seen at all within the jurisdiction and activities of RAB. If it is seen any further that you or your CSB’s camera is close to the activities of the RAB, then RAB go for action against you. After this, he [Major Rashid] disconnected the (mobile phone) line.” I was complained to Asian Human Rights Commission (AHRC) and Amnesty International regarding this threat. Then an investigation was commissioned.After giving the detailed address, I signed on my written statement, which was received with signature and official chop by the Reader to APC [Assistant Police Commissioner], Model Police Station, Boalia, RMP, Rajshahi on 3 July 2007. Mr. Golam Mostofa, the Field Officer of the National Security Intelligence (NSI) interrogated me regarding the said intimidation and threats on 15 July 2007.Besides, at around 06.00pm on 22 July 2007, Mr. Moyeen, an Inspector of the Special Branch of the Rajshahi city of the RMP visited my office and took my statement. Inspector Moyeen also asked about the security problem of me, I replied that the RAB is involved in extra judicial killings in the country and I feared that I could be a victim of such killing. I reported that I have been continuing my works but worry that the RAB or his men may target me for further harassment or intimidation.On the April 9, 2002 and on the December 17, 2006 I reported about the corruption in the management of Delwar Hossain Waqf Estate in Rajshahi. On March 4, of 2000 I reported about Mahfuzul Alam Loton, the son of the sacked Motawali (of the Estate) Abdus Samad and his gang’s terrorist activities. On April 25, 2007 my report on the corruption of this estate was broadcasted by CSB News.Working as a regional coordinator of a human rights organization, Bangladesh Institute of Human Rights, I did some fact-finding on RAB’s human rights violations especially extra judicial killings. These facts were sent to the Home minister, Prime minister and the Chief adviser seeking necessary actions. For these reasons RAB was furious with me.Reacting to my reports in CSB News and the daily Sangbad on corruption in Delwar Hossain Waqf Estate in Rajshahi, Mahfuzul Alam Loton, son the Motawali Abdus Samad filed a GD (General Diary No. 1160) on June 20, 2007 charging me of a false extortion attempt of Taka 50,000 in the Boalia model police station.After closed CSB News On October 2, 2007 the same complaint was submitted in the same police station as Izahar (FIR) and it was recorded as a case (No. 2, Section 385/386). I immediately applied to the high court and received an ad-interim bail. But violating the court ruling RAB arrested me on the October 24, 2007 at 01.30am. In this night, around 10 to 12 plainclothes RAB members came to my rent house. When I and my wife asked for their identity they said they were government officials. We said if they don’t identify themselves we won’t open the gate. In the meantime I tried to contact others. The son of the landlord came down from his flat and asked them why they were not identifying themselves.He was beaten and sworn at for this. In the meantime police also came. I was opened the door but the front grill of the house was still locked. Our 4-months old son (when I was arrested) was in my lap. I was arrested instantly after opening the lock. A mask was put on my face. Before mask my eye’s covered a towel. My son was still in my hands. They searched the house but found nothing. I was beaten by RAB in front of my child son Fiman Farnad (now 15 month old) and my wife Farhana Sarmin (She is now study in Rajshahi University) was also witness to this. At the same time when Mr. Likhon, 26, the son of my landlord Mr. Abul Kashem, asked about the identity of the persons arresting me. He was also beaten. I was taken to RAB-5 office. I was kept hanging from the ceiling with my hands tied with ropes. I was beaten mercilessly on feet and back.After taking me in RAB-5 office I was kept hanging from ceiling with ropes in my hands, with the mask on my face. In the morning the RAB officer Major Rashidul Hasan Rashid (Commander of Crime Prevention Company, RAB-5, now he is posted in UN Peace Keeping Mission at Ivory cost) and Major Kabir (Second in Command of RAB-5, now he is posted at Bandorban) tortured me physically. They have sworn nasty words towards me. Major Rashid was gave me electric shocks. They handed me over to Boalia police station at 04.30 in the afternoon under section 54 (Under Section 16/2 of Emergency Power Rules-EPR. Boalia police station put me on Chief Metropolitan Magistrate (CMM) court under section 16 (2) of the EPR.I was tortured the whole night until about 04.00pm, the next afternoon. My fault was that I reported about RAB’s offenses (extra judicial killings). RAB arrested one of terrorist Benazir on May, 2, 2007 on the charges of possession of illegal arms. While arresting him they shot both of his legs in front of his minor daughter Prianka and his wife. Benazir is now crippled with two bullet marks on his feet. He is also detained in this hospital area of Rajshahi central jail. RAB did not find any arms from him. I reported about this in CSB News and broadcasted interviews of his wife.RAB murdered an innocent man Workers party leader named Majnu in a litchi garden in the town. I also reported this. So, I became a target. I have been framed in multiple cases and is being tortured. When I was being tortured I was being shouted at with these kinds of words… “Will you do the Benazir report again…?” “Litchi garden report again…” “AHM Khairuzzaman Liton’s family report again…” “Now face the consequence… son of a pig… son of a bitch…” etc…Etc. RAB wants to kills me in the name of ‘Crossfire or Encounter’.I was under medical attention of Rajshahi central jail for 10 days. As a new detainee I was went to the case table in front of the trial court of the Jail house on the first day. When I went to case table, two detainees holding me from my two sides. I had no power to walk. I could not even sit properly, only could put pressure in one side of the bottom. I was broke into my tears. Many cases were lodged against me. I was being prepared to be killed in “crossfire or Encounter.” I came to know later that another false extortion case was lodged against me by Abdul Jalil who is the father of a rapist Chatradol cadre Harun in the Puthia police station. The son of the plaintiff was caught red handed by thepeoples while doing to rape a teenager girl. Harun was later released on acquitted. Abdul Jalil, father of Harun was murdered a poor farmer & activist of Bangladesh Awami League Abdul Halim by poison because he (Halim) refused to withdraw the rape case against the rapist Harun. I had conducted the fact-finding mission of this rape case and identified Harun and his father Abdul Jalil as the offender.Mahfujul Alam Loton, the plaintiff of the first extortion case against me, witness Ziaul Haque Tuku and Asaduzzaman Asad all are working as a RAB sources. I filed a GD (No. 310) against Loton on March 7, 2000 because after my report had been published in the daily Sangbad on March 4, 2000 members of his gang tried to kill me. Later Asaduzzaman Asad, a witness in Loton’s case took Taka 30,000 as extortion from a local businessman but he used my name. This was reported in the daily Sangbad, “Extortion is use the name of a journalist,” on January 19, of 2003.Delwar Hossain Waqfo Estate is well known in Rajshahi. Due to corruption allegation with the management, I reported with the Daily Sangbad on 9 April 2002 and 17 December 2006. I also reported in CSB News on 25 April 2007 on the same. For this reason, Mr. Mahfuzul Alam Loton (son of sacked Motawalli of the estate Mr. Abdus Samad) filed an extortion case against me with Boalia Model Police Station. Because, Motowalli Mr. Abdus Samad was terminated from his responsibility for corruption. Mr. Loton is also a paternal uncle of A H M Khairuzzaman Liton, newly elected Mayor of Rajshahi. I did many facts findings report about Extra-Judicial Killing and published/broadcasted series of report in this connection on DW, CSB News & the the daily Sangbad.I was freed from Rajshahi central jail on 19th November, 2007 after 28 day’s’. But, again an extortion false case filed against me on 25th November, 2007. The plaintiff Mr. Abdul Latif Biswas is an accused in a sensational extortion case. I reported with the daily Sangbad on 23rd August 2003 against Mr. Latif on his antisocial activity. Mr. Latif is the President of Puthia BNP & former administrator of Puthia municipality. On November 21, 2007 I received once again threat by the RAB that I would be booked with yet another fabricated charge and would be shot dead as if I was killed in an encounter or crossfire.I am surprised that none of the regular benches of the High Court Division has heard the petition of me since the reopening of the courts although Justice A F M Abdur Rahman’s vacation bench ordered that the case to be placed before a regular bench when the court is reopened. I regret that the High Court has neither held the RAB officials accountable for violating itsOrder as a contempt of court charge nor the magistrates of the Rajshahi CMM Court for detaining me in prison in the case for which I was already bailed by the High Court.The magistrate’s courts and judge’s courts in Bangladesh has recently been separated from the executive branch of the government, which was in effect since 1st November 2007. On this, I am inquisitive to learn whether the Supreme Court of Bangladesh, which is the authority to deal with the subordinate judiciary of the country, has yet taken any action regarding these issues involving contempt of courts and unauthorized abuses of governmental power. Not only me, but my family also is under threat from the RAB. As of now I am keeping myself away from my home in order to be safe.There is an another shocking news I have learned that the key perpetrator, Major Rashidul Hassan Rashid, a military officer deputed in the RAB, who played the leading role in these extra-judicial killings of the victims Ahsan Habib Babu, a students league, Kamrul Islam alias Maznu Sheikh, a Workers Party leader, Ali Jafor Babu, a prominent businessmen and about twnty others. Some other persons like Benzir and jail guard Shahebul Islam is highly affected and became disabled by their torture. Major Rashid is recruited to serve in the UN Peacekeeping Mission in Ivory Coast; he was joined the UN Mission on 10th July, 2008. It is to be noted that I have informed it by a high ranking police officer of Rajshahi range and one RAB officials but I committed them not to disclose their identity. On the other hand Commander of RAB-5 Lieutenant Colonel Shamsuzzaman Khan was transferred recently from RAB-5 (Rajshahi) to RAB-2 (Dhaka). Everybody may understand how the Bangladeshi authorities look into the matters of human rights abuses and treat the victims and the perpetrators as well, according to their policy.Boalia police station put me on court under section 16 (2) of the Emergency Power Rules (EPR)-2007. I was under medical attention of Rajshahi central jail. I came to know later that the father of a rapist Chatradol cadre in the Puthia police station lodged another false extortion case against me. The son of the plaintiff in the Puthia police station case was caught red handed while trying to rape a teenager girl. He was later released on acquitted. The rape victim’s father Abdul Halim was murdered by poison because he refused to withdraw the case against the rapist. And the plaintiff is accused mastermind murderer of the rape victim’s father Mr. Abdul Halim. Mr. Halim was a day labor. I was freed from Rajshahi central jail on 19 November, 2007 after 28 day’. But, again an extortion false case filed against me on 25 November, 2007. The plaintiff Mr. Abdul Latif Biswas is a accused in a sensational extortion case. I reported with the Daily Sangbad on 23 August 2003 against Mr. Latif on his antisocial activity. Mr. Latif is the President of Puthia BNP & former administrator of Puthia municipality.Mahafujul Loton, the plaintiff of the extortion case against me, witness Ziaul Haque Tuku and Asaduzzaman Asad all are working as a RAB sources. I filed a general diary GD (No. 310) against Loton on March 7, 2000 because after my report had been published in Daily Sangbad on March 4, 2000, members of his gang tried to kill me.Later Asaduzzaman Asad, a witness in Loton’s case took Taka 30,000 as extortion from a local businessman but he used my name. This was reported in Daily Sangbad, “Extortion is using the name of a journalist,” on January 19, of 2003.The charge sheet of the cases filed with the Boalia Model Police has been submitted on 30 October 2007. Usually this hurry ness for submitting charge sheet never happens in Bangladesh. The case has been transferred to the Emergency Powers Rules. There were three extortion cases have been filed against me in 53 days.The High Court, however, issued a Rule upon the government in reference to the case transferred to the Emergency Power Rules-EPR 2007 when I filed the Writ Petition (WP Number 10905/2007). The Court also adjourned the transfer order for next three months on 2 January 2008. But, The District Sessions and Judge Court, Rajshahi issued arrest warrant against me on 7 January violating the Rule issued by the High Court. Meanwhile, on 14 January, 2008 Rajshahi Judge Court adjourned the case from 8 January to 12 April, 2008 upon the Rule from the High Court keeping the arrest warrant valid. Later I was got bail from High Court. In this case I was on bail and adjourned the activity of said case till 2nd February, 2009. I don’t know what will happen after 2nd February.In current situation is very bed for my life. First case against me which was filed by Mr. Mahafujul Alam Loton (Loton is an uncle of Mayor-elect of Rajshahi City Corporation Mr. A H M Khairuzzaman Liton). Mr. Loton and Liton is the powerful leader of Bangladesh Awami League. Last 4th August Mr. Liton was elected Mayor of Rajshahi. After his victory Mr. Loton and his associates were threatened me verbally. Not only that an associates of Mr. Liton was filed a general diary with false charges against my father in law Advocate Mr. Tajul Islam Mohammad Faruque, president of Bangladesh Awami League and Ex. Member of Parliament by false charges. So, I feel very fearing. Mr. Liton is the main mastermind of the conspiracy against me. In this connection I was wrote a book name is ‘15 hours in total Darkness’. I was published another new two books on Ekushey book fair-2009, Dhaka (Name is ‘Extra judicial killings & revenge’ and ‘Militant Godfather & other issues’). Professor Dr. A A M S Arefin Siddique, Vice Chancellor of Dhaka University was opened the cover of my books.Not only that, the 8th September was held of Rajshahi Union of Journalists election. I was the general secretary candidate of this election. Mayor A H M Khairuzzaman Liton was campaign against me. For this reason, I was defeated only one vote. Latest information is that, a fabricated general diary was filed on 23rd August, 2008 GD No. 857, dated 23.8.08) against my father in law and ex MP lawyer Mr. Tajul Islam Mohammad Faruque by a listed terrorist Abdul Latif. Though that charge was proved false after investigation by the police. In the second case against me which will be hearing on charge on 15th February, 2009 in Joint District Judge Court-2, Rajshahi.Information of 21st October, 2008: As you know, I am facing cases propagated with political motives here in Bangladesh. Recently on 21st October 2008, I personally appeared before the chief judicial magistrate court, Rajshahi regarding the Propagated case by RAB. This is case filed on 23rd October the public prosecutors were influencing on the trail .The Magistrate was fully ignoring on this serious violation of Court. The Public Prosecutors were directly helping the witness by mentioning date while they were witnessing before the court. My senior lawyer was unable to present at that date. My lawyer asked for the interval for next court as the senior lawyer is out of town for a humanitarian reason .The Court denied that fact and gives a short date on coming 9th November 2008. I am seriously doubtful about the alarming attitude of the respected Court on the trail .The whole trail is influenced by the perpetrators. I am felling highly insecure on this impartial attitude of the said Court.Information of 12th January, 2009: I am drawing your urgent attention on a serious threat by the Assistant Commissioner of detective branch (AC, DB) of Rajshahi Metropolitan Police Mr. Md. Mahafuzur Rahman (Cell No +8801678034408).As the Islamic extremist threatened me previously I seek for investigation and security to the local police. Then I informed to the AC, DB dated on 9th January 2009. After this, he called me on my cell phone (+8801720084944) on 12th January 2009 around 10.00pm and he told me to go to his office located at C&B More, Rajshahi. After his calling I went to his office with my junior colleague Mr. Salahuddin Muhammod Sumon, Rajshahi University Correspondent of the daily Bhorer Kagoj. The AC, DB threat me with false accusation that, ‘No one call me and threatened me over cell phone, but it was me who called the Islamic extremist’.Hearing this bogus accusation shocked me. Immediately I had protested on this bogus accusation against me.I find out some similarities what the Islamic extremist had threatened me over cell phone. The Islamic extremist told me that ‘No one will able to safe me, as like as DGFI, NSI, RAB and Police. They have their own peoples everywhere.’It should be noted that, earlier on 11th January, 2009 when I went to his office at around 10pm to give him the General Diary (GD) number (GD No-180, dated-4/1/2009 & GD No-568, dated-9/1/2009) and cell phone numbers of the perpetrators. After seeing the cell phone numbers AC DB Mr. Mahafuzur Rahman said that, these numbers belongs to some powerful persons. At that time my junior colleague Mr. Salahuddin Muhammod Sumon, Rajshahi University Correspondent of the daily Bhorer Kagoj was present with me at AC DB office.On the other hand, first case against me, which was filed by Mr. Mahafujul Alam Loton (Loton is an uncle of Mayor-elect of Rajshahi City Corporation Mr. A H M Khairuzzaman Liton). Mr. Loton and Liton is the powerful leader of Bangladesh Awami League. Last 4th August Mr. Liton was elected Mayor of Rajshahi. After his victory Mr. Loton and his associates were threatened me verbally. Not only that an associates of Mr. Liton was filed a general diary with false charges against my father in law Advocate Mr. Tajul Islam Mohammad Faruque, president of Bangladesh Awami League and Ex. Member of Parliament by false charges. So, I feel very fearing. Special mention that, Mr. Liton is the main mastermind of the conspiracy against me. In this connection I was wrote a book name is ‘15 hours in total Darkness’.Not only that, the 8th September was hold of Rajshahi Union of Journalists election. I had the general secretary candidate of this election. Mayor A H M Khairuzzaman Liton was campaign against me. For this reason, I was defeated only one vote. Latest information is that, a fabricated general diary was filed on 23rd August, 2008 GD No. 857, dated 23.8.08) against my father in law and ex MP lawyer Mr. Tajul Islam Mohammad Faruque by a listed terrorist Abdul Latif. In the second case against me which was started trial and next date 22nd January 2009. Another date of the case (High Court) 4th February, 2009 which was propagated by Mahafuzul Alam Loton, uncle of Mayor A H M Khairuzzaman Liton.Information of 21st October, 2008:Information of 1st February, 2009: First false charges and political motivated extortion case which was filed by Mahafuzul Alam Loton, Vice President of Bangladesh Awami League of Rajshahi City Unit against me (Journalist & human rights activist Jahangir Alam Akash). The High Court Bench formed by Justice Md. Imman Ali & Justice Sheikh Abdul Awal has extended of the order of stay and ad-interim bail for a further period of 1 (One) month from 3rd February, 2009 of the said case. The High Court Bench was passed this order on 1st February, 2009.Information of 8th February, 2009: The lawyer’s of Akash has submitted the certified copy of High Court last order to district and sessions judge court, Rajshahi. For this, honourable judge Mr. A R Masud has increased the adjourned for one month (up to 6/3/2009) of first case against Akash which was filed by Mr. Loton. In the same time, judge gave bail to Akash for next one month (up to 6/3/2009).Information of 15th February, 2009: On 15th February, 2009 morning I was joined the local court (Joint district Judge Court-2) in Rajshahi for charge hearing of second case against me which was filed by Mr. Abdul Jalil. Judge Mr. Ali Ahmed was heard my lawyers argue, but judge was not given any order. Perhaps tomorrow (on 16th February, 2009) will give his (judge) order. At least twenty lawyers including ex public prosecutor (PP) Mr. Monsur Rahman, senior lawyer Mr. Tajul Islam Mohammad Faruque (Ex MP), ex general secretary of Rajshahi lawyers association Mr. Ibrahim Hossen, ex additional PP Mr. Nurul Islam, Mr. Nawshad Ali, Mr. Entajul Haque Babu, Rashed-un-nabi Ahsan, Eahsan Ahmed Shahin, Sorwar Jahan Tuhin were took attended the hearing.Information of 16th February, 2009: Charge was framed against Jahangir Alam Akash. Joint district judge-2 Mr. Ali Ahmed gave this order on 16th February, 2009. Before this order the hearing of charge was held on 15th February, 2009 in same court. Eye witness statement will take from next 27th July, 2009. In addition information is I have published two books name are ‘Extra judicial killings & revenge’ and ‘Militant Godfathers & other issues’. These books cover opened by the Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. A A M S Arefin Siddique of Dhaka University. Latest Information of 8th March, 2009: I was got fresh bail form district and sessions judge court, Rajshahi. My lawyers have submitted a bail petition to the said court on morning of Sunday (March 8, 2008). After hearing Judge Mr. A R Masud was granted bail. The senior lawyers Mr. Morad Hossain Khan, Md. Monsur Rahman and Tajul Islam Mohammad Faruque were attended the hearing of bail petition in favor of me. Next date of this case on 7th April, 2009. On the other hand, my attendance dates for trial of another case which was filed by Mr. Jalil on 27th July, 2009 in joint district judge court-2 Rajshahi.Finally I want to say, during the emergency period false, political motivated and fabricated cases have been filed against me just because of investigated reporting on extra judicial killings, militancy, corruption and human rights violation. But I am tired physically, mentally and economically. I want to live. I want to go back to my profession and regular normal life. I strongly say that my stand is clear for the country and upholding human rights and also against all sorts of corruption, human rights violation, extra judicial killings, women-girls torture, Indigenous-religious minority torture and militancy. Perhaps I would have to accept jail for false charge cases but I would never down my head to conspiracy and false allegation. I believe if I would not get justice from the society or country, but would definitely get “natural justice”.Please see these links:http://www.voanews.com/bangla/archive/2005-01/2005-01-28-voa2.cfmhttp://www.hrsolidarity.net/mainfile.php/2008vol18no03/2641/http://www.e-bangladesh.org/2007/10/31/tortured-jahangir-alam-akash/http://www.amnesty.org/en/library/info/ASA13/012/2007http://www.amnestyusa.org/actioncenter/actions/uaa28507.pdfhttp://www.cpj.org/news/2007/asia/bangla24oct07na.htmlhttp://www.ifex.org/en/content/view/full/87229/http://www.amnesty.no/web.nsf/pages/430FA6CB155D448DC125738A003A8E49http://www.amnesty.org.uk/news_details.asp?NewsID=17609 http://www.asiamedia.ucla.edu/print.asp?parentid=84212http://www.voanews.com/bangla/archive/2005-01/2005-01-28-voa2.cfmhttp://www.thesouthasian.org/archives/2008/tortured_truths_1.htmlhttp://asiapacific.ifj.org/en/articles/ifj-expresses-concerns-about-trial-of-bangladeshi-journalistwww.jahangiralamakash.blogspot.comwww.ghrdblog.blogspot.com www.humanrightstoday.infoJahangir Alam AkashEditor of Human Rights Today


ngladesh

Indigenous and minority community wants to get their constitutional rights


Bangladesh has got independence since 1971. After independence the peoples was got good constitution which was made in 1972. But after the killings of the nation Bongobondhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman peoples of Bangladesh has lost this constitution. Army men especially General Ziaur Rahman and General HM Ershad were broken our constitution. And then, put Islam in the constitution by arm force. Still we have been carrying the black spot.
In Bangladesh the brutal persecution on the religious Christian minority and ethnic Indigenous are rolling on in a stream roller mode. Until now the persecution that the both community faced never saw that light of justice. The culture of justice denial is the root of all persecution on the ethnic and religious minorities and it’s not the partial but a whole part of criminal justice system in Bangladesh.
The General Zia and his ancestors introduced the persecution on the minorities in Bangladesh. Bangladesh was blessed with the Islamization by the mechanism under military regime in absence of parliamentarian democracy. Bangladesh was not born with blessings to be communal but with a spirit of Islamization but a secular policy. The attack on the religious minority bring with the idea of “Islam in the constitution”.
The communal spirit began with the political motive and end with mass destruction such as attack on present prime minister S Hasina Wazed back in the year 2001. The victims of the brutal attack are still looking forward for justice. At the Baniar chor catholic church in moksedpur of Goplagonj, at that time Bomb attack 10 were killed and 20 others were badly injured.In 1998 an indigenous leader Alfred Soren was killed brutally by the vested quarter. In the day of the attack the perpetrators fired the house and looted the house and demolished the belongings. Until now the people and family members never have seen the light of the Justice. Richil died in custody on March 18, 2007 following Army brutal torture. Richil’s civil rights were grossly violated by government’s agent. It puzzles us why the government has not yet made proper investigation to unearth the mystery behind the tribal leader’s death. The perpetrators of this crime should not receive impunity. The killing of Choles is not filled as case until now. The minor in minority the converted Christian from Islam Dr.Goni Gomes was killed by the Islamic militant.
In midst of 1979 to 1981 the indigenous people become cornered by the main land landless people in process of their rehabilitation by the government. The child klanto chiham was killed who was a ill fated 10 years old indigenous child killed by the brutal teachers after torture at Maymansingh . The dacoit killed a Christian school teacher Mangsang at Madhupur in Tangail.
The constitution did not give proper identity to the indigenous peoples. This is Bangladesh! We demand that these persecutions should stop right now and government should give all rights to them and bring the perpetrators under law. In Bangalee Indigenous peoples has not recognize our constitution.
Now Bangladesh Awami League (BAL) in power of Bangladesh. BAL was led our independence fought. So, peoples hope that present government should clean the black spot from our constitution and they rein stead of the constitution of 1972. We hope, this government should do constitutional zed of our minority and Indigenous peoples rights.
If the government wants to do something for minority community then it’s not a matter for them. But for this should need real wish and fresh good plan. So, we want to see rule of law, secularism and the equality everywhere in Bangladesh which will be implement by the government.

Saturday, August 1, 2009

Journalist’s killings in Bangladesh


By Jahangir Alam Akash
Day by day journalism in Bangladesh is going on very danger and risk. Actually here is no press freedom. Journalist’s killings and torture is a common feature in Bangladesh. In this horrible situation journalists are working here. Though government always says that, journalists and media are free. In practice, media is not free. Every day, the suppression of the media and freedom of speech is becoming more apparent in Bangladesh. I would like to draw a picture of the destruction of Bangladeshi media from my own perspective.
The 16th of July had gone recently. The date was the murder day of prominent journalist Shamsur Rahman Cable. He was killed by terrorist in his office on 16th July of 2000. Yet, not get justice of his family as well as journalists community.
As a professional journalist and human rights defender I have been working last 20 years. I was made investigative reports against extra judicial killings, Islamic militancy, corruption, minority and indigenous torture in Private TV CSB News, Radio German-DW, and The daily Sangbad. I am working for peace, happiness and combat state torture including extra judicial killings, human rights violation, and minority-indigenous torture and also freedom of expression and press. Only for my professional works I was victimized by Army (state) with series false and fabricated and political motivated cases as well as illegally arrested, brutal tortured and detained.
In recent past regime of army backed caretaker government, it was common Practice for the joint forces, the Army, and the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) to torture university professors, journalists, writer and human rights defenders including famous dramatist columnist Malay Bhoumic, professor Anwar Hossen Neem Chandra Bhoumic, Harun-ur-Rashid, Sadrul Amin, present vice chancellor of Rajshahi University Abdus Sobhan, ex vice chancellor of the same university and present ambassador of UK Saidur Rahman Khan, journalist Tasneem Khalil and also myself. No action can to be taken against these perpetrators.
For my professional worked, I became a target. I have been charged multiple times with false and political motivated charges and have been illegally arrested, tortured and detained. I was arrested from my house at midnight and tortured in front of my wife, child and rental house owners. I was taken to the RAB-5 office means Army camp. I was hung from the ceiling with my hands tied with ropes and was beaten mercilessly on my feet and my back. I was kept hanging from the ceiling with ropes around my hands, with the mask on my face. And also they gave me electric shocks. Finally, I was tortured in 15 hours. When I was being tortured I was being shouted at with words like: “Will you do the Benazir report again…?” “Litchi garden report again…” ‘Litton’s family report again…” Now face the consequences; son of a pig… son of a bitch…” etc. The RAB would like to be able to kill me, and officially call the killing a "crossfire" or "encounter." Still I have been facing false and fabricated cases. Major Rashid has been recruited to serving in the U.N. peacekeeping mission in the Ivory Coast who was the main perpetrator of me. This makes it clear how well the Bangladeshi authorities look into human rights abuses and treat the victims and the perpetrators.
Journalist Tasneem Khalil, who wrote an article criticizing the government, was taken by Army members to the facilities of the Directorate General of Forces Intelligence, Bangladesh's intelligence agency, and was brutally beaten. Now he has been exiled by the Bangladeshi government and lives in Sweden. Cartoonist Arifur Rahman arrested and sent to the jail for made a cartoon. Though, he was freed from jail later. In the regime of BNP-Jammat government journalist Saleem Samad, writer-journalist Shahriar Kabir, professor of Dhaka University and famous writer Muntasir Mamun also brutally tortured and detained illegally. There are so many examples like mentioned above. In Bangladesh still going on extra judicial killings in the name of ‘Crossfire’ ‘Encounter’ or ‘Gunfight’. Though, the present government is democratic. Recently in Gofforgaon upazilla under Mymensing district journalist Biblop was tortured by the supporters of ruling party lawmakers. In last 16 years almost 24 journalists murdered in Bangladesh including prominent journalist Manik Saha, Deponkar Chakraborty, Goutam Saha, Humayun Kabir Balu, Shamsur Rahman Cable, Harun-ur-Rashid Khokon, Saiful Alam Mukul, Sheikh Belaluddin. But yet real investigation and trial has not end. Journalist’s community and the relatives of killed journalists are waiting for justice. In last 38 years since independence hundreds journalists brutal tortured including Iqbal Sobhan Chowdhury, Atiquallah Khan Masud, Alhaj Zahirul Haque, Probir Shikder, Tipu Sultan. In this year on 3rd of July a community young journalist Nurul Islam Rana was killed by terrorists at Uttara in Dhaka.
In a report of HR organization Ain O Salish Kendro (ASK) from 2004 to 2008 1,190 peoples were killed in extra judicial killings. Peoples had hoped that, present government to take step to stop extra judicial killings. But extra judicial killings have been still going on in Bangladesh. Another HR organization Odhiker’s report says that, On April 13, 2009, the ‘cadre group’ of Gias Uddin, a local MP, attacked and gravely injured Abdullah Al-Amin Biplob, a Shamokal representative of Goforgaon, Mymensingh, following the publication of a certain news item. From January 1 to June 30, 2009, journalists have been subjected to repression in various ways. During this period of time, 41 journalists have reportedly been injured and 38 have received threats. In addition to these figures, 5 journalists have been attacked due to publishing reports, 1 was abducted and 8 of them were assaulted. All these incidents are in contravention to domestic and international law. Latest journalist tortured information is that, Anwar Ali, staff reporter for the daily Star from Rajshahi. He was attacked by terrorists for personal enmity on Sunday evening in front of his house in Rajshahi city. Journalist torture is common practice in Bangladesh. On 3rd of July, 2009 a community based young journalist Nurul Islam Rana was killed by terrorist at Uttara, Dhaka.
In Bangladesh press freedom is a golden dear. Those who are involves in corruptions they always controlled by the governments. Presents trends of media are that, black money holders are coming in the ownership of media house. So, journalists are firstly, self censored. Another media controlled key is government advertisement. That is why; media is not playing good role for the peoples. For media freedom, another problem is that in Bangladesh has no definition about contempt to court and defamation. So, always, media has fearing regarding these. Which content will go to contempt to court or defamation for publishing? Media peoples have not known this. Only for this recently famous national daily the Prothom Alo has charged with contempt to court. There have no national broadcasting rule. Though, we got recently right to information act and community radio rule. Now, we are waiting for see what better for media freedom of these two rules.
Journalist’s communities in Bangladesh are waiting for justice of their killed and tortured colleagues. I think, in Bangladesh if society has not changed as qualitative then press freedom is so far from practically. In practice, has no rule of law, good governance in Bangladesh. Whole nation politically, socially divided by two major groups. Journalist’s community has also divided by two groups and also they have lack of professionalism.
Though, Freedom of the press should be granted in Bangladesh's constitution; it is granted in Art. 39 (b), but it is not binding upon the government. Therefore, we should fight to establish the rule of the constitution. The judiciary should be independent in practice, and all kinds of killings by the government machinery should be stopped.
I think that, it is necessary to give punish those who are perpetrators and should Bangladesh government stop Impunity for the greater interest of democracy and peace. To establish freedom of the press and to protect human rights that are the first and main step to establish the rule of law and to develop a country, the culture of democracy should be practiced continuously and strictly in Bangladesh. Though still has been going on journalist’s repression in Bangladesh. We hope that, present democratic government should stop all kinds of repression, torture and killings.
Writer: Exiled Journalist, writer and human rights activist and for politically persecuted a guest of Hamburg Foundation.

Jahangir Alam Akash
Editor of the Human Rights Today
jahangiralamakash@gmail.com
http://www.hiumanrightstoday.info/
http://www.youtube.com/user/jaakashbd
Germany.

Press freedom & human rights in Bangladesh


Press freedom & human rights in Bangladesh
By Jahangir Alam Akash
Torture is a common feature in Bangladesh. Now torture has become institutionalized. In Bangladesh, it has become common for extrajudicial killings to be sanitized under the names of "crossfire" or "encounter" by law-enforcing agencies. A culture of impunity has also been a common practice by the state since 1975. Here, extrajudicial killings by the joint security forces continue unabated.
I experienced torture firsthand while I was detained at an Army camp during the state of emergency declared by Bangladesh's military caretaker government from Jan. 2007 to Dec. 2008. I want to share with you some of my experiences. Every day, the suppression of the media and freedom of speech is becoming more apparent in Bangladesh. I would like to draw a picture of the destruction of Bangladeshi media from my own perspective.
The people of Bangladesh struggled for 23 years to establish their rights in different sectors throughout the country, then for provincial autonomy, and finally for independence. They owned their victory through a nine-month-long war, after which they found Bangladesh independent. But it is very troubling that Bangladeshis' fundamental rights have been restricted through interference by the Army, at different times. The Army autocrats who rule the country have caused the deaths of thousands of civilians and Army people, even the father of the nation, Bangobandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, in 1975, but they have always received impunity.In recent past regime of army backed caretaker government, it was common Practice for the joint forces, the Army, and the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) to torture university professors, journalists and writer and human rights defenders including famous dramatist columnist Malay Bhoumic, professor Anwar Hossen Neem Chandra Bhoumic, Harun-ur-Rashid, present vice chancellor of Rajshahi University Abdus Sobhan, ex vice chancellor of the same university and present ambassador of UK Saidur Rahman Khan. No action can to be taken against these perpetrators. Personally, I have also been victimized by the recent past authority for my activities as a journalist, writer and human rights activist. I was tortured for 15 hours. My crime was that I was made several investigative reports about the RAB’s offenses of extrajudicial killings, Islamic militancy and Indigenous and minority torture as well as corruption and political terrorism.
I want to paint a picture of the violation of the rule of law and human rights in Bangladesh. The RAB arrested a terrorist named Benazir on May 2, 2007, on the charges of possession of illegal arms. While arresting him, they shot both of his legs in front of his minor daughter and his wife. Benazir is now crippled with two bullet marks on his feet. He is also detained in the hospital area of the Rajshahi central jail. The RAB did not find any arms in his possession. Another killing was happened in the name of ‘Encounter’ by RAB-5. RAB murdered a local Workers party leader Maznu Sheikh alias Kamrul Islam at Chotobongram in Rajshahi city on May 18, 2007. I reported about these on CSB News and broadcasted interviews of their relatives (wife, mother, brother and localities). In the same time I was published these report on the daily Sangbad and broadcasted in DW Radio.
When Benazir was shot, it was reported by me on CSB News. None of the RAB personnel who were involved in the alleged operation agreed to give statements in front of a television camera regarding the incident. In the evening, I send the report to our head office in Dhaka from our bureau office in Rajshahi. In a news bulletin broadcasted at 1:00 a.m. the following morning, the report was broadcast. Then, at 9:33 p.m. that evening, I received a call from RAB officer Major Rashidul Hasan Rashid. Soon as I As soon as I picked up the phone, the caller asked me why the broadcasting of the news piece about the RAB’s operation was stopped after being aired only twice. In reply, I told him that "it is up to the head office." Major Rashid became annoyed with me and said, "You broadcasted this report intentionally." I replied, "It is my professional duty, nothing more than that." He asked, “Why did you broadcast someone crying and the statements of Benazir’s wife and daughter?” In response, I asked him, “Do you want to know it officially?”
At this stage, Major Rashid became very rude. I cannot mention the words he shouted at me in our language, since the language was very bad. He was outraged and said, “If you fail to give the right answer about why you broadcast the report, then I shall take actions against you.” I said, “I have not committed any crime.” Major Rashid asked again, “Why did the other TV channels not broadcast the same report? You did it intentionally and your actions belong to ‘anti-state activity’.” He also said, “Make sure that you, any of your colleagues, and the CSB News camera are never seen within the jurisdiction and activities of the RAB. If they are, then the RAB will take action against you." After that, he hung up. I complained to the Asian Human Rights Commission and Amnesty International regarding this threat. Then an investigation was commissioned. After giving a detailed report, I signed my written statement, which was received with signature and official chop by the reader to assistant police commissioner in Boalia, Rajshahi on July 3, 2007. Mr. Golam Mostofa, the field officer of the National Security Intelligence questioned me regarding the said intimidation and threats, on July 15, 2007. Then, at around 6:00 p.m. on July 22, 2007, Mr. Moyeen, an inspector of the Special Branch of the city of Rajshahi visited my office and took my statement. Inspector Moyeen also asked about the threat I felt, and I replied that the RAB is involved in extrajudicial killings and I feared that I could become the victim of such a killing. I reported that I have been continuing my work, but I still worried that the RAB or his men might target me for further harassment or intimidation.
So I became a target. I have been charged multiple times with false and political motivated charges and have been arrested, tortured and detained. I was arrested from my house at midnight and tortured in front of my wife, child and rental house owners. I was taken to the RAB-5 office. I was hung from the ceiling with my hands tied with ropes and was beaten mercilessly on my feet and my back. I was kept hanging from the ceiling with ropes around my hands, with the mask on my face. And also they gave me electric shocks. When I was being tortured I was being shouted at with words like: “Will you do the Benazir report again…?” “Litchi garden report again…” ‘Khairuzzaman Liton’s family report again…” Now face the consequences; son of a pig… son of a bitch…” etc. The RAB would like to be able to kill me, and officially call the killing a "crossfire" or "encounter."
RAB sent me to the local police with the charge under the section 16(2) of Emergency Power Rules 2007. I was under medical attention in the Rajshahi central jail for 10 days. As a new detainee, I was sent to the case table in front of the jail house's trial court on my first day. When I went to case table, two fellow inmates had to hold me on both sides. I had no power to walk. I could not even sit properly, but could only put pressure on one side of my rear, when sitting. I broke into tears. Many cases were lodged against me. I felt I was being prepared to be killed in a “crossfire" or "encounter.”
There is more shocking news I have learned about a key perpetrator, Major Rashidul Hassan Rashid, an RAB military officer who played the leading role in the extrajudicial killings of Ahsan Habib Babu, a student’s league leader; Kamrul Islam, alias Maznu Sheikh, a Workers Party leader; Ali Jafor Babu, a prominent businessman; and about twenty others. Some people like Benazir and a jail guard, Shahebul Islam, were highly affected and disabled by their torture. Major Rashid has been recruited to serving in the U.N. peacekeeping mission in the Ivory Coast; he joined the UN mission on July 10, 2008. This makes it clear how well the Bangladeshi authorities look into human rights abuses and treat the victims and the perpetrators. Journalist Tasneem Khalil, who wrote an article criticizing the government, was taken by Army members to the facilities of the Directorate General of Forces Intelligence, Bangladesh's intelligence agency, and was brutally beaten. Now he has been exiled by the Bangladeshi government and lives in Sweden. Cartoonist Arifur Rahman arrested and sent to the jail for made a cartoon. Though, he was freed from jail later. In the regime of BNP-Jammat government journalist Saleem Samad, writer-journalist Shahriar Kabir, professor of Dhaka University and famous writer Muntasir Mamun also brutally tortured and detained illegally. There are so many examples like mentioned above. In Bangladesh still going on extra judicial killings in the name of ‘Crossfire’ ‘Encounter’ or ‘Gunfight’. Though, the present government is democratic. Recently in Gofforgaon upazilla under Mymensing district journalist Biblop was tortured by the supporters of ruling party lawmakers. In last 16 years almost 24 journalists murdered in Bangladesh including Manik Saha, Deponkar Chakraborty, Goutam Saha, Humayun Kabir Balu, Shamsur Rahman Cable, Harun-ur-Rashid Khokon, Saiful Alam Mukul, Sheikh Belaluddin. But yet real investigation and trial has not end. Journalist’s community and the relatives of killed journalists are waiting for justice. In last 38 years since independence hundreds journalists brutal tortured including Iqbal Sobhan Chowdhury, Atiquallah Khan Masud, Alhaj Zahirul Haque, Probir Shikder, Tipu Sultan.
On the other hand, In Bangladesh, the brutal persecution of the Christian religious minority and indigenous ethnic minorities is going ahead full steam. Until now, the persecution that both communities faced never saw the light of justice. A culture of the denial of justice in Bangladesh is the root of all the persecution against the ethnic and religious minorities, which isn't only affecting a part of the country, but is plaguing the entire criminal justice system in Bangladesh. General Zia and his predecessors introduced persecution against the minorities in Bangladesh. Bangladesh became Islamized under the military regime, rather than being a true parliamentarian democracy. Bangladesh was not born with the blessing of being united beyond ethnic and religious differences, but rather has been Islamized, yet with a secular policy.
The attack on the religious minority brings with it the idea of “Islam in the constitution”. The communal spirit began with political motives and ended in mass destruction such as the attack on present Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Wazed back in 2001. The victims of the brutal attack are still looking for justice. At that time also, a bomb attack killed 10 and badly injured 20 others at the Baniarhar Catholic church in Maksudpur, in the Gopalganj district.
In 1998, an indigenous leader, Alfred Soren, was brutally killed by those in power. The day of the attack, the perpetrators looted his house, destroyed his belongings, and set the house on fire. Until now, his family members and the public have never seen the light of justice. Cholesh Richil, an indigenous Christian leader, died in custody on March 18, 2007, following brutal torture at the hands of the army. Richil’s civil rights were grossly violated by government agents. It is puzzling why the government has not yet made a proper investigation to unearth the mystery behind this leader’s death. The perpetrators of this crime should not have impunity. The killing of Richil has not been filed as a criminal case to date. From 1979 to 1981, the indigenous people of Bangladesh became cornered by landless people from the mainland in the process of their rehabilitation by the government. An ill-fated ten-year-old indigenous child, Klanto Chiham, was killed by brutal teachers after being tortured at Maymansingh. A dacoit, or robber, killed a Christian school teacher, Mangsang, at Madhupur in Tangail. A member of an even smaller minority, Dr. Goni Gomes, a converted Christian from Islam, was killed by Islamic militants. The constitution does not give proper identity to the indigenous peoples. This is Bangladesh! We demand that these persecutions stop right now and that the government give all rights due to the minority groups and bring the perpetrators to justice.
Torture has been a familiar and widespread problem in Bangladesh. It is a routine feature of criminal investigations, used by the police to obtain confessions. It is also used for politically motivated purposes against alleged national security suspects, critics of the government, and perceived political opponents, in order to obtain information, to intimidate or to convey more broadly a message of fear. The system of detention is also a kind of human rights violation.
Article 35 (5) of the Constitution of Bangladesh clearly said that, No person shall be subjected to torture or to cruel, inhuman or degrading punishment or treatment - thus, it is a fundamental right of all Bangladeshis that they are protected by the Constitution against torture. There is a biggest difference between the constitutional provision and the belief of the general people. This experience started on the very day when the nation adopted its constitution as the supreme law of the land immediately after the independence of the country from the colonial regime. That same difference of allowing torture to persist without any credible scope of justice to the victims remains after 38 years of independence. The police, along with its other branches such as Special Branch (SB), the Detective Branch (DB) and the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), are not the only agencies that practice torture. The paramilitary forces the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), Bangladesh Rifles (BDR) the armed forces, especially the Bangladesh Army, and the intelligence agencies like the Directorate General of Forces Intelligence (DGFI) and National Security Intelligence (NSI) of the country, all maintain special torture cells of their own. There are temporarily created cells like the Joint Interrogation Cell (JIC) and the Task Force for Interrogation (TFI) Cell and they are notorious for their brutality.
There is little support for the people they are supposed to be protecting. The law enforcement agencies and the security forces care little for the ordinary people of Bangladesh. The personnel, who serve in the police, armed forces and the paramilitary forces stand face to face before the people treating the commoners as criminals in general and subject them to torture in the name of maintaining law and order in the country. In reality, a country likes Bangladesh where a fair trial is beyond imagination of the justice seekers it is absolutely impossible to get a legal remedy against a perpetrator of torture.
Human rights organization The Asian Human Rights Commission informed us that, in Bangladesh 629 police stations in the country. If a single person is tortured per day in these police stations then an alarming number of 229,585 persons are being tortured in Bangladesh every year. Torture at the hands of the state actors regularly causes permanent and temporary disability of persons and amounts to hundreds of deaths every year. But, despite the recurrence of these grave incidents it repeatedly fails to shake the conscience of the policymakers of the nation. The governments of various regimes do not feel any responsibility to bring to an end this brutal practice. Ironically, the political parties of the country pledge to uphold rule of law and human rights before every general election and then turn a blind eye to abuses by the police once they are elected to power.
Bangladesh's parliament is in session for the second time after a new government led by the Bangladesh Awami League assumed office this year. A draft Bill urging the need of punishing torture and custodial death as a crime has also been in place since 5 March 2009. The Bill was registered by a Member of the Parliament, Mr. Saber Hossain Chowdhury, of the ruling political party, as a Private Member's Bill as the government did not clarify its position regarding the issue. A ruling party with more than two thirds majority in the parliament can eliminate torture and allow thousands of victims to get justice from the courts of law in order to fulfill the government s commitment to the people thereby meeting their constitutional obligations.
We general people of Bangladesh urges to the Parliament of Bangladesh to prove its commitment that they want to end the practice of custodial torture and the culture of impunity on their own soil. We also urge the parliamentarians to legislate the draft Bill in order to open the doors of the judiciary for the victims of torture.
The victims should have easy access to the complaint mechanism and protection from threats and intimidation. The burden of proof should be upon the perpetrators of torture with an obligation of compensating the victims for their sufferings if the perpetrators are found guilty. Article 46 of the Constitution must be repealed as it is used to offer impunity to the perpetrators of torture. Sections 132 and 197 of the Code of Criminal Procedure must be repealed immediately. Section 132 allows the state actors to abuse their power in the name of good faith without any checks and balances, and Section 197 denies the independence of the judiciary. The peoples also urge the civil society, including the media and the rights groups of Bangladesh to initiate movements against the practice of custodial torture and impunity by demanding the criminalization of torture.
Freedom of the press should be granted in Bangladesh's constitution; it is granted in Art. 39 (b), but it is not binding upon the government. Therefore, we should fight to establish the rule of the constitution. The judiciary should be independent in practice, and all kinds of killings by the government machinery should be stopped. No persons should be tortured by law-enforcing agencies. No rule or ordinance that is contradictory to the main theme of constitution should be formed or passed. No accused persons should have impunity. The U.N. charter should be followed strictly and, in this regard, the international organization should act impartially and independently.
I think that, to establish freedom of the press and to protect human rights that are the first and main step to establish the rule of law and to develop a country, the culture of democracy should be practiced continuously and strictly in Bangladesh. In this regard, a forum for regional or global cooperation should be formed, should be active in creating a few rules, and should be strictly maintained. It is necessary to give punish those who are perpetrators and should Bangladesh government stop Impunity for the greater interest of democracy and peace.
Writer: Exiled Journalist, writer and human rights activist and for politically persecuted a guest of Hamburg Foundation.



Jahangir Alam Akash
Journalist, Writer & HR Defender



Germany.

Saturday, January 17, 2009

Welcome to new Human Rights News Portal: www.humanrightstoday.info

Dear Friends

We welcome you in the civil movement of "Justice Foundation" Bangladesh. We are a small local organization based on Rajshahi and working through our representatives all over the country. We are introducing neutral platform of integral development. We are fighting against all kinds of torture and extra judicial killings. We highly demand to the abolish death penalty in the region as well as all over the universe.

We do maintain strong relation with some local and international same minded organizations i.e. Asian Human Rights Commission, Amnesty International, Global Human Rights Defense, Christian Development Alternative.

We will be glad to hear from you about your works and organization.
Fell free to visit our web site (Welcome to new Human Rights News Portal: http://www.humanrightstoday.info) and join our movement for better Bangladesh.

With Thanks.

Jahangir Alam Akash
Executive Director
Justice Foundation, Bangladesh

Monday, December 15, 2008

Minority repression has begin in Bangladesh

Focusing the forthcomming parliament election
Minority repression has begin in Bangladesh


By Jahangir aAlam Akash

Hindu Worship's Building at Keraniganj-Dhaka was demolished by the communal quarter in Bangladesh. According to the victims the perpetrators are taking the chance of forth coming parliament election. As the police is busy with security and the local leaders are busy for counting vote in their side no one is coming to help them. They victims, Hindu minorities are living life under threat. They expressed before the election the perpetrators are taking the chance to size us. One of the perpetuator was “RAJAKAR” During 1971. The Hindu lady said that on 71 the Rajakar had hijacked my grandfather. Now they are trying the grab our land.
Minorities belonging to Hindus at Keraniganj-Dhaka are in panic due to repression and assault on women. Land grabbers looted belongings of the temple and demolished the 200 hundred years’ building on 05.12.2008 illegally. Police took theft case instead of looting of valuables.
Some land grabbers looted valuable articles and demolished structure of the temple house (deity’s property) at Raskhit Para of Shakta Union within Keraniganj Upazila of Dhaka District on 5th Dec, 08 and hanged their sign board most illegally.

Name of the victims: 1) Ms.Durapati Mondal (85) wife of Late Shashi Mondal

2) Ms.Jharna Rani Sarkar (45)

3) Ms.Madhabi Bhattacharjee (52) wife Narayon Bhattacharjee.

Name of the perpetrators: 1) Salauddin sultan (40) son of Hajee Md. Seraj.

2) Md. Shajahan (42) son of late Abdul Rahim Bepari

3) Md. Latif (50) son of late Abdul Rahim Bepari

4) Md. Raisuddin (42) son of Late Rafique Uddin.

5) Md. Liton (35) son of Hajee Md. Momtazuddin and unknown 20 others.

Date of occurrence: 5th of December, 2008 at about 8 A.M

Damage caused to deity’s property: 1,00,000/- taka .

Nature of crime : Land grabbing’s and forceful eviction.

It is alleged that on last Friday (: 5th of December) afternoon the land grabber namely Sajahan, Salauddin Sulltan, Ramizuddin, Liton, Sumon, Abdul Latif and more unknown 20/25 hoodlums attacked the minority inhabitants of the deity’s property. Some Hindu inhabitants – Ms.Durapati Mandal (85) wife of late Shashi Mondal, Ms. Jharna Rani Sarkar and Ms.Madhabi Bhattacharjee tried to resist the hoodlums, but they have been overpowered. The hoodlums looted the house and demolished it. They have also stolen away iron pillars and wood cost amounting to Taka 1, 00,000/- kept for Puja purpose.
After investigation it is found that the hood lumps demolished two storied building belonging to deity’s property a sign board was hanged on the spot in the name of six land grabbers. As a result Ms.Durapati Mondal burst into tears. Ms. Durapati states – “I came this house as wife of late Shashi Mondal seventy years ago. This temple was dedicated for Sheba puja by a registered deed No.2735 dated 25.08.1945 by the then Zemindar – Devendra Kishore Raskhit in the name of 1) Aditya Bhattacharjee, 2) Gopal Bhattacharjee, 3) Shidesh Bhattacharjee, 4) Radha Raman Majumdar and 5) Dinesh Bhattacharjee.” Since then the Hindu shebaits were performing sheba puja as per contents of the deed or transfer dated 25.08.1945.

Ms.Rekha Bhattacharjee lodged First Information Report at Keraniganj Police station and Police took case against those perpetrators under bail able section of Bangladesh Penal code instead of proper section of law. ( Keraniganj PS case No. 05/313 dated 07.12.2008 under section 143/447/379/428/506 of BPC)
Police also arrested 1) Salauddin Sultan (40) son of Hajee Md. Seraj, 2) Md. Sahajahan (42) son of late Abdul Rahim Bepari and 3) Latif (50) son of Late Abdujl Rahim Bepari under section 143/447/379/428/506 of Penal code. Because the sections all bail able and they all got bail from the court on 8th December, 08. Mr.Md. Asaduzzaman – Officer-in-Charge of Keraniganj Police station did not record the section 327 of Penal code during lodging FIR. Section 327 discloses that “Whoever voluntarily causes hurt for the purposes of extorting form the sufferer, any property or valuable security, or of constraining the sufferer, or any person, interested in such sufferer to do anything which is illegal or which may facilitate the commission of an offence, shall be punished with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to ten years, and shall also be liable to fine.

Jahangir Alam Akash
Bangladesh
+8801720084944
jahangiralamakash@gmail.com
15.12.2008.

Saturday, October 18, 2008

Scientist Professor Arun Basak of Rajshahi, a Victim of Harassment and Mental Torture

By Jahangir Alam Akash
A patriot and internationally renowned celebrated scientist Dr. Arun Kumar Basak is being subjected to harassment and mental torture, perpetrated by a government establishment. This makes it difficult for him to devote himself to study and research. He and the other members of his family are passing their days in a state of deep insecurity. Dr. Basak was honored with the highly prestigious Bangladesh Academy of Sciences Gold medal in 2006 for his outstanding contributions in the field of Physical Sciences.
Dr Arun Basak, a retired professor of Physics of the University of Rajshahi, has been subjected to cynical harassment and mental torture, inflicted by the Rajshahi Development Authority (RDA) in league with a powerful vested interest of the locality. Appealing against this overbearance , Mrs. Devika Basak, wife of Professor Basak has made a written prayer on 24 January of this year to the Honourable President of the Peoples’ Republic of Bangladesh.
Professor Basak bought an old dilapidated house in the Sagarpara area of the city for residential purposes and registered it in the name of his wife in 1985. He renovated the house with minor adjustments to settle there. The roofed staircase was reconstructed with no new house-construction or wall. The RDA served a show cause notice on Mrs Basak on 10 January, 1987, charging her with the offence of unauthorized house-building without a prior permission from their office. Mrs. Basak sent a reply to the notice on 15 January of that year. In it she explained that the staircase was built only with cooperation, counseling and goodwill of the neighbors. There was no objection from any of the neighbors. In reply to the notice, Mrs Basak also submitted that they did not have any prior knowledge that the renovation of a staircase matching an old house required a formal approval of the RDA, and hence she prayed for a formal sanction of the work which had been done in a good faith. In addition, she pledged that she would be obliged to pull down the reconstructed staircase if in the future that becomes a necessity in the interest of the RDA. In response to the submission of Mrs Devika Basak, the report observes, the Authorized Officer of RDA after a long silence of six years informed her in a letter of 29 October, 1993 that the charge leveled against her had been provisionally withdrawn, and in consequence of that the Basak family settled down in that house without any further trouble.
But, as stated in the aforesaid petition to the Honorable President, a new crisis developed for them in 2003, when an additional construction was started on the southern side of their house by their adjacent neighbor showing total disregard for the rules of house-building in an urban locality. This erection came within a mere 9 (nine) inch distance from the residential room of the very old house, that Professor Basak had bought for this wife and since been living in with his other members of his family, by the scheming neighbor Mr. I. Y. Ferdous. The overbearing Mr Ferdous left even no cornice gap at the roof-top. The mandatory restriction of a gap of at least 4 (four) feet from the boundary imposed by the RDA was blatantly flouted by Mr. Ferdous. Mrs Basak entreated with Mr. Ferdous to desist from the unlawful and heinous act. But Mr. Ferdous not only threw aside but also threatened highly respected Dr. Basak with a dire consequence in case the Basak family dared to interfere with the evil designs of Ferdous. The matter was brought to the notice of the local ward Commissioner, Mr. Abdul Hamid Sarkar Tekon. But he took no corrective measure even after his high promise to the Basak family. Once the said Ferdous had completed the construction of the second floor of his venture, some BNP leaders of the then ruling party intervened and endorsed a formal complain regarding the matter to the RDA authority.
The RDA authority, after serving two consecutive notices on both Ferdous and Devika Basak, started putting pressure on Dr. Basak to agree to a compromise with Ferdous even while he was executing uninterrupted his ulterior design. Scientist Basak told the investing team of the TFT that two buildings almost locked side by side and stops cross ventilation of air leading ultimately to the development of a hazardous level of radioactive radon gas naturally emanated from the concrete materials, which is one of the principal causes of lung-cancer. This house-related disturbance and thrust on him through the machinations of his recalcitrant neighbor are destroying his peace of mind and he can no longer adequately concentrate on his research works, he lamented.
The RDA authority constituted an inquiry committee formed with the ward commissioner (at present the acting Mayor of Rajshahi City Corporation) Mr. Reazun Nabi Dudu and the word commissioner Abdul Hamid Sarkar Tekon (who failed to stop Ferdous from his heinous designs at the beginning of the illegal construction) on 9 March, 2006 to look specifically into the matter. But the report of the committee has not yet seen the light of the day.
The RDA Charman, Mr. Tapan Chandra Mazumder, refused to talk on this issue stating that these are all matters of bygone days.

Jahangir Alam Akash
Journalist & Human Rights Activists
C-361 Seroil, Ghoramara-6100
Boalia, Rajshahi, Bangladesh
Cell : +8801720084944
E-mail : jahangiralamakash@gmail.com

Sunday, September 28, 2008

Human Rights Violation by Army & Impunity in Bangladesh

By Jahangir Alam Akash
Democracy is detained in Army locker in Bangladesh, so it is very clear to understand that the human rights are controlling by the command of Army and their associates.
The people of Bangladesh struggled for 22 years to establish their rights in different sectors nationally; then for their provincial autonomy and finally for independence. They owned their victory in nine months war and found Bangladesh independent. But it is very afflicting that all fundamental rights were stunted by Army interference in different times. The Army autocrats ruled the country unruly killed thousands of civilians and Army people, even the father of the nation Bangobandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in 1975, but they have got indemnity in all the cases.
A prolonged and unjustifiable state emergency has increased lawlessness and since January 11, 2007 all fundamental rights have been suspended. The armed forces have been enjoying unbridled power and sheer impunity. Many human rights defenders have been threatened, tortured and implicated in fabricated cases. A few numbers of defenders have been killed extra judicially also.
Now a day, it is said in Bangladesh that the present autocratic government is controlling the different judicial courts as their liking also. The armed forces of Bangladesh have been enjoying human rights according to their wishes and capacities during the state emergency. They are not accountable to any authority at all. Instead, they are allowed to do and undo whatever they want section 20 of emergency powers rules 2007 authorizing the law and order maintaining forces to use force in order to execute any order issued according to rules. It can be stated in this regard that at the time of ‘Operation Clean Heart’ in 2002 about 58 civilians were killed by the Army and about 600 civilians were killed in the name of ‘Crossfire’ or ‘Encounter’ by Elite force Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) from 2004 till today.
Though some other persons were also killed by the police in same way of extra-judicial killings. Dr. Mizanur Rahman Tutul who was the chief of banned organization called Purbo Bangla Communist Party (ML-Red flag) was killed by police in Naogaon on 27th July, 2008 in the name of ‘Encounter’. Though RAB was arrested Dr. Tutul on 25th July, 2008 from



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Dhaka. There are hundreds of examples of such activities of law enforcing agencies in the country.
Bangladesh is a People’s Republic country. Constitution of Bangladesh dictates its nationals as the owners of the country. In the independence war 30 lacks of peoples lost their lives and two lacks of widows lost their modesty by the Pakistani Armies and their associates. It is declared in the preamble of the Constitution ‘that it shall be a fundamental aim of the state to realize through democratic process a socialist society, free from exploitation a society in which the rule of law, fundamental human rights and freedom, equality and justice political, economic and social will be secured for all citizens’. It is the great sorrows of us that the owners of the country (people) are always being tortured by the state servant (Army) of the country.
In this regime, it is the normal practice of the joint force, Army, RAB to torture the professors of universities, journalists and human rights defenders. No action is to be taken against these accused persons and sometimes they used to be facilitated. For example some Army personnel tortured some students of Dhaka University after negligible events on 20th August, 2007 for which students movement started throughout the country, in that movement it turned of a much movement. Then some honorable professors of Dhaka and Rajshahi University were arrested with some students and officials of the universities. They were also tortured in the Army camp and different fabricated cases were started against them by which the arrested professors, officials and students were convicted by an unfair trial. Then public opinion went against the present self declared government and the government became bound to release the convicted professors, students with two official order. Though some students of Dhaka University are still facing trial till now.
I am also victimized by the present ruling authority for my activities in doing duties as a Human Rights Activist and a Journalist. I started my service as a Journalist in 1989 and then as a Human Rights Activist in Bangladesh Institute of Human Rights (BIHR) and Bangladesh Rehabilitation Centre for Trauma Victims (BRCT) in 2001. In my country democracy was practiced for three & half years just after liberation up to August, 1975. Then it was again establish in 1991after an election when parliamentary government was formed and it continued up to January, 2007 though there were so many obstacles in the way to establish the rule of law in fact. It is also said that the


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period of parliamentary form government many ministers, Member of Parliament (MP)’s were involved in corruption but if we compare the GDP
in the period of different government, we can see that in the period of elected government in the year 1972-1975 and 1991-2007 it was far better than that of other government.
I want to produce some picture of violation of rule of law and human rights and how I was also victimized as a Journalist and human rights activist. Job of a Journalist is very risky not only in our country but also allover the developing and under developing countries especially when a devoted one wants to publish or to produce a fact which hampers the interests of egoists or the persons in power.
In Bangladesh many journalist were tortured after 11th January, 2007 in the regime of the Army backed care taker government. In its popular public campaign against corruption, the interim government has routinely used torture to extract confessions from criminal suspects or to gain information against those charged with corruption. Torture has also been used punish and to intimidate peaceful critics of the interim government and de facto military rule even to the journalists who disclose the facts of some events or activities of the government organization.
For example Shahidul Islam, founder and director of the human rights organization Uttaran, was beaten with sticks, boots and rifle butts in an Army camp according to relatives who saw him carried unconscious from the room where he had been interrogated. It is reported in Human Right Watch that one man who was present at the camp told to the organization I saw that they look him to the bathroom. I could hear them beating him. I could hear the sound sticks. When they brought him cut, his shirt was covered in blood. He could not walk and had to he carried. I think he was unconscious. These type of example have much more in Bangladesh. Such as Dulal at Charfasion of Bhola, Liaqat Ali of Thakurgaon. They tortured by Army in present Army backed government.
Being a journalist and human rights activist, I was victimized and was tortured by Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) for my professional activities. On December 1, 2006, RAB murdered Ahsan Habib Babu, a Chatra (Students) League leader from Durgapur. On May 2, 2007 an accused terrorist Mohammad Benazir (BNP) was shot by RAB at his bedroom in front of his wife and minor daughter. On May 16, 2007 RAB tortured jail-guard Sahebul Islam. RAB was killed a Workers Party local Leader Kamrul Islam alias Majnu Sheikh in a litchi garden at Choto Bangram of Rajshahi on May 18, 2007.
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I reported these incidents in CSB News, Radio German Deutsche Welle and in the daily Sangbad. When one Benazir was shot on May 2, 2007 it was reported by me in CSB News. None of the RAB personnel, who were involved in the alleged operation, did agree to give their statements in front of television camera regarding the incident. In the evening, I send the report to my head office [Dhaka] from bureau office [in Rajshahi]. In a news bulletin broadcasted at 01.00am early in the following morning [3 May 2007], the report was screened on air.
Then, at 9.33 pm on 3 May 2007 I received a call in my mobile phone number: [+88]01720084944 from RAB officer Major Rashidul Hasan Rashid from another mobile number: [+88]01714049431. I said 'Greetings' when I received the phone. As soon as I received the phone, the caller asked me that why the broadcasting of the news regarding the RAB's operation was stopped just after airing only two bulletins. In reply, I told the person that 'it is a matter of the head office'.
He [Major Rashid] became annoyed with me and said, ‘you broadcasted this report intentionally.' I replied, ‘‘it is my professional duty, not more intention at all.' He [Major Rashid] asked, "Why did you broadcast the crying face and statements of Benzir's wife and child daughter?" In response, I asked him, “Do you want to know it officially?”
At this stage, Major Rashid became very rude and I cannot mention the words he shouted at me in my language [the language was very bad]; he was outraged and said, "If you fail to give the right answer that why did you broadcast the report, then I shall take actions against you" I said, "I have not committed any crime." Major Rashid asked again, "Why did the other TV channels not broadcast the same report? You did it intentionally and your this particular action belongs to 'anti-state activity'."
He [Major Rashid] again said, "Mind it, you, any of your colleagues and the camera of the CSB News are not seen at all within the jurisdiction and activities of RAB. If it is seen any further that you or your CSB's camera is close to the activities of the RAB, then RAB go for action against you. After this, he [Major Rashid] disconnected the (mobile phone) line." I was complained to Asian Human Rights Commission (AHRC) and Amnesty International regarding this threat. Then an investigation was commissioned.
After giving the detailed address, I signed on my written statement, which was received with signature and official chop by the Reader to APC [Assistant Police Commissioner], Model Police Station, Boalia, RMP, Rajshahi on 3 July 2007. Mr. Golam Mostofa, the Field Officer of the

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National Security Intelligence (NSI) interrogated me regarding the said intimidation and threats on 15 July 2007.
Besides, at around 06.00pm on 22 July 2007, Mr. Moyeen, an Inspector of the Special Branch of the Rajshahi city of the RMP visited my office and took my statement. Inspector Moyeen also asked about the security problem of me, I replied that the RAB is involved in extra judicial killings in the country and I feared that I could be a victim of such killing. I reported that I have been continuing my works but worry that the RAB or his men may target me for further harassment or intimidation.
On the April 9, 2002 and on the December 17, 2006 I reported about the corruption in the management of Delwar Hossain Waqf Estate in Rajshahi. On March 4, of 2000 I reported about Mahfuzul Alam Loton, the son of the sacked Motawali (of the Estate) Abdus Samad and his gang’s terrorist activities. On April 25, 2007 my report on the corruption of this estate was broadcasted by CSB News.
Working as a regional coordinator of a human rights organization, Bangladesh Institute of Human Rights, I did some fact-finding on RAB’s human rights violations especially extra judicial killings. These facts were sent to the Home minister, Prime minister and the Chief adviser seeking necessary actions. For these reasons RAB was furious with me.
Reacting to my reports in CSB News and the daily Sangbad on corruption in Delwar Hossain Waqf Estate in Rajshahi, Mahfuzul Alam Loton, son the Motawali Abdus Samad filed a GD (General Diary No. 1160) on June 20, 2007 charging me of a false extortion attempt of Taka 50,000 in the Boalia model police station.
After closed CSB News On October 2, 2007 the same complaint was submitted in the same police station as Izahar (FIR) and it was recorded as a case (No. 2, Section 385/386). I immediately applied to the high court and received an ad-interim bail. But violating the court ruling RAB arrested me on the October 24, 2007 at 01.30am. In this night, around 10 to 12 plainclothes RAB members came to my rent house. When I and my wife asked for their identity they said they were government officials. We said if they don’t identify themselves we won’t open the gate. In the meantime I tried to contact others. The son of the landlord came down from his flat and asked them why they were not identifying themselves. He was beaten and sworn at for this.
In the meantime police also came. I was opened the door but the front grill of the house was still locked. Our 4-months old son was in my lap. I was arrested instantly after opening the lock. A mask was put on my face. Before
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mask my eye’s covered a towel. My son was still in my hands. They searched the house but found nothing. I was beaten by RAB in front of my child son Fiman Farnad (now 15 month old) and my wife Farhana Sarmin (She is now study in Rajshahi University) was also witness to this. At the same time when Mr. Likhon, 26, the son of my landlord Mr. Abul Kashem, asked about the identity of the persons arresting me. He was also beaten. I was taken to RAB-5 office. I was kept hanging from the ceiling with my hands tied with ropes. I was beaten mercilessly on feet and back.
After taking me in RAB-5 office I was kept hanging from ceiling with ropes in my hands, with the mask on my face. In the morning the RAB officer Major Rashidul Hasan and Humayun Kabir (DAD) tortured me physically. They have sworn nasty words towards me. Major Rashid was gave me electric shocks. They handed me over to Boalia police station at 04.30 in the afternoon under section 54 (Under Section 16/2 of Emergency Power Rules-EPR. Boalia police station put me on Chief Metropolitan Magistrate (CMM) court under section 16 (2) of the EPR.
I was tortured the whole night until about 04.00pm, the next afternoon. My fault was that I reported about RAB’s offenses (extra judicial killings). RAB arrested one of terrorist Benazir on May, 2, 2007 on the charges of possession of illegal arms. While arresting him they shot both of his legs in front of his minor daughter Prianka and his wife. Benazir is now crippled with two bullet marks on his feet. He is also detained in this hospital area of Rajshahi central jail. RAB did not find any arms from him. I reported about this in CSB News and broadcasted interviews of his wife.
RAB murdered an innocent man Workers party leader named Majnu in a litchi garden in the town. I also reported this. So, I became a target. I have been framed in multiple cases and is being tortured. When I was being tortured I was being shouted at with these kinds of words… “Will you do the Benazir report again…” “Litchi garden report again…” “AHM Khairuzzaman Liton’s family report again...” “Now face the consequence… son of a pig… son of a bitch…” etc...etc. RAB wants to kills me in the name of 'Crossfire or Encounter'.
I was under medical attention of Rajshahi central jail for 10 days. As a new detainee I was went to the case table in front of the trial court of the Jail house on the first day. When I went to case table, two detainees holding me from my two sides. I had no power to walk. I could not even sit properly, only could put pressure in one side of the bottom. I was broke into my tears. Many cases were lodged against me. I was being prepared to be killed in “crossfire or Encounter.”
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I came to know later that another false extortion case was lodged against me by Abdul Jalil who is the father of a rapist Chatradol cadre Harun in the Puthia police station. The son of the plaintiff was caught red handed by the
peoples while doing to rape a teenager girl. Harun was later released on acquitted. Abdul Jalil, father of Harun was murdered a poor farmer & activist of Bangladesh Awami League Abdul Halim by poison because he (Halim) refused to withdraw the rape case against the rapist Harun. I had conducted the fact-finding mission of this rape case and identified Harun and his father Abdul Jalil as the offender.
Mahfujul Alam Loton, the plaintiff of the first extortion case against me, witness Ziaul Haque Tuku and Asaduzzaman Asad all are working as a RAB sources. I filed a GD (No. 310) against Loton on March 7, 2000 because after my report had been published in the daily Sangbad on March 4, 2000 members of his gang tried to kill me. Later Asaduzzaman Asad, a witness in Loton’s case took Taka 30,000 as extortion from a local businessman but he used my name. This was reported in the daily Sangbad, “Extortion is use the name of a journalist,” on January 19, of 2003.
Delwar Hossain Waqfo Estate is well known in Rajshahi. Due to corruption allegation with the management, I reported with the Daily Sangbad on 9 April 2002 and 17 December 2006. I also reported in CSB News on 25 April 2007 on the same. For this reason, Mr. Mahfuzul Alam Loton (son of sacked Motawalli of the estate Mr. Abdus Samad) filed an extortion case against me with Boalia Model Police Station. Because, Motowalli Mr. Abdus Samad was terminated from his responsibility for corruption. Mr. Loton is also a paternal uncle of A H M Khairuzzaman Liton, newly elected Mayor of Rajshahi. I did many facts findings report about Extra-Judicial Killing and published/broadcasted series of report in this connection on DW, CSB News & the the daily Sangbad.
I was freed from Rajshahi central jail on 19th November, 2007 after 28 day’s’. But, again an extortion false case filed against me on 25th November, 2007. The plaintiff Mr. Abdul Latif Biswas is a accused in a sensational extortion case. I reported with the daily Sangbad on 23rd August 2003 against Mr. Latif on his antisocial activity. Mr. Latif is the President of Puthia BNP & former administrator of Puthia municipality. On November 21, 2007 I received once again threat by the RAB that I would be booked with yet another fabricated charge and would be shot dead as if I was killed in an encounter or crossfire.
I am surprised that none of the regular benches of the High Court Division has heard the petition of me since the reopening of the courts although
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Justice A F M Abdur Rahman's vacation bench ordered that the case to be placed before a regular bench when the court is reopened. I regret that the High Court has neither held the RAB officials accountable for violating its
order as a contempt of court charge nor the magistrates of the Rajshahi CMM Court for detaining me in prison in the case for which I was already bailed by the High Court.
The magistrate's courts and judge's courts in Bangladesh has recently been separated from the executive branch of the government, which was in effect since 1st November 2007. On this, I am inquisitive to learn whether the Supreme Court of Bangladesh, which is the authority to deal with the subordinate judiciary of the country, has yet taken any action regarding these issues involving contempt of courts and unauthorized abuses of governmental power. Not only me, but my family also is under threat from the RAB. As of now I am keeping myself away from my home in order to be safe.
There is an another shocking news I have learned that the key perpetrator, Major Rashidul Hassan Rashid, a military officer deputed in the RAB, who played the leading role in these extra-judicial killings of the victims Ahsan Habib Babu, a students league, Kamrul Islam alias Maznu Sheikh, a Workers Party leader, Ali Jafor Babu, a prominent businessmen and about twnty others. Some other persons like Benzir and jail guard Shahebul Islam is highly affected and became disabled by their torture. Major Rashid is recruited to serve in the UN Peacekeeping Mission in Ivory Coast; he was joined the UN Mission on 10th July, 2008. It is to be noted that I have informed it by a high ranking police officer of Rajshahi range and one RAB officials but I committed them not to disclose their identity. Everybody may understand how the Bangladeshi authorities look into the matters of human rights abuses and treat the victims and the perpetrators as well, according to their policy.
The journalist and human rights defender Mr.Tasneem Khalil who wrote an article to criticize the government was taken to the army camp in DGFI by army and brutally beaten. Now he was exiled by the Bangladesh government and lives in Sweden. There are so many examples like the above three incidents.
Torture has been a familiar and widespread problem in Bangladesh. It is a routine feature of criminal investigations used by the police to obtain confessions. It is also used for politically motivated purposes against alleged national security suspects, government's critics and perceived political opponents to obtain information to intimidate or to convey more broadly
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message of fear. The system of detention is also a kind of serious violation of human rights. On 11th January 2007, the state emergency was declared and more draconian Emergency Rules issued on 25th January which initially
Prohibited political activity, processions, meeting, assemblies, demonstrations, and trade union activities etc and the restrictions also imposed on press freedom.
The emergency regulation have also facilitated arbitrary arrests of a wide rang of government critics peaceful protesters and political party members. About twenty thousands of people have been arbitrary arrested under emergency rule though exact figure are not available. Those detained include nearly 200 senior political leaders, prominent businessmen and the government officials.
Emergency powers encourage mistreatment in detention. The security forces frequently arrest people in the middle of the night without warrant. They are often in plainclothes and offer no identification and cite the emergency laws to justify their actions, Instead of bringing those people under arrest before a Magistrate, the security forces routinely take them to Army barracks and other unofficial places of detention where they are subject to mistreatment and torture.
Specially unauthorized killing in the name of Crossfire & Encounter was started in the regime of Khaleda Zia government which is uninterrupted till now. Not get justice is a common feature in Bangladesh. About 15 journalists were killed in last 15 years. But most of cases still not trial. Not only that, father of the nation Bangabondhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman was killed with his seventeen family members including child and women by Army. After 30 years trial has done but yet not execute.
Around six hundreds people have reportedly been killed by the RAB, a paramilitary police force whose members are drawn from the Army and police, set up in March, 2004. Sources say the deaths have been caused by crossfire between RAB agents and suspected criminals, but there are persistent reports that the deaths have been deliberate killings by the RAB. Despite this, no RAB agents have ever been brought to justice for any of the killings. The caretaker government like previous governments in Bangladesh has failed to protect people against Army and RAB excesses, or to bring any of their personnel to justice for abusing human rights, torture and killings.
Professionals like journalists and human rights activists of Bangladesh facing arbitrary arrests, detentions, torture, fabricated charges and death threats from the law-enforcing agencies and security forces while the atrocities of the law-enforcers are criticized in various media. Since the state
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of emergency was imposed in the country such threat and intimidations by state’s security forces have alarmingly increased here. Yet none of the alleged perpetrators have been prosecuted for their alleged crimes. As a result, the worst type of culture of impunity is cultivated in Bangladesh, despite the nation’s presence in the UN human rights council since May, 2006.
It is common practice in Bangladesh that the law-enforcing agents use the criminals as their source with purpose of repressing criminal’s activities. However, the law-enforcers frequently overlook the crimes committed by their source and indirectly protect them. Besides, the law-enforcers often abuse their authority and use their sources to punish their personal opponents by fabricating the complaints against them or blackmailing or even killing those people.
I want to give a few recommendations to establish the freedom of press and to protect the human rights which is the first and main step to establish the rule of law and to develop a country, the culture of democracy should be practiced continuously and strictly in this regard regional cooperation forum can be formed and it should be active forming a few rules and it should be maintain strictly.
Freedom of press should be grunted in Bangladesh constitution it is grunted in article 39 (b) but it is not binding upon the government therefore we should fight to establish the rule of constitution. Judiciary should be independent in practical and all kinds of killing by the machineries of the government should be stopped. No persons should be torture by the law enforcing agencies. No rule or ordinance can be formed or passed which are contradictory to the main theme of constitution. No accused persons should be impunity. UN charter should be followed strictly and in this regard the international organization should act impartial and independent. In conclusion, we the people of this region will get the way of development peace, fundamental rights and torture-free citizen life with regional cooperation.

Jahangir Alam Akash
Journalist & Human Rights Activists
C-361 Seroil, Ghoramara-6100
Boalia, Rajshahi, Bangladesh
Cell : +8801720084944
E-mail : jahangiralamakash@gmail.com

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Jahangir Alam Akash Editor Euro Bangla http://www.eurobangla.org/ editor.eurobangla@yahoo.de http://youtube.com/user/jaakashbd
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