Photographers across the country assembled under the banner, “Photographer’s demanding Shahidul Alam’s release,” 100 days after the arrest of the internationally acclaimed photographer.
On Tuesday around 4pm, protesters from various sectors of society gathered in front of the National Museum in Shahbagh, demanding the unconditional release of Shahidul Alam and the upholding of freedom of expression in the country.
Placards with messages such as “Hundred days, Free Shahidul” were among those displayed at the rally.
Photographers, prominent citizens, various professionals and representatives from several organizations participated in protest.
Speakers said Shahidul had been arrested unlawfully for voicing his opinion on the student protest for road safety.
By silencing him, the authorities are trying to shut down all kinds of free speech, and any form of criticism against the government is viewed as dissent and dismissed as “fabricated information,” they added.
The protesters also criticized Shahidul’s alleged torture while in police custody.
“We condemn his arrest and call for all citizens to unite and fight for his cause, freedom of expression,” speakers said.
They also urged the public not to forget about Shahidul’s arrest amidst the election fever.
Speakers also expressed concern over the court’s decision to deny bail to Shahidul in spite of several attempts by his lawyers, especially as his case is bailable.
Shahidul Alam, 63, was detained by plainclothes police from his home in Dhanmondi, hours after giving an interview to Al Jazeera about the student protests for road safety. He had documented and discussed the protests on Facebook Live on August 5.
Shahidul was later charged under section 57(2) of the ICT Act on charges that he used electronic media to instigate disorder in the country, and spread fabricated information and rumours via social media.
