Post by : Rameen Ariff

Dhaka: Bangladeshi journalist Anis Alamgir was arrested by the Dhaka Metropolitan Police under the country's Anti-Terrorism law, sparking widespread criticism from press freedom advocates and political commentators. The arrest comes amid claims that the government of Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus is intensifying its crackdown on independent media voices in Bangladesh. Alamgir was taken into custody after leaving a gym in Dhaka’s Dhanmondi-2 area on Sunday evening and was later sent to a five-day police remand by an Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate’s court.

Former Information Minister Mohammad Ali Arafat condemned the move, calling it part of a broader effort to suppress progressive and independent voices. “Cases have been brought against four individuals, including journalist Anis Alamgir and actress Meher Afroz Shaon, under the Anti-Terrorism Act. This appears to be another attempt to intimidate those who speak independently,” Arafat said. He added that Muhammad Yunus has previously used the law to target political parties, journalists, actors, and academics, and suggested that such actions reflect a systematic strategy to appease radical Islamist groups.

The Anti-Terrorism case filed at Dhaka’s Uttara West Police Station also names actress Meher Afroz Shaon, model Maria Kishpatt, and media personality Imtu Ratish Imtiaz. The complaint, filed by Arian Ahmed, a central organiser of the July Revolutionary Alliance, alleges that the accused have been promoting the rehabilitation of the Awami League, which remains banned under current regulations. Alamgir, formerly associated with Bangladesh Daily Ajker Kagoj, is known for his measured criticism of Muhammad Yunus and his administration. Shaon, who previously contested as an Awami League candidate, had also faced arrest earlier this year and reported attacks on her family home.

The Editors’ Council of Bangladesh condemned Alamgir’s arrest, stating that such actions revive memories of past state repression against journalists. The council emphasized that if there are allegations against a journalist, they must be addressed through proper legal channels and due process, rather than through punitive state action. Critics argue that the arrest represents a significant clampdown on press freedom and independent journalism in Bangladesh, further highlighting tensions between the government and media institutions.

Analysts have warned that the growing suppression of secular and progressive voices in Bangladesh risks undermining democratic principles and may shift the country toward greater authoritarianism. The arrest of Anis Alamgir has reignited debates over press freedom, state overreach, and the role of anti-terror laws in curbing dissent in Bangladesh.

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