Dhaka, March 19 (NationPress) A coalition of human rights organizations has reached out to Bangladesh’s Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, imploring him to implement meaningful measures that safeguard human rights and promote press freedom in the nation.

In a collaborative letter, the Committee to Protect Journalists along with eight other advocacy groups called upon the Bangladeshi administration to make a public declaration of its dedication to media independence, to liberate journalists currently in custody, and to reassess charges filed against journalists under the nation's cybercrime regulations, specifically the Digital Security Act and Cyber Security Act.

The authors of the letter pointed out that certain regulations enacted by the previous Muhammad Yunus-led interim government contain clauses that jeopardize the right to free expression and should not be permanently codified into law.

“Journalists, musicians, artists, and writers, among others, continue to face aggression and threats from violent groups aiming to silence them, whether through intimidation or misused legal actions. Your administration must ensure that laws protect the right to free speech and that all individuals in Bangladesh are shielded from violence or legal abuse,” the letter emphasized.

The writers urged an end to arbitrary monitoring, censorship, and internet shutdowns, calling on the government to adopt the recommendations provided by the Media Reform Commission, which are in accordance with international press freedom standards.

They also demanded swift and unbiased investigations into assaults on Bangladeshi journalists and news agencies, including Prothom Alo and Daily Star, which faced incidents in December 2025 during the interim government’s rule.

The authors reiterated the necessity of a robust and independent National Human Rights Commission to investigate incidents and prevent further violations.

Highlighting the ongoing issue of arbitrary detention under the interim government, they warned that freedom of speech remains endangered due to the arrests and attacks on journalists and media outlets.

“An increase in mob violence has challenged the rule of law, particularly endangering minority groups. The rights of women and girls must be safeguarded in a context where certain religious factions seek to curtail their liberties. Security forces have continued to commit violations, including assault and torture in the Chittagong Hill Tracts,” the letter stated.

The authors urged the government to leverage its time in power to establish a legacy of positive transformation by endorsing systemic reforms and accountability.