UK-based international human rights organization has applauded the Bangladesh authorities for clearing Rozina Islam, a renowned investigative journalist, of the charges made under the Official Secrets Act of 1923.
The act is an outdated colonial law, which infringes on citizens’, media and civil society’s fundamental right to access information.
The rights body promoting freedom of expression and the protection of journalists around the world also hoped that the court would accept the final probe report submitted by the authorities in the case and clear Rozina of the case to ensure justice for her.
According to the media report, over a year after Rozina was sued by the Health Services Division official for allegations of stealing and capturing photos of “highly sensitive” government documents, the investigation officer of the case on July 4, 2022, submitted the final report to the Chief Metropolitan Magistrate’s Court of Dhaka, requesting it to relieve Rozina of the charges.
In the probe report, the investigator said no evidence was found against Rozina, and the case was a matter of factual error.
Faruq Faisel, regional director for Article 19 South Asia, said: “We welcome the findings of the probe report and firmly believe Rozina will get justice from the court as well.”
“The vexatious case has tarnished the image of the country in the international arena and called into question its commitment – as a UN member state – to upholding media freedom and protecting journalists.”
Source: United News of Bangladesh