**Updates IFEX alerts dated 14 April, 27, 4 January 1995; 15, 9 December 1994** After nine months of hearings, the High Court ruled on 1 August 1995 that the trial should commence against Taslima Nasrin, the Bangladeshi author charged with “insult to religious sentiments.” Nasrin’s defence lawyers question the legal foundation of the government’s sanction […]
**Updates IFEX alerts dated 14 April, 27,
4 January 1995; 15, 9 December 1994**
After nine months of hearings, the High Court ruled on 1 August 1995 that the trial should commence against Taslima Nasrin, the Bangladeshi author charged with “insult to religious sentiments.”
Nasrin’s defence lawyers question the legal foundation of the government’s sanction to allow prosecution of an act committed outside the territory of Bangladesh.
The charges are based on comments allegedly made by Nasrin during an interview in the “Calcutta Statesman”, published in May 1994. However the defence lawyers’ concerns have been over-ruled by the High Court and the trial against Taslima Nasrin is due to commence at a date not yet set.
Recommended Action:
Send appeals to Bangladeshi authorities:
expressing disappointment at the High Court’s decision to proceed with the trial against Taslima Nasrin
pointing out that, should she be convicted as charged, this would be in direct denial of her right to freedom of expression as guaranteed under Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights
stating that, should the outcome of the trial be other than acquittal and an end to legal proceedings against her, the decision would be subject to international condemnation
urging that this opportunity be taken to review Article 295a of the Penal Code under which Nasrin is being tried with the aim of removing from Bangladesh law the possibility of further legal action against those peacefully practising their right to freedom of expression
Appeals To:
Her Excellency Prime Minister Khaleda Zia
Office of the Prime Minister
Dhaka, Bangladesh
Fax: + 880 2 813 243
Please copy appeals to the originator if possible.
