(WiPC/IFEX) – On 22 November 1998, Taslima Nasrin appeared in person at the Bangladesh High Court where she was granted bail. Following her brief appearance, she returned into hiding. **Updates IFEX alerts of 7 October, 18 September, 24 February, 16 January 1998 and others** There are now two cases against Nasrin currently under judicial process. […]
(WiPC/IFEX) – On 22 November 1998, Taslima Nasrin appeared in person at the
Bangladesh High Court where she was granted bail. Following her brief
appearance, she
returned into hiding.
**Updates IFEX alerts of 7 October, 18 September, 24 February, 16 January
1998 and others**
There are now two cases against Nasrin currently under judicial process. The
first, brought by the government in 1994, relates to an interview she gave
earlier that year to an Indian newspaper. The trial started in December that
year and is still in process. The second charge, brought in September 1998
by a private individual, is for articles published in 1991 and 1992. Both
cases have been brought under Article 295a of the Bangladesh Penal Code
which provide a maximum of two years imprisonment for writings “insulting
religious sentiments.”
Both judicial processes are likely to be protracted and not to come to a
conclusion for some time yet. Meanwhile, individuals have allegedly issued
death threats against Nasrin, and demonstrations against her have been
staged. The Bangladesh authorities have
publicly stated that they will provide her with protection against attack.
Recommended Action
Send appeals to the Minister of Home Affairs:
imprisonment should she be convicted as charged, while welcoming the
granting of bail
considered to be imprisoned in denial of her right to freedom of expression,
as guaranteed under Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights
to Nasrin against threats of attack
or group who threatens her safety will be subject to prosecution as provided
under Bangladesh law
Appeals To
Mr. Rafiqul Islam Biruttam
Minister of Home Affairs
Ministry of Home Affairs
Dhaka, Bangladesh
Fax:+880 2 869 6667Copies to:
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina
Dhaka, Bangladesh
Fax: + 880 2 813 244
Please copy appeals to the source if possible.
