35 Australian-Based Bangladeshi Journalists Demand Immediate Release of Senior Media Leader Iqbal Sobhan Chowdhury

Image: Collected

Thirty-five Bangladeshi journalists living in Australia have issued a joint statement calling for the swift release of veteran journalist and media leader Iqbal Sobhan Chowdhury.

Chowdhury, a prominent figure in Bangladesh’s media landscape, is the former president of the Bangladesh Federal Union of Journalists (BFUJ), former chairman of DBC News Television, and editor of the Daily Observer.

In their statement, the expatriate journalists expressed deep concern over his arrest and detention. They urged the authorities to ensure his prompt release while fully upholding his legal and human rights.

The signatories highlighted Chowdhury’s long contribution to journalism, including his advocacy for journalists’ professional rights, dignity, unity, and press freedom. They stressed that every citizen, regardless of political ideology, personal beliefs, or past associations, is entitled to justice and equal protection under the law.

Any allegations against a journalist, they said, must be resolved through a transparent, impartial, and proper legal process. The group underscored that media freedom, freedom of expression, and the professional security of journalists form essential pillars of a democratic state.

They called on the relevant authorities to give urgent and humanitarian consideration to Chowdhury’s release. If any charges exist, they demanded that due judicial process be followed, that he be given a full opportunity to defend himself, and that he receive necessary medical and legal assistance.

The journalists expressed hope that all concerned parties in Bangladesh would act responsibly to safeguard the safety, professional independence, and human rights of journalists.

Among the 35 signatories are senior journalist and columnist Ajoy Dasgupta, Australia Bangladesh Press and Media Club president Md. Rahmatullah, Australia Times editor Abdul Matin, Dhaka Sydney Insider editorial board president Dr. Sirajul Haque, and Daily Bangolok editor and former BFUJ treasurer Ataur Rahman, along with other writers, photojournalists, and media professionals based in Australia.