Attack on Shahidul Alam and Bangladesh’s dwindling democratic space

The late-night abduction, detention, custodial assault and subsequent arrest – this sequence is not unimportant – of the renowned Bangladeshi photographer, educator and activist Shahidul Alam has shocked civil-society activists and journalists around the world. While the increasing authoritarianism in Bangladesh's polity has been well documented, as has the draconian Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Act under which Alam has been booked, the attack on Alam marks an escalation of threat to free speech and civil rights.

Friends, supporters and concerned people all over the world have reacted strongly to Alam's arrest and called for his immediate release. Lawyers and activists in Bangladesh have mounted a legal challenge and a campaign in his support, not without considerable risk to themselves. The Bangladesh High Court's reversal of the remand was a welcome first step, albeit the authorities dragged their feet in implementing it.