SCBA demands release of Mahmudur

14 June 2010, 18:00 PM

Unb, Dhaka

Echoing Sunday night's statement of BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia, Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) said the perpetrators who tortured Mahmudur Rahman, acting editor of the daily Amar Desh, in the name of police remand would be brought to justice in future. “We are not making the statement using the SCBA as political platform, SCBA President Khondker Mahbub Hossain said at a press conference to protest against the perpetrators who reportedly undressed and tortured Amar Desh acting editor in custody. Mahbub, as the spokesperson for the apex court lawyers, said they condemn such action in the name of police remand as the lawyers are always vocal in upholding the democratic rights, establishing the rule of law and ensuring the fundamental rights including freedom of press and freedom of expression as enshrined in the Constitution. He demanded immediate release of Mahmudur and withdrawal of cases filed against him. Barrister Moudud Ahmed said none violating the SC guidelines over police remand will go unpunished as it involves the image of the highest judiciary. SCBA Secretary Barrister M Bodruddoza Badal, Barrister Rafiqul Islam Mian, Barrister Shahjahan Omar, Barrister Nasir uddin Ashim and Barrister Abdur Razzaq were present at the press conference. DU TEACHERS DU Correspondent adds: 325 pro-BNP and Jamaat teachers of Dhaka University yesterday demanded unconditional release of Mahmudur Rahman. In a joint statement, they expressed concern over the safety of the life of Mahmudur. They also condemned and protested obstacles to republishing the Amar Desh and harassment on its employees. Signatories to the statement included Prof Md Aminur Rahman Majumder, Prof Md Sirajul Islam, Prof Md Anwarul Islam, Prof Akhter Hossain Khan, Prof Zahidul Islam, Prof ABM Siddiqur Rahman Nizami, Prof Md Ashraful Islam Chowdhury. Bangladesh Socity for the Enforcement of Human Rights also expressed concern over 'torture' on Mahmudur in remand.