CIVICUS stands in solidarity with detained Bangladeshi human rights defender Adilur Rahman Khan

CIVICUS expresses shock at the arrest and subsequent detention of Adilur Rahman Khan, Secretary of the prominent Bangladeshi human rights NGO, Odhikar, a CIVICUS member. Adil was arrested in front of his house on the night of 10 August by plain clothed police from the Detective Branch. No warrant was produced at the time of his arrest. Adil was taken before a judicial magistrate on 11 August and has been remanded to custody for five days. He is reportedly being accused of violating the Information and Communication Technology Act for the publication of a fact finding mission report by Odhikar on the alleged killing of 61 people by Bangladeshi security forces in May 2013.

CIVICUS believes that Adil is being unjustly persecuted for his work and beliefs as a human rights defender by Bangladesh’s security forces. Adil and Odhikar have been particularly active in raising concerns about Bangladesh’s human rights record at international forums including the UN Human Rights Council. He has been threatened and placed under surveillance in the past.

CIVICUS has written to the Head of Bangladesh’s Permanent Mission in Geneva amid heightened concerns about Adil’s safety and security in custody.

CIVICUS asks you to spread the word and join the call for Adilur Rahman Khan’s release by signing the petition to Bangladesh’s Prime Minister here. 

Find out more:
Odhikar statement on arrest of Adilur Rahman Khan