Saturday, September 16

Statement: JMBF Expresses Grave Concern over Sentencing of Two Human Rights Defenders in Bangladesh

PARIS, FRANCE - September 16, 2023 – JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF), a France-based human rights organization, is deeply alarmed by the recent verdict that has sentenced two Bangladeshi human rights defenders Adilur Rahman Khan and ASM Nasiruddin Elan to two years' imprisonment.

The imprisonment of these two human rights defenders raises serious questions about the state of freedom for human rights activists and activism in Bangladesh. JMBF stands in solidarity with Adilur Rahman Khan and ASM Nasiruddin Elan, two unwavering champions of human rights in Bangladesh.

Adilur Rahman Khan, a prominent human rights activist, was detained in 2013 following the publication of a fact-finding report by Odhikar, shedding light on extrajudicial killings and the excessive use of force during protests in Bangladesh by Hefajat-e-Islam.

The circumstances surrounding their detention and subsequent legal proceedings have raised grave concerns regarding the abuse of laws such as the Information and Communication Technology Act and the Digital Security Act, which appear to be wielded to suppress dissent and curtail freedom of expression.

JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF) urgently calls upon the authorities in Bangladesh to reconsider the sentencing of Adilur Rahman Khan and ASM Nasiruddin Elan. JMBF strongly emphasizes the importance of affording them their rights to a fair trial and freedom of expression, in line with international standards.

JMBF implores the government of Bangladesh to review the charges against them and take all necessary measures to protect and advance human rights, including those of human rights activists.

At this critical juncture, JMBF stands firmly with Adilur Rahman Khan and ASM Nasiruddin Elan in their pursuit of justice, reaffirming our unwavering commitment to the principles of human rights, freedom of expression, and the rule of law.


Best Regards,




Advocate Shahanur Islam
Founder President
JusticeMakers Bangladesh in France (JMBF)
Cell/WhatsUp/Signal: +33 (0)7 83 95 23 15


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