ASK Voices Concern Over Police Order to Re-Arrest Awami League Leaders

The directive to take action “as deemed appropriate” against leaders and activists of a political party whose activities have been banned, and the instruction to show individuals released on bail as re-arrested under “shown arrest” or in other cases, are contrary to the rule of law, according to Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK). The organization has expressed deep concern over such instructions.

In a statement sent to the media on Thursday (26 February), the human rights body conveyed this concern.

In the statement, ASK said that a written directive at the Rajshahi Range level of the police instructed authorities to consider the “capacity to strengthen or organize the party” when showing bail-released individuals as re-arrested. Such directives are inconsistent with the rule of law, personal liberty, and the fundamental principles of justice. If there are specific allegations and evidence against any citizen, it is the responsibility of the state to take action in accordance with due legal process; however, deliberately harassing or re-arresting individuals based on presumption runs contrary to legal and democratic practices.

ASK believes it is unclear on what jurisdictional and accountability basis the police authorities have taken such decisions. Such measures are entirely inconsistent with the commitment of a newly elected government to establish good governance, protect human rights, and ensure accountability at all levels. Through the exercise of voting rights, a democratic government has begun its journey; in this context, every branch of the state, especially law enforcement agencies, bears greater responsibility to act in accordance with the Constitution and human rights standards.

ASK firmly believes that the Constitution of Bangladesh and international human rights instruments guarantee citizens’ liberty, justice, and equal protection of the law. While it is necessary to take legal action where allegations exist, no one has the authority to deliberately harass any citizen.

ASK strongly demands the immediate public disclosure of the legal basis of the relevant directive, a review of all related orders and processes, and the assurance of measures consistent with the Constitution and international human rights standards. It also calls for effective steps to end practices such as unlawful arrest, harassment, or shown arrest, and to ensure justice, personal liberty, and equal protection of the law for citizens.