International Rights Group Slams ‘Direct Assault’ on Independence of Judiciary

Paris-based international human rights organization Justice Makers Bangladesh in France (JMBF) has strongly condemned the alleged “misconduct” by BNP-aligned lawyers at the Barishal Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Court centering on the bail of Awami League leaders. The organization described the incident as a “direct attack” on democracy, the rule of law, and the independence of the judiciary.

In a statement, JMBF said that after bail was granted to several leaders of the Bangladesh Awami League in Barishal, BNP-aligned lawyers created extreme disorder inside the courtroom. It alleged that the lawyers engaged in pushing in front of the bench, forcibly entering the courtroom, shouting at the judge while pointing fingers, and engaging in intimidating and disrespectful behavior.

The organization stated that Tuesday’s incident was not an isolated or unintended occurrence but an example of deep concern regarding the dignity, security, and independence of the judiciary. In particular, it described the situation created in the court of Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate SM Shariyatullah as tantamount to “contempt of court.”

JMBF said that unlawful intrusion into the courtroom, physical aggression toward the bench, shouting at the judge, and obstructing judicial proceedings are clearly punishable offenses. Such actions should legally be considered “contempt of court,” and exemplary measures should be taken.

JMBF’s Founder President Shahanoor Islam said, “There are clear remedies under the Constitution and the law against any judicial order. Despite having the opportunity to file appeals, revisions, or cancellation petitions in the higher courts, turning the courtroom into a battleground and attempting to intimidate a judge is completely illegal and unacceptable.”

He further said that such actions are a direct attempt to influence the judicial process and must stop immediately. JMBF also demanded the formation of a judicial inquiry commission led by a judge of the High Court Division of the Supreme Court of Bangladesh to investigate the matter. The commission has been urged to identify those responsible through a transparent process and ensure exemplary punishment.

The organization called upon all concerned parties to act responsibly in order to preserve the reputation, neutrality, and independence of Bangladesh’s judiciary in the international arena. Emphasizing that disagreements should be resolved through lawful and institutional processes, JMBF said that keeping the judiciary free from any undue pressure or influence is a constitutional responsibility of the state.