24 Sep 2018 | 07:19 AM UTC
Bangladesh: Journalists to protest in Dhaka September 29
Media organization plans to protest outside the National Press Club in Dhaka on September 29; localize traffic disruptions possible
Event
The Bangladesh Editors’ Council is organizing a protest outside the National Press Club in Dhaka on Saturday, September 29. Journalists, media personnel, and rights activists are being called to form a human chain starting at 11:00 (local time) to protest the recent passage of the Digital Security Act 2018. As of Monday, September 24, it is unclear how many people will participate in the demonstration. Localized traffic disruptions are possible around the protest site.
Context
The Digital Security Act 2018 was passed on September 18. Journalists and rights groups claim that the bill could be used to limit freedom of speech and responsible journalism. Under the new law, individuals can face seven to 14 years in prison and fines for illegally accessing or destroying importation information related to state affairs. Critics also claim that a section of the bill allows the police to search, seize, and arrest anyone without a warrant.
Advice
Individuals in Dhaka are advised to avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.
