By Sumavaya Iqbal 
Bangladesh authorities have arrested a senior journalist on allegations of “anti-state activities,” a move that has intensified concerns over press freedom ahead of the country’s crucial national elections scheduled for February.
Police confirmed on Monday that Anis Alamgir, a veteran media figure, was taken into custody under the country’s Anti-Terrorism Act. He is accused of promoting the banned Awami League party of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina through television talk shows and social media activity.
The arrest comes at a sensitive political moment. Bangladesh is preparing for its first general election since a student-led uprising last year led to the ouster of Sheikh Hasina’s long-standing government and ended the rule of her Awami League party.
According to police officials in Dhaka, Alamgir allegedly conspired to rehabilitate the Awami League, which was formally banned in May by the interim government through amendments to the Anti-Terrorism Act. Authorities claim the journalist’s commentary and online presence amounted to propaganda against the state.
Alongside Alamgir, three other individuals were named in police documents, including well-known actress Meher Afroz Shaon. Officials say the group coordinated messaging that challenged the legitimacy of the current political transition.
Human rights organisations reacted sharply to the arrest. Ain o Salish Kendra, one of Bangladesh’s leading rights groups, condemned the use of counter-terrorism laws against journalists, describing it as a direct assault on democratic principles.
The organisation stated that laws designed to combat terrorism should not be applied to journalism or freedom of expression, warning that such actions erode democratic norms and silence dissenting voices.
The interim government’s decision to ban the Awami League has already drawn international criticism. Human Rights Watch previously labelled the move “draconian,” arguing that it restricts political participation and sets a dangerous precedent for suppressing opposition voices.
Press freedom in Bangladesh has faced persistent challenges for years. During Sheikh Hasina’s tenure, journalists frequently reported harassment, censorship, and legal pressure, making it one of the most difficult periods for independent media in the country.
According to Reporters Without Borders, Bangladesh ranked 149th out of 180 countries in the 2025 World Press Freedom Index. While this marked a slight improvement from the previous year, the organisation highlighted serious concerns following the political upheaval.
RSF reported that more than 130 journalists faced what it described as unfounded legal cases after the fall of Hasina’s government. Several media professionals remain in detention pending trial, including television anchors, editors, and freelance reporters.
The arrest of Anis Alamgir has further intensified debate over the future of press freedom in Bangladesh, particularly as the country approaches a pivotal election that could shape its democratic trajectory.
Observers warn that continued use of sweeping security laws against journalists risks undermining public trust, weakening democratic institutions, and drawing increased scrutiny from the international community.