Protect bloggers: HRW

Bangladesh authorities should unequivocally declare their commitment to free speech instead of proposing self-censorship, says Human Rights Watch (HRW). The killing of secular blogger Niladri Chattopaddhaya is a harrowing reminder of the need for the Bangladesh government to take immediate steps to protect the security of all and end attempts at muzzling independent voices, the New York-based global rights body said on Tuesday. The HRW called upon the Bangladesh government to immediately investigate these premeditated killings, and identify and prosecute those that conspired or ordered these murders. "Sheikh Hasina's government can’t afford to send mixed messages about these attacks on bloggers just for expressing their opinions about religion," said Brad Adams, Asia director at HRW. "Instead of trying to appease the attackers, it's time for her government to state that those who plan, incite, order, and carry out acts of violence will be prosecuted." Niladri Chattopaddhaya, who used the pen name Niloy Neel, is the fourth blogger to be murdered in Bangladesh this year for advocating secularism. All four were listed by extremist groups as among 84 bloggers they described as anti-Islamic and blasphemous. Instead of addressing police failure to respond to threats against Chattopaddhaya or to arrest those responsible for the earlier murders, Inspector General of Police AKM Shahidul Hoque warned "that hurting religious sentiments is a crime according to our law." While assuring a speedy investigation, Hoque recommended: "Those who are free thinkers and writers, I will request them, please make sure that we don't cross the line. Anything that may hurt anyone's religious sentiments or beliefs should not be written." "It's shocking that Bangladesh authorities not only failed to protect the bloggers despite complaints to the police about threats against them, but instead are proposing self-censorship," said Brad Adams. "The government should recall that its duty is to uphold the Constitution and protect people's lives, as well as their religious freedom." Niladri Chattopaddhaya was attacked in his home in capital Dhaka by machete-wielding assailants who inflicted fatal stab injuries. Police said the men gained entry by pretending to be potential new tenants, according to a news agency.
- mbz