Shahriar Kabir detained for opposing religious extremism: Lemkin

The Lemkin Institute for Genocide Prevention and Human Security has alleged that writer, researcher, and internationally recognised human rights activist Shahriar Kabir has been detained for his outspoken stance against religious extremism.

In a statement issued on January 5, the organisation also accused authorities of serious procedural irregularities in his arrest and continued detention.

According to Lemkin, Kabir’s deprivation of liberty is linked to his long-standing support for secularism, his vocal opposition to religious extremism, and his criticism of Jamaat-e-Islami over its role in 1971. The organisation further noted his strong influence and acceptance among young people.

The statement said that human rights activist Shahriar Kabir has been detained to prevent him from criticising the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus and from continuing his outspoken advocacy for secularism. It added that he is also being denied the opportunity to speak abroad about Bangladesh’s current democratic crisis.

The genocide prevention and human security organisation said that, according to findings by a United Nations working group, Shahriar Kabir’s arrest falls under the category of “arbitrary detention.”

In its statement, the Lemkin Institute said Shahriar Kabir is scheduled to be produced before a tribunal in the case on January 12, when an order to frame charges against him may be issued.

The statement further said that, considering the “conduct” of the interim government and the courts since August 2024, the organisation does not expect Shahriar Kabir’s trial to be conducted in accordance with the legal provisions of Bangladesh’s Constitution or international standards.

The organisation fears that, without evidence or due legal process, a verdict could be delivered against Liberation War researcher Shahriar Kabir, potentially sentencing him to death.

The statement further said that the prosecution directly referred to a televised debate between Shahriar Kabir and a religious leader, during which it openly stated that his detention was not due to any “proven criminal activity” but rather because of his “political position.”

According to the Lemkin Institute’s statement, Shahriar Kabir was subjected to a “mob” attack while being produced in court wearing a helmet and handcuffs, and he was verbally abused. A video circulated on social media shows that during the mob attack, police appeared more concerned with ensuring their own safety than protecting Shahriar Kabir. Court authorities did not allow him to use a wheelchair; he was prevented from using the lift to access the courtroom; and he was denied the opportunity to sit during court proceedings. The statement added that the failure to ensure a safe environment has made it nearly impossible for him to appoint a lawyer of his choice.