Dhaka, August 7, 2024: Bangladeshi immigration authorities at the Akhaura border check post prevented journalist Shyamol Dutta and his family from leaving the country due to travel restrictions imposed by the Special Branch of police.
Shyamol Dutta, editor of the newspaper Bhorer Kagoj and general secretary of the Jatiya Press Club, is known for his pro-Awami League stance. On Tuesday at 4:00 PM, he attempted to cross into India with his wife, Sanchita Dutta, and daughter, Sunanda Dutta, through the Akhaura International Immigration Checkpost. However, they were stopped by immigration officials who cited the restrictions placed on him by the Special Branch of police.
Despite his pleas to the immigration authorities to allow his family to travel, Dutta and his family were turned back at approximately 4:30 PM. Md Khairul Alam, in charge of Akhaura International Immigration, confirmed that Dutta and his family members were not permitted to leave the country.
The incident highlights the increasing scrutiny and travel restrictions on journalists in Bangladesh, particularly those with political affiliations. Dutta’s case underscores the tension between the media and governmental authorities, raising concerns about press freedom and the rights of journalists in the country.
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