Dhaka Cyber Tribunal Discharges JnU Student Khadija from One DSA Case
Dhaka Cyber Tribunal has acquitted Khadijatul Kubra, a student of Jagannath University, in a case filed under the Digital Security Act (DSA) with Kalabagan police station in Dhaka. The court also announced that the hearing for charge framing in another DSA case filed with New Market police station will take place on February 29.
The decision to discharge Khadija from the Kalabagan police station case was made due to the lack of evidence to frame charges against her. In October 2020, she and retired major Delwar Hossain were accused of spreading anti-government statements online and tarnishing the image of Bangladesh. Khadija was arrested at her residence in Mirpur on August 26, 2021, after a warrant was issued by a lower court for her alleged remarks against Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and her government on an online talk show that she hosted.
Khadija’s arrest sparked widespread criticism across the country, leading to student and guardian-led street protests demanding her release. The Appellate Division, chaired by Chief Justice Obaidul Hassan, granted Khadija bail after lifting the stay order that had been placed on her initial six-month bail, which had been granted by the High Court nine months earlier.
After spending over 15 months in jail custody, Khadija was finally released from Kashimpur central jail on November 20. As a first-year student at JnU, Khadija had faced imprisonment in connection with the two DSA cases.
The DSA cases alleged that Khadija hosted a talk show titled ‘Humanity for Bangladesh,’ where retired major Delwar Hossain made provocative statements and issued instructions to overthrow the legitimate democratic government.
The discharge of Khadija from one of the DSA cases brings some relief to the JnU student. However, the impending hearing of charge framing in the other case highlights the ongoing legal challenges she faces. Together, these cases have sparked debate and raised concerns over freedom of speech and the scope of the DSA.
It remains to be seen how this high-profile case unfolds, and whether it will have wider implications for the digital landscape and freedom of expression in Bangladesh.
In conclusion, the discharge of Khadija from one DSA case signifies a significant development in her legal battle. As her story continues to unfold, many will be closely watching the outcome of the upcoming hearing on February 29.
