In Bangladesh, a journalist was detained for publishing about the rise in food prices in the country

Law enforcement agencies had questions about the journalist's note about a significant increase in food prices in the country. The material was published on the newspaper's website and on the social network. The article, in particular, quoted the words of a handyman who said that he could not afford to buy food.

"Why do I need this independence if I can't afford to buy food? We need the independence of rice, fish and meat", - said a local resident.

The journalist's material caused a wide public response. The country's authorities accused the journalist of spreading "false, fabricated and hostile" information. By his actions, he allegedly "discredits the reputation of the government" of the country.

The police raided the journalist early in the morning on March 29. He was detained in his house. Now there is no connection with the journalist. The police refuse to say where he is now.

The Committee for the Protection of Journalists (CPJ) stated that a case was opened against him under the article on violation of the digital security law. The case was initiated after a complaint from a local politician. The committee demanded the immediate release of the journalist and the termination of the case against him. As follows from the statement, law enforcement agencies should not interfere with the activities of representatives Media. Newspaper employees should have the right to conduct their reports without interference from the government and fear of reprisals.

"The arrest and prosecution of Bangladeshi journalist Shamsuzzaman Shams under the draconian Digital Security Law is an overreaction by the authorities that smacks of intimidation," the committee said.

The committee noted that under this article, the journalist faces up to seven years in prison and a fine of up to 500 thousand taka (4.6 thousand dollars).

At the same time, as follows from the statistics of the Trading Corporation of Bangladesh, prices for almost all major products in the country increased from 1% to 151% over the year. Rice has risen in price by 30%, meat has increased in price by 39%.