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May 12, 2026 – Bangladesh –
The High Court in Bangladesh has granted bail to journalist couple Shakil Ahmed and Farzana Rupa in a series of cases linked to incidents surrounding the July uprising, marking a significant development in their ongoing legal proceedings.
According to court reports, the High Court issued ad-interim bail for Shakil Ahmed in five cases and for Farzana Rupa in six separate cases tied to allegations connected to violence during the July mass protests. The court also directed the state to explain why permanent bail should not be granted in those cases.
However, the judges did not grant bail in at least one additional case, meaning the couple will remain in custody despite the partial relief. Authorities and legal representatives noted that multiple overlapping cases are still active, which prevents immediate release.
The orders were delivered by a High Court bench led by Justice KM Zahid Sarwar and Justice Sheikh Abu Taher after hearing several bail petitions filed on behalf of the journalists. Defence counsel argued for bail across multiple linked cases, while state lawyers opposed the petitions and sought continued detention for ongoing investigations.
Court documents referenced in reporting show that the cases are connected to events during the July uprising period, with allegations including serious criminal charges such as murder. The couple has faced multiple remand orders and has been in custody since their arrest in August 2024 at Dhaka’s international airport.
Despite the partial bail orders, legal experts cited in the reports noted that the journalists cannot be released until bail is secured across all active cases. The court also scheduled further procedural steps, including state responses to the bail rulings and continuation of hearings on remaining charges.
The case has drawn wider attention due to concerns raised by press freedom advocates, as both Shakil Ahmed and Farzana Rupa are known media figures. Their legal situation remains ongoing, with further court proceedings expected as multiple cases continue through the judicial system.
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