A group of photographers yesterday staged a demonstration on the campus of Dhaka University, demanding immediate and unconditional release of acclaimed photographer Shahidul Alam.

Around 100 photographers formed a human chain at the base of Raju Memorial Sculpture under the banner of “Shahidul Alam Er Muktir Dabitey Alokchitribrindo”.

The participating photographers also raised their cameras in the air for two minutes as a symbol of solidarity with Shahidul Alam.

Prominent portrait photographer Nasir Ali Mamun said, “Shahidul Alam didn't only enrich our photography industry, but also raised his voice or extended his support during any logical movement in the country.”

Another photographer, Taslima Akter Lima, said freedom of expression is a citizen's basic right. But Shahidul Alam was arrested for practicing the right under the much controversial section 57 of the ICT Act.

“People who are raising their voices against any injustice, are being labelled as 'anti-liberation forces' or are being gagged. Laws like the Digital Security Act and the Information and Communication Technology Act are being used to prevent truth from being told,” she added.

Tushar Ahmed, a student of Pathshala South Asian Media Institute, said Shahidul has been imprisoned for telling the truth.

Shahidul Alam, currently in Dhaka Central Jail, was shown accused in a case filed under the ICT Act for “spreading propaganda and false information against the government”.

He was picked up by law enforcers from his residence in the capital's Dhanmondi area on the night of August 5. Police filed the case against him the following day.