The 2007 Bangladesh Cartoon Controversy: A Critical Examination

The 2007 Bangladesh Cartoon Controversy: The year 2007 marked a significant turning point in Bangladesh’s history when an innocuous editorial cartoon published in the 431st edition of “Alpin,” a featured supplement of the Bangladeshi newspaper “Prothom Alo,” triggered a maelstrom of controversy and upheaval. This article delves into the 2007 Bangladesh Cartoon Controversy, examining its origins, the ensuing turmoil, and repercussions on individuals and the nation.

The Genesis of Controversy

Naam (Name): The Cartoon

On September 17, 2007, a seemingly benign cartoon titled “Naam” (Name) emerged on the pages of “Alpin.” This creation, attributed to the 20-year-old cartoonist Arifur Rahman, featured a dialogue between an older man and a young boy. However, it was not the visuals but the text within the cartoon that became the epicenter of the ensuing controversy.
When the boy was asked about his name in the cartoon, he omitted the prefix “Muhammad,” a term used by some Muslims to sign respect for the Islamic prophet Muhammad. In the final panel, the elderly man questioned the boy about what he held in his lap, to which the boy humorously replied, “Muhammad cat.”

A Deliberate Provocation

The predominantly Muslim population of Bangladesh perceived the publication of this cartoon during the holy month of Ramadan as a calculated provocation. Muhammad holds an exceptionally revered status in Islam, making any perceived mockery of his name deeply offensive to Muslims. The timing of the cartoon’s release, during a sacred period of reflection and devotion, added fuel to the growing anger and discontent.

Outcry and Demonstrations

The day following the cartoon’s publication, we witnessed widespread demonstrations across major Bangladeshi cities. Notably, such public protests had been prohibited earlier in 2007 by the interim caretaker government. Nonetheless, the deep-seated resentment among the masses led to an outpouring of public outrage.

Calls for Action

Religious leaders and Muslim organizations swiftly reacted to the cartoon’s publication. On September 18, 2007, meetings were held with government officials, during which calls were made to revoke the newspaper’s license, Prothom Alo. The government, in response, imposed a ban on the sale of the 431st newspaper issue and directed authorities to confiscate all printed copies.

The Fallout: Legal Actions and Arrests

Arrest of Arifur Rahman

In the wake of the intensifying controversy, Arifur Rahman, the cartoon’s creator, found himself in the eye of the storm. On charges of “hurting religious sentiments” under Penal Code Section 295A, Rahman was detained for thirty days under an initial detention order. This period of detention was subsequently extended for an additional three months, leading to significant international attention and concern.

International Outcry

Arifur Rahman’s arrest sparked international outrage and prompted organizations such as Amnesty International to designate him as a “prisoner of conscience.” Calls for his “immediate and unconditional release” reverberated worldwide. Reporters Without Borders, too, issued a statement advocating for his freedom, emphasizing that he should not be used as a scapegoat.

Legal Battle and Release

The legal proceedings against Arifur Rahman were contentious and protracted. His initial arrest on September 18, 2007, led to detention that spanned six months and two days. He was finally released on March 20, 2008, following a court order. The release came after the police officer who had filed the case against Rahman repeatedly failed to appear in court.

The Jessore Court Trial

In another legal twist, on November 12, 2009, a Jessore court handed down a two-month rigorous imprisonment sentence to cartoonist Arifur Rahman. Additionally, Rahman was required to pay Tk 500 in fines or face an additional seven days of imprisonment. This development added further complexity to an already convoluted legal journey.

The Legacy of the 2007 Bangladesh Cartoon Controversy

The 2007 Bangladesh Cartoon Controversy left an indelible mark on the nation and its people. It brought critical issues related to freedom of expression, religious sensitivities, and the boundaries of artistic creativity. Here are some of the enduring aspects of this controversial episode:

Freedom of Expression vs. Religious Sensitivities

The controversy underscored the delicate balance between freedom of expression and respecting religious sentiments. While freedom of expression is a fundamental right, it often clashes with religious beliefs, leading to a global debate.

The Power of Cartoons

Cartoons, often seen as a medium for humor and satire, can wield tremendous influence and evoke strong emotions. The 2007 cartoon demonstrated the capacity of cartoons to provoke intense reactions and trigger significant social and political events.

International Concern for Human Rights

Arifur Rahman’s detention and subsequent legal battles drew the attention of international human rights organizations. This highlighted the global commitment to safeguarding individual rights and freedoms, especially in cases where they are perceived to be threatened.

Lessons for Media and Artists

The controversy reminded media outlets and artists to exercise caution and responsibility in their work, mainly when dealing with sensitive topics. It emphasized the need for ethical considerations and awareness of potential repercussions.

The Complex Interplay of Religion and Society

The events of 2007 highlighted the intricate relationship between religion and society in Bangladesh. They showcased how deeply held religious beliefs can shape public discourse, impact legal decisions, and influence societal norms.
In conclusion, the 2007 Bangladesh Cartoon Controversy serves as a case study of the complexities of freedom of expression, religious sensitivities, and the power of visual media. It sheds light on the challenges artists, media outlets, and governments face when navigating these intricate issues. This controversial episode will continue to be discussed and analyzed as societies grapple with the tensions between individual liberties and collective beliefs.

Read also:

• The Jyllands-Posten Muhammad Cartoons Controversy (2005): A Deep Dive into the Impact and Implications
• Cartoon Controversy of Islam; Lance Rants
• The Evolution of Editorial Cartooning Throughout History
• Cartoons and Social Commentary: A Powerful Duo in Popular Culture
• The Power of Political Satire in Editorial Cartoons

FAQ on the 2007 Bangladesh Cartoon Controversy

1. What sparked the 2007 Bangladesh cartoon controversy?

The controversy began when an editorial cartoon titled “Naam” (Name) was published in the 431st edition of Alpin, a supplement of the Bangladeshi newspaper Prothom Alo, on September 17, 2007. The cartoon featured a conversation between an older man and a boy, with the boy making a joke involving the name of the Islamic prophet Muhammad.

2. Who was the cartoonist behind the controversial cartoon?

20-year-old cartoonist Arifur Rahman created the cartoon.

3. What was the central issue of contention in the cartoon?

The controversy primarily revolved around the text in the cartoon rather than the images. When the boy was asked his name in the cartoon, he omitted the prefix “Muhammad,” which some Muslims use as a sign of respect for the Islamic prophet Muhammad. This omission led to outrage.

4. How did the Bangladeshi Muslim population react to the cartoon?

The mainly Muslim population of Bangladesh regarded the cartoon’s publication during their holy month of Ramadan as a deliberate attempt to ridicule Prophet Muhammad, who is highly revered in Islam. This led to demonstrations and protests across the country.

5. Were public protests and demonstrations allowed in Bangladesh at that time?

No, public protests and demonstrations had been banned by the interim caretaker government earlier in 2007. However, despite the ban, demonstrations were held in major cities in response to the cartoon.

6. What actions were taken by the Bangladeshi government in response to the controversy?

The government banned the sale of the 431st newspaper issue and instructed authorities to seize all printed copies. Additionally, cartoonist Arifur Rahman was arrested under Bangladesh’s emergency laws.

7. How did the newspaper Prothom Alo respond to the controversy?

Prothom Alo’s editor of Alpin, Matiur Rahman, apologized, expressing regret for publishing the cartoon. He stated that the cartoon was “unedited, unapproved, and unacceptable” and announced that actions would be taken against those responsible.

8. What charges were brought against Arifur Rahman, and what was his trial like?

Arifur Rahman was charged with “hurting religious sentiments” under Penal Code Section 295A. He was given a thirty-day detention order, which was extended for three additional months. Amnesty International designated him a prisoner of conscience and called for his immediate release.

9. How long was Arifur Rahman detained, and why was he eventually released?

Arifur Rahman was arrested on September 18, 2007, and detained for six months and two days. He was released on March 20, 2008, as the police officer who filed the case against him repeatedly failed to appear in court.

10. Was any legal action taken against Arifur Rahman after his release?

Yes, on November 12, 2009, a Jessore court sentenced cartoonist Arifur Rahman to two months of rigorous imprisonment and imposed a fine of Tk 500. Failure to pay the fine would result in an additional seven days in prison.