Meghna Alam, the inaugural Miss Earth Bangladesh (2020) and chairperson of the Miss Bangladesh Foundation, has been detained under the Special Powers Act, 1974, triggering widespread debate on Civil rights, use of state power, and diplomatic influence in Bangladesh.
Overview of the Incident
On April 10, 2025, Meghna Alam was taken into custody by the Detective Branch of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police during a live Facebook session, initially sparking fears of abduction. Authorities later confirmed that she was detained under allegations of disseminating misinformation that could harm Bangladesh's diplomatic relations and economic interests.
The complaint allegedly originated from a senior diplomat at the Saudi Arabian Embassy in Dhaka. Alam is believed to be in a personal relationship with Essa Yousef Essa Al Duhailan, the Saudi Ambassador to Bangladesh.
She has since been placed in 30-day preventive custody at Kashimpur Central Jail under Section 3(1) of the Special Powers Act, which allows detention without trial in the name of public order and state security.
Meghna Alam's Contributions
Beyond her pageant fame, Meghna Alam is widely respected as an environmental activist and social advocate.
Meghna Alam is the founder of Ekottro Foundation, working on youth mental health, climate change awareness, and education across Bangladesh, India, and Nepal.
As Chairperson of the Miss Bangladesh Foundation, she has promoted Bangladeshi culture on global platforms.
In 2024, she led a major initiative, crowning ten international ambassadors to represent Bangladesh globally.
As the chairperson of the Miss Bangladesh Foundation, she has played a vital role in showcasing Bangladeshi culture and values on international platforms. In 2024, she led a project to crown ten international ambassadors to represent Bangladesh's global image.
Implications of the Special Power Act in Meghna Alam's case:
Legal and Ethical Concerns
The use of the Special Powers Act in Meghna Alam's case has reignited concerns about civil liberties and the potential abuse of preventive detention laws. Human rights organisations, including Amnesty International, have questioned the transparency and legality of her detention. The vague allegation of "disseminating misinformation" echoes the ambiguous charges often associated with political repression.
Government Reaction to Meghna Alam's Detention
On April 13, 2025, Asif Nazrul, Law, Justice, and Parliamentary Affairs Adviser, stated at a press conference that Meghna's detention was improper. He acknowledged that while there were allegations, due process was not followed, and the Home Ministry would investigate further.
On April 16, 2025, Md Khoda Baksh Chowdhury, the Chief Adviser's Special Assistant on Home Affairs, defended the action, asserting no deviation from legal procedure occurred. He denied any unlawful treatment, claiming everything was done under existing law.
This discrepancy in government responses has added fuel to civil concerns about transparency and misuse of legal authority.
David Bergman's Criticism: International Voices Condemn Detention
Prominent investigative journalist David Bergman denounced the detention as "unlawful" and politically motivated:
"A crucial test of this government is not just to stop these kinds of arrests, but to correct them quickly when they happen."
Bergman called the SPA a "draconian law" and argued that the vague justification for her detention—possibly to avoid embarrassment for the Saudi embassy—was not legally valid.
Comparing Past and Present: A Critical Analysis
Historical Use of the Special Powers Act
Originally enacted in the early years of Bangladesh's independence, the Special Powers Act has been heavily criticized for enabling arbitrary detention without trial. Previous regimes, especially military and authoritarian governments, used the SPA to silence political opposition, journalists, and dissenters.
A Shift in Target, Not in Tactics
Meghna Alam is not affiliated with any political opposition, making her detention a significant shift in how the SPA is being applied. Her case suggests that the law's controversial reach has extended from political adversaries to civil society leaders and public figures.
Diplomatic Dimensions
The involvement of a foreign diplomat adds an unprecedented twist to the situation. If the complaint from a Saudi official directly influenced her detention, it raises questions about the role of foreign pressure in domestic legal processes and the integrity of Bangladesh's judicial independence.
Promises vs. Practice
Though the current government has criticised prior misuse of the SPA and pledged reforms, using the same law against a non-political figure undermines those promises.
This inconsistency suggests a continuity of authoritarian legal tactics rather than meaningful reform.
Public Sentiment and International Reputation
Social media platforms have been flooded with support for Meghna and criticism of her detention. Besides, International rights groups have raised alarms over press freedom and due process violations.
The case may severely affect Bangladesh's international standing, especially regarding human rights, the rule of law and freedom of expression.
The detention of Meghna Alam under the Special Powers Act is a defining moment in Bangladesh's ongoing debate over civil liberties, the rule of law and foreign diplomatic influence
As the legal and political drama continues to unfold, it remains critical for all stakeholders to ensure transparency, due process, and respect for fundamental rights—hallmarks of a truly democratic society.
