Bangladeshi journalist charged with treason

A journalist who made a video documentary about Hindus who reportedly fled Bangladesh following post-election violence has been charged with treason by the authorities in Bangladesh.

Shahriar Kabir has been accused of engaging in anti-state activities.

Mr Kabir was arrested just over two weeks ago on his return from India.

The Bangladeshi Government had previously rejected allegations that members of the Hindu minority community left the country because of widespread violence, rape and theft of land following the October general election. The charge of treason carries the maximum penalty of death, but correspondents say in practice those convicted are generally given long prison sentences or granted an amnesty.

Mr Kabir's arrest had been condemned by Amnesty International who called for his release.

From the newsroom of the BBC World Service