Bangladesh, Aug. 18 -- A total of 122 prominent citizens have demanded that the court immediately bail former Janata Bank chairman Abul Barkat, who was arrested last month on corruption charges.

The demand was made in a joint statement issued on Sunday, highlighting "absence of clear evidence" and Barkat's health issues.

Notable among those issuing the statement are: Emeritus Professor Serajul Islam Choudhury, human rights activist Hameeda Hossain, lawyer Sultana Kamal, coordinator of the 'Nijera Kori' organisation Khushi Kabir, Executive Director of the Manusher Jonno Foundation Shaheen Anam, Senior Supreme Court lawyer ZI Khan Panna, and retired Dhaka University professor MM Akash.

"Prof Barkat has been arrested over a corruption all...