Dhaka, March 2 -- A group of 30 eminent citizens has called for the immediate release of people arrested in what they describe as "politically motivated" cases, raising concerns over due process and prolonged detention.

In a statement issued on Monday, the signatories, including human rights activists, academics, lawyers and researchers, said many of those detained, including intellectuals and professionals, were being held without proper legal procedure, with some facing worsening health conditions.

They expressed concern over what they described as a surge in cases filed since the interim government assumed office.

According to the statement, thousands of individuals, including lawyers, writers, journalists and teachers, have been na...