Rayhan Ahmed is a Bangladeshi blogger, freethinker and founder of Beja Shohor Blog. His writing explores secularism, human rights, religious criticism and the experiences of disadvantaged people. He describes his work as an expression of his commitment to humanity and opposition to injustice.
Early life and education
Ahmed was born on 22 September 1999 in Sylhet, Bangladesh, to Rafique Miah, an assistant engineer, and Sultana Begum. According to his biographical account, he developed an interest in writing during childhood and later contributed to various blogging platforms.
He completed his Secondary School Certificate at Zahir Tahir Memorial High School in 2016 and his Higher Secondary Certificate at Dakshin Surma Government College in 2018. He subsequently completed a Bachelor of Arts with honours in Philosophy under the National University of Bangladesh.
Blogging and areas of interest
Through Beja Shohor Blog, Ahmed writes about religion, freedom of thought, social inequality and human rights. His work includes criticism of religious ideas and discussion of the relationship between belief, individual freedom and society.
Among the articles he identifies as part of his work are “Was Prophet Muhammad the Greatest Man of All Time?” and “Existence of God from Thought.” He has also written about child marriage, women’s rights and interpretations of Islamic teachings.
Ahmed says his writing has attracted controversy and that he has experienced threats and attacks related to his views. He describes continuing to write as part of his commitment to freedom of expression.
Account of his 2022 arrest
According to Ahmed’s account, a case concerning three of his blog articles was filed against him on 7 November 2022 under sections 25, 28, 29 and 31 of Bangladesh’s Digital Security Act 2018.
Ahmed states that police arrested him that day and that he was subsequently brought before a court and sent to Sylhet Central Jail. He reports that he was released on bail on 28 February 2023.
These details reflect Ahmed’s personal account. Court documents or reliable reporting are needed to independently establish the allegations, proceedings and subsequent outcome of the case.
Personal outlook
Ahmed identifies humanity, secularism and human rights as central concerns in his writing. His stated aim is to question ideas, discuss injustice and advocate for people whose voices receive limited attention.
