Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Adviser Dr Asif Nazrul has confirmed that the government is set to form a permanent commission to address the issue of enforced disappearances in Bangladesh. The commission will be established under a forthcoming law specifically dedicated to investigating and preventing such incidents.
Speaking to reporters at the Secretariat on Monday, Dr Asif Nazrul stated that the draft legislation is at the final stage and will be enacted within the next month. “This law will lay the foundation for a permanent and robust commission on enforced disappearances,” he said, emphasizing the government's commitment to human rights and transparency.
The proposed commission is expected to investigate past and ongoing cases of enforced disappearances, recommend measures to prevent recurrence, and ensure accountability through a legal framework. It marks a significant step in acknowledging long-standing concerns raised by human rights organizations both at home and abroad.
When asked whether a future government might revoke the law, Dr Asif Nazrul was confident that it would stand regardless of political shifts. “Whether it's the BNP, Jamaat, NCP, or any other party that comes to power, they have all been victims of enforced disappearances at various times. They have all raised their voices against it,” he remarked.
His comments suggest a consensus across political lines on the gravity of the issue and the need for institutional mechanisms to address it. The law adviser’s remarks come amid growing public demand for justice and clarity regarding unresolved cases, many of which have haunted families for years.
Human rights activists have cautiously welcomed the move, calling for the commission to be granted full independence and investigative authority. As the country prepares for the legislation’s passage, the formation of the commission could mark a turning point in Bangladesh's approach to human rights and state accountability.
Bd-pratidin English/ Jisan
