Dhaka: Information and Broadcasting Adviser Md Mahfuj Alam today stated that individuals involved in enforced disappearances will be brought to justice during the tenure of the interim government. The adviser made these remarks while engaging with families of victims of enforced disappearances at an event organized by human rights group 'Mayer Dak' in the city's Tejgaon area, as per a press release.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Mahfuj criticized the ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, claiming she used enforced disappearances and killings as a means of avenging her parents' assassination. He highlighted that the highest number of enforced disappearances occurred in 2013 and 2014, during a period when citizens were actively fighting for their voting rights. Mahfuj asserted that these actions were primarily aimed at dismantling the electoral system.
The adviser revealed that a commission has been formed to investigate enforced disappearances. Based on the commission's findings, arrest warrants have been issued against several individuals, while investigations into others are still ongoing. He criticized the previous government for labeling political opponents as terrorists and militants before forcibly disappearing them, stating that families of victims were subjected to fear and intimidation through various state institutions.
Mahfuj also accused Sheikh Hasina of continuing to conspire against the country from India, describing it as unfortunate. He issued a stern warning that the Awami League would not be permitted to re-establish itself politically in Bangladesh, warning that if given another opportunity, enforced disappearances and killings could rise again.
Highlighting the current government's efforts to restore human rights allegedly taken away by Sheikh Hasina, Mahfuj urged the families of victims of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings to remain united. He assured them of the government's support in their quest for justice.
Family members of the victims expressed their demands for the trial of those responsible and sought information on the whereabouts of their missing loved ones.