Dhaka: The Commission of Inquiry on Enforced Disappearances submitted its second interim report to Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus today. The commission, led by Chairperson Justice Moyeenul Islam Chowdhury, presented the report at the State Guest House Jamuna at approximately 11 am, as stated in a press release from the Chief Adviser’s press wing. Present at the meeting were commission members Nur Khan Liton, Sazzad Hossain, and Nabila Idris, along with Housing and Public Works Adviser Adilur Rahman Khan, National Security Adviser Dr Khalilur Rahman, and Principal Secretary M Siraj Uddin Miah.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Prof Yunus suggested that the report should be published both as a book and online, highlighting its global relevance. He emphasized the severity of the incidents detailed in the report, noting that they were perpetrated by individuals from within society, including relatives and friends. Prof Yunus proposed the establishment of a museum to document these events, which he described as horrifying.
Prof Yunus also addressed the conditions faced by victims of enforced disappearances, who were confined in small cells for extended periods. He urged the commission to identify immediate actions for the government to undertake. A commission member disclosed that some officers involved in these incidents have expressed regret and reached out to the commission seeking redemption.
The commission has received 1,850 complaints, with 1,350 already reviewed. They anticipate that the number of complaints could exceed 3,500, with over 300 individuals still missing. The commission chief requested that the families of the missing be allowed to conduct bank transactions, as current laws presume individuals dead after seven years of disappearance. He recommended reducing this period to five years.
Prof Yunus encouraged the commission to provide guidance on necessary actions, promising swift government response. He expressed appreciation for the commission’s fearless work under threat, stating that their efforts inspire current and future human rights advocates.