Dhaka: Moyeenul Islam Chowdhury, former chairman of the Commission of Inquiry on Enforced Disappearances and former High Court Justice, has described enforced disappearance as 'more horrific than death'. He made these remarks at a symposium titled 'Human Rights Situation in Bangladesh: A Review'.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Justice Moyeenul emphasized that enforced disappearance is more distressing than death, as it leaves families in perpetual uncertainty. While death allows for mourning and closure through rituals, enforced disappearance deprives families of any knowledge of their loved one's whereabouts. This uncertainty brings about social stigma, financial difficulties, and isolation for the families of the victims.
Justice Moyeenul highlighted that enforced disappearances became rampant during the previous Awami League government. During this period, extreme brutality was prevalent, with enforced disappearances being central to state repression. The situation reportedly ended with the July Movement of 2024.
He further noted that state machinery often depicted victims as criminals to justify these acts. Law enforcement and intelligence officials were reportedly dehumanized under orders from the highest level to facilitate such actions.