Dhaka: The Jatiya Sangsad today successfully passed three significant bills designed to enhance human rights protection, curb enforced disappearances, and formally acknowledge lifetime usufruct rights in property transfers. The legislative session marked a crucial step in reinforcing legal frameworks in Bangladesh.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the National Human Rights Commission Bill, 2026, repeals the 2009 Act and establishes a new independent commission aimed at more effectively safeguarding human rights. The bill outlines the formation of a commission comprising a chairperson and four commissioners, with representation from women and national minority communities. A significant feature is the establishment of a National Preventive Mechanism unit to prevent torture and custodial deaths in alignment with international protocols.
The Prevention and Remedy of Enforced Disappearance Bill, 2026, introduced severe penalties, including life imprisonment and possible capital punishment, for enforced disappearances. The bill defines this act as a grave criminal offense and includes provisions for the protection of victims and their families, state-funded assistance, and international cooperation. It mandates the completion of investigations and trials within 120 days, although it stops short of forming an independent investigative body, leaving the police in charge of investigations.
Furthermore, the Transfer of Property (Amendment) Bill, 2026, amends the previous Act of 1882 to legally recognize lifetime usufruct rights. This amendment enables property donors to transfer assets to blood relatives or spouses while retaining usage rights for life. The bill intends to respect existing property transfer laws without conflict, ensuring inclusivity across all faiths.
The bills faced scrutiny and amendments from parliamentary standing committees after initial objections from opposition lawmakers. Nevertheless, their passage addresses the expiration of several ordinances from the interim government, reinforcing the legislative framework surrounding human rights and property laws in Bangladesh.