Dhaka: President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has declared that all criminals involved in enforced disappearances should be brought to justice, regardless of their power or position. "There would be no more 'Aynaghar' in independent Bangladesh, and every criminal involved in enforced disappearance must receive the maximum punishment under the law," he stated during an event marking the International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances-2026.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the discussion was organized by the Ministry of Liberation War Affairs and held at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre. The President emphasized that for the past one and a half decades, under a fascist government, Bangladesh had been plagued by enforced disappearances and the secret detention center known as 'Aynaghar'. He criticized state institutions for denying these crimes and underscored the need for justice rather than revenge, following the mass uprising that led to the fascist ruler fleeing the country.
President Alamgir highlighted that enforced disappearance is not just an act of abduction, but a violation of fundamental human rights, stripping individuals and their families of peace, dreams, and well-being. He urged the government to support the victims and their families by ensuring social security, healthcare, education, and rehabilitation, stressing that punishing the criminals alone is not sufficient.
He further reflected on the painful chapter in national history marked by enforced disappearances, citing cases involving various political figures and civilians. Former Prime Minister Begum Khaleda Zia was noted for her opposition to these actions. The President called for a just society, free from political vengeance and fear, where power is governed by the Constitution and law.
The event was presided over by Liberation War Affairs Minister Ahmed Aazam Khan, with special guests including Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed, Law Minister Md. Asaduzzaman, and State Minister for the Ministry of Liberation War Affairs Ishraque Hossain. Lawmakers and victims of enforced disappearances also spoke, demanding fair trials for these incidents.