Dhaka: The government has approved a proposal to amend the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), mandating that the family of an arrested individual must be informed within 12 hours of the arrest. This decision was made during a meeting of the Council of Advisers held at the Chief Adviser's Office, chaired by Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Law Adviser Dr. Asif Nazrul announced the amendment at a press conference at the Foreign Service Academy in the capital. He emphasized that police officers must carry identification and present it upon request during arrests. Additionally, police are required to bring the arrested individual to the station and notify their family within the stipulated 12-hour timeframe. Immediate medical attention must be provided if the detainee is unwell.
Dr. Asif Nazrul outlined that the reasons for arrest, the identities of the arresting officers, and the details of the family members contacted post-arrest must all be documented in writing. Furthermore, a record of arrests is to be maintained at police headquarters.
The adviser highlighted amendments to Section 54 of the CrPC, granting police the authority to arrest individuals committing a crime in their presence or if there is a risk of the individual absconding. The amendments also introduce provisions for online bail bonds and digital summons.
"If this law is properly implemented, I do believe it will play a groundbreaking role in preventing intentional arrests, harassment, and denial after the arrest or perish a person physically after arrest," Dr. Asif Nazrul stated.
Local Government Adviser Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain and Chief Adviser's Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam were also present at the press conference.