Dhaka: The government today granted final approval to the draft of the ‘Enforced Disappearance Prevention and Redress Ordinance 2025,’ which introduces capital punishment and other stringent penalties for the offence. The Council of Advisers sanctioned the draft at its 47th meeting, held at the Chief Adviser’s Office, with Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus presiding.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the ordinance defines enforced disappearance as a continuing offence and criminalizes both the establishment and use of secret detention centers, known as “Aynaghar.” Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam shared these details during a briefing at the Foreign Service Academy. He emphasized that the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has been empowered to receive and investigate complaints regarding enforced disappearance.
The ordinance mandates the completion of trials within 120 days following the establishment of special tribunals for investigating these complaints. It also ensures the protection of victims, witnesses, and informants, while guaranteeing compensation and legal aid. A special fund and database will be created to aid the prevention and redressal of enforced disappearances.
Shafiqul Alam noted that the ordinance was formulated in alignment with the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance, ratified by Bangladesh on August 29, 2024. He underscored that this legislation represents a significant step toward safeguarding life and personal liberty as enshrined in the constitution.
The press secretary further stated that the law aims to prevent any future government from establishing regimes of disappearances or secret prisons in Bangladesh. He highlighted that during Sheikh Hasina’s regime, hundreds of people were victims of enforced disappearances, with about 2000 complaints received by the Commission of Inquiry on Enforced Disappearances. However, commission members believe the actual number of victims could exceed 4000.
Alam reported that numerous ‘Aynaghars’ existed across the country, where victims of enforced disappearances were detained. Although many victims have returned from these secret prisons, several individuals, including some BNP activists, remain unaccounted for.
Chief Adviser’s Senior Assistant Press Secretary Foyez Ahammad and Assistant Press Secretary Shuchismita Tithi were also present at the briefing.