Dhaka: Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Md Asaduzzaman has announced plans to enact a comprehensive law addressing enforced disappearances, aiming to ensure strict punishment for offenders. The announcement was made during a stakeholder meeting titled ‘Law on Enforced Disappearance,’ held at the CIRDAP auditorium in Dhaka, organized by the National Human Rights Commission.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Minister Asaduzzaman emphasized the importance of careful consultation with stakeholders before finalizing the law. He stated, “There are many issues that need careful consideration. Such a law will not be enacted hastily if it ends up benefiting offenders instead of ensuring punishment.” The minister highlighted the necessity of extensive discussions to prevent any loopholes that could allow offenders to evade justice.
During the meeting, the minister reiterated the sensitivity and seriousness of enforced disappearance cases. He assured attendees that the government is committed to ensuring that such incidents never recur in Bangladesh. Md Asaduzzaman’s remarks underscored the government’s dedication to formulating a law that effectively addresses this grave issue.
Sylhet-2 lawmaker Taslima Rushdie shared her personal experience, recalling the enforced disappearance of her husband, M Ilias Ali, in 2012. She expressed her hope that new legislation would prevent similar tragedies in the future. “I entered politics seeking justice for victims of enforced disappearance and their families. I expect a law to be enacted so that no one in Bangladesh ever becomes a victim of enforced disappearance again,” she said.
Sanzida Islam Tuli, a member of parliament and coordinator of the human rights organization ‘Mayer Daak,’ also attended the meeting. She criticized past human rights commissions for their inaction on the issue and expressed optimism that proposals from the current discussion would help restore trust among the public and victims’ families.
The meeting was attended by various dignitaries, including Attorney General Barrister Md Ruhul Quddus Kazal, UNDP Resident Representative Stefan Liller, and senior officials from the National Human Rights Commission. Participants in the open discussion advocated for realistic legislation, suggesting that punishment be determined by the severity of the offence and recommending standards for investigating officers and timely judicial proceedings.