Home Minister Claims End to Enforced Disappearances Under New Administration Amid Push for Legal Reforms
Photo Collected
Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed declared on Saturday that the current government has recorded zero instances of enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, or political repression since assuming office six months ago. The minister addressed the issue during a discussion held at the Shahbag National Museum in Dhaka, organized by Mayer Daak, an advocacy group representing families of the disappeared, to mark the International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances.
Responding to inquiries regarding Miraj Sheikh, who went missing in Mongla, Bagerhat, the minister stated that an independent investigation linked the individual to local forest bandits and internal rivalries within those groups. He dismissed allegations of a forced disappearance in the case, suggesting the individual had a documented history of criminal activity extending to his family members.
Minister Ahmed emphasized that the government has enacted the Enforced Disappearance Prevention and Remedy Act-2026 to ensure victims have access to judicial recourse. The legislation defines the crime, sets specific penalties—including the death penalty for extreme cases—and provides a framework for compensating families if perpetrators cannot pay. The minister stated that the law was drafted in consultation with international stakeholders, including United Nations representatives and diplomatic missions, to align with international human rights standards while maintaining domestic context.
Regarding institutional reforms, the minister noted that the government is working to improve the professionalism and morale of law enforcement agencies through a structured system of rewards and penalties. He added that efforts are underway to build specialized intelligence and cyber-security capabilities, with a primary focus on ensuring accountability and upholding human rights within these forces.
However, human rights activist and former inquiry commission member Nur Khan Liton contested the official narrative regarding the Mongla incident. Citing findings from a site visit and digital evidence verification, Liton alleged that law enforcement agencies were involved in the disappearance. He criticized the lack of legal action and warned that officials are reportedly pressuring witnesses to retract statements. Liton urged that investigations into such incidents must be conducted by an independent body outside the control of the accused security forces.
During the event, other speakers also addressed the legislation’s limitations. Member of Parliament Mir Ahmad Bin Quasem Arman called for the immediate repeal of specific sections of the new law—sections 14, 19, and 21—arguing they create barriers to independent investigations. He further stressed the need for sufficient funding and manpower to expedite judicial proceedings. Lawyer Sara Hossain highlighted the systemic harassment faced by families of the disappeared, noting that they have historically been denied employment, education, and banking services due to their association with the victims.
The discussion, moderated by Member of Parliament Sanjida Islam, also featured emotional appeals from family members seeking closure. Adiba Islam, daughter of the missing Parvez Hossain, broke down while describing the ongoing uncertainty her family faces, stating they seek answers regarding her father’s fate rather than political rhetoric. The event also featured an exhibition titled “Until They Return,” coordinated by Netra News, highlighting the plight of those forcibly disappeared.
0%
0%
0%
0%
