Law, Justice, and Parliamentary Affairs Adviser, Dr. Asif Nazrul, announced that the interim government plans to enact a law to prevent enforced disappearances within the next month. This legislation will establish a robust, permanent commission dedicated to investigating such cases.
Dr. Nazrul made this statement following a meeting with the United Nations Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances at the Secretariat on Monday.
He also said that the government is also moving forward with a plana to establish a Truth and Reconciliation Commission.
The Law Adviser highlighted that the commission would be modeled after similar initiatives in South Africa, Sri Lanka, and Nepal, with the goal of fostering national unity and justice.
The proposed ordinance introduces stringent penalties for enforced disappearances. Under the draft law, government officials found guilty of causing the death of a victim through enforced disappearance could face the death penalty or life imprisonment, along with fines up to Tk 1 crore.
Those responsible for disappearances not resulting in death could receive life imprisonment or a minimum of 10 years in prison, along with fines up to Tk 50 lakh. This legislation aims to recognize enforced disappearances as a distinct criminal offense, separate from existing laws on abduction and kidnapping.
The Adviser acknowledged the challenges in addressing these issues, noting that the interim government has only been in power for a short period compared to the long-standing issues stemming from previous administrations. However, he assured that the current government is committed to pursuing justice for the victims and ensuring that such atrocities do not recur.
The proposed measures have been met with both support and criticism. Human rights organizations have welcomed the government’s efforts but have urged for the draft ordinance to align more closely with international standards, particularly regarding the definition of enforced disappearances and the need for comprehensive public consultations.
As the interim government continues to prioritize the investigation and prosecution of enforced disappearances and crimes against humanity, the establishment of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission and the enactment of the new law are seen as pivotal steps toward accountability and healing for the affected families and the nation as a whole.