‘How Can Those Who Were Victims of Torture Recommend Repealing the Enforced Disappearance Law?’

Barrister Mir Ahmad Bin Quasem Arman, MP for Dhaka-14 and a victim of enforced disappearance during the previous Awami League government, has strongly questioned the recommendation to repeal the Enforced Disappearance (Prevention and Remedy) Act and the Human Rights Commission Act.

Speaking emotionally in Parliament on Sunday (5 April) during a Point of Order, the MP said those who themselves suffered enforced disappearance and torture under the fascist regime cannot suggest scrapping the very laws meant to prevent such crimes.

He recounted his own experience of being kept in a dark room for months, saying he and hundreds of others were taken there, many of whom never returned. “We thought we were being buried alive. I started reciting Surah Yasin thinking I was going to be killed,” he said, his voice choked with emotion.

Barrister Arman urged the government: If any amendments are needed, the laws should first be passed in their current form and then amended later through proper procedure. He warned that if the laws are repealed on 12 April, from 13 April there will be no legal definition of enforced disappearance in the country.

In response, Law Minister Advocate Md. Asaduzzaman said the current ordinances have several flaws and need to be made more effective. He assured that the government is not trying to protect perpetrators. Crimes of enforced disappearance will continue to be tried under the International Crimes (Tribunals) Act as crimes against humanity, carrying the highest punishment of death or life imprisonment.

The minister added that the government plans to review and amend the laws after proper consultation with all stakeholders, including victims like Barrister Arman, to ensure justice for the victims while preventing any loopholes for the guilty.