Bangladesh’s interim government has cleared a draft ordinance that introduces the death penalty for those responsible for enforced disappearances, a move announced as ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and 15 serving military officers continue to face trial for alleged crimes against humanity.
Press Secretary to Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, Shafiqul Alam, confirmed on Thursday that the advisory council approved the draft ordinance.
What Is The New Law Against Enforced Disappearances?
“This is a landmark law. It will ensure that enforced disappearances never occur again in the country,” Alam said during a press briefing.
The proposed law criminalises the creation and operation of secret detention facilities, including those referred to as “so-called Aynaghar,” and mandates that trials under the ordinance be completed within 120 days from the filing of charges.
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Once President Mohammad Shahabuddin signs the ordinance, it is expected to apply to Hasina, members of her former administration, including the ex-police chief, and 15 serving military officers currently under trial.
Sheikh Hasina Facing Death Penalty Demand in Absentia
On October 16, the chief prosecutor at the Bangladesh International Crimes Tribunal (ICT-BD) sought the death penalty for Hasina, calling her the “mastermind and principal architect” of alleged crimes against humanity during last year’s mass protests.
Hasina, 78, has been living in self-exile in India since her government was ousted in August 2024 following widespread student-led demonstrations. A UN human rights report stated that up to 1,400 people were killed between July 15 and August 15 last year when her administration ordered a sweeping security crackdown.
Hasina is being tried in absentia along with several of her former ministers. Fifteen serving military officers are also on trial and have appeared before the tribunal after complying with arrest warrants issued earlier.
Sheikh Hasina Criticises Interim Government From Exile
Meanwhile, speaking from self-exile in India, Hasina has accused the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government of pursuing “violent and extremist” policies that have strained ties with New Delhi.
She said that the ban on her party, the Awami League, violates Bangladesh’s Constitution and will prevent its supporters from participating in upcoming elections.
Hasina also expressed gratitude to India, saying she was “deeply grateful to the Indian people for providing me with a safe haven.”
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Zubair Amin is a Senior Journalist at NewsX with over seven years of experience in reporting and editorial work. He has written for leading national and international publications, including Foreign Policy Magazine, Al Jazeera, The Economic Times, The Indian Express, The Wire, Article 14, Mongabay, News9, among others. His primary focus is on international affairs, with a strong interest in US politics and policy. He also writes on West Asia, Indian polity, and constitutional issues. Zubair tweets at zubaiyr.amin
