Dhaka, Nov 6 (V7N)- The Advisory Council has given final approval to the ‘Prevention, Remedy and Protection of Disappearances Ordinance, 2025’, keeping the death penalty as the maximum punishment for enforced disappearance. The decision was made at a meeting held at the Chief Advisor’s office on Thursday (November 6).

According to a press briefing by the Chief Advisor’s Press Secretary, the ordinance defines disappearance as an ongoing crime and includes strict punishments, including the death penalty. The establishment and use of secret detention centers, or ‘mirror houses’, has been declared a punishable offense.

The ordinance grants the National Human Rights Commission the power to receive and investigate complaints related to disappearances. It also provides for the formation of special tribunals, with an obligation to complete trials within 120 days of filing a complaint.

Provisions include protection and rights for victims, whistleblowers, and witnesses, as well as compensation, legal aid guarantees, and the establishment of a fund and database to prevent, remedy, and protect against disappearances.

END/SMA/AJ