Dhaka, July 30 (V7N)- In response to serious allegations of constitutional, legal, and human rights violations linked to recent quota reform protests, a 'National Inquiry Commission' has been established. The announcement was made on Monday by joint secretaries of the commission, Tanzimuddin Khan and Maha Mirza.
 
The commission aims to investigate incidents of violence that began on July 16, when excessive force was reportedly used against student protesters in the Dhaka University area. Nationwide protests followed, leading to severe incidents, including the shooting of Abu Saeed in Rangpur. Despite this, the official response has been criticized for blaming ordinary students and the public, casting doubt on the integrity of the investigation process.
 
National reports suggest at least 209 deaths related to the protests, while the official toll is 147. Allegations of severe violations—including torture, shootings, and mass arrests—have raised concerns about the handling of the protests.
 
The National Inquiry Commission will be led by retired Appellate Division judge Justice Md. Abdul Matin and includes prominent figures in human rights law and journalism, such as activist Sultana Kamal, senior lawyer ZI Khan Panna, and journalists Abu Saeed Khan and Ashraf Kaiser. Professor Tanzimuddin Khan and Maha Mirza will serve as joint secretaries.
 
The commission will soon seek information related to the violence, including audio, video, photographs, and written materials, and ensure confidentiality for those providing evidence. Aneek R. Haque confirmed that the Terms of Reference and a Call for Evidence will be published shortly.
 
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