Dhaka: Survivors of enforced disappearances are grappling with the stigma of criminal charges while many have lost their livelihoods due to societal perceptions, as reported by the Commission for Inquiry on Enforced Disappearances. The report highlights the enduring challenges faced by these individuals, who are often labeled as criminals, whether the charges against them are genuine or fabricated.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, under Sheikh Hasina’s regime, victims of enforced disappearances have encountered systematic denial of justice and deprivation of essential rights. Efforts to locate and recover missing persons were regularly obstructed by authorities, who showed minimal intention to investigate allegations or uncover truths. Law enforcement agencies frequently refused to register complaints or commence proper investigations, citing “orders from above” as justification for their inaction.
In instances where victims reemerged, they were often subjected to further injustice, facing courts under fabricated charges, commonly under the Anti-Terrorism Act, 2009. The judicial system offered little redress, with ‘Habeas Corpus’ petitions rarely advancing beyond initial filings, leaving victims without meaningful legal recourse. The few court rulings on enforced disappearances cases appeared to legitimize the status quo rather than provide justice.
The commission found that lower courts relied heavily on law enforcement agencies, some of whom were involved in the crime of enforced disappearances, trapping victims in a cycle of institutional betrayal and impunity. For those who returned alive, the ordeal persisted, with ongoing threats preventing them from sharing their experiences or seeking accountability. The absence of due process, judicial safeguards, and systemic impunity further intensified their fear.
The report also details the social and economic repercussions faced by victims, with many losing their livelihoods due to the stigma associated with enforced disappearances and the challenges of reintegration into society. Interactions with the legal system often depleted resources, leaving survivors financially incapacitated. The commission suggests that the cumulative psychological, social, and financial toll on victims underscores the urgent need for restorative justice, systemic reforms, and comprehensive support.