The Advisory Council today in principle approved the draft of the “Enforced Disappearance Prevention and Redress Ordinance 2025”, which proposes the death penalty as the maximum punishment for offenders.

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus chaired the meeting at the Chief Adviser’s Office, Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam told a briefing at the Foreign Service Academy. He said the draft will be placed again for final approval after further discussions.

Prepared on the recommendations of the Commission of Enquiry on Enforced Disappearances, the ordinance defines enforced disappearance as a crime, declares secret detention cells punishable, and empowers the National Human Rights Commission to investigate complaints.

The draft also calls for a special tribunal, trial completion within 120 days, protection of victims, informants, and witnesses, as well as compensation and legal aid for victims.

Officials said the law aims to prevent enforced disappearances in Bangladesh and ensure justice for victims and their families.

MN/