A government-appointed commission in Bangladesh is actively probing widespread human rights abuses that occurred during the 15-year rule of former Premier Sheikh Hasina. This includes hundreds of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings of political opponents, painting a grim picture of her time in power.

The Commission of Inquiry into Enforced Disappearances, established by interim leader and Nobel Peace Prize winner Muhammad Yunus, warns that a deep-seated "culture of impunity" allowed these crimes to flourish. This politicized system not only condoned but often rewarded such actions by security forces.

Alarmingly, the commission states that this impunity has persisted even after the change in regime on August 5, 2024. Over 250 cases of enforced disappearances from Hasina's era have been verified, highlighting the scale of the issue.

While Commission chief Moyeenul Islam Chowdhury attributes responsibility to individual officers, he clarifies that the armed forces as an institution are not to blame. This distinction is crucial as the probe continues.

International rights groups, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, have urged the security forces to fully cooperate with the commission. They demand unfettered access to detention centers and records to ensure transparency.

Hasina, currently in self-imposed exile in India, faces charges of crimes against humanity. Her trial in absentia continues as Bangladesh seeks accountability for a dark chapter in its history.

Source: https://www.arabnews.com/node/2605514/world