Ain o Salish Kendra (ASK) has called for independent, impartial and effective investigations into all allegations of enforced disappearance, saying state accountability is essential to prevent such incidents from recurring.
The human rights organization made the call amid new allegations of enforced disappearance in Bangladesh in 2026, despite the country's accession to the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance (ICPPED) in 2024.
The family of a man, Miraj Sheikh, has alleged that he remains missing after being taken away by members of the Coast Guard in Mongla, Bagerhat.
ASK said the allegation must be promptly and impartially investigated to establish the truth about his fate and whereabouts.
The organization said enacting laws alone would not be enough to end enforced disappearances. Missing persons must be traced, while victims and their families must be ensured the right to know the truth.
ASK also called for establishing the truth about past incidents and ensuring accountability, while developing effective state protection mechanisms to prevent enforced disappearances from recurring in the future.
The information was provided in a press release sent by ASK on Saturday.
To prevent and provide remedies for enforced disappearances, the government has approved the draft Prevention and Remedies for Enforced Disappearance Act, 2026, in the cabinet.
ASK welcomed the initiative but said concerns raised by human rights activists and relevant stakeholders regarding some provisions of the draft should be given serious consideration.
It said the law would be more effective and acceptable if the opinions of victims and their families, human rights organizations, lawyers and relevant experts were considered before the law is finalized.
On August 30, 2024, Bangladesh acceded to the ICPPED. ASK said the move represented an important international commitment by the state to prevent enforced disappearances and provide remedies for victims.
However, ASK said that despite Bangladesh joining the convention, new allegations of enforced disappearance have emerged in the country in 2026.
Expressing solidarity with all victims of enforced disappearance and their families, ASK called for an end to enforced disappearances, the establishment of the truth about the fate and whereabouts of missing persons, and the protection of every citizen under the law.
Sunday is the International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances. The day is observed to express solidarity with victims and their families, call for an end to such serious human rights violations, and reiterate the demand to establish the truth about the fate and whereabouts of missing persons.
ASK said this year's observance carries special significance as 20 years have passed since the United Nations adopted the ICPPED in 2006.
This year's theme, “Victims first. Actions now,” calls for immediate and effective action by prioritizing the rights and dignity of victims.
Bangladesh has also experienced allegations of enforced disappearances and their severe humanitarian consequences over a long period.