BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia has demanded international probe under the supervision of the United Nations into all killings, abduction and forced disappearances in Bangladesh.
“I know this illegal government will not investigate the incidents of abductions and killings. That is why we demand an international probe under the supervision of the UN,” she said.
The former premier also demanded that neutral persons from Bangladesh be included in the international probe committee for authentic investigation.
She made the demand after exchanging views with the family members of missing or abducted BNP leaders and activists at her Gulshan office in the capital yesterday, which was also the International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances.
Khaleda alleged that killings, abductions and forced disappearances are happening under the government’s patronage. “The government observes many international days, but they are not observing this day, because they are involved in these incidents. They are ashamed to observe the day.”
The BNP chief urged the government to return the missing people to their families soon.
She said the government had turned the country dysfunctional and tarnished its image in the international arena.
Tahmina Rushdir Luna, wife of missing BNP leader M Ilyas Ali, said: “My husband was picked up by law enforcers, but witnesses could not testify as they were threatened. I went to the prime minister, but nothing happened.” She demanded the return of her husband soon.
Family members of several other victims also shared their experiences and sufferings demanded that their loved ones be returned to them.