Our National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has taken a significant step by proposing amendments to the NHRC Act of 2009.
This newspaper on Wednesday reported that the initiative, discussed during the 111th Commission Meeting on 1 October, aims to enhance the commission’s ability to investigate allegations against law enforcement agencies directly.
In light of recent events, including the resignation of the 6th NHRC members following the fall of the Awami League government, these proposed changes are both timely and essential.
Currently, Section 18 of the NHRC Act restricts the commission’s ability to investigate human rights violations committed by law enforcement. Instead, it merely allows the NHRC to request reports from the government.
This bureaucratic barrier not only undermines the commission’s effectiveness but also hampers accountability for those in uniform. By proposing the abolishment of this section, the NHRC seeks to align itself with the Paris Principles, which advocate for independence and efficacy of national human rights institutions.
In addition to this critical amendment, the NHRC has also recommended increasing the selection committee for appointing its chairperson and commissioners from seven to nine members.
This change aims to enhance the diversity and representation within the committee, ensuring that appointments are made with a broader perspective. The inclusion of a High Court judge and a civil society representative would undoubtedly enrich the decision-making process, promoting transparency and integrity in the commission’s leadership.
Moreover, the NHRC’s proposal to grant it the authority to issue bailable arrest warrants for non-compliant summoned individuals reflects a necessary shift towards greater enforcement capabilities.
This measure would empower the commission to uphold its mandate more effectively and ensure that those called upon to answer for their actions do so without evasion.
As Bangladesh navigates a complex political landscape, the need for robust human rights protections has never been more urgent. We must say the proposed amendments to the NHRC Act represent a vital opportunity to strengthen the commission’s role in safeguarding human rights and holding violators accountable.
Therefore, we urge the government to take these proposals seriously and act swiftly to amend the legislation, ensuring that the NHRC can fulfil its mandate effectively and independently.
In doing so, the country will not only uphold its commitment to human rights but also foster a culture of accountability and justice essential for a thriving democracy.