TIB flags concerns over NHRC Act
Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has expressed concern that the proposed National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Act, 2026 could turn the commission into a government-influenced body rather than an independent institution.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, TIB said several key provisions of the draft law conflict with international standards and the Paris Principles on national human rights institutions.
The anti-corruption watchdog said it submitted 19 recommendations to the government on June 8 and urged broader consultation with stakeholders before finalizing the legislation.
According to TIB, the draft law removes a previous provision that stated the NHRC would remain outside any ministry or government department. The organization warned that this change could effectively place the commission under executive control and weaken its ability to independently investigate human rights violations.
TIB also raised concerns over the proposed selection committee for appointing commissioners. Under Section 7 of the draft, the committee includes the Speaker of Parliament, two ministers, a ruling party lawmaker, and the Cabinet Secretary. The organization said this composition could increase government influence and undermine the commission’s neutrality.
The organization further called for stronger investigative authority for the NHRC, including regular inspections of detention facilities run by law enforcement agencies, intelligence bodies, and the military.
It also recommended empowering the commission to investigate allegations of enforced disappearances, torture, and illegal detention, and to recommend the closure of unlawful detention centers.
TIB strongly objected to a provision requiring prior government approval to take legal action against public officials or law enforcement members accused of rights violations, and proposed its removal.
It also criticized Section 20 of the draft law, saying it could restrict the commission’s independence in investigating security forces, and urged its repeal.
The organization warned that such limitations may be responsible for the NHRC’s failure to obtain “A” status accreditation from the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions.
TIB recommended structural reforms to ensure representation from women and marginalized communities, including at least one commissioner from an ethnic minority or disadvantaged group and a minimum of two women commissioners.
It also suggested limiting government deputation in the commission to a maximum of 10%, down from the proposed 30%, and called for stronger financial independence for the NHRC to reduce reliance on government budget control.
TIB said an independent and effective human rights commission is essential for protecting all citizens, regardless of political affiliation.
“If the human rights commission fails to function independently and effectively, every political force in the country and ordinary people will be its victims,” the statement added.
The organization urged the government to revise the draft law after further consultation with civil society groups, human rights defenders, and legal experts.
