Political Alliance Marches on Parliament, Demands Law on Disappearances
Today, on the International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances, an 11-party political alliance marched to the National Parliament in Dhaka. This protest aimed to bring attention to the issue of missing persons in Bangladesh. The alliance also demanded a new law to stop such incidents. The United Nations marks August 30 as this international day. Groups worldwide use this day to remember those who have vanished. They also demand accountability and justice for them.
The protest started from the Banglamotor intersection at 3:40 PM. It proceeded towards Manik Mia Avenue, near the Parliament building. Leaders from Jamaat-e-Islami led the alliance. Jamaat Secretary General Mia Golam Parwar participated in the march.
Other notable figures joined the protest. These included AHM Hamidur Rahman Azad, a Jamaat Assistant Secretary General. Former BNP leader Major (Retd.) Akhtaruzzaman was also present. He recently joined Jamaat. Maulana Jalaluddin Ahmad, Secretary General of Bangladesh Khelafat Majlis, also took part. JAGPA Vice President Rashed Pradhan marched alongside them. Several individuals who were victims of enforced disappearance also joined the protest.
Before the main march, a brief rally was held at 3:00 PM. This rally took place near the Rupayan Trade Centre in Banglamotor. Hasinur Rahman presided over the rally. He is a former army officer and a victim of enforced disappearance.
Mr. Rahman strongly criticized Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed. He urged the government to enact a specific law. This law would prevent enforced disappearances. It was first drafted during the previous interim government. Other speakers also shared their views at this rally.
Hamidur Rahman Azad, coordinator of the 11-party alliance, gave closing remarks. He expressed strong support for the program. Mr. Azad stated the march would conclude in front of the Parliament. A delegation would then enter the Parliament building. They plan to submit a memorandum to the Speaker. This document will detail their demands.
As the procession moved, participants chanted various slogans. They called for an end to secret detention cells in Bangladesh. They also demanded justice for those who have disappeared. The protestors gathered in front of the Parliament for a final rally.
