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The interim government has approved the National Human Rights Commission Ordinance 2025, significantly expanding the commission’s jurisdiction and mandate.
The approval came during a meeting of the Advisory Council on Thursday, where two other ordinances, the Artificial Organ Transplantation Ordinance and the July Memorial Museum Ordinance, were also passed.
Speaking at a press conference at the Foreign Service Academy after the meeting, Law Advisor Asif Nazrul detailed the reforms, saying the previous human rights body had been “toothless” and ineffective.
“We have now made it stronger, ensuring it becomes a genuinely empowered institution capable of addressing human rights violations.”
Highlighting the new provisions, he explained that the definition of human rights had been broadened.
“Beyond the fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution, the commission will now have the authority to act on issues recognised under international human rights declarations and conventions ratified by Bangladesh, as well as customary international law.”
The restructured Human Rights Commission will consist of a chairperson and four full-time members. A seven-member selection committee, headed by a judge of the Appellate Division, will recommend appointments to fill any vacant posts of chairperson or commissioner.
The recruitment process will involve public notifications and will follow a procedure similar to that used for appointing judges to the higher courts.
Addressing gaps in the previous law, Nazrul said: “The old commission had serious limitations, particularly regarding its power to investigate cases involving law-enforcing agencies. Now, the commission will have full authority to investigate and take necessary action on any human rights violations committed by or under the patronage of the state, including law-enforcing agencies.”
He added that the commission would be entrusted with key responsibilities under any law related to the prevention of enforced disappearances, protection of victims, and safeguarding of human rights.
The law on deaths in custody will also be amended to grant the commission investigative powers in such cases.
On the Artificial Organ Transplantation Ordinance, Nazrul said the new law allows organ donation not only from family members but also from individuals with an “emotional attachment” to the recipient.
Discussing the July Uprising Memorial Museum Ordinance, he said: “The residence of the ‘fascist’ ex-prime minister, now facing trial for mass killings, has been declared the July Memorial Museum. It will be a distinct institution, not a branch of the National Museum. Given its historical and symbolic significance, it will function independently.”
He added that alleged torture cells known as “Aynaghor” may also be designated as branch museums under the new ordinance.