President Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir announced that no secret detention cell, known as 'Aynaghor', will exist in independent Bangladesh.

He asserted that individuals involved in every incident of enforced disappearance, no matter their influence, will face trial and receive maximum punishment as per existing law.

The President emphasized that all paths leading to the return of fascism in the country will be closed permanently. He made the statements as the chief guest at a program observing 'International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances 2026' at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre in the capital on Sunday (August 30).

Strongly criticizing the previous regime over the past decade and a half, the President noted that enforced disappearances and secret detention cells once gripped Bangladesh in fear. Anyone protesting injustice or demanding democratic rights was subjected to forced disappearance.

However, obedient state institutions under the fascist regime consistently denied these severe crimes, he added.

During his speech, the President recalled missing BNP leaders Ilias Ali, Chowdhury Alam, Sajedul Islam Sumon, Barrister Arman, and retired Lieutenant General Azam.

He also referenced the terrifying abduction of Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed, who was present at the event as a special guest, and recalled how he was abducted and dropped in a foreign country.

Outlining steps taken by the current administration, the President mentioned that the 'Enforced Disappearance Prevention and Redress Bill, 2026' has been introduced in the Jatiya Sangsad to protect victims and prohibit enforced disappearances forever. Bangladesh has signed the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance.

Furthermore, trials for enforced disappearances and genocide are progressing through the International Crimes Tribunal while maintaining international standards.

Chaired by the Minister of Liberation War Affairs Ahmed Azam Khan, the program was also attended by Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed as a special guest.

Sun News/ra