The use of enforced disappearance in Bangladesh as a tool of political oppression : Human rights in retreat

During the period between August 14, 1947 and December 15, 1971, when Bangladesh was in a union with Pakistan as its eastern province, the inhabitants of Bangladesh frequently witnessed the violation of their fundamental human rights in the hands of the Punjab-dominated establishment in the western province due to its frequent use of various arbitrary measures, such as the tool of enforced disappearance. Thus, when Bangladesh ultimately emerged as an independent nation on December 16, 1971, the founding fathers endeavored to establish a liberal democracy that would uphold the liberties of individuals. To this end, they incorporated extensive guarantees in the Constitution of Bangladesh (1972) for promoting and protecting the dignity and worth of individuals. However, this Article will demonstrate that almost fifty years since the nation achieved its independence, the promise of a liberal democracy has remained unfulfilled. The current government of the Bangladesh Awami League has indiscriminately used the tool of enforced disappearance to eliminate any perceived threats to its life and to, consequently, instill fear among the population, thereby consolidating its grip on power. Accordingly, this Article will put forward concrete recommendations for promoting and protecting the virtues which are essential for the establishment of a democratic society in Bangladesh based on the rule of law and human rights.