Bangladesh’s Ministry of Liberation War Affairs has initiated plans to establish a new directorate for people affected by enforced disappearance, murder, torture and extrajudicial killings, as well as their families. The proposed body would work to ensure welfare, medical care, legal protection and rehabilitation. The initiative was discussed at an inter-ministerial meeting at the ministry on Sunday, according to a ministry press release.

Liberation War Affairs Minister Ahmed Azam Khan, who chaired the meeting, said people who made sacrifices during long struggles to restore democracy should receive state recognition, similar to those affected by the July mass uprising. He cited victims who disappeared, were killed, lost eyesight, became disabled, lost their assets in alleged false cases, or spent years in prison.

Participants discussed amending Schedule-1 of the Rules of Business, 1996, to place the responsibility formally under the ministry. They also considered legislation to secure victims’ and families’ rights and compensation, with reference to UN principles on remedy and reparation and Bangladesh’s constitution. Representatives from several ministries and divisions attended the meeting.