2.4 Torture and death in Custody
NHRC thinks that protecting any person in custody is the legal responsibility of police.
Death in police custody is definitely a gross human rights violation and appropriate
investigation is needed. No matter how the death happens in custody, it is important
to investigate the case and take necessary actions. This year, death of Sumon Sheikh
in Hatirjheel thana created mass grievance in the country. Sumon’s wife complained
that police tortured him after arrest and due to torture he died. His aggravated
relatives protested in front of the police station. NHRC asked government to send
report. Later on, in CCTV footage, it was seen that Sumon committed suicide in the
custody. Duty officer Hemayet Hossain and security guard Md. Jakaria were
suspended for this.
On another incident, Siddiq Ahmed was detained in DB custody and DB arrested him
with 1000 pieces of yaba from Ramna area. He was taken to hospital as he felt sick and
doctor declared him dead. Police informed, he had yaba pills inside his abdomen.
These yaba pills had already melted, which may have caused his death. Police also
informed that all the Police officials were instructed to be aware that no death should
occur in custody.
2.5 Freedom of Expression
Freedom of expression is constitutional rights. It is mandatory to respect every article
of constitution. It is not prudent to misuse freedom of expression. On the other hand,
violating other’s rights due to expressing opinion independently is not accepted at all.
In 2022 too, media reported about news of harrassing Journalists by misusing Digital
Security Act. Commission has condemned these and urged concerned authorities to
investigate and ensure justice. Besides, the DSA needs to be reviewed to make it
compatible with international standard.
2.6 Violence against Women
Throughout this year, Violence against women has been noticed. Mention may be made
about the incident that took place in Narshingdi Railway station. A female student was
physically assaulted over her outfit in Narshingdi railway station. It is a matter of
surprise that a woman led that assault. A member of Police verbally abused Dr. Lata, a
teacher of Tejgaon college, for wearing a “teep” and tried to run her over with his
motorcycle. Besides, media reported about rape of a female security guard in Savar,
torture and acid throwing at a housewife in Koyra, Khulna and many other news on
Human Rights Outlook in 2022: An Evaluation | 33