East Pakistan went under neo-colonial rule after getting independence from British rule. West Pakistani rulers violated human rights in this region more than that of British rules. So, Bangladesh was born in 1971 through liberation war with the aim of establishing human rights. We have taken the charge of NHRC as the 6th Commission through celebration of Human Rights Day on 10th December 2022. All Members of the Commission is committed to work for the protection of human rights through the Commission. Newly formed Commission has adopted strategic plan for promoting human rights more effectively. Commission will be vocal on any kind of human rights violation issue and will make people aware of human rights. I believe, the members of NHRC will be able to play effective role in promoting and protecting human rights using their past experiences. We have identified our priority areas after series of discussion with media personnel, Civil Society and members of district human rights protection committees. We have already visited 03 districts of Chittagong Hill Tracts and conducted public hearing in Rangamati. Besides, NHRC visited Lama, Bandarban where miscreants vandalised the houses of Mro people (ethnic community). After visit NHRC recommended to take action against the perpetrators. In addition, the Commission condemned Janaza attendance with handcuffs, leg irons in Gazipur and also called for action against those involved in the incident. NHRC also provided legal assistance to Mustakim, who was arrested for protesting against increased price of dialysis in Chittagong. We know, Bangladesh is a secular country. The aim of our liberation war was to promote nationalism, secularism, democracy and socialism. These became four principals of our constitution. Enjoying religious freedom is a constitutionally recognized fundamental rights. Some ill-motived people are spreading communal attack in different parts of the country for damaging our country’s image in international arena. This type of incident will be repeatedly held if the perpetrators are not given exemplary punishment. Thus, NHRC called on government to take actions for ensuring their punishment. In the end, NHRC believes in partnership with all key stakeholders including media. So, it wants to play strong role in promoting and protecting human rights rather than being just a seremonial institution. So, I believe, the Commission will be able to fulfill its aim with the help of all stakeholders. Dr. Kamal Uddin Ahmed 10 | Annual Report 2022 : National Human Rights Commission