Enforce laws properly to ensure human rights

There is no need to enact more laws in this regard, they said, adding that the law enforcers should enforce sections 54, 164 and 167 of the criminal procedure code (CrPC) carefully.

Bangladesh Society for the Enforcement of Human Rights (BSEHR) organised the workshop on 'Sharing experiences on SGGHR project of BSEHR' at the Cirdap auditorium in the city.

Speaking as the chief guest, Justice Md Fazlul Karim called on the rights groups and NGOs to raise awareness among the people about the basic rights enshrined in the constitution in order to establish the rule of law and human rights.

The citizens should be aware of their rights and at the same time they should respect the rights of others, he added.

Justice Karim urged the journalists to be more conscious while writing the court news so that it does not create a negative impact on the ongoing trial.

The level of human rights violations remains high in the country as women, children and the disadvantaged people are being deprived of justice, he said.

The government alone cannot ensure human rights for all citizens, Justice Karim said, adding that the NGOs and human rights organisations should come forward to establish human rights.

Presenting a keynote paper, Advocate Elina Khan, executive director of BSEHR, said the SGGHR project is being implemented in 30 thanas under six districts. The main goal of the project is to create supportive environment and ensure access to justice for the destitute.

She also placed a 24-point suggestion, including proper record of any case and quick submission of investigation report and protection of the victims and witnesses.

She also urged all related to the case to ensure justice for the victims.

Advocate Sigma Huda, secretary general of BSEHR, said lack of protection of the witnesses is an obstacle to proper trial.

She called for setting up safe shelters for the witnesses in every police station.

Forensic specialist Dr Habibuzzaman Chowdhury stressed the need for training on forensic examination for medical professionals so that they can submit accurate post-mortem report.

He also suggested appointing forensic experts in every thana health complexes to ensure justice.

BSEHR national committee member Prof MA Momen, SGGHR Project Director Albert Prasad Basu, lawyers, doctors, police officials, NGO representatives took part in the workshop, moderated by BSEHR Treasurer Shireen Sheikh Moinuddin.