Human chains, rallies held in Dhaka, other districts to observe UN Int’l Day in Support of Victims of Torture
On the occasion of the UN International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, observed globally since 26 June 1998, the Human Rights Development Centre (HRDC) organised human chains and public gatherings today at Rayerbazar Memorial in Dhaka.
Rallies were also held in Khulna, Rajshahi, and Meherpur, demanding rehabilitation, justice, and compensation for survivors of torture, reads a press release.
The event brought together human rights defenders, social workers, lawyers, mental health professionals, researchers, youth, civil society organisations, marginalised communities, and survivors of torture.
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Many of the participants shared their harrowing stories of abuse and repression at the event.
Mahbul Haque, secretary general of HRDC, said, "This march is not just a protest — it is our pledge to every torture survivor that we will continue the fight until justice is served."
Md Jianur Kabir, a mental health specialist and HRDC member, said, "Physical and mental torture continues in every corner of this 'new Bangladesh.' Sadly, mental torture remains widely ignored, and there is still no clear rehabilitation framework for survivors."
He stressed the urgent need to lift Bangladesh's reservation on Article 14 of UNCAT, so that full rehabilitation and adequate compensation for victims and their families can be ensured.
