The National Parliament on Wednesday ratified an ordinance introduced by the immediate past interim government, providing legal immunity to individuals who took part in the 2024 July Mass Uprising.
The Parliament passed the July Mass Uprising (Protection and Liability Determination) Bill, 2026 by voice vote after it was presented by Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed, despite strong objections from National Citizen Party (NCP) lawmaker Hasnat Abdullah.
The legislation ensures comprehensive protection for participants by mandating the withdrawal of all ongoing civil and criminal cases linked to their involvement. Filing of new complaints or legal actions against certified participants is now explicitly prohibited under the law. Public prosecutors or government-appointed lawyers are empowered to apply to courts for case dismissals, and upon application, courts must immediately halt proceedings and discharge or acquit the accused.
For incidents involving alleged murder during the uprising, the cases will be referred to the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) for investigation. If the commission determines that the acts were part of legitimate political resistance, it can recommend government compensation for affected families. Conversely, if actions are deemed criminal abuses, the NHRC will submit reports to the courts for prosecution.
During parliamentary proceedings, MP Hasnat Abdullah raised concerns over the NHRC’s independence and criticised the administration for politicising state institutions.
He cited examples including the Bangladesh Cricket Board, the central bank and universities, alleging they had been occupied for partisan purposes.
Responding to the objections, Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed described the bill as a fulfilment of the July National Charter and a national demand.
Addressing the BCB controversy, he explained that an ad-hoc board, headed by legendary cricketer Tamim Iqbal, was formed after probes revealed irregularities in the previous board. Elections are scheduled to be held within three months.
Regarding human rights oversight, Salahuddin assured Parliament that a new NHRC bill will soon be tabled to establish an autonomous commission that meets international standards and aligns with the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) Act and laws addressing enforced disappearances.
The minister concluded by emphasising that the interim government’s prior occupation of key institutions, including Bangladesh Bank and universities, contributed to the nation’s current economic difficulties.
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