Prof Yunus Urges ‘Horror Museum’ on Disappearances

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has proposed the establishment of a ‘horror museum’ to document and exhibit the brutal torture and persecution revealed by the Inquiry Commission on Enforced Disappearances.

“The second interim report of the Commission exposes harrowing torture faced by the victims. After reviewing the findings, the Chief Adviser said such atrocities must be preserved in a ‘horror museum’ for public awareness,” said Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam.

He made the remarks while briefing on the submission of the Commission’s second interim report at the Foreign Service Academy.

It was also stated that the proposed museum could include a section within the July–August Mass Revolution Memorial Museum at Gono Bhaban, dedicated specifically to the documentation and evidence of these atrocities.

The report was submitted to the Chief Adviser at the State Guest House, Jamuna, by the Commission’s Chair, Justice Moyeenul Islam Chowdhury, alongside members Noor Khan, Sajjad Hossain, and Nabila Idris.

The report identified the intelligence wing of the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) as the main actor in enforced disappearances. “It details how individuals were abducted, tortured, and in many cases, killed during the previous autocratic regime,” said the Press Secretary.

The report is based on extensive testimony from victims and some perpetrators. So far, the Commission has identified around 1,850 cases, thoroughly investigating 1,350 of them. The total number of complaints may exceed 3,500, with over 300 victims still missing.

The Chief Adviser instructed that the report be published both online and in book form to ensure public and international access. He also asked the Commission to identify urgent recommended actions and clarify which ministries are responsible, so the government can begin implementation without delay.

One Commission member noted that the cruelty of the incidents has caused psychological distress among some of those involved. “Two officers formally requested relief through letters found at Gono Bhaban, seeking to free themselves from guilt. These letters were acknowledged by the former Army Chief,” the member said.

The Commission also requested a legal amendment to allow families of the disappeared to access banking services sooner. Under current law, a missing person must be declared dead after seven years; the Commission recommended reducing this to five.

Prof Yunus advised the Commission to communicate all necessary steps for action. He also expressed appreciation for their dedication, stating, “Despite threats and fear, you are continuing this essential work. You are an inspiration to the people. Future generations advocating for human rights will look up to you.”

Deputy Press Secretary Abdul Kalam Azad Majumder and Senior Assistant Press Secretary Foyez Ahammad were present at the briefing.