Amnesty International today welcomed the decision by the Bangladesh authorities to bring 15 army officers before a court to face charges under the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT).
In a statement, the rights organisation said, "This marks the first instance in which military personnel have been formally charged in connection with enforced disappearances in Bangladesh, representing a significant step towards accountability and justice for victims."
It also urged the authorities to ensure that the proceedings adhere to international human rights standards, including guarantees of due process, the right to a fair trial, and the use of civilian courts for the hearings.
Additionally, the rights body called on the government to refrain from imposing the death penalty, consistent with Bangladesh's obligations under the international law.
Amnesty noted that the case carries historic significance, as it marks the first time active-duty personnel of the Bangladesh Army have been brought before a civilian tribunal to answer allegations of crimes such as enforced disappearance and torture.
The 15 officers were taken into custody earlier this month following formal charges approved by ICT. They have since been placed in a sub-jail within the Dhaka Cantonment.