Dhaka,  Friday 11 Apr 2025,
11:33:23 AM

Govt condemns custodial torture, orders probe into Cumilla death

Staff Reporter ।। The Daily Generation Times
01-02-2025 06:38:42 PM
Govt condemns custodial torture, orders probe into Cumilla death

The interim government, led by Professor Muhammad Yunus, has strongly condemned any form of custodial torture and murder, issuing a statement through the Chief Adviser’s Press Wing regarding the death of Touhidul Islam in Cumilla. The government has ordered an urgent investigation into the incident.In its statement, the interim government expressed deep concern over the case, saying, "Police brought a young person, Touhidul Islam, to hospital in Cumilla late last night with injuries allegedly inflicted by security forces after they apprehended him from his house early on Friday morning based on complaints."The government reiterated its commitment to upholding human rights in every sphere of national life, emphasising that this is a core mission of the administration. Notably, the government includes some of the country's top human rights activists, underscoring its dedication to reforming the criminal justice system.The statement added, "Several commissions have been established to review and reform the country's criminal justice system, and most of these commissions have already submitted their reports." It further stated that the interim government plans to engage in meaningful dialogue with political parties to implement the recommendations of these reports, aiming to eliminate all opportunities for human rights abuses during police interrogations, crime management, and judicial procedures.

Meanwhile, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) issued a separate statement confirming the death of Md Touhidur Rahman, a 40-year-old Juba Dal leader, who was detained in Cumilla Sadar Upazila. According to the ISPR, the camp commander of the area has been withdrawn following the incident.

A high-level investigation committee has been formed to determine the exact cause of Md. Touhidur Rahman's death. The ISPR described the incident as "undesirable and sad," assuring the public that appropriate measures are being taken to thoroughly investigate the matter.

Md. Touhidur Rahman was detained on January 31 based on specific allegations and later admitted to Cumilla Medical College Hospital, where he passed away around 12:30 pm the same day. The ISPR emphasised that legal action will be taken against anyone found guilty, in accordance with military law.