After receiving the second interim report from the Disappearance Investigation Commission, Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus calls for publication and global awareness, describing the accounts as horrifying and committed by members of society's so-called ‘gentlemen.’

Chief Advisor Professor Muhammad Yunus has expressed deep concern and horror over the findings related to enforced disappearances in Bangladesh, describing them as chilling incidents orchestrated by individuals from within the fabric of society—people often considered respectable or familiar. His remarks came on Wednesday after receiving the second interim report from the Commission on Enforced Disappearances at the state guest house, Jamuna.

The Chief Advisor stated that such horrific events demand urgent documentation and public dissemination, suggesting the creation of a website and a book to present the commission's findings. He also stressed that interest in the issue extends beyond national borders and urged that the global community be made aware of the gravity of these violations.

“These are terrifying incidents,” Yunus said. “The so-called gentlemen of our society—people from among us, even relatives—have been responsible for them. Based on what you’ve uncovered, there should be a horror museum. The nature of these detention facilities, the brutality of being locked in three-foot-by-three-foot cells for days or even months—it’s essential that these images and stories are shared with the public.”

Earlier in the day, the commission led by former Chief Justice Moinul Islam Chowdhury submitted its second interim report to the Chief Advisor. Other members present included rights activist Nur Khan, legal expert Sazzad Hossain, and academic Nabila Idris.

During the submission meeting, the Chief Advisor instructed the commission to identify actionable recommendations from the report and clarify which government ministries would be responsible for implementing them. He emphasized the need for clarity so that the administration can begin addressing the issues without delay.

One commission member shared a startling detail: some individuals involved in the disappearances have privately expressed remorse. "The events are so horrifying that many of those involved, including some officials, are now overwhelmed with guilt," the member said. "They have contacted us in search of moral relief. Two officers even submitted letters pleading for redemption. These letters were found in the Prime Minister’s Office, and the then Army Chief publicly acknowledged their existence."

The commission reported that it has received approximately 1,850 formal complaints, with 1,350 already investigated. They estimate the total number of complaints may exceed 3,500. To address the plight of families of the disappeared, the commission chair requested that the Chief Advisor consider measures allowing them to access basic services, such as banking. Under current law, a missing person can be declared deceased after seven years, but the commission recommended amending this to five years for practical purposes.

In response, Professor Yunus extended his gratitude to the commission members for their courage and resilience. “You are working despite fear, threats, and many obstacles,” he said. “You are an inspiration to the people of this country. In the future, those who work to protect human rights will look up to you for guidance and strength.”

The report and discussion mark a significant development in Bangladesh’s confrontation with its recent history of enforced disappearances, shedding light on the state of justice, accountability, and human dignity in the nation.