The High Court has asked why directives should not be given to form a ‘high-powered national committee’ to investigate the sinking of passenger ferries in Munshiganj.
Justices Moyeenul Islam Chowdhury and Md Ashraful Kamal issued a ruling on Sunday after hearing a public-interest petition.
The court asked why a national investigation committee of experts would not be formed to identify those responsible for the loss of lives and ensure their punishment by unveiling the reasons for accidents and recommending measures to prevent future tragedies.
Ten government officials, including the secretary to the shipping ministry and BIWTA chairman, have been asked to reply within four weeks.
It also sought explanations on why orders to take actions against the defendants should not be given for failure to prevent launch accidents, including that of Pinak-6, and the consequent loss of lives.
Ashish Kumar Dey, convenor of a committee to protect waterways, roads, and railways, and Citizen Rights Movement’s secretary General Tushar Rahman filed the petition on Aug 19.
Pinak-6 sank in the Padma on Aug 4 on its way to Munshiganj’s Mawa. The local administration called off the search after eight days as they failed to locate the sunken vessel.
According to official figures, 49 bodies have been recovered until now while 61 are missing.
Source: bdnews24
