The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) is not legally empowered to investigate any crime like the brutal seven murders in Narayanganj, its chairman Dr Mizanur Rahman said on Sunday.
“The law that created the NHRC in 2009 allows it only to make recommendations. It has no executive power to conduct investigation,” he told reporters replying to a question on the sideline of a seminar on National Women Development policy at CIRDAP in the city.
National Human Rights Commission organized the seminar where Prof Kaberi Gayen of Dhaka University presented key note paper highlighting women development policy 2011, its success and challenges.
Shirin Akhter, MP, Ayesha Khanam, president of Bangladesh Mohila Parishad, Prof MM Akash of Dhaka University Economics Department took part in the discussion session.
It was chaired by Prof Mahfuza Khanom a member of NHRC.
Replying to another question, Dr Mizan said the rights watchdog body has not been able to work effectively due to legal obstacles.
He, however, said NHRC has sent a letter to the Home Ministry to hand it an inquiry report regarding the Naryangonj sensational seven murders. Next steps would be taken after it receives the report, he said.
Referring to a writ petition filed by Dr Kamal Hossain before the High Curt, Dr. Mizan said this has offered it to explain its position as NHRC is also a respondent.
“We can explain our limitations before the court,” he said.
He hoped that the HC will give direction to remove the legal hurdles.
Responding to a question about recent strikes by doctors, he said no one has the right to violate the rights of common people to get treatment. It’s a criminal offence, he said.
“We have already expressed our concerned in this regard to the health minister and health secretary”, the NHRC chairman said.
Besides, the national law commission has already been requested to frame a new policy in this regard, he added.
About National Women Development Policy 2011, Dr Mizan said there is a need for consensus on some issues for the development of women. “Whoever in power, they will have to come forward for ensuring development of woman.”
Shirin Akhter , MP, observed the policy will be meaningful if some of the issues mentioned there are made into law.
Ayesha Khanom called for steps to prevent anyone from using religion in politics. If it is not done the national women development policy and even the education policy will not work, she said.
Source: UNBConnect
The doctors have broken, rather trampled, all ethics having forgotten the noble profession they have taken. The present chaotic situation created by doctors clearly indicates that they are no exception to any other labor or bargaining agents and therefore deserve same treatment. The respect and esteem they used to enjoy must not be the same as it used to be only a decade ago. The govt should cancel the certificate and registration of those doctors who have forgotten their sacred oath to serve humanity and whose aim is to earn money by goondagiri. Why must the people bear the expenses of their studies if they stand against the people themselves?