Legislative Immunity Guaranteed for July Uprising Activists

The interim government has commenced the formal process of drafting an ordinance designed to grant legal indemnity to those who participated in the July mass uprising. This initiative, which aims to provide a comprehensive legal shield for student and civilian protesters, was confirmed following a pivotal meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Law and Order at the Ministry of Home Affairs. Under the chairmanship of Home Affairs Adviser Lieutenant General (Retd) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, the committee has tasked the Ministry of Law with creating a legislative framework that mirrors the historic protections afforded to the veterans of the 1971 Liberation War, ensuring that those involved in the recent transition of power are not held liable for their roles in the movement.

The decision to fast-track this ordinance was prompted by the recent arrests of two notable figures, Tahrima Jannat Suruvi and Mahdi Hasan, whose temporary detentions sparked significant debate regarding the security of movement participants. Law Adviser Asif Nazrul emphasized that the individuals who risked their lives to end the previous administration’s authoritarian rule have a fundamental right to legal protection. He noted that the government is currently researching constitutional provisions, specifically Article 46, and studying international precedents from the Arab Spring and other global democratic shifts to ensure the draft is legally sound. This move aligns with the July Manifesto's intent to treat participants as national heroes and provide them with all necessary legal safeguards.

Despite this focus on protection, the government has simultaneously reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining public stability. The Home Affairs Adviser issued a clear warning that any attempts to create public suffering by blocking transit routes or disrupting order will be met with immediate and firm intervention from law enforcement. The committee’s agenda also extended to critical national security matters, including the recovery of looted or illegal weapons, border security, and the status of the Chittagong Hill Tracts. Additionally, officials confirmed that the murder case of Sharif Osman Bin Hadi, a prominent figure in the uprising, is progressing rapidly, with a formal chargesheet expected to be filed on 7 January.

Record of Recent Detentions

This legislative effort underscores the administration's intent to institutionalise the spirit of the revolution while preparing the country for the 13th National Parliamentary Election. By providing a definitive legal immunity, the government seeks to prevent any future victimisation of the students and workers who were instrumental in the political change. The final draft of the ordinance will be presented for a conclusive review by the council of advisers before it is officially promulgated, effectively securing the legal status of the movement's participants under the new democratic order.