Bangladesh Government Plans CrPC Amendments to Protect Rights During Arrests

The interim government of Bangladesh is drafting amendments to the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) 1898 to strengthen safeguards for individuals during arrests and interrogations. Announced on June 24, 2025, by Law Adviser Dr. Asif Nazrul, the proposed changes aim to align legal practices with constitutional protections and international human rights standards, ensuring a rights-based approach to law enforcement.

The amendments focus on addressing long-standing concerns about arbitrary arrests and custodial abuses in Bangladesh. Key provisions under consideration include mandatory notification of arrest grounds, the right to legal counsel, and limits on detention without judicial oversight. These measures respond to public calls for reform, particularly following reports of over 10,000 arrests during recent protests, many of which lacked legal justification. The government’s initiative also draws from recommendations by the Bangladesh Supreme Court, which in 2021 urged reforms to sections like CrPC 54 and 167 to prevent misuse of police powers.

The draft is expected to be finalized after consultations with stakeholders, including civil society and legal experts. This move is part of broader judicial reforms in Bangladesh, such as digitizing court processes to enhance transparency and accessibility. Public sentiment on platforms like X reflects cautious optimism, with users emphasizing the need for enforcement to match legislative intent.

By prioritizing individual rights, Bangladesh aims to strengthen its legal framework and uphold justice. The amendments, if passed, could set a precedent for balancing security and liberty in the country’s criminal justice system.

Published in SouthAsianDesk, June 25th, 2025

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