Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has raised serious concerns over the draft National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Act, 2026, warning that several provisions could undermine the independence of the country's top human rights watchdog and place it under executive control.

In a set of 19 recommendations submitted to the government on June 8, TIB said the draft law departs significantly from the 2025 ordinance and falls short of the Paris Principles and other international standards governing national human rights institutions.

A key concern is the removal of a provision stating that the Commission would not fall under any ministry or government division.

TIB said the omission could allow the executive branch to exert control over the NHRC, compromising its ability to function independently.

The watchdog also criticised the proposed selection committee for commissioners, which includes ministers, ruling party representatives and the cabinet secretary, arguing that it risks political influence over appointments and undermines impartiality.

TIB called for stronger powers for the Commission to inspect detention facilities run by law enforcement, intelligence agencies and the armed forces, particularly in cases involving enforced disappearances and torture allegations.

It also urged the repeal of a provision that restricts the NHRC's authority to independently investigate human rights violations by members of disciplined forces.

The organisation further recommended mandatory representation of women, ethnic minorities and marginalised communities in the Commission, stricter eligibility criteria for commissioners, limits on deputation-based staffing, and safeguards to ensure the NHRC's financial autonomy.

TIB warned that a weak and dependent human rights commission could have far-reaching consequences for democratic governance and citizens' rights, urging the government to revise the draft through an inclusive consultation process involving all stakeholders.

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