Legal Adviser Asif Nazrul announced significant amendments to the Code of Criminal Procedure, placing strict limitations on arrests under Section 54, which previously allowed law enforcement to detain individuals based on mere suspicion.
Speaking at a press briefing on Thursday (July 24) at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka, Nazrul explained that under the new provisions, arrests under Section 54 can only be made if two specific conditions are met.
“First, the arresting officer must have witnessed the crime or have reasonable grounds to believe the suspect committed the offense,” Nazrul said. “Second, the officer must submit a written explanation justifying the arrest, particularly in non-cognizable offenses. The officer must be convinced that failing to arrest would allow the suspect to escape.”
He emphasized that these changes aim to prevent arbitrary detentions, forced disappearances, and unlawful harassment.
“Previously, there was widespread misuse of Section 54. This reform, if implemented properly, will be a breakthrough in protecting citizens’ rights,” he added.
Nazrul noted that the reforms were developed following consultations with the Supreme Court, the Judicial Reform Commission, and relevant legal experts.
“This aligns with earlier Supreme Court verdicts stressing transparency, accountability, and the protection of the rights of detainees,” he said.
