In 2019, the World Organisation Against Torture (OMCT) and Odhikar jointly published a report, titled “Cycle of Fear: Combating Impunity for Torture and Strengthening Rule of Law in Bangladesh” shows how law enforcement agencies in Bangladesh systematically use torture to silence dissent, while not sparing ordinary citizens. The report also highlights how the political deadlock feeds widespread impunity.
The report is based on a detailed examination of more than 300 cases of torture spanning the period 2009-2017, as well as on information gathered from victims, members of the executive, the judiciary, representatives of civil society and of international organisations. Findings reveal the use of extreme forms of physical violence during arrest or in custody, such as kneecapping, breaking bones, drilling holes in arms and legs, or eye-gouging.
