Parliament Passes July Mass Uprising Bill Granting Legal Immunity to Participants
TLE DESK:, 8 April 2026
The Jatiya Sangsad on Wednesday passed the July Mass Uprising (Protection and Liability Determination) Bill, 2026, converting a previously issued ordinance into law and granting legal immunity to individuals involved in the 2024 uprising.
The legislation was tabled and moved by Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed and was adopted by voice vote, despite objections raised by Md. Abul Hasnat of the National Citizen Party (NCP).
The newly enacted law provides a broad legal shield to participants of the July uprising. It stipulates that all existing civil and criminal cases, complaints, and legal proceedings filed against individuals for their involvement in the movement will be withdrawn in accordance with prescribed procedures.
In addition, the filing of any new cases against participants in connection with the uprising has been expressly prohibited. Under the provisions of the law, public prosecutors or government-appointed lawyers will be required to apply to the courts for dismissal of such cases upon verification of an individual’s participation. Courts, in turn, must immediately halt proceedings and discharge or acquit the accused.
However, the law makes a distinction in cases involving serious allegations such as murder. Any such অভিযোগ will be referred to the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) for investigation.
Defending the bill, the Home Minister described it as a reflection of “national demand” and a realisation of the July National Charter, dismissing criticisms raised during the parliamentary session.
During his address, Salahuddin Ahmed also touched on issues relating to the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), stating that the previous board—formed under the interim government—had exercised undue influence over district-level committees and clubs. He noted that a probe committee had uncovered significant irregularities, leading to the dissolution of the board.
He further announced that an ad-hoc committee has been formed, headed by prominent cricketer Tamim Iqbal, which is expected to organise elections within the next three months.
On the matter of human rights, the minister said the government is preparing to introduce new legislation aimed at establishing an autonomous, internationally compliant Human Rights Commission aligned with existing legal frameworks, including those governing international crimes and enforced disappearances.
The minister also raised concerns over actions taken during the interim period, questioning the occupation of key institutions such as Bangladesh Bank and public universities, which he suggested contributed to the country’s current economic challenges
