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The article delves into the harrowing reality of secret prisons in Bangladesh, known as 'Aynaghor' or 'House of Mirrors,' where dissidents of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina were reportedly held captive. The New York Times report sheds light on the experiences of victims who were forcibly abducted and subjected to severe forms of torture and psychological manipulation. The report paints a chilling picture of a systematic pattern of disappearances and abuse perpetrated by security forces under the Hasina-led Awami League government.
According to the report, hundreds of people were allegedly abducted since 2009, with human rights organizations estimating that over 700 individuals went missing between 2009 and 2024. While some were eventually released, often after months or years of confinement and forced silence, the fate of others remains unknown. The article details the accounts of former detainees who endured inhumane treatment, including physical torture during interrogations, solitary confinement designed to break their spirit, and a relentless barrage of psychological tactics aimed at undermining their mental and emotional well-being.
Maroof Zaman, a former ambassador, described his 467 days in the 'House of Mirrors,' located on a military garrison in Dhaka. He recounted the oppressive atmosphere, characterized by strict discipline, morning parades, and constant monitoring. The facility itself was designed to amplify the sense of isolation, with long corridors and cells equipped with exhaust fans that drowned out any sounds of human interaction. The goal, according to the report, was to inflict psychological torment and weaken the prisoners' resolve.
Abdullahil Amaan Azmi, a former army general detained for eight years, provided a harrowing account of his ordeal, describing how he was blindfolded and handcuffed over 41,000 times. He spoke of the immense psychological toll, expressing his longing for even the simplest experiences, like seeing the sun or feeling the grass beneath his feet. His words offer a glimpse into the depths of despair and human suffering endured within these clandestine prisons.
The article highlights the systematic nature of these abuses, suggesting a pattern of intentional disappearances and the silencing of dissent. The report also raises serious concerns about the lack of accountability and transparency surrounding these practices. It calls into question the role of the government in perpetuating these abuses and the impunity enjoyed by those responsible.
Source: ‘House of Mirrors’: What happened inside secret jails for Sheikh Hasina's critics