Judicial activism and human rights

In Bangladesh, judicial activism has become an important shield for protecting human rights when injustice, corruption, and abuse of power threaten ordinary people's lives. At different times, the higher judiciary has stepped forward to ensure constitutional rights, environmental protection, freedom of speech, and justice for vulnerable citizens. Through Public Interest Litigations (PIL), the courts have often raised their voice for those who cannot speak loudly for themselves.
The reality of Bangladesh shows that many people still suffer from illegal detention, violence against women, workplace exploitation, and environmental pollution. In such moments, judicial activism creates hope. When courts order the protection of rivers, punish human rights violations, or question unlawful state actions, citizens regain faith in justice.
However, judicial activism is not only about delivering judgments; it is about protecting humanity. A poor worker seeking fair wages, a mother demanding justice for her abused child, or a student fighting for constitutional rights-all look toward the judiciary as their last refuge.
In a developing democracy like Bangladesh, responsible judicial activism remains essential to uphold the rule of law, human dignity, and fundamental human rights guaranteed by the Constitution.
Md Bayazid Sheikh
Student
Department Of Law
Gopalganj Science and Technology University