The Opposition has submitted a formal notice to the Speaker of Jatiya Sangsad (JS) regarding a proposal to implement the July Charter and the results of the referendum. This move sparked a heated debate between the ruling and opposition benches during Sunday’s parliamentary session.
Leader of the Opposition Shafiqur Rahman raised the issue on a point of order and requested floor time to speak on the matter. The session was presided over by Deputy Speaker Barrister Kaiser Kamal. Later, the Speaker allocated two hours next Tuesday for discussion on the matter.
During Sunday’s proceedings, the deputy speaker stated that a decision regarding the proposal might be taken once the scheduled procedures under Rule 71 of the Rules of Procedure are completed.
Addressing the Speaker, Chief Whip Nurul Islam said while Rule 71 is a right reserved for all members, the letter from the Leader of the Opposition should be discussed immediately following its conclusion.
Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed, also standing on a point of order, expressed his respect for the house and noted that the Speaker had previously requested Shafiqur Rahman to submit a notice in accordance with the rules.
He further clarified that, according to parliamentary tradition, such notices or proposals are typically raised after the question-and-answer session and the conclusion of Rule 71 proceedings.
“I do not believe anyone’s rights have been infringed upon here,” Salahuddin added.
In response, Opposition Chief Whip Nahid Islam argued that the expectations of the public are clear – the reform proposals of the July Charter and the referendum results must be implemented.
He asserted there is no scope for delay, adding that the government’s current stance makes it appear as though no referendum had even occurred in the country.
Reiterating his position, the opposition leader stated that he had intentionally proposed the discussion at that specific time, citing Rule 64.
As the debate intensified, the deputy speaker intervened to bring the situation under control, announcing that further statements on the point of order would be taken later. He then moved the session forward to discuss notices of urgent public importance under Rule 71.
