They also urged the caretaker government to conduct investigations into the corruption in the energy sector and demanded exemplary punishment to the miscreants and enactment a new coal policy to preserve the national interest.

They were speaking at a view exchange meeting on 'Phulbari coalmine: Anticipation of the people' at the National Press Club in the city yesterday.

"Corrupt bureaucrats, politicians, experts and consultants in the energy sector should be brought to book after proper investigations", said Kazi Khaliquzzaman, convener of the commission, while reading out a written statement.

The commission demanded immediate cancellation of the Phulbari Coal Mine Project with the Asia Energy.

Khaliquzzaman expressed concern over Asia Energy's latest activities, including changing its name and distributing New Year's greeting cards at Phulbari.

"Treaties and accords regarding coal exploration should be signed with expert companies after enacting a fresh coal policy and considering the opinion of the experts and locals," added the commission convener.

Commission members Abul Barkat, SK Abdullah, Md Rafidul Islam Khan and Golam Mortoza were also present at the meeting.