Passage of bill goes against spirit of constitution

Speakers at a discussion yesterday said the recent passage of the bill relating to reserved seats for women in parliament goes against the spirit of the constitution.

They said it is inconsistent with the democratic principle that only women belonging to political parties would be able to become parliament members.

The discussion on the 'Status of women's rights' was organised by Bangladesh Institute of Law and International Affairs (BILIA) in the city.

Taking part in the discussion, former finance minister SAMS Kibria said indirect election in the reserved seats for women in parliament hardly match with the democratic practice.

"Both the BNP and the AL acted contrary to their election pledge," Kibria said, adding women's rights in Bangladesh is better in papers than in practice.

Kibria, also the alternate chairman of BILIA, said the growing Islamist extremism is a threat to establishing women's rights in the country.

Replying to a question whether the AL is playing double standard by accepting its quota of reserved seats for women, Kibria said, "No, there is no double standard in it. If the AL rejected the seats, it would have meant that we (AL) are boycotting parliament partially."

Speaking on the occasion, Justice K M Sobhan said the bill is a tremendous blow to women's rights.

"Although women constitute half of the country's population, it is a matter of regret that only 45 seats have been kept in parliament for them," he added.

Noted lawyer Dr M Zahir said those who do not belong to any political party would have no chance to become parliament members although our constitution has guaranteed that any eligible citizen can contest the election to become a lawmaker.

US Ambassador to Bangladesh Harry K Thomas said women's participation in politics and violation of their rights need to be examined continuously by the lawmakers.

He said the rights of women must be recognised as their role in economy is no less important than their male counterpart.

Former ambassador M M Rezaul Karim said women should not be confined to any particular professions, rather they should come forward to take part in all professions.

Barrister Ziaur Rahman Khan MP, Col (retd) Faruk Khan MP, Suranjit Sen Gupta MP and BILIA Director Wali-ur- Rahman also took part in the discussion.