JS body to open national dialogue

The parliamentary special committee on constitutional amendment will hold a dialogue with political parties and legal experts on prospective changes to the republic's charter.
The decision came at a meeting with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina at the Gono Bhaban last night.
Talking to The Daily Star after the meeting, a member of the committee said, "We will soon decide on the mode of the talks and prepare a list of those to be invited.”
Leader of the House Sheikh Hasina, Leader of the Opposition Khaleda Zia, senior leaders of other political parties and constitution experts will be among the invitees.
The decision to hold the national dialogue was taken in response to demands from different corners for consensus on constitutional amendments, added the member who requested not to be named, as he was not authorised to speak on the matter.
On condition of anonymity, another member said only leaders of the political parties with representation in the current parliament might be invited.
The committee will begin the talks after wrapping up the ongoing discussion with the prime minister, he continued. “Today, we will sit with the PM again to discuss the progress of our work.”
Contacted over phone, Suranjit Sengupta, co-chair of the committee, termed yesterday's discussion with the prime minister "very positive and encouraging".
He, however, declined to elaborate on the matter.
Earlier in the day, Suranjit urged BNP to join the special committee.
Speaking at a press briefing in parliament's media centre, he said, "The main opposition was offered a seat on the committee. If they want, they can demand more seats. The prime minister will of course consider their demand."
On July 21 last year, the House formed the committee for drawing up proposals to amend the constitution in line with the Supreme Court verdict on the fifth amendment, and also to make other necessary changes.
Headed by Deputy Leader of the House Syeda Sajeda Chowdhury, the 15-member committee is comprised of only ruling alliance lawmakers, as BNP declined to nominate a representative.
The main opposition party, however, has been blasting the government for what it said was a move to amend the constitution unilaterally.