Programmes to restore '72 constitution

A pro-liberation war platform yesterday declared different programmes for the next month to press their demands including deletion of "the communal and undemocratic articles in the present constitution that contradict the basic spirit of the 1972 constitution".
Leaders of the Bahatturer Sangbidhan Punoprothistha Jatiya Committee (the national committee for restoration of the 1972 constitution) said they will form a human chain on September 16 in front of the National Museum and organise a mass rally, cultural programme, and flag procession at the Central Shaheed Minar on September 24.
Speaking at a press conference at the city's Mukti Bhaban, Kamal Lohani, convener of the committee, said people must respond to protect the aims and objectives of the country's liberation war stipulated in the 1972 constitution.
He also questioned the remarks of Syed Ashraful Islam, general secretary of the ruling Awami League, that the AL was not satisfied with the 15th amendment. Lohani asked, "Then why did they (AL) pass this amendment?"
He also blamed the government for its failure to ensure the safety of the people in roads and highways, referring to the recent tragic death of Mishuk Munier and Tareque Masud.
Lohani, however, urged the people to come forward with the committee to fulfil their demand within the tenure of the incumbent government.
The committee also demanded constitutional recognition to the indigenous people.