The 1972 constitution cannot be belittled, Dr Kamal Hossain tells Press Club discussion

There is no scope to belittle the 1972 constitution, which was framed on the basis of national unity, eminent jurist and Gono Forum founding president Dr Kamal Hossain has said. He said the constitution can be amended or changed from time to time on the basis of the people's needs, but its fundamental principles and the people's constitutional rights can in no way be taken away.

He made the remarks in a written speech as chief guest at a discussion organised by Gono Forum at the National Press Club in the capital on Wednesday (November 4) to mark Constitution Day. Gono Forum general secretary Mizanur Rahman read out the speech on Dr Kamal's behalf.

In his written speech, Dr Kamal Hossain alleged that an 'evil force' was trying to divide the nation by creating controversy around the constitution. In his view, Bangladesh's constitution, achieved at the cost of the blood of millions of martyrs, is a document of the hopes and aspirations of the country's ordinary people, because the people are the real owners of the state.

He said the people of the country had built a united movement with the aim of establishing an exploitation-free, non-communal and democratic society. Every article of the 1972 constitution reflects that ideal, he said.

Depicting the country's current situation, the veteran lawyer said it is urgent to end communal politics, control corruption, prevent the spread of drugs and eliminate terrorism to ensure the security of people's lives and property. Alongside that, employment must be created for millions of unemployed young people. Otherwise the country could face grave disorder, he warned.

Calling for the establishment of equality, human dignity and social justice in the light of the spirit of the Liberation War, he said everyone must unite, forgetting political differences, to build a stable system of governance.

Speaking as special guest at the discussion, Women and Children Affairs and Social Welfare Minister Dr A Z M Zahid Hossain criticised the opposition's decision not to take part in the parliamentary committee on constitutional amendment.

Addressing the opposition, the minister said it is their duty to take part in parliamentary discussion, present their views and accept the majority's decision.

Nagorik Oikya president Mahmudur Rahman Manna said the primary goals of reform have still not been fulfilled. He expressed anger that decentralisation of power has not been possible and that the demands for reform have not been implemented either.

Member of Parliament Advocate Fazlur Rahman told the meeting that any amendment to the constitution must be made on the basis of the framework of the 1972 constitution.

Professor Abdur Rouf, one of the members of the 1972 constitution drafting committee, opposed any position in favour of abolishing the original constitution. He said parliamentary approval is needed to bring state reform. He also called for quick initiatives to implement the issues unanimously adopted in the consensus commission.

The discussion was held with Gono Forum president Subrata Chowdhury in the chair.