Jamaat proposes parliamentary discussion on Ganges water treaty, RMG crisis

The opposition has proposed parliamentary discussions on the expiry of the water-sharing treaty with India, scheduled for December 12, and called for effective measures to safeguard Bangladesh's water security and national interests.

Jamaat MP Mir Ahmad Bin Quasem, elected from Dhaka-14, submitted the proposal on Monday under Rule 147 of the Rules of Procedure, seeking a review of the situation and discussion on steps to protect the country's interests.

Under the same rule, Jamaat parliamentary party spokesperson Muhammad Nazibur Rahman proposed a general discussion on labour unrest, the energy crisis and other structural challenges facing the readymade garment (RMG) sector, as well as ways to realise its potential.

Nazibur, elected from Pabna-1, disclosed the proposals to the media on Monday.

If admitted under Rule 147, the proposals will be taken up for discussion in Parliament, with the Speaker deciding the duration of each discussion.

Meanwhile, Jamaat submitted two more proposals under Rule 68.

Jamaat MP Md Shafiqul Islam, elected from Patuakhali-2, called for a discussion on fertiliser shortages in different parts of the country, allegations of black-market sales at inflated prices, irregularities in distribution and alleged corruption and politicisation in the appointment of fertiliser dealers.

Another Jamaat MP, Md Mahbubul Alam of Kurigram-3, proposed a discussion on the government's failure to contain abnormal price hikes of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and other fuel products. His proposal also raised concerns over alleged violations of public hearing and legal procedures in price-setting and the sale of fuel at prices exceeding officially fixed rates.

Nazibur said three more proposals would be submitted under Rule 68.

Leader of the Opposition Dr Shafiqur Rahman is expected to propose a discussion on the prime minister's visit to Japan and the Matarbari deep-sea port.

Jamaat MP Mohammed Kamal Hossain, elected from Dhaka-5, will seek a discussion on passenger harassment and mismanagement at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, while Mir Quasem will propose a discussion on the Rohingya crisis.

Under Rule 68, each proposal, if admitted, is generally allocated one hour for discussion in Parliament.