Spl committee decides to place 115 of 133 ordns in JS

The parliamentary special committee has reached a consensus to place approximately 115 of the 133 ordinances - issued during the interim government-before Parliament for approval. 

However, disagreements still persist over 18 ordinances, including those related to referendums, the Anti-Corruption Commi-ssion (ACC), enforced disappearance prevention, and human rights, according to sources present at the meeting.

Meanwhile, Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, the main opposition party in Parliament, has alleged that the ruling Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) proposed repealing the referendum ordinance during the committee's deliberations.

Speaking to journalists on Wednesday after the meeting at Jatiya Sangsad complex, Rafiqul Islam Khan, opposition whip and assistant secretary general of Jamaat, stated that a final decision on whether to place the referendum ordinance - issued during the interim government-before Parliament could not be reached due to BNP's objections. The matter is expected to be decided at the committee's next meeting on March 29.

He said that consensus had been reached on placing around 115 out of 133 ordinances before parliament. However, disagreements remain over 18 ordinances, including those related to referendums, the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), enforced disappearance prevention, and human rights.

Jamaat strongly opposed the proposed repeal of the referendum ordinance, arguing that it contradicts the spirit of the "July uprising." Rafiqul Islam Khan stated that eliminating the referendum mechanism undermines democratic principles and public mandate.

He also criticized proposed amendments to the ACC Act alleging that removing the search committee for appointing the ACC Chairman would allow the government unchecked authority in key appointments. 

Similar concerns were raised about proposed changes to police leadership appointments, which Jamaat claims prioritize political preference over professionalism.

Responding to questions about BNP's parliamentary majority, Khan cautioned against overreliance on a two-thirds majority, emphasizing that past governments misused such power and warning that decisions that go against the interests of the people will not be accepted.

Meanwhile, Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed, also Standing Committee Member of BNP, stated that the review of all 133 ordinances is nearing completion. 

He explained that the ordinances are being categorized into three groups. Of those, first one will be passed unchanged as bills, some would be requiring amendments before passage and those lacking consensus, which will lapse in the current session and may be reintroduced later.

He added that four ordinances related to "July protection" have already received unanimous approval and will be presented in parliament without changes. The review process is being guided by the "July National Charter" and constitutional considerations.

Before starting the meeting, Committee chairman Zainul Abedin confirmed that all 133 ordinances will be formally presented as bills. He noted that copies have been distributed to all Members of Parliament and that decisions are expected soon.