A probe committee has been formed to investigate the disruption of the sound system during the first session of the 13th National Parliament.
The committee has been tasked with determining whether the incident was an act of sabotage and is expected to submit its report by 3 April. It will also recommend measures to address technical problems affecting the sound system.
The decision was taken at a meeting of the House Committee on Saturday, chaired by Chief Whip Nurul Islam Moni.
Speaking to journalists after the meeting, the Chief Whip said the first session of the 13th Parliament began on March 12. On the opening day, proceedings were temporarily suspended due to a malfunction in the sound system. Similar issues were reported the following day, with an opposition member raising concerns over headphones and the audio system.
He added that there are suspicions of possible sabotage behind the disruption. To investigate the matter, a committee has been formed under the leadership of the Sergeant-at-Arms, responsible for parliamentary security.
Experts from the Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology will also be invited to assess and resolve the technical faults in the system.
According to Nurul Islam Moni, the committee will focus on two key areas: whether sabotage was involved, and how to identify and resolve technical problems with the sound system.
Responding to journalists' questions, the Chief Whip acknowledged widespread complaints regarding the current headphones. He noted that the devices are bulky and uncomfortable, often causing heat and discomfort, and confirmed that they will be replaced.
The meeting also discussed accommodation and healthcare facilities for Members of Parliament (MPs). Most MPs are expected to receive housing. Separate residences have already been designated for the Speaker, ministers, state ministers, the Chief Whip, and whips.
Efforts are underway to ensure accommodation for all other MPs, with necessary furnishings and equipment being procured. Authorities aim to allocate residences by 10 April.
The committee is scheduled to meet again on 30 March.
Committee members present at the meeting included Rokibul Islam, Mia Nuruddin Ahmed Apu, Mohammad Kaisar Ahmed, Md. Shahidul Islam, Nayab Yusuf Ahmed, S.M. Jahangir Hossain, Md. Saiful Alam, and Md. Abul Hasnat, among others.
