A debate over washing machines, microwave ovens and curtains for lawmakers’ government flats sparked an unusually heated exchange in Parliament on Thursday, prompting the Speaker to intervene as members traded barbs over what critics described as misplaced priorities amid the national budget session.
The controversy erupted when Bangladesh Jatiya Party (BJP) Chairman and MP Andaleeve Rahman Partho raised the issue on a point of order, targeting a proposal made a day earlier by Jamaat-e-Islami MP Mizanur Rahman seeking additional household facilities for MPs residing in government-provided apartments.
Arguing that the demand had triggered public criticism and embarrassed Parliament, Partho launched a sarcastic attack, saying he would personally provide a microwave oven to the Jamaat lawmaker, while suggesting that the prime minister and home minister could arrange a washing machine and curtains.
The remarks quickly escalated tensions in the House, shifting attention away from budget discussions and triggering objections from opposition benches.
Partho also used the opportunity to draw comparisons with the previous Awami League-era Parliament, claiming parliamentary standards had deteriorated during that period and warning against what he described as signs of similar tendencies emerging in the current House.
Opposition Leader Dr Md Shafiqur Rahman responded sharply, questioning whether the Jamaat MP had sought any personal assistance from Partho and cautioning lawmakers against making comments that could undermine the dignity of fellow members.
As exchanges intensified, Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad stepped in to calm the situation, reminding members that the matter did not properly fall under a point of order and urging restraint.
The Speaker clarified that the facilities under discussion were linked to government-provided accommodation for MPs rather than personal benefits.
He said the issue could have been addressed through the relevant parliamentary committee instead of being debated on the floor of the House.
Noting that no serious wrongdoing had occurred, the Speaker warned lawmakers against prolonging the dispute, saying excessive attention to the matter could send the wrong message to the public at a time when Parliament was engaged in discussing national priorities.