BNP Standing Committee Member Salahuddin Ahmed has said the party has no objection to the establishment of lower courts at the upazila level or to the reform of emergency law.
He made the statement on Monday while briefing reporters after the second session of the 10th day of the second phase of dialogues between political parties and the National Consensus Commission at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka.
Salahuddin added that other political parties have also reached a consensus on the matter.
However, he stressed that proper enforcement of the law is essential.
The BNP leader said that most political parties have agreed on expanding lower courts to upazila levels in order to deliver legal services to people’s doorsteps.
However, he mentioned that some parties have raised a few concerns.
“Firstly, since district judge courts already exist in the district headquarters, there is no need for new courts there. To my knowledge, there are currently 67 upazila courts across the country. These require necessary reforms. Secondly, if the district headquarters is within a 15 to 20km radius and is accessible, then courts may not be needed in those areas either. Thirdly, depending on population density and economic factors, subordinate courts could be decentralized to certain upazilas.”
Salahuddin added that the issue warrants further discussion.
When asked why the BNP removed upazila courts in the past, Salahuddin said the decision came in 1991 when the party came to power, based on the political context of the time.
“Perhaps the decision was made according to the realities then. However, 35 years later, due to new realities, proposals are being raised in favour of reinstating them,” he said.
Regarding the reform of emergency law, Salahuddin said discussions were held on the circumstances under which the president may declare a state of emergency, the conditions that must be fulfilled, and the process with or without an active parliament.
The politician said issues related to international affairs and fundamental rights are meant to be discussed in the next parliament.
“Everyone agreed that under Article 141 of the Constitution, during the enforcement of a state of emergency, basic and human rights must not be curtailed. We also have no objection. It must not be misused under any circumstances. This matter needs further discussion,” he added.
