Political leaders from various parties have raised strong objections to the proposed reduction of parliamentary seats in Bagerhat as part of the national boundary delimitation process.
As the Election Commission continued hearings on seat redistribution for the second day on Monday, representatives of Bagerhat were united in their demand for Bagerhat to retain its four constituencies, a longstanding feature since the country's independence.
Barrister Sheikh Zakir Hossain, a representative for Bagerhat, who is also leading the opposition against the reduction, referred to the constitutional right of citizens to have adequate representation in the parliament.
"Article 118 of the Constitution guarantees empowerment for the people. By reducing the number of seats, the Commission is depriving the people of Bagerhat of their rightful representation," Hossain argued.
He also expressed frustration at the Election Commission's inability to provide clear answers regarding the increase in seats for other regions, such as Gazipur.
"The Commission failed to answer whether there was any formal petition for additional seats in Gazipur. We demand transparency and fairness in the process," he added.
National Citizen Party Joint Chief Organiser Molla Rahmatullah also voiced the party's frustration with the process, claiming that the Election Commission has not allowed them to properly present their case.
"Only the views of two lawyers were considered, while my arguments were completely ignored," Rahmatullah said, highlighting the perceived unfairness in the hearing process.
He further emphasised, "It is essential to have four constituencies to ensure the rights of the people of Bagerhat."
Barrister Hossain also warned of legal action if the demand for four seats was not met.
He further noted that the BNP, Jamaat-e-Islami, and the Sommilito Jote are all on board, and a collective decision will be made regarding further actions.
Former BNP president of Bagerhat, MS Halem Stream, also commented on the situation, saying, "If this decision is imposed on us, we will initiate a nationwide movement to protest the reduction. The people of Bagerhat will not tolerate such a move."
He said if the people of Bagerhat are deprived of their rights, "we will ensure that the Election Commission faces the consequences."
Under a proposal to the EC, Bagerhat-1 will remain unchanged, while Bagerhat-2 would include Sadar, Kachua and Rampal Upazilas, and Bagerhat-3 would combine Mongla, Morrelganj and Sarankhola.
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