Bangladesh Attorney General calls for major constitutional changes, wants 'secularism' removed

Dhaka: Bangladesh Attorney General Mohammad Asaduzzaman has called for significant changes to the country's Constitution, suggesting the removal of several key terms, media reported on November 14. Asaduzzaman made his remarks during the fifth day of hearings at the High Court concerning the legality of Bangladesh's 15th Constitutional Amendment.

Asaduzzaman argued that terms like socialism, secularism, Bengali nationalism, and the designation of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman as "Father of the Nation" should be removed. He believes these terms do not reflect the country's current state, particularly given its large Muslim population. He also expressed concern over the removal of the caretaker government system and the lack of provisions for a referendum.

The Attorney General stated that, "The amendment betrays the sacrifices of martyrs like Abu Sayed and Mugdho." He was referring to student activists involved in the July 2024 protests. Asaduzzaman argued that the 15th Amendment undermines democracy and called for its repeal. He believes the reinstatement of a referendum system is crucial for democratic accountability.

It may be noted here that the 15th Amendment, passed in 2011, recognises Sheikh Mujibur Rahman as the Father of the Nation, abolished the caretaker government system, and increased reserved seats for women in Parliament. The hearings on its legality are ongoing.