Dhaka: A seminar titled “Constitution-Making and Unmaking” was held at Nabab Nawab Ali Chowdhury Senate Bhaban of the Dhaka University (DU) today. The Law Department of the university organised the seminar, said a university release here.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Pro-Vice Chancellor (Admin) Professor Dr Saima Huq Bidisha attended the seminar as the chief guest while Head of Constitution Building Programme of International IDEA, Sumit Bisaria, spoke as a key speaker. Law Faculty Dean Prof Dr Mohammad Iqramul Huq, Law Department Chairman Prof Dr M Touhidul Islam, and other teachers of the department were also present at the seminar.
“The constitution of a country is not a legal document, but it is a reflection of the soul of the nation,” said Prof Dr Saima Huq Bidisha. She emphasized the necessity of keeping a reflection of the opinion of the people, historic background, and democratic values in the constitution enactment process. She highlighted the importance and sensitivity of constitution change or reform under the current difficult political background, stressing the need for widespread research and discussion in the academic sphere.
Key speaker Sumit Bisaria stated that the enactment of the constitution is not only a legal process but also involves political bargaining and social contact. He noted that experiences from different countries show that an inclusive dialogue and participatory process are key to enacting a sustainable and acceptable constitution.