Dhaka: Saiful Alam Milon, a Jamaat-e-Islami Member of Parliament from Dhaka-12, on Monday strongly criticised the Road Transport Minister's claim that this year's Eid journey was 'comfortable' and a 'relief'. Speaking during an unscheduled discussion in the Parliament, Milon questioned the minister's remarks, citing conflicting reports on fatalities during the Eid travel period.
According to United News of Bangladesh, Milon referred to the minister's statement made at a press conference on Sunday, expressing skepticism over the term 'relief.' He highlighted data from the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA), which reported 170 deaths during the Eid travel period, contrasting with the Passenger Welfare Association's report of 370 fatalities.
Milon drew attention to a tragic incident at the Daulatdia ferry terminal, where a bus reportedly plunged into the water, resulting in multiple fatalities. Despite such incidents, he noted, the minister described the journey as 'comfortable.' Milon questioned the minister's accountability, asking, "How many more deaths would it take for him to feel uncomfortable?"
He also criticised the minister's absence from the site of the Daulatdia accident and the compensation provided to victims' families. Milon questioned whether a human life was worth just Tk 25,000, the amount given to the deceased's families, with the injured receiving Tk 15,000.
Milon compared the situation to the British parliamentary system, suggesting that under the Westminster model, the minister would have resigned. He questioned whether the minister would consider resigning in light of the fatalities.
In the same parliamentary session, Jamaat MP Shahjahan Chowdhury raised concerns about the efficiency of the question-and-answer session. He noted that only five starred questions were addressed, suggesting that 20 to 25 questions could be managed within an hour. Chowdhury urged the Speaker to improve the management of questions and responses to ensure all members' concerns are addressed.
Chowdhury also pointed out inconsistencies in ministers' statements, noting differences between the Law Minister and the Home Minister. He suggested that ministers should respond strictly within their domains to maintain clarity.
In response, BNP MP Zainul Abdin Faruk denied any division among ministers, asserting their competence and dismissing claims of inconsistency as unfounded.