Speaker Rebukes MP Over ‘Shahbagh-Like’ Conduct

A heated exchange erupted in Parliament on Friday as Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad reprimanded NCP lawmaker Hasnat Abdullah, urging him to adhere to parliamentary norms instead of what he described as a “Shahbagh-like attitude”.

Addressing the Cumilla-4 MP directly, the Speaker said, “Don’t be so intolerant, Mr Abdullah. This is not Shahbagh Square. This is Parliament. Here, you must wait patiently and listen.”

The confrontation took place during a contentious debate over the passage of the July Memorial Museum Bill, 2026.

Tensions rose when the Speaker, in his remarks, compared the current Parliament with previous ones, describing the present House as more disciplined, vibrant and effective.

His comments drew an immediate and strong reaction from Hasnat Abdullah, a prominent figure in the July movement, who left his seat and shouted in protest.

As the situation escalated, the Speaker intervened firmly, reminding the lawmaker that parliamentary procedures must be followed and that there was little scope for verbal protests on the floor.

He advised the member to submit a formal notice, assuring that the chair would consider it in accordance with the rules.

The dispute centred on the passage of the July Memorial Museum Bill in an amended form. Opposition lawmakers, led by Chief Whip Nahid Islam, alleged that the bill was approved in violation of a prior consensus reached by a special committee.

They expressed strong dissatisfaction, claiming the amendments deviated from the agreed framework meant to preserve the legacy of the July movement.

Despite the protests and disorder in the chamber, the bill was eventually passed by voice vote, underscoring ongoing tensions between the treasury and opposition benches over the legislative process.