Technical Glitch Halts Proceedings in 13th Jatiya Sangsad, Investigation Committee Formed

During the first session of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad, a severe technical malfunction in the sound system temporarily halted parliamentary proceedings. The incident raised concerns within the Sangsad, prompting the formation of an investigation committee led by the Sergeant-at-Arms to determine whether the issue was deliberate. The committee has been instructed to submit its report by 3 April.

Preliminary assessments suggest the possibility of sabotage. Simultaneously, steps have been taken to bring in experts from Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) to identify the actual fault in the sound system. According to MPs’ complaints, the use of large headphones has caused discomfort, and plans have been made to replace them.

The decision was announced on Saturday, 28 March, following a committee meeting chaired by the Chief Whip and committee president, Nurul Islam. Committee members present included Rokibul Islam, Mia Nuruddin Ahmed Apu, Mohammad Koyeshar Ahmed, Md. Shahidul Islam, Nayab Yusuf Ahmed, S M Jahangir Hossain, Md. Saiful Alam, and Md. Abul Hasnat. Engineers, officials from the Public Works Department, and Secretariat personnel, along with the Sergeant-at-Arms, also attended.

The meeting highlighted the critical importance of technological management and infrastructure development within the Sangsad. Emphasis was placed on involving BUET experts and adopting modern technologies to ensure more reliable and advanced parliamentary operations.

In addition, MPs’ housing and medical facilities were discussed. Instructions were issued to procure and refurbish furniture in designated flats promptly, with the goal of completing house allocations by 10 April. Progress on the renovation of MP buildings on Manik Mia Avenue and Nakhalpara, security enhancements, and refurbishment of 156 office rooms in the Sher-e-Bangla Nagar MP Hostel was also reviewed.

The modernization of the National Sangsad Medical Center was recommended, including the appointment of specialist doctors, the launch of cardiac services, addition of ICU ambulances and mortuary-equipped refrigerated vehicles, and procurement of quality medicines.

At the beginning of the meeting, MPs observed a moment of mourning for the death of the Speaker’s wife, offering prayers for her soul. Prayers were also offered for the successful functioning of the new parliament and for the welfare of the people of the country.

DBTech/NDW/EK/OR