Dr. Kamal Hossain: Revising the Constitution is an Ill-Advised Proposal

Dr. Kamal Hossain, Chair of the Constitution Drafting Committee, dismissed the idea of rewriting the constitution as a “misguided notion.” However, he acknowledged the need for constitutional reforms, emphasizing that any changes should be introduced through proper deliberation and consensus.

Speaking at a discussion titled “The 1972 Constitution and Proposed Reforms” on Thursday evening at the Supreme Court Bar Association auditorium, Dr. Hossain stated, “The country has been governed by the constitution for decades, and the people have accepted it. Abruptly discarding it to draft a new one is neither logical nor acceptable.”

He further emphasized, “If reforms are necessary, they should be carried out through broad discussions and national consensus. Writing a new constitution means dismantling the existing one, which is unacceptable under any circumstances.”

Dr. Hossain also stressed that the constitution should reflect the aspirations of the people rather than serve the interests of any individual or group. He warned that constitutional amendments made for narrow gains would not benefit the country.

The discussion was organized by the Bangladesh Democratic Lawyers’ Association. Other notable speakers included Bangla Academy President Professor Abul Quasem Fazlul Huq, Constitution Drafting Committee member Professor Abu Sayeed, Women’s Council President Dr. Fauzia Moslem, journalist Sohrab Hasan, and leaders of the Democratic Lawyers’ Association.

Professor Abul Quasem Fazlul Huq advocated for gradual reforms instead of drastic constitutional changes. Professor Abu Sayeed criticized the proposals submitted by the constitutional reform committee, warning that removing secularism could fuel religious extremism and destabilize the country.

Speakers at the event reiterated the need for constitutional amendments but stressed that reforms should be based on national consensus.