chtnews.com
News No. 64/2010, March 19, 2010
The New Age, a renowned English Daily, in its editorial today called for the withdrawal of the decision of the Khagrachari district administration to ban political programmes, saying it runs counter to the constitution of Bangladesh.
http://www.newagebd.com/2010/mar/19/edit.html
In the editorial entitled “Khagrachari ban runs counter with constitution”, it is stated that “The decision of the Khagrachari district administration to ban political programmes by any organisation not registered with the Election Commission is not only based on misinterpretation of the Representation of People Order but also runs counter with the constitution.”
It further said that the Khagrachari district administration had completely misinterpreted the relevant provision of the RPO, which only stipulates that any organisation registered with the Election Commission will be entitled to certain privileges, e.g. broadcasting and telecasting facilities in the state-owned media during the general elections.
“Nowhere in the order is it mentioned that an organisation not registered with the commission will not be allowed to organise political programmes. Moreover, the ban is in contravention with the constitution.”
Expressing fear that the ban is likely to deepen the tension that already exists in the hill district, the New Age editorial recommends that the ban should be lifted immediately.
“Meanwhile, the government needs to call the deputy commissioner to account for making a decision that defies the constitution.”
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