MP Hanzala seeks probe after being called ‘terrorist'

Madaripur-1 MP Syed Uddin Ahmad Hanzala has alleged that he was referred to as a “terrorist MP” while entering the Jatiya Sangsad complex to attend the funeral prayer of Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmed Bir Bikram’s wife, and has called for an official investigation.

Raising the matter under Rule 71 in Parliament on Thursday, Hanzala said the incident took place as he was entering the South Plaza area of the Parliament complex.

“I was entering when someone from behind said, ‘there goes the terrorist MP’,” he told the House during the seventh day of the first session of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad.

He added that he later saw discussions about the incident on social media and felt that such remarks against a sitting MP had damaged the dignity of Parliament.

Addressing the Speaker, Hanzala said he believed the remark may have been linked to his appearance, including his religious attire such as a white panjabi and cap. He said such clothing, associated with the Sunnah of the Prophet, could not be considered a symbol of extremism.

He requested the Speaker to review CCTV footage and direct the authorities, including the Home Ministry and parliamentary security forces, to identify those responsible.

In response, Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmed Bir Bikram described the incident as deeply regrettable and urged that a notice be issued to the concerned Member of Parliament. He also said the matter would be considered further.