DHAKA: Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Monday asked her cabinet members not to make any comment on constitutional issues and on religion-based political parties, as crucial changes in the fundamental principles of state policy are now under a close scrutiny.

She issued the instructions at a regular cabinet meeting at the secretariat, more than one minister present at the meeting later told banglanews24.com.bd.

Mentioning that constitutional amendment is a sensitive issue, the prime minister told the ministers that the special committee on constitutional amendments would take the decisions. “It will be wise not to make any comment beforehand.”

The meeting sources said Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina told the meeting that no party will be banned.

She was further quoted as saying that in line with the Election Commission’s registration law, anybody can form any political party. “This is not a matter of the government.”

Besides, the prime minister asked the ministers to remain alert about the ongoing spell of labour unrest and damaging property over the wage-scale issue. She advised the ministers to take necessary steps to pacify the workers.

BDST 1755 HRS, August 2, 2010