Bangladesh News

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday told the House that her government would be able to solve the controversial Tipaimukh Dam problem through bilateral talks with India.

“All the problems can be solved through talks. We have signed historic Ganges water treaty, ensuring fair share of the river water. We will be able to resolve the Tipaimukh issue,” Hasina said while she was speaking on the proposed budget.

Referring to the cardinal principle of Bangladesh’s foreign policy— friendship with all and malice towards none, the prime minister said her government wants to move forward in line with the policy.

She criticised the main opposition BNP for maintaining double standards on Tipaimukh dam. “I would become happy if I found their loud voice against the Tipaimukh dam when they were in power,” Hasina, also leader of the House, said.

As opposition they are now protesting construction of the dam, the premier said adding, “Do they want to solve the problem or to create an issue?”

She said a parliamentary team comprising members of the parliamentary standing committee on water resources ministry will visit the Tipaimukh Dam site. But the BNP does not have representation in the standing committee, she said.

“However, I asked the chairman of the parliamentary standing committee on water resources ministry to include names of BNP lawmakers if they want. But they did not propose any name for inclusion in the parliamentary team that would visit the Tipaimukh Dam site,” she said.

Referring to Khaleda’s letter, Hasina said the opposition leader sent a letter to her. But she did not read the letter. “I will let everybody know the message the letter carries,” she said.

Construction of Tipaimukh Dam on Borak River in India has become a burning issue in Bangladesh that triggered widespread protest, confusion and a game of blame in politics.

Apart from opposition parties and a section of experts, many ruling party lawmakers, and a number of ministers have already raised their voice against the dam.