Fencing off democracy

The parliament is the symbol of our national pride and dignity. It is very sad that the citadel of our democracy and freedom has seemingly abdicated its sacred responsibility to the hubris of a handful of lawmakers, who have taken the parliament hostage by their sweet whims.

From the very beginning, the parliament has been unable to function as the main forum for dialogue, debate, and negotiations to resolve policy differences amongst political parties. Members in the cabinet or the opposition party are found indulging in mudslinging with their opponents on the rare occasions that they are found participating in debates in the parliament.

Though our parliament cannot work effectively, the Bangladesh National Parliament building is an architectural masterpiece and a real accomplishment for the country. World famous architect, Louis I Kahn, designed the parliament building to be constructed over 200 acres of land in Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, which was inaugurated in 1982.

The physical and architectural design of the building gives off a strong modernist vibe. The interiors apparently resemble a modern-day cathedral, intersected with pure geometrical elements. The geometrical windows allow natural light in the form of circles, triangles, and rectangles. It is very strong, yet simplistic.

The use of concrete and its very visible role as the dominant building material was by no way an accident. Indeed it was very deliberate and apparently typical of Kahn’s work. Utilising light and space to create, in the architect’s own words, a “poetic entity,” formed the basis of much of his work and design philosophy.

Like the Taj Mahal, it looks amazing seen from afar but is much more than just the main building – the entire complex and grounds are beautiful. The complex is divided into three parts: The Main Plaza, the South Plaza, and the Presidential Plaza. The main building is at the centre of the complex. The outer parts of the complex include the MP hostel. An intricately designed lake surrounds the main building.

The complexes are popular among the joggers and skaters of Dhaka. The official prime minister’s residence is on the northwestern corner of the Mirpur Road and Lake Road crossing, and is a five-minute walk from the parliament. The area is one of the higher security zones of Dhaka.

Although not a relic of the historical age, it is considered a masterpiece of modern architecture. This makes for a great tourist site. But sadly, this superb piece of architectural work is often overlooked.

Spoiling its beauty and defying citizens’ rights, the parliament secretariat has embarked on a plan to cage the parliament complex with an iron fence for security. The Public Works Department is implementing the project in which an 8.5-foot high iron fence would be set up on three sides of the complex – the South Plaza, and the lawns in the east and the west – replacing an existing four-foot high barrier.  They have already dug trenches to install the fence at a cost of Tk9.5 crore to keep out “miscreants” and “security threats.”

But security with an iron barrier is ridiculous as it does not guarantee protection against potential threats or any attempt at sabotage. Close-circuit surveillance and other high-tech security systems are usually used across the world to secure important establishments.

The lawns in the east, west, and the South Plaza must remain open to people. The existing barrier is adequate in preventing unwanted entry of stray animals. This is an uncivil and futile attempt at protecting an architectural marvel and symbol of our national identity. It only shows the foolishness of this initiative.

It may be cited here that any visitor, including foreigners, could enter the German national parliament even during sessions. Despite the 1987 grenade attack at the Sri Lankan parliament, there was no physical barrier put in place there. We have passed 42 years with no question of a security breach. What prompted our government to take this nonsensical initiative?

Eminent architects, civil society members, and architecture departments of government and private universities are vehemently protesting this move. They have already organised a human chain in opposing this uncivil action of the government on February 21 for creating public awareness in front of the parliament.

Teachers and students from different architecture departments took part in this human chain by carrying placards and chanting slogans. The entire South Plaza was dedicated to blurring the lines between the people and the parliament. The people’s rights cannot be violated.

Our parliament building is a masterpiece of architecture. The building is one of the world’s best examples of architectural work in terms of its inspired use of light and space.

This building must be protected and allowed to retain its own entity. We hope that our present government will respect the people’s opinion and refrain from fencing the citadel of our democracy.