How a bill becomes law in Bangladesh's parliament
From the first reading to the President's assent, here is the path a proposed law takes in the Jatiya Sangsad — and where citizens can follow it.
Laws in Bangladesh are made by the Jatiya Sangsad, the country's single-chamber parliament. Whether a law is about taxes, digital rights or road safety, it follows the same basic route laid down in the Constitution and parliament's rules of procedure.
1. A bill is introduced
Most bills are government bills, introduced by a minister. Individual members of parliament can also introduce private members' bills, though these rarely become law. Money bills — those about taxes and spending — can only be introduced on the President's recommendation.
2. Committee scrutiny
After introduction, a bill is usually sent to the relevant parliamentary standing committee. The committee examines it clause by clause and can recommend changes. This is often where the most detailed work happens.
3. Debate and vote
The committee's report returns to the full house. Members can propose amendments, which are debated and voted on, before parliament votes on the bill as a whole. A simple majority of members present and voting is enough for most bills; amending the Constitution requires a two-thirds majority of all members.
4. The President's assent
A bill passed by parliament goes to the President. Under Article 80 of the Constitution, the President can assent to it or, except for money bills, return it to parliament with a message asking it to reconsider. Once assented, the bill becomes an Act and is published in the official gazette.
How to follow a bill
Bills, committee reports and debates are published by parliament, and sessions are broadcast. Reading what a bill actually says — not just what people say about it — is the best way to take part in the debate.