Dhaka, July 21 (UNB) – Speakers at a discussion here on Saturday called for investigating into the corruption allegation raised by the World Bank over the Padma Bridge project.

They came up with the demand while addressing the discussion, titled ‘Padma Credit Agreement, World Bank Roadmap and Question of National Capacity’ organised by Communist Party of Bangladesh (CPB) at Moitree Auditorium in the city.

Terming the Prime Minister and Finance Minister’s speeches on the Padma Bridge contrary, they suggested conducting the probe in a transparent manner and taking necessary steps accordingly.

Prof MM Akash, Dr Binayak Sen, Shahidullh Chowdhury, Prof Shafiquzzaman, among others, spoke at the discussion held with CPB president Manzurul Ahsan Khan in the chair.

Prof Anu Mohammad presented the keynote paper.

They demanded the disclosure of information about the World Bank-funded projects and formation of an independent commission for evaluating the activities of the World Bank.

Making alternative suggestion for the construction of Padma Bridge, they suggested releasing a bond for the expatriate Bangladeshis and encourage them to buy it. “Steps should be taken so that the expatriates can buy this bond from abroad.”

They also called for establishing ‘Padma Bridge Authority’ for the construction of the bridge.  

They said loan can be taken for the development of the economy, but the country’s interests cannot be sacrificed to the conditions of lenders while taking loan.

They demanded the construction of Padma Bridge with own resources and making the country self-reliance imbued with the spirit of the Liberation War.