Bangladesh, July 16 -- Opposition Leader and Jamaat Ameer Shafiqur Rahman on Wednesday called for making the Jatiya Sangsad a "meeting place of the oppressed and ordinary people", urging equitable distribution of state resources, stricter action against corruption and a more effective parliament.

Speaking at the closing sitting of parliament's second session, chaired by Deputy Speaker Kaiser Kamal, he said a rules-based parliament could restore public confidence and encourage greater public participation in nation-building.

He also urged the Speaker to ensure stronger enforcement of parliamentary rules and procedures. Shafiqur criticised the passage of the budget and key bills without adequate debate, saying the opposition was denied m...