Sangsad Bhaban, July 9 -- State Minister for Youth and Sports Md. Aminul Haque on Thursday urged people across the country to celebrate the ongoing FIFA World Cup in a spirit of joy and sportsmanship, warning against violence and disorder over support for rival teams.

Speaking in Parliament during a discussion on a private member's resolution moved by BNP MP from Sylhet-3 Mohammed Abdul Malique, the State Minister expressed concern over reports of fatalities and clashes linked to World Cup celebrations.

He said Bangladesh was currently gripped by "World Cup fever", with people from all walks of life, particularly the youth, enthusiastically watching matches at home and on giant LED screens set up in different areas.

"The whole country ...