Morning News
3rd March 1958
Bari-Mujib Wordy Duel
Exchange of Near-Abusive Epithets
Karachi, Mar. 2 (APP): An acrimonious scene, unprecedented in its undignified harshness, held up general discussion on the budget in the National Assembly for about 35 minutes today.
The unpleasant drama, later deprecated by the Deputy Speaker and other sections of the House, involved Mian Abdul Bari (Ind.) in an exchange of near-abusive epithets with Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and Mr. Zahiruddin of the Awami League. The altercation itself lasted about 10 minutes. Another 20 minutes were consumed by debate whether all of it could be expunged from the proceedings. Since no unanimous view could be advanced, the Deputy Speaker ruled that the “cross talk” will remain on record to serve as a reminder that the members ought to restrain themselves. The altercation began when Mr. Abdul Khaleque (AL) referred to Chaudhuri Mohammad Ali’s charge of corruption against the Awami League and its leader, Mr. Suhrawardy. Mian Bari protested that Chaudhuri Sahib made no mention of the Awami League or Mr. Suhrawardy. “It is a case of guilty conscience. Perhaps the shoe fits”. Sheikh Mujib retorted that he knew all about the record of Chaudhuri Mohammad Ali and even of Mian Bari. This started an exchange of jibes and threats which could not be properly heard in the Press gallery. What could be deciphered disclosed an unmitigated cross talk mingled with insults and even threats of physical violence.
This was the first time that remarks of this nature were exchanged between members on the floor of the House.