Chittagong New Muring Container Terminal: HC suspends decision in split verdict

PNN News Desk

The High Court today issued a split verdict regarding the legality of the contract process between Chittagong Port Authority (CPA) and a foreign company to operate the New Muring Container Terminal (NCT).

Bench members Justice Fatema Nazib and Justice Fatema Anwar delivered separate opinions. Senior Justice Fatema Nazib declared the contract process illegal, while Junior Justice Fatema Anwar deemed it legal.

Due to differing opinions, the Chief Justice will form another High Court bench for the final resolution of the case.

Additional Attorney General Anik Ar Haque told reporters, “This split verdict does not create a legal obstacle for the ongoing contract process.”

On the other hand, senior lawyer Ahsanul Karim, representing the petitioners, said, “Because of this verdict, the government cannot proceed with the contract process currently. No action can be taken before the final decision. The Chief Justice will form a larger bench to settle the case.”

Previously, the High Court had ordered a suspension of all activities related to the NCT contract, which was challenged through a writ petition. The petition was filed by Mirza Walid Hossain, President of the Bangladesh Young Economists Forum, who questioned the legality of awarding the contract to a foreign company. Petitioners included the Shipping Secretary, Chairman of Chittagong Port Authority, and CEO of the PPP Authority.

The court had also questioned why a fair and competitive public bidding process was not ensured before selecting the operator for NCT. The petition was partially influenced by a report in a national daily on April 26, which raised concerns about why a fully equipped terminal was being handed over to a foreign company.