Dhaka: BNP senior leader Moudud Ahmed on Sunday alleged that the ruling party is out to stir a controversy over the Supreme Court's 16th amendment verdict to make it a political issue.

"Awami League is sparking off a controversy over the verdict to make it a political issue. Such efforts will only invite a dangerous consequence for the country. I think it may hasten your (govt's) fall," he said.

The BNP leader came up with the remarks while speaking at a discussion programme arranged by 'Arpan Bangladesh' at the Jatiya Press Club.

Moudud, a BNP standing committee member and former law minister, said the government's attitude and its reaction to the apex court's verdict have demonstrated that it has announced a war against the independence of the judiciary.

He warned the government that it will face a defeat in such a war. "People will turn victorious in it."

The BNP leader criticised the ministers and ruling party leaders for their 'reckless' remarks about the Chief Justice and the judiciary. "I've got surprised as some ministers were even demanding the resignation of the Chief Justice. It's very unfortunate for us."

He also said it is also regrettable that efforts are on to create a public opinion against the apex court's verdict.

Moudud said the consequence of devaluating the judiciary will not be good. "I can say from my experience that those who tried to harm the judiciary got affected. The judiciary will exist in the future while the tenure of the government, parliament and administration will expire."

He urged the government to ensure the independence of the judiciary instead of hindering it. "Nothing can be more regrettable than your efforts to belittle the judiciary."

The BNP leader also slammed ex-Chief Justice and Law Commission Chairman ABM Khairul Haque for holding a press conference reacting to the Supreme Court verdict on the 16th amendment.

"Being a public servant what Justice Khairul Haque said about the verdict is a shameful mater for the nation. He acted as the government spokesperson."

Moudud thinks Khairul Haque should quit from of post of Law Commission on his own.