A sudden fire alert disrupted the National Consensus Commission’s meeting on Monday (July 28), prompting politicians to evacuate the venue in Dhaka.

The incident happened at 12:20 pm at the Doel Hall of the Foreign Service Academy while the meeting was underway. 

According to eyewitnesses, the fire alarm system was triggered, causing panic among participants.

Professor Dr Ali Riaz, vice-president of the commission, called on everyone to calmly leave the hall. However, most participants, including politicians, rushed downstairs in a hurry to reach safety.

Dr Riaz also urged the attendees to remain calm and exercise patience during the evacuation.

Initial suspicion suggests someone might have discarded a lit cigarette or other flammable item in the building. Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the exact cause behind the alert.

No injuries were reported, and the situation was brought under control shortly after the evacuation.

MSK/