Dhaka, Aug 29 (IANS) Shops have been rented out at Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban, Bangladesh's national assembly building, a move that has been described as "irresponsible and tasteless" by a noted architect.

"I gave permission to promote the loom industry and we earned some money for the public treasury," the Daily Star quoted Speaker Abdul Hamid as saying.

It will provide a shopping opportunity for the people, he added.

However, architect Shamsul Wares said: "It is an irresponsible and tasteless act to spoil the sanctity and beauty of the Sangsad complex."

Wares said that the Sangsad building is a monumental marvel and a symbol of national identity, pride and aesthetic beauty.

The Parliament Secretariat took Taka 2 lakh in exchange for permitting the month-long fair with 40 shops showcasing cloths, saris, footwear and cosmetics on the pavement in front of Sangsad's south plaza.

Pranab Chakraborty, a senior official, said they are going to rent out the parliament premises on a regular basis since they have been asked to generate revenue of Taka 70 lakh this fiscal year.

"Parliament's expenditure for salaries and operation is becoming higher every year," said Pranab.

"We have to explore all the possible sources of income."