United News of Bangladesh

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus will address the nation at 8:20 pm today (Tuesday) on the occasion of July Uprising Day. The speech will be broadcast simultaneously on Bangladesh Television, BTV News and Bangladesh Betar, said Chief Adviser’s Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder. July Declaration to be unveiled at Manik Mia Avenue today

July Declaration, a crucial political document finalised by the interim government, will be presented to the nation at a grand public gathering at Manik Mia Avenue in the capital at 5pm Tuesday, marking the first anniversary of the fall of the Awami League government. Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus will read out the July Declaration. Bangladesh Television will broadcast the event live. The July Declaration was finalised by the interim government after consultation with political parties. In a Facebook post on Saturday afternoon, the Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary, Shafiqul Alam, wrote: “On Tuesday, 5 August, 2025, at 5:00pm, the July Declaration will be presented to the nation in the presence of all parties involved in the mass uprising.” One year on: Bangladesh remembers sacrifices of July Mass Uprising A grand public event will also be held at Manik Mia Avenue in the capital, featuring cultural performances, a symbolic celebration of the fall of fascism, a special drone drama titled 'Do You Miss Me?' among daylong festivities. Organised by the Ministry of Cultural Affairs and managed by Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA) with support from the Bangladesh National Parliament Secretariat, the event began at 11am and run throughout the day. The special drone drama titled 'Do You Miss Me?' wull be held from 7:30pm to 8pm. Authored by The Anonymous and jointly presented by the Governments of Bangladesh and China, the show will feature 2,000 drones recreating key moments and slogans from the July Uprising, showcasing scenes of student and public mobilisation that led to the eventual victory. A five-member BNP delegation, led by its Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, will take part in the July Declaration programme. The other members of the delegation include BNP Standing Committee members Mirza Abbas, Dr Abdul Moyeen Khan, Nazrul Islam Khan and Salahuddin Ahmed, said BNP media cell member Sayrul Kabir Khan. He said the decision to join the event was taken at a meeting of the BNP Standing Committee on Monday night at the party chairperson's office in Gulshan.

A record-breaking 10,202 individual taxpayers filed their income tax returns online on the very first day of the e-return filing process for the fiscal year 2025–26, the National Board of Revenue (NBR) said on Tuesday. Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed officially inaugurated the electronic return (e-return) submission system Monday. According to an NBR press release issued Tuesday  morning, the number of returns submitted on the first day marks a nearly fivefold increase compared to the same period last year when 2,344 returns were filed on September 9, 2024. Online submission of tax returns made mandatory in Bangladesh The surge follows a special directive issued by the NBR on August 3, 2025 making online filing mandatory for all individual taxpayers except senior citizens aged 65 and above, persons with disabilities, Bangladeshi citizens living abroad, and legal representatives of deceased taxpayers. The directive allows flexibility for those who encounter genuine difficulties in completing the e-return registration process. Such taxpayers can submit a written application with proper justification to their respective tax circle by October 31, 2025. Upon approval by the concerned Additional or Joint Commissioner of Taxes, they will be allowed to file their returns manually. Last year, over 1.7 million taxpayers filed their returns online under the partially implemented e-filing system. This year, the upgraded platform enables taxpayers to pay their taxes from home using bank transfers, debit or credit cards, and mobile financial services such as bKash, Rocket, and Nagad. They can also instantly download their acknowledgement slips and tax certificates directly from the system, the release added. To support taxpayers throughout the process, NBR has set up round-the-clock assistance via call centres and digital platforms to address any queries or technical issues related to online filing.  

On the first anniversary of the fall of Sheikh Hasina's regime, Manwra Begum, mother of Abu Sayed, the first martyr of the July Mass Uprising, said her only wish is to live to see the Bangladesh her son dreamt of. “I’m waiting to see that Bangladesh my son sacrificed his life for, a country where fascism never rises again, and there is no longer discrimination, violence or bloodshed,” said Manwara Begum, standing beside her son’s grave in their ancestral village of Jaforpara in Babnupur, Pirganj. Abu Sayed's belongings, clothes and family members remain in the house unchanged. But his absence fills the space with a void that his parents say will never heal. “There’s an ache in our hearts that words can’t describe. We carry this grief in silence,” she said. Abu Sayed, hailed as one of the heroes of the July Mass Uprising, was from a modest family in Pirganj, about 50 kilometres from Rangpur city. One year on: Bangladesh remembers sacrifices of July Mass Uprising On this solemn day, his mother and father Mokbul Hossain stood motionless beside their son’s grave with their eyes brimming with tears. “My son’s sacrifice brought a new kind of independence to Bangladesh,” Manwara Begum said. “I want that no other mother has to lose her child like I did. If I can die seeing that Bangladesh he dreamt of, it will bring me peace.” She said people frequently visit their home to learn about her son’s bravery. “Morning turns to evening, and visitors still come. But in the crowd, I feel a terrible emptiness. I live every moment with this grief. Who can fill this void?” she asked. Abu Sayed’s father Mokbul Hossain said, “The sacrifices of many like my son freed the country from the clutches of an autocratic regime.” Prof Yunus urges Social Services Department to modernise systems, prioritise girls He said those responsible for his son’s death must be brought to justice. “I want the execution of the police officer who shot my son and all others involved in his killing.” As the nation celebrates the first anniversary of the July Uprising, Abu Sayed’s family remains rooted in quiet resilience—still grieving, yet hopeful that his ultimate sacrifice will not go in vain.    

Bangladesh is observing the "July Mass Uprising Day" on Tuesday, marking one year of the fall of the Hasina-led government amid a student-led mass uprising that changed the nation’s political course. To commemorate the occasion, the interim government, political parties and socio-cultural organisations have arranged a series of programmes to honour the sacrifices of those including students who took to the streets against misrule and autocracy. Tuesday’s observance will include tributes, processions and cultural performances, highlighting the importance of the day. On June 26, the government announced August 5 as 'July Uprising Day'.The day is a public holiday. The interim government formed a 36-member national committee to oversee the observance of mass uprising days in July and August and marking the anniversary of the movement. Besides, a 36-day long programme was observed from July 1 to August 5 to mark the anniversary. The July declaration will be presented to the nation at 5pm at Manik Mia Avenue at 5pm today. Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus will read out the July Declaration. Bangladesh Television will broadcast the event live. The July Declaration was finalised by the interim government after consultation with the political parties. These major parties have agreed to grant the declaration official and constitutional recognition. Law Adviser slams Hasina’s rule, claims she lacked understanding of State concept In a Facebook post on Saturday afternoon, the Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary, Shafiqul Alam, wrote: “On Tuesday, 5 August, 2025, at 5:00pm, the July Declaration will be presented to the nation in the presence of all parties involved in the mass uprising.” A grand public event will be held on Tuesday on Manik Mia Avenue in the capital, featuring cultural performances, a symbolic celebration of the fall of fascism, the historic reading of the July Declaration, and a special drone drama titled 'Do You Miss Me?' among daylong festivities.Organised by the Ministry of Cultural Affairs and managed by Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy (BSA) with support from the Bangladesh National Parliament Secretariat, the event will begin at 11am and run throughout the day. The cultural programme will kick off with performances by the band Tong, including songs like ‘July-er Puthi Gaan’, ‘Ami Chitkar Kore Kadite Chahiya’, and ‘Teesta Bachan, Dhobla Bachan’. This will be followed by Saimum Shilpigoshthi performing revolutionary songs including ‘Jegei Jokhon Uthechho Bondhu’, ‘Ei Andolon Sofol Hobe’, ‘Aay Tarunno Aay’, and ‘Boichhey Batash Boiree’.The highlight of the evening will be a special drone drama titled 'Do You Miss Me?' from 7:30pm to 8pm. Authored by The Anonymous and jointly presented by the Governments of Bangladesh and China, the show will feature 2,000 drones recreating key moments and slogans from the July Uprising, showcasing scenes of student and public mobilisation that led to the eventual victory. The Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) on Monday issued a traffic advisory for city residents ahead of ‘July Mass Uprising Day’. Prof Yunus urges Social Services Department to modernise systems, prioritise girls BNP will hold victory rallies in all upazilas and thanas on Tuesday and in all districts and metropolitan cities across the country on Wednesday, marking the first anniversary of the fall of fascism and the victory of students and the masses in the July Uprising. Earlier on June 26, the BNP announced a 36-day-long programme titled ‘July-August Uprising: Mourning and Victory Observance’ to mark the first anniversary of the July-August mass uprising, which led to the ousting of autocratic ruler Sheikh Hasina from power on August 5, 2024. President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus issued separate messages ahead of the day. President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Monday said the fascist roots must be uprooted and the spirit of July be fully realised to build a happy and prosperous Bangladesh. “The July Uprising was an outburst of the youth and the masses against longstanding deprivation, misrule, corruption, looting, enforced disappearances, killings, abductions, the denial of voting rights and all forms of oppression and tyranny,” said the President in a message marking the July Mass Uprising Day.  

Dr. Md. Rashidul Islam, a professor in the Statistics Department at Begum Rokeya University, Rangpur (BRUR), has been suspended following allegations of sexual harassment brought by a female student of the department. The suspension was based on recommendations made by the investigation committee formed in response to the complaint, and was approved at the 113th meeting of the University Syndicate, in line with the Government Servants (Discipline and Appeal) Rules, 2018. Acting on the directive of Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Md. Shawkat Ali, the university issued a formal suspension letter on Sunday (August 3), signed by Registrar Dr. Md. Harun-or Rashid.  

Islamic University Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Nakib Muhammad Nasrullah has said that the July-August Revolution will serve as a guiding force for Bangladesh’s democratic future. The visuals of the mass uprising reflect the nation’s true identity and history, he said while speaking at the inauguration of a documentary exhibition on the "July-August Revolution" at the Faculty Building on Monday. The event, held around 11am, marked the anniversary of the July mass uprising that led to sweeping political change. "We may not remain forever, but these images will live on in our souls and in the archives of our hearts. Future generations of students will remember how the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement and the people united to overthrow fascism and dictatorship. This is our ideal, our inspiration," he said. Dr. Nasrullah emphasised the collective commitment to building a democratic and inclusive Bangladesh. "We will never allow fascism to return. Together, we will build a beautiful Bangladesh," he added. The exhibition was inaugurated in the presence of Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. M. Yeaqub Ali, Treasurer Professor Dr. Jahangir Alam, Dean of Arts Professor Dr. Emtiaz Hossain, July 36 Hall Provost Professor Dr. AKM Shamsul Haque Siddiqui, CSE Department Chair Professor Dr. Rabiul Haque, University Proctor Professor Dr. Shahinuzzaman, and several faculty members and student leaders, including former ASDM coordinator SM Sweet. The documentary showcases key moments from the historic movement and will remain on display for students and faculty.

Law Adviser Dr Asif Nazrul on Monday strongly criticised former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's 15-year rule, claiming that she even lacked a proper understanding of the concept of the State. “People were denied their right to vote, yet she confidently repeated lies,” he said. Speaking as the chief guest at a seminar titled ‘July Uprising Day 2025’ organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at the Foreign Service Academy, Dr Nazrul emphasised the importance of state reform as a means of honouring the sacrifices of those who fought for changes. “True respect for those who gave their lives, were injured, or live in hardship can only be shown if we take Bangladesh to a better place through state reforms,” he said. Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain, Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam, Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Dr. Md. Nazrul Islam, and Director General (Public Diplomacy) Shah Asif Rahman also spoke at the event. Prof Yunus urges Social Services Department to modernise systems, prioritise girls A one-minute silence was observed in memory of the martyrs of the July Uprising. Adviser Nazrul highlighted the courage of those who participated in the uprising, stating, “Every individual who took part knew they were risking their lives. People from all walks of life came together to topple a fascist system.” He accused Sheikh Hasina’s government of setting new records in electoral fraud. “She has surpassed all previous limits in vote-rigging,” the Law Adviser said. Referring to a controversial statement reportedly made by former Foreign Dr AK Abdul Momen, Adviser Nazrul questioned, “Which Foreign Minister in the world talks about ‘husband-wife’ relations? Who did you mean by ‘husband’—Bangladesh?” He accused Hasina of undermining the country’s foreign policy and disrespecting its people through "looting, torture, enforced disappearances and murder." Adviser Hossain said the July Uprising was not just a political event but a triumph of courage, unity, and the will of people. Fascist roots must be uprooted to build happy, prosperous Bangladesh: President “This uprising stands as a symbol of sacrifice and collective strength, marking a new beginning for the nation and serving as a guide for future democratic movements,” he said. Adviser Hossain said the uprising played a key role in fostering youth leadership and establishing justice. “It is not a one-time event but an ongoing source of inspirations.” Hossain emphasised the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' responsibility in preserving the spirit of the July Uprising. “We are working to strengthen relations with allied countries, mend ties with adversaries and open new avenues for economic and technical cooperation,” he said. He highlighted the Ministry’s successes in bilateral, multilateral and regional diplomacy, and called on diplomats to serve as guardians of peace and the nation's global image. Hasina’s extradition: No positive response from India yet, says Touhid “Let us pledge today to fulfill our duties with renewed dedication. In the spirit of July, let us elevate Bangladesh’s stature in the world,” Hossain said. He shared a hopeful vision for the nation’s future, noting that Bangladesh must become a merit-based, just society—free of discrimination and poverty—an example for others to follow. "That is our aspiration.”

Two men were killed in a mob attack early Monday in Sirajganj’s Sadar upazila, after being accused of stealing cattle. One of the deceased was identified as Abdur Razzak, 40, from Paikpara village in Sadar upazila. The identity of the second victim has yet to be confirmed. According to police, the incident took place near the Panchthakuri area of the Jamuna River. Acting on a 999 emergency call on Sunday night, law enforcement recovered one body floating in the river and another injured individual in critical condition. The latter was taken to Shaheed M Mansur Ali Medical College Hospital, where he was declared dead. Inspector (Investigation) Ahsanuzzaman of Sadar Police Station confirmed that the bodies are currently being kept at the hospital morgue. Md Rafikul Islam, officer-in-Charge of Sirajganj River Police Station, said that three cows—two belonging to Abdul Mannan and one to Azizul Haque, both from Shonapcha village in the char area of Bogura—were allegedly stolen on Sunday night. While being transported by boat, the suspects were intercepted and beaten by a mob, leading to their deaths. Police have arrested two thieves in connection with the incident and recovered a boat and the cows, though one of the animals died, the OC said. The thieves were identified as Faruk, 40, from Rangachuria village in Tangail, and Vikram Sheikh, 47, from Charia Kandapara village in Sirajganj Sadar upazila. A case has been filed at Sariakandi Police Station in Bogura. Meanwhile, a separate case of murder has been lodged with Sadar Police Station in Sirajganj, naming more than 100 unidentified individuals as accused. The investigation is ongoing, police said.

A gas pipeline burst and caused a fire in the Khatehara area of Narsingdi on Monday (Aug. 4), leaving thousands of household consumers and 30–35 industrial establishments without gas for hours, triggering widespread suffering and strong criticism from local residents. The fire broke out around 5am due to a leak in a 6-inch diameter pipe running underground Titas Gas line. Locals, upon noticing the flames, immediately informed emergency services by calling 999 and notified Titas Gas authorities. The Fire Service responded quickly and brought the fire under control, but gas supply to several areas of the city and its outskirts, including Shalidha, Chauala, Khatehara, Kandapara, Satirpara, Kauriapara, Velanagar, Brahmandi, and Bilasadi, was completely shut down. Al-Amin Sarkar, operations manager of Titas Gas, said the pipeline was restored by 6:30pm, and gas supply gradually resumed thereafter. Engineer Maksudur Rahman, Narsingdi Area Manager for Titas Gas, said the fire was caused by a leak in the pipeline that supplies gas to approximately 4,000 to 4,500 households and 30 to 35 industrial units. Residents said the incident caused serious disruptions to daily life, with households unable to cook and industries forced to halt operations. Many accused Titas authorities of negligence, claiming that gas leakage from the line had been reported multiple times before the fire occurred, but no preventive action was taken. “We informed Titas multiple times in writing. Had they taken action earlier, this could have been prevented,” said Alauddin Mia, a resident of Khatehara. “There are over 1,000 illegal connections in this area, established with the help of some corrupt Titas officials. Not only is the government losing crores in revenue, but lives are also at risk.”