United News of Bangladesh

Immediate action is urgently needed to shut down or control industrial sites in Dhaka that are leaking toxic lead, as they are putting thousands of children at serious health risk. A new study led by the International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (Icddr,b) has revealed alarmingly high levels of lead in children’s blood, raising fresh concerns about industrial pollution in the capital’s densely populated neighbourhoods. Icddr,b organised a discussion titled ‘Fighting Lead Poisoning in Bangladesh - Progress Made, Challenges Ahead’ to highlight the widespread and preventable burden of lead exposure in Bangladesh and explore opportunities for urgent intervention. Dr Tahmeed Ahmed, Executive Director of icddr,b said, "Lead poisoning silently steals our children's potential, damaging their brain development and nutritional status, with consequences that will hold back Bangladesh's future. We must act decisively to eliminate these sources of exposure so that every child can grow up healthy, smart, and ready to contribute to our nation." The event began with an overview of Icddr,b's lead prevention efforts by Dr Sarah Salway, Senior Director, Health Systems and Population Studies Division (HSPSD). She underscored how lead exposure remains a major but overlooked public health threat in Bangladesh, particularly for children living near polluting industries. Saying that lead, a toxic heavy metal, has been silently harming the health of millions, especially young children and pregnant women, Dr Sarah said there is no safe level of lead in the blood, but the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) considers blood lead levels above 35 µg/L (micrograms per litre) to be a cause for concern, especially in young children.  According to Unicef, Bangladesh is now the 4th most lead-impacted country globally, with 36 million children suffering from elevated blood lead levels [1] Research presented at the event revealed that in Dhaka slums from 2009-2012, 87% of children under 2 had blood lead levels >50 µg/L, strongly associated with stunting [2]. Professor Steve Luby, Professor of Medicine, Stanford University and a former Director at Icddr,b highlighted how lead exposure severely impairs brain development, causing IQ loss and cognitive deficits that can permanently affect future generations.  He said, "Lead enters the body in multiple ways, through the air we breathe, the food we eat, contact with contaminated soil or dust, and even during pregnancy through the placenta. These exposure pathways make it nearly impossible to avoid unless we address the root causes in our environment, especially those we have the ability to manage and control." Dr Md Mahbubur Rahman, Project Coordinator at Icddr,b, presented findings from a decade of lead-related research. It was noted that common sources of lead exposure include pollution from lead- and battery-related industries, lead-based paints, and consumer goods like cosmetics and cookware. One of the most impactful interventions to date has been targeting turmeric adulteration (polished with lead chromate). After studies conducted by the team from Stanford and Icddr.b confirmed turmeric as a major source of exposure among pregnant women, national actions followed-led by the Bangladesh Food Safety Authority-including public awareness campaigns, enforcement, and regulation. As a result, the proportion of lead-contaminated turmeric samples declined dramatically from 47% in 2019 to less than 0% in 2021. Bangladesh not on track to eliminate child labour by 2025: ILO, Unicef Dr Jesmin Sultana, Assistant Scientist at Icddr, b, shared the preliminary findings of a recent study (between 2022-2024) in Dhaka involving 500 children aged 2-4. She noted that every child had detectable blood lead levels (median BLL: 67 µg/L), with 98% exceeding the CDC's reference value of 35 µg/L Children living within 1 km of the identified lead-related industrial sites had 43% higher blood lead levels than those further than 5 km away. Other significant sources included indoor smoking, contaminated household dust, lead-based cosmetics, and cookware.  

Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) has forecast rain or thunder showers in all divisions of the country including Dhaka in 24 hours commencing 9:00am on Wednesday. “Light to moderate rain or thunder showers accompanied by temporary gusty wind is likely to occur at most places over Dhaka, Mymensingh, Khulna, Barishal, Chattogram and Sylhet divisions and at many places over Rangpur and Rajshahi divisions with moderately heavy to very heavy falls at places over the country,” said a Met office regular bulletin. Rains likely in Dhaka, other divisions: BMD Day and night temperature may remain nearly unchanged over the country. The country’s highest temperature 34.5 degree Celsius was recorded in Chandpur on Tuesday while the lowest temperature 22.4 degree Celsius was recorded in Tangail till 6am on Wednesday. Monsoon is active over Bangladesh and moderate over the North Bay.  

Only 25 aspirants have completed preliminary registration to perform the next Hajj under government management in the first 10 days since the registration process began on July 27, according to sources. So far, they said, no one has registered under private management, said the Hajj Management Portal of the Ministry of Religious Affairs. To register, each intending pilgrim must deposit Tk 4 lakh as an initial payment. The final registration must be completed by depositing the full package cost after Hajj packages are officially announced. Sources at the Ministry and the Hajj Agencies Association of Bangladesh (HAAB) said the pace of registration usually remains low until packages are declared. Once the cost is known, registrations usually surge and quotas fill up quickly. This year, Bangladesh has a total Hajj quota of 127,198 pilgrims under both government and private management. Hajj agency’s license cancelled for failing to send pilgrims to Hajj The ministry has said Hajj packages are expected to be announced within August. Based on the lunar calendar, the holy Hajj is likely to take place in the last week of May next year. As per the Saudi roadmap, final registration, including full payment, must be completed by October 12.

In a heart-wrenching protest, a grieving mother blocked Sylhet-Dhaka highway on Tuesday evening with her son’s body, demanding justice and the execution of his alleged killers. Parul Begum, 55, mother of 16-year-old Robiul Islam Nayeem, who went missing on July 26, staged the protest along with family members and hundreds of locals in front of Osmaninagar Police Station in Sylhet. The demonstration began around 5:30 pm and continued till  7:00 pm, halting traffic for over an hour and a half in both directions, causing suffering to long-distance commuters as hundreds of vehicles remained stranded on the highway. Police recovered Robiul’s body on Sunday last from a ditch near Bormachal railway station in Kulaura upazila of Moulvibazar district. Following intervention from local administration and political leaders, the protesters agreed to withdraw the blockade after receiving assurances that quick legal action would be taken in connection with the murder. Officer-in-charge (OC) of Osmaninagar Police Station Md Monayem Miah said the main suspect, restaurant owner Bulbul Miah, is now in police custody. A case was filed against him in Kulaura Police Station, he said. July Charter: Protesters continue standoff at Shahbagh through the night Robiul, the second son of Konai Mia from Gadiyachor village in Osmaninagar, worked night shifts at Bogura Restaurant in Brahmangram, located along the Sylhet-Dhaka highway. He went missing from work on July 26. After a desperate search, the family filed a general diary with Osmaninagar police. His elder brother Quayum alleged that Bulbul murdered his younger brother and demanded his execution.

A regional leader of the banned Purbo Banglar Communist Party was shot and hacked to death by unidentified assailants in Khulna on Tuesday night. Police identified the deceased as Sheikh Shahadat Hossain. Officer-in-charge (OC) of Sonadanga Police Station Shariful Islam said a group of attackers chased Shahadat and attacked him near ‘Sangeeta Cinema Hall’ in the city around 9 pm. At one stage, the attackers left the scene and locals rushed him to Khulna Medical College Hospital where physicians declared him dead around 9:30 pm, the OC said.  Former ‘member of outlawed party’ shot dead in Pabna Shahadat had been released on bail earlier this year after serving over 15 years in jail.  He had since been living a normal life, the OC added. Shahadat was accused in a number of murder cases, including one involving the killing of two policemen.

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus has said the ‘July Charter’ is a historic achievement, which will ensure the smooth transfer of power in Bangladesh, the country’s independence and capacity of accountable state institutions. He hoped that political parties will soon sign the ‘July Charter’ and also agree on its implementation as it will ensure the genuine realisation of citizen rights, proper management of national resources and capabilities. "Under the leadership of the Consensus Commission, and through continuous dialogue among all political parties over a long period, the ‘July Charter’ has now reached its final stage," Prof Yunus said in a televised speech to the nation on Tuesday night. "In terms of reform, we have achieved our goals," he said, noting that since the July Uprising, they have come a long way. He said the ‘July Charter’ will be remembered not only in political history but also in the broader context of political history. "Not only will the document itself but also the process of its creation be remembered," Prof Yunus said. On behalf of the nation, Prof Yunus extended heartfelt gratitude and thanks to the leaders of all political parties and the members of the Consensus Commission, especially to Professor Ali Riaz, who led this initiative. Representatives from political parties participated in these discussions in a very cordial environment, he said. "Despite differences of opinion, there was a shared effort to reach consensus among all parties," said Prof Yunus, hoping that, based on this consensus, the political parties will soon sign the July Charter and also agree on its implementation. CA Prof Yunus to write CEC to arrange national election in February He said they must ensure that no future government can ever become fascist again. "The state must be restructured in such a way that any sign of fascism, wherever it appears, can be immediately eradicated right there, so we never again have to wait 16 years, never again lose so many lives. We must never again require another mass uprising," he said. The Chief Adviser said peace and order have returned to national life, the economy has regained momentum, and many crises have been resolved. Just a few days ago, he said, they successfully concluded tariff negotiations with the United States, which has significantly increased the potential of our economy. A year ago, when the interim government took over an economy devastated by 16 years of continuous destruction and plundering, few believed it could be revived, Prof Yunus said. "But within just one year, we have made progress beyond what anyone could have imagined. The economy has turned around. Now it is time to move forward at full speed," he said, mentioning that they are now progressing toward handing over the reins of governance from the interim government to an elected one. In his address to the nation four months after taking office, Prof Yunus promised to hold the next national parliamentary election in 2026 but before the election, they must complete several essential tasks. The July Declaration and the July Charter are among them. On the occasion of July Mass Uprising Day, the interim government presented the ‘July Declaration’ to the nation with the participation of political parties. "This declaration outlines the context of the July Uprising as well as other historic and democratic movements of the people of Bangladesh, including the great Liberation War," Prof Yunus said. He said they had three primary responsibilities - reform, justice and election. The students, workers and people who led the July Uprising wrote their demands and expectations on walls across the country. A key focus of those demands was the democratic reform of the state system. In line with that goal, the interim formed several reform commissions. Remain 'vigilant' as certain group wants to obstruct polls process: Prof Yunus "Among the recommendations submitted by the main commissions, we have already implemented many short-term and urgently needed reforms," Prof Yunus said. These reforms, he said, will bring dynamism to the economic sector, the justice system, and public administration; transparency and accountability will increase significantly; corruption, irregularities and harassment will be reduced. To implement long-term reforms, the interim government established the National Consensus Commission. Over 30 political parties and alliances participated enthusiastically and shared their views, said Prof Yunus. At the initial stage, the Consensus Commission held discussions over two months with these political parties and alliances on their 166 recommendations. Based on the areas of consensus, the commission has identified 19 fundamental reforms, setting aside the issues on which political consensus were already established. In the second phase, after 23 days of discussion, consensus has been reached on most aspects of 19 additional issues, although there are notes of dissent from some political parties on a few points, Prof Yunus said. The Chief Adviser remembered the martyrs of July, the shining sons and daughters of the nation. "To those who were injured, permanently disabled, or lost their vision in July, I extend my deepest respect and gratitude on behalf of the entire nation." Over the past year, Prof Yunus said they have passed through many crises and possibilities. "Several incidents and tragedies have deeply saddened us." Most recently, he said, the heartbreaking plane crash at Milestone School and College claimed the lives of many people, including our innocent children. "Many were injured in the resulting fire. This tragedy has left the entire nation in shock. I pray for the peace of the souls who lost their lives in this incident and wish a swift recovery to those still under medical care," Prof Yunus said. Following this horrific accident, doctors and nurses from countries including Singapore, China, and India have worked tirelessly to help the injured, he said, extending his sincere gratitude to them. "I also thank those who stood beside the victims by donating blood."

At least seven people were killed and four others were injured as a speeding microbus carrying family members of an expatriate plunged into a roadside canal in Begumganj upazila of Noakhali district early Wednesday, said Fire Service. The deceased are Oman expatriate Bahar’s mother Morshida Begum, 55, his wife Kabita, 24, daughter Mim Akter, 2, grandmother (maternal) Faizunnessa, 40, sister-in-law (elder brother’s wife) Laboni Akter, 30, and nieces (Laboni’s daughters) Lamia, 9 and Reshmi, 8. The victims were residents of Chopalli village under Hajjirpara in Lakshmipur district, said Farid Uddin, assistant director of Noakhali Fire Service. Three of the injured were identified as expatriate Bahar, his father Sagir Ali and the microbus deriver.  Talha Bin Zashim, officer (media) at Fire Service and Civil Defence (FSCD) headquarters, said the accident occurred around 5:40am when the microbus lost control on Noakhali-Lakshmipur regional road in Jagadishpur area and fell into Wapda canal in Chandraganj Dakshin Bazar of the upazila. 2 Jamaat leaders killed in road accident on way to Dhaka rally The accident left at seven people dead on the spot and four injured, he said. On information, one firefighting unit from Chowmuhuni Fire Station rushed to the scene around 6:05am and carried out rescue operation, said the FSCD official. Later, another unit from Majidee Bazar joined the rescue operation and sent the casualties to the hospitals, said Fire Service official Farid. Quoting relatives, he said injured Bahar returned home from Oman on Tuesday night while his family members went to Dhaka to receive him and returning in the microbus. "All the victims were from the same family," he said.

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus has said a certain group is "eager to obstruct" the election process and they must remain "vigilant" to ensure that the group does not get any opportunity to turn the election into a conflict. "They (a certain group) are working from both outside and within the country, engaging in various conspiracies to derail our democratic progress," he said. In a televised speech to the nation on Tuesday night, Prof Yunus said the defeated forces will try repeatedly to rise until the election is held. "But if we can successfully conduct a free, fair, and impartial election, the defeat of those destructive forces will be final," he said. The Chief Adviser said they will use technology to ensure constant consultation on election-related matters. "We are in the process of developing an app for this purpose, which will be launched soon. Through this app, you will be able to share your suggestions, opinions, concerns, and initiatives with us," he said, adding that they will forward them to the appropriate authorities and take steps to resolve any issues. Prof Yunus urged the police and parties to make sure that the youth and women are not left out while making their election manifestos. CA Prof Yunus to write CEC to arrange national election in February "To the political parties, I urge you: in your election manifestos, in your promises and plans, make sure the youth are not left out. Make sure women are not left out," he said, stressing that the young men and women who have transformed Bangladesh have the power to transform the world. "Give them the opportunity to do so through your party," Prof Yunus said. In the upcoming election, he said, everyone must be able to vote safely for their candidate of choice, and there must be no room for objection to that. "Let us all respect each other’s choices, let that be our shared commitment." Prof Yunus said the trial of crimes against humanity committed in July and August is progressing firmly. The interim government entered the final and most important chapter of its journey as they will begin the process of handing over power to an elected government. On behalf of the interim government, Prof Yunus, will send a letter to the Chief Election Commissioner requesting that the Election Commission to arrange the national election in February 2026, before the holy month of Ramadan. July Declaration highlights people’s desire for good governance, fair polls, social justice "Let this election be remembered in the country’s history for its celebratory spirit, peaceful conduct, voter turnout, harmony, and sincerity," he said, noting that they started their mental and institutional preparation to achieve that. This time, the interim government wants to ensure the participation of expatriate voters. The formal hearing phase of the trial has also begun, he said, noting that those involved in the horrific massacres of history will be brought to justice on the soil of this country. The trial process and its outcomes, the Chief Adviser said, will be revealed to the public step by step. "The entire process of justice is being kept transparent and visible to people," Prof Yunus added.

Nepal's Communication and Information Technology Minister Prithvi Subba Gurung on Tuesday described the July Mass Uprising as a 'collective will of the people of Bangladesh for democracy' and a momentum created by the new generation. He underlined the long-standing friendly relations between Bangladesh and Nepal and assured Nepal’s full support to the government towards a democratic transition. The Nepalese Minister recalled the collaboration in various sectors, including trade, investment, tourism, ICT and people- to-people contact and stressed the need for forging new cooperation between the two friendly nations in this inter-connected world. Bangladesh Embassy in Kathmandu observed the 'July Mass Uprising Day' with due solemnity and fervour in its premises. The Nepalese Minister joined the event as the guest of honour and Secretary General of SAARC Md Golam Sarwar attended as a special guest. A good number of local civil society members, including former Ambassadors of Nepal to Bangladesh, prominent businessmen and entrepreneurs, doctors, other professionals and members of Bangladesh community, participated in the programme. Officials and representatives from regional organisations like SAARC Secretariat, ICIMOD, UNICEF and different societies and organisations were also present during the celebration of the Day'. The event started with playing the national anthems of Nepal and Bangladesh. Later, a one-minute silence was observed to pay homage and tributes to the martyrs of the Mass Uprising. Messages from the President and Chief Adviser of Bangladesh were read out and a documentary titled 'July Anirban' was screened during the event. The Secretary-General of SAARC referred July Mass Uprising as an unprecedented event in the history of Bangladesh, in his speech. He paid tributes to the martyrs who made ultimate sacrifices for the economic and political freedom of the people of Bangladesh. Recalling the great roles of the July fighters in emancipating the people from a long-drawn authoritarian rule, Bangladesh Ambassador to Nepal Md Shafiqur Rahman commended the young generation, Gen Z—who rose up against oppression, and deprivation in all forms, particularly, ending a fascist regime and restoring democracy in the country. He also thanked the expatriate Bangladeshis for their heroic role in the July Mass Uprising. Terming the Uprising as an opportunity, he urged all stakeholders to work together to supporting the initiatives of the interim government in building a democratic and prosperous Bangladesh. Bangladesh Embassy in Kathmandu said they are organizing a series of events as part its observance of 'July Revival Ceremonies-2025'.

The Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi on Tuesday commemorated the first anniversary of the July Uprising that led to the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s autocratic government on August 5 last year. The event began with the reading of official messages from President Mohammad Shahabuddin and Chief Adviser of the interim government, Professor Muhammad Yunus. In his message, President Shahabuddin emphasised the need to "uproot fascist roots" and fully realize the spirit of the July movement to build a "happy and prosperous Bangladesh." Chief Adviser Prof Yunus remarked that the sacrifices made during the uprising would be meaningful only if the country is transformed into a "truly public welfare state." Two documentaries chronicling the events of the July movement were screened during the program, according to a media release issued by the High Commission.