United News of Bangladesh

Two people were killed and five others injured in a head-on collision between a bus and a CNG-run auto-rickshaw in Chandpur's Matlab Upazila on Sunday afternoon, police said. The deceased were identified as CNG driver Siddiqur Rahman, 50, of Holdia village in Matlab Uttar Upazila, and Tapan Choudhury, 35, of Fotehpur village in the same upazila. The accident occurred near Bordia Bridge in the upazila when a Chandpur-bound CNG auto-rickshaw collided with a Dhaka-bound bus of Jainpur Paribahan, leaving seven people including a child injured. Female doctor dies after being hit by truck in Sylhet Among them, five, including CNG driver Siddiqur, were taken to Chandpur General Hospital, where Siddiqur was declared dead upon arrival. Two others, including Tapan Choudhury, were taken to Matlab South Upazila Health Complex, where he was also declared dead on arrival by duty doctors. Two critically injured patients, including child Fahim, were referred to Dhaka for advanced treatment, said Biplob Das, medical officer at Chandpur 250-bed General Hospital. Saleh Ahmed, officer-in-charge of Matlab South Police Station, said police have seized the bus and CNG, but the bus driver managed to flee. 2 killed in M’singh road crash The bodies of the deceased were kept at Chandpur General Hospital and Matlab South Upazila Health Complex morgues. "Necessary actions will be taken after investigation," said the OC.

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi have exchanged Eid-ul-Azha greetings in the spirit of festivity, sacrifice, generosity and unity. "I am confident that the spirit of mutual respect and understanding will continue to guide our nations to work together for the wellbeing of our peoples," Prof Yunus wrote to PM Modi on June 6. The interim government on Sunday shared both the letters through its verified social media handle. He said Eid-ul-Azha is a time of reflection, which brings communities together in the spirit of festivity, sacrifice, generosity and unity and inspires them all to work together for the greater benefits of the peoples across the world. India for 'inclusive, fair, free' polls in Bangladesh at an early date Prof Yunus said he deeply appreciates PM Modi's thoughtful message, kind greetings and warm wishes on the occasion of Eid-ul-Azha, which reflects the shared values between the two countries. "I also would like to convey my warmest greetings to you, and through you, to the people of India on this auspicious occasion," the message from Prof Yunus reads. On this blessed occasion, Prof Yunus wished PM Modi good health and happiness and the people of India peace, progress, and prosperity. Indian president hopes for ‘democratic, inclusive’ Bangladesh as Dhaka’s envoy presents credentials Earlier, on behalf of the people and the Government of India, PM Modi on June 4 conveyed warm greetings to Prof Yunus and the people of Bangladesh on the auspicious occasion of Eid al-Adha. This holy festival is an integral part of the rich and diverse cultural heritage of India and is celebrated with immense joy and fervour by millions of people of Islamic faith across the country, Modi said. "It reminds us of the timeless values of sacrifice, compassion and brotherhood, which are essential in building a peaceful and inclusive world," PM Modi mentioned. "I take this opportunity to extend my best wishes for your good health and well-being," the message from Modi reads.

Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has imposed a ban on rallies, processions, demonstrations and gatherings in front of Secretariat and Chief Adviser’s residence and its adjacent areas including Hotel Intercontinental, Kakrail Mosque intersection, Mintu Road and Officer’s Club The ban has been imposed for the sake of the security of the chief adviser. The restriction effective from Monday will remain in place until further notice, according to a public notification issued by DMP Commissioner SM Sazzat Ali. The ban has been enforced under Section 29 of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police Ordinance (Ordinance No. III/76) to maintain discipline in light of the prevailing situation, it said.  

A female doctor who was riding a rickshaw died after being crushed under a reckless truck in Sylhet on Sunday. The deceased, Rahima Khatun Jessy, 27, was the daughter of Abu Noser of Lalabazar area in South Surma upazila of Sylhet. Rahima was an intern at Sylhet Women’s Medical College Hospital and a duty doctor at SSKS Clinic, said Md Habibur Rahman, Inspector (Investigation) of Sylhet Kotwali Model Police Station. Motorcyclist killed in Manikganj road crash The rickshaw puller, Zakirul Islam, was seriously injured in the incident. The OC said that the accident occurred at Jitu Mia Point in the city at around 11:15 am when a truck coming from South Surma hit the rickshaw, leaving doctor Jessy and rickshaw puller Zakirul seriously injured. Later, they were rescued and taken to Osmani Medical College Hospital, where Jessy succumbed to her injuries ataround 3 pm. Zakirul  is undergoing treatment at Osmani Hospital. His condition is critical. "The truck has been seized, but its driver fled the scene. Legal proceedings are underway," added the OC.

Chief Adviser's Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam on Sunday said the interim government has not yet received any letter from Tulip Siddiq, reportedly seeking a meeting with Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus during his official visit to the United Kingdom.  "The government has not yet received any such letter," Alam told UNB when enquired about Tulip Siddiq's reported letter seeking audience with Professor Muhammad Yunus. "We cannot comment on something we have not seen," the Press Secretary added. Tulip Siddiq requests meeting Prof Yunus over corruption allegation Prof Yunus is scheduled to leave Dhaka for London on Monday evening as part of his four-day official visit to the United Kingdom. "I haven’t done anything wrong and I have nothing to hide. If you’re serious about finding out the truth, let’s talk," Tulip Siddiq wrote from her verified X handle, tagging the Chief Adviser and sharing a report run by The Guardian.  Former City Minister of the UK Tulip Siddiq has written to Prof Yunus as she wants to meet him in London to clear up a “misunderstanding” after corruption allegations made by interim administration led her to resign from the UK government, according to a report run by The Guardian. Prof Yunus to visit UK June 10–13; King Charles to present ‘Harmony Award 2025’ Siddiq, whose aunt deposed Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was put on trial in absentia last week over crimes against humanity during her 15 years tenure, has been accused of benefitting from the former regime by the authorities in Bangladesh.

Border guards of Bangladesh and India joined hands to repatriate a buffalo, a sacrificial animal, which accidentally crossed into India on the Eid-ul-Azha day Saturday. The buffalo was bought for sacrifice by Md Nazim Uddin, a resident of Baganbazar area in Ramgarh upazila of Khagrachhari district. It into Indian territory on Eid day morning, and  it was later brought back on Sunday thanks to joint efforts of the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and India’s Border Security Force (BSF). According to BGB Ramgar Battalion sources, the buffalo crossed the border through the Puratan Ramgarh area after locals attempted to catch it. It swam across the frontier Feni River. As the buffalo crossed the border the commander of BGB’s Baganbazar BOP immediately informed Lt Col Md Ahsan Ul Islam, commanding officer of Ramgarh Battalion (43 BGB), who then contacted his counterpart- the Indian114 BSF Battalion to initiate the animal's return home. Though BSF launched a search operation, they were unable to retrieve the buffalo on Eid day due to dense forest and nightfall. Around 11:00am today, BSF personnel made another attempt, during which the buffalo re-entered Bangladeshi territory by crossing the Feni River. BGB personnel, with assistance from locals, managed to capture the animal. It was handed over to its owner, Md Nazim Uddin, at approximately 12:10pm.Overjoyed Nazim said, “Thanks to the sincere efforts of BGB, we not only got our sacrificial animal back, but our Eid joy was also restored. This was more than just the recovery of an animal — it was a demonstration of deep respect for our religious sentiments and a true example of BGB standing by border residents.” Locals praised the BGB’s dedication and professionalism, saying the force consistently ensures the security and wellbeing of people living in border areas. Commenting on the incident, Lt Col Md Ahsan Ul Islam said, “Qurbani is a significant religious ritual for Muslims. When a devout individual faces such an unfortunate situation, it is the responsibility of the state’s security forces to respond with compassion. We coordinated with Indian BSF to bring the buffalo back, and the effort was successful.” The buffalo was later slaughtered Sunday, the second day of Eid-ul-Azha.

A motorcyclist was killed after being involved in a head-on collision with a bus in Manikganj's Ghior on Sunday, police said. The deceased, Sirajul Islam, was the son of Thandu Sheikh from Chargobindapur village in Daulatpur upazila. The accident occurred at around 2 pm on Sunday on the Charbailjuri Pancharashta flyover, said Islam, officer-in-charge (Investigation) of Ghior police station. According to police and witnesses, a Swadhinata Paribahan bus travelling from Daulatpur collided head-on with a motorcycle coming from the opposite direction, leaving Sirajul dead on the spot. The bus driver and his helper fled the scene immediately after the accident. On information, police rushed to the spot and seized the bus and the motorcycle. Police also recovered the body and sent it to Manikganj Medical College Hospital for autopsy, added the OC.

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus is scheduled to depart Dhaka for London on Monday evening, embarking on a four-day official visit to the United Kingdom from June 10 to 13. The two countries are working to renew their bilateral ties, with an increased focus on economic cooperation, trade and investment. Acting Foreign Secretary Ruhul Alam Siddique said the Chief Adviser will leave Dhaka for London on June 9 and return home on June 14. “This is a very important visit,” said Siddique, noting that Professor Yunus will meet His Majesty King Charles III and hold bilateral talks with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, alongside other high-level engagements. “The relationship between Bangladesh and the UK is very deep and diverse,” he added, emphasising that the visit will play a significant role in strengthening bilateral relations. Tulip Siddiq requests meeting Prof Yunus over corruption allegation During the visit, King Charles III will formally confer the prestigious ‘Harmony Award 2025’ on Professor Yunus, recognising his lifelong efforts to promote peace, sustainability and harmony between people and the environment.  The award ceremony will take place at St James’s Palace in London on June 12. Former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon was the recipient in 2024. Prof Yunus is also expected to meet UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy, along with other senior ministers, political leaders, and influential figures from the UK’s policy and business communities. The Acting Foreign Secretary said the visit carries particular importance, as the UK, being a leading democratic nation, values the promotion of democratic principles and good governance in developing countries. He said the visit will provide an opportunity to showcase Bangladesh’s ongoing reform initiatives, its democratic trajectory and the interim government's commitment to good governance. “And above all,” he noted, “as a Nobel laureate and a globally respected figure, the Chief Adviser has a unique and positive image around the world. A visit to the UK by a personality like him will further enhance and consolidate Bangladesh’s position in the global arena.” Prof Yunus urges unity, sacrifice to build a discrimination-free Bangladesh Discussions during the visit will also cover global and regional issues, with particular focus on climate change, sustainable development, the Rohingya crisis, and migration. An important component of the agenda will be leveraging British expertise and resources to support Bangladesh’s national development goals. Prof Yunus is also scheduled to hold courtesy meetings with the Secretaries-General of the Commonwealth and the International Maritime Organization (IMO), reinforcing Bangladesh’s wider international engagements. As part of his public diplomacy initiatives, the Chief Adviser will deliver a keynote address at Chatham House – the Royal Institute of International Affairs – on June 11.  He will share insights into Bangladesh’s socio-economic progress, democratic transition, and future vision. The recovery of laundered money and overseas assets is also expected to be high on the agenda. Bangladesh Bank Governor Ahsan H Mansur recently told reporters at the Foreign Service Academy that the Chief Adviser will raise the issue during the London visit, as part of ongoing efforts to recover stolen funds and assets. Prof Yunus set for UK visit from June 10-13 to strengthen ties According to the government, an estimated US$16 billion was illicitly transferred abroad annually under the previous administration. The Chief Adviser has already sought cooperation from the British government through its High Commissioner in Dhaka to trace and recover funds allegedly laundered to the UK by individuals associated with the former Sheikh Hasina-led regime.

Former City Minister of the UK Tulip Siddiq has written to Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus as she wants to meet him in London to clear up a “misunderstanding” after corruption allegations made by interim administration led her to resign from the UK government, according to a report run by The Guardian. Siddiq, whose aunt ]deposed Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was put on trial in absentia last week over crimes against humanity during her 15 years tenure, has been accused of benefitting from the former regime by the authorities in Bangladesh. Prof Yunus is scheduled to leave Dhaka for London on Monday evening as part of his four-day official visit to the United Kingdom. A series of allegations have been aired in the media, including the claim from the country’s anti-corruption commission (ACC), that Siddiq or her mother had received a 7,200 sq ft plot of land through “abuse of power and influence”. Siddiq denies the claims which her lawyers have described as being “politically motivated” and without foundation. She further claims not to have been contacted by the authorities over any of the allegations. She was cleared of any wrongdoing by the adviser on ministerial standards, Laurie Magnus, but resigned as economic secretary to the Treasury and city minister over the “distraction” being caused for Keir Starmer’s new government. In a letter to Muhammad Yunus, a Nobel prize-winning economist who is the interim leader of the Bangladeshi government, Siddiq has asked for an opportunity to discuss the ongoing controversy during his visit to London next week where he will meet King Charles and see Keir Starmer in Downing Street. In her letter, Siddiq writes that she hopes a meeting might “help clear up the misunderstanding perpetuated by the anti-corruption committee in Dhaka that I have questions to answer in relation to my mother’s sister, the former prime minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina”. She continued: “I am a UK citizen, born in London and representing the people of Hampstead and Highgate in parliament for the last decade. “I have no property nor any business interests whatsoever in Bangladesh. The country is dear to my heart but it is not the country where I was born, live in or have built my career in. “I have sought to clarify this to the ACC but they refuse to engage with my lawyers in London and apparently keep sending correspondence to a random address in Dhaka.” Siddiq added: “Every move in this fantasy investigation is briefed to the media, and yet no engagement was facilitated with my legal team. “I know you’ll appreciate how important it is to ensure those reports do not become a distraction from the critical work of doing my very best for my constituents and my country.” The ACC has been probing allegations that Sheikh Hasina and her wider family embezzled billions of pounds from infrastructure spending based on a series of claims made by Bobby Hajjaj, a political opponent of the former prime minister. Tulip Siddiq steps down as Treasury minister Siddiq has claimed she is being targeted by a “politically motivated smear campaign” orchestrated by her aunt’s opponents. Last month it was reported that a warrant had been issued in Bangladesh for Siddiq’s arrest. She claims to have no knowledge of any such warrant or court hearings to which she was required to appear. As a 2B extradition country, the UK requires ministers and judges to see clear evidence from Bangladesh before they make an arrest decision. After Siddiq had referred herself to the adviser on ministerial standards last year amid allegations about her acquirement of property in the UK, she was cleared in January of any wrongdoing. Magnus had found no evidence to suggest that any of Siddiq’s assets were derived from anything other than legitimate means but added that she could have been more alive to the reputational risks arising from her family’s ties to Bangladesh. Tulip Siddiq questioned in UK over graft allegation The inquiry had also looked into her presence at the signing of a 2013 nuclear deal between her aunt and Vladimir Putin in Moscow over which there had been claims aired in the media of embezzlement by Siddiq. The standards adviser accepted her explanation that she had been in Moscow socially and as a tourist. Last month the National Crime Agency froze almost £90m of luxury London property belonging to two men linked to Siddiq’s aunt.  

Amid growing concerns over a new variant of Covid-19, the Ministry of Railways has urged all train passengers to follow health guidelines and wear masks during their return journeys after the Eid-ul-Azha holidays. The ministry made the appeal in light of a recent surge in Covid-19 infections, according to a media release issued on Sunday. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health has advised the public to wear masks in crowded areas and has particularly recommended that elderly and unwell individuals avoid such places altogether. Besides, the Ministry of Railways has requested that all passengers travelling during the post-Eid rush strictly adhere to health protocols and wear masks to help prevent the spread of the virus. Screening tightened at Benapole border to prevent spread of new Covid variant On June 5, the Director of Disease Control at the Directorate General of Health Services issued directives to this effect. India has witnessed a sudden rise in Covid-19 cases since late May, more than five years after the virus was first declared a global pandemic. Bangladesh reported three new Covid-19 cases in the 24 hours up to Sunday morning. With the latest figures, the country’s total Covid-19 caseload has risen to 2,021,742, according to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS). Bangladesh reports 3 more Covid-19 cases The official death toll from the disease remains unchanged at 29,500, as no new fatalities were reported during this period. The daily case test positivity rate was 75 percent, with four samples tested, according to the DGHS. The recovery and death rates stood at 98.42 percent and 1.44 percent, respectively.