Bangladesh
Decision over extension of Khaleda’s jail term suspension Tuesday: Anisul
Decision on the petition submitted seeking extension of the suspension of Khaleda Zia’s jail term and treatment abroad will be known on Tuesday, said Law Minister Anisul Huq on Monday.“In the petition, they wanted the permanent release of Khaleda Zia as before. I don't understand what permanent release means? They are seeking permission to send her abroad. I have received the file today. I will take decision on the petition soon after checking what they (Khaleda's family) have requested. It will be done by tomorrow Insha Allah,” he said while talking to reporters at his office.The minister said, "I don't understand one thing. I have explained the law many times that she was released under section 401 of the Code of Criminal Procedure(CrPC). Beyond that, we have nothing to do. But even then, every time, I see that they are applying in the same way they did first,” he said.It was clarified that there will be no change in the decision barring her from going abroad. “That means she can't go abroad. We also allowed doctors from abroad to treat her.”
Khaleda Zia a pioneer of women empowerment in Bangladesh: KhosruReplying to a question whether Khaleda can go abroad as per the wish of the head of the government, the Prime Minister cannot show humanity going beyond the law.
“The Prime Minister showed humanity first. Her jail suspension is being extended due to humanitarian reasons,” he said.Earlier on Sunday, a petition was submitted to the Ministry of Home Affairs seeking another extension of the suspension of BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia's jail term and permission to take her abroad for better treatment.Khaleda Zia’s younger brother Shamim Eskander submitted the petition saying that her life is at risk.
Petition submitted for extending suspension of Khaleda’s jail term, treatment abroadEarlier on September, 18, 2023 the government extended the conditional suspension of Khaleda Zia’s jail term for another six months. With this, her jail sentence suspension was extended for the eight time.Amid the coronavirus outbreak, the government temporarily freed Khaleda Zia from jail through an executive order by suspending her sentence on March 25, 2020, with conditions that she would stay at her Gulshan house and would not leave the country. Since then, her release term has been extended every six months following the family's plea.
Khaleda was sent to the Old Dhaka Central Jail as a lower court sentenced her to five years' imprisonment in the Zia Orphanage Trust corruption case on February 8, 2018. Later, she was found guilty and convicted in another corruption case the same year.Khaleda, a 78-year-old former prime minister, has long been suffering from various ailments, including liver cirrhosis, arthritis, diabetes, kidney, lung, heart, eye problems.
Collision between pick-up van, three wheeler leaves six dead in Sylhet
Six people including two children were killed and five others injured in a collision between a pick-up van and human hauler on Sylhet-Tamabil highway at Darbast in Jaintapur upazila of Sylhet on Monday morning.
The deceased were identified as Mongoli Patra, 55, wife of Santosh Patra, Sabitri Patra, 35, wife of Nantu Patra, Suchita Patra, 35, wife of Krish Patra and their six-month-old daughter Bizli, Shyamla Patra, 55, wife of Nipentra Patra and Ritu Patra, 8, daughter of Subhendra Patra.
Quoting witnesses, Jaintapur Model Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Tajul Islam, said the accident occurred in front of Palli Bidyut Shamity-2 office around 11:45 am when the cow-laden pickup van collided with Mokampunji-bound human hauler, leaving four people dead on the spot and seven others injured.
2 die in road accident in Sylhet
The injured were taken to Sylhet MAG Osmani Medical College Hospital where the doctors declared two of them dead, said the OC.
Mongoli Patra along with others met the tragic accident while heading towards Mokampunji to attend a wedding ceremony.
One of the victims was undergoing treatment at the Intensive Care unit.
Cop among 3 dead in Sylhet, Habiganj road accidents
Vehicular movement on Sylhet-Tamabil road remained suspended for one and half an hour as local people put up barricades on the road protesting the accident.
4 suspected robbers lynched in Narayanganj
Four suspected robbers were killed in a lynch-mob attack at Baghri village in Sonargaon upazila of Narayanganj on Sunday night.
Another youth injured in the mob attack was admitted to National Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedic Rehabilitation (NITOR).
However, the identities of the deceased couldn’t be known immediately.
Sheikh Billal Hossain, additional superintendent of police (circle-Kha) of Narayanganj, said a youth saw some 10 to 12 unidentified youths roaming in the village around 10 pm.
When he announced presence of robbers in the village using loudspeaker of a local mosque, some residents of three villages besieged the youths and gave them a good thrashing, leaving three of them dead on the spot, he said.
One injured victim died when he was taken to a hospital, he said, adding that another is undergoing treatment at the NITOR.
A daring robbery occurred in two houses in Kazadi area under the same upazila on Friday night.
The robbers stabbed inmates of the houses when they tried to resist the robbers.
Irish Minister Simon Coveney officially opens its first Honorary Consulate in Dhaka
Irish Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Simon Coveney on Monday officially opened Ireland’s first Honorary Consulate in Dhaka which is seen as an “important milestone” in the relations between Bangladesh and Ireland.
In its desire to further expand the bilateral relations with Dhaka, Ireland has recently appointed Cosmos Group Deputy Managing Director Masud Jamil Khan its Honourary Consul in Bangladesh.
Ambassador of Ireland to India, Kevin Kelly and Masud Jamil Khan, among others, were present during the opening ceremony.
‘No election good enough unless US gets its puppet regime in Bangladesh,’ Sajeeb Wazed says
Sajeeb Wazed, ICT Affairs Advisor to the Prime Minister, has said that the United States’ take on democracy and polls in Bangladesh is guided by a goal of putting a “puppet regime” in place.
“Unless the United States gets its puppet regime in place in Bangladesh, no election will be good enough according to them!” — reads a post on his verified Facebook page.
US foreign policy moves involving Bangladesh have been questioned and criticised by several foreign policy analysts and civil society members in the span of the last few months.
A series of columns and news analysis by analysts and academics even found the attitude to be “singling out” the youngest nation in South Asia.
BNP’s social media handles spreading lies and disinformation, Sajeeb Wazed says
US approach in Israel and Gaza has also been widely criticised within the country and around the world as it vetoed UN resolution demanding ceasefire in Gaza, aided Israel, and continues to preach about human rights.
Earlier, a Bloomberg opinion article, titled “Biden’s Democracy Crusade Goes Astray in Bangladesh” observed that “Visa curbs and lectures are only making the US look partisan and arbitrary to many.”
The activities of the US Ambassador in Dhaka have also been subjected to criticism. Members of the civil society and journalist leaders found the envoy’s remark about applying US visa policy on the media in Bangladesh to be an “unprecedented attack” on the country’s press by a foreign diplomat.
From a national tragedy to technological triumph: Sajeeb Wazed’s journey in Bangladesh’s transformation
Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden, Swedish Minister Johan Forssell visiting Bangladesh
UNDP Goodwill Ambassador Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden, together with the Swedish Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade Johan Forssell and UNDP Assistant Secretary General Ulrika Modéer, on Monday began their four-day official visit here.
Foreign Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud warmly welcomed the Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden at the Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in the morning.
During the visit, the UNDP Goodwill Ambassador Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden is expected to meet with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and attend an iftar-dinner programme to be hosted by the Prime Minister.
She will visit Jute Diversification Promotion Centre, Khurushkul Ashrayan Housing Project Site in Cox’s Bazar and various other development projects of the government of Bangladesh and UNDP in Dhaka, Khulna, Chattogram, Noakhali and Rohingya camps in Bhasan Char.
Justice for Abontika: JnU Law Dept students, teachers form human chain
The visit takes place on the occasion of Crown Princess’s role as Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and is the first visit she makes in this capacity.
The purpose is to learn about the development journey of Bangladesh and study the progress and challenges in the implementation of the SDGs, focusing on climate, gender equality, the green and digital transition and the role of the business sector, said the Swedish Embassy in Dhaka on Sunday.
The Crown Princess returns to Bangladesh almost two decades after her first visit in the country in 2005. She was appointed UNDP Goodwill Ambassador in October 2023.
The Crown Princess plays a key role in increasing awareness and engagement for the Sustainable Development Goals and a sustainable future where no one is left behind.
Sweden was one of the first countries to recognise Bangladesh. In 2022, the two countries celebrated 50 years of bilateral relations.
Sweden’s development cooperation with Bangladesh goes back to independence in 1971.
Won't allow anyone to take the country back to darkness: PM Hasina
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Monday said BNP and its allies want restoration of caretaker government system not for the election, but to push the country back to darkness again.
"No one will be able to push the country back to the era of darkness," she declared.
Hasina, president of the ruling Awami League, was addressing a discussion marking the 104th birth anniversary of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman at its Dhaka District unit office in Tejgaon.
She said that Bangladesh is the country of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib who was born to change the fate of the common people.
“And we will bring that change following his ideals,” she said.
The prime minister questioned the logic behind BNP's demand that the repealed caretaker government system is restored again to oversee national elections.
“Why do they want that? What's their expectation? In 2008 election there was a caretaker government. In that election they got only 30 seats while Awami League bagged 233 seats,” she recalled.
The prime minister said that BNP should remember that.
She said while Awami League remains in power the poor get food and shelter.
She said that In the country of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman no one will remain without a home, address, and land.
Tthe government is implementing programmes to reach this goal, said the PM.
“And that is the thing they can not tolerate. They do not like that the common and poor people live a good life,” she said pointing at BNP.
Hasina said that it is not possible for BNP and its allies to topple the government as the countrymen are in favour of her party.
"They are dreaming to oust Awami League from the government. How do they forget that Awami League always stays beside the people for which they cast vote for the party time and again," she said.
The prime minister said the BNP has been arranging Iftar parties during the month of Ramadan instead of distributing iftar items among the poor people.
“And they are criticising the government and wanting election under caretaker government,” she said.
In this connection, she said that Awami League and its associate bodies and its elected representatives have been distributing iftar food among the poor across the country without holding iftar parties.
"The countrymen are supporting the Awami League as they always find it beside them at time of their needs," she said.
Hasina questioned why BNP and its allies want to oust Awami League from the government.
“What crime have we committed? Is making the Bangladesh independent a crime? Are standing beside the people or working to transform Bangladesh into a developed and prosperous country crimes??"
Sheikh Hasina said that BNP and its allies must point out the crime of AL for which it has to leave the power.
She said that people are always bedside the AL as they know very much they have got everything, including the country's independence and development during its regime.
PM Hasina came down heavily on BNP for raising question of not having democracy in the country asking them with what democratic process the party was formed.
"The party was formed by a person (Ziaur Rahman) who grabbed state power illegally and no democratic process was followed," she said.
The prime minister said BNP does not understand the language of democracy and its meaning at all.
She reiterated her vow to transform Bangladesh into a developed, prosperous and smart "Sonar Bangladesh" free from hunger and poverty by 2041 as envisioned by the father of the nation.
"We are taking oath on Bangabandhu's birthday to build Bangladesh as a developed prosperous, and smart Sonar Bangladesh by 2041," she said.
The Prime Minister asked her party leaders and activists to study the Osamapto Atmojiboni (The Unfinished Memoirs), Karagarer Rojnamcha (Prison Diary) and Amar Dekha Noyachin (The New China as I Saw) written by Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and the books based on the reports of Pakistani intelligence agencies to understand how much struggle had to be done by Bangabandhu for the country's liberation alongside his ideal and patrotisim.
She also asked her party members to watch biopic movie "Mujib: The Making of a Nation."
"If you want to be a politician and to be inspired with patrotism, you have to study the books (written by Bangabandhu) and Pakistani intelligence reports on Bangabandhu," she said.
AL General Secretary and Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader, Presidium Members, Deputy Leader of the House Begum Matia Chowdhury, Engineer Mosharraf Hossain, Advocate Qamrul Islam, Dr Mustafa Jalal Mohiuddin, and Joint General Secretaries, Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud and Social Welfare Minister Dipu Moni, central executive member Prof. Merina Jahan Kabita, took part in the discussion.
Ekhushey Padak winner Rupa Chakraborti recited some lines from the "Karagarer Rojnamcha" (Prison Diary) written by Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman about celebration of his 47th birth anniversary and the poem "Amar Parichoy" written by poet Syed Shamsul Haque.
Dhaka South and North City AL presidents Abu Ahmed Mannfi and Sheikh Bazlur Rahman, among also spoke at the meeting.
AL Publicity and Publication Secretary Abdus Sobhan Golap and his deputy Syed Abdul Awal Shamim conducted the discussion.
Dialogue: Journey towards inclusive democracy a shared endeavor that requires collective action, cooperation
Indonesia’s Deputy Minister for Information and Public Diplomacy Siti Nugraha Mauludiah on Monday said Bangladesh and Indonesia have the same vision to safeguard world peace and to nurture and protect the existence of inclusive society.
“Cultivating environment for democracy to thrive is our way to do it,” she said while speaking at a dialogue on “Democracy in Inclusive Society” at the Bangladesh Institute of International and Strategic Studies (BIISS).
The Deputy Minister said this forum is their way to nurture both democracy and inclusive society and “I believe this dialogue will not stop here but will present more opportunities such as new partnership between Indonesia and Bangladesh.”
Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to Bangladesh Heru H Subolo and Director, Bangladesh Institute of Law and International Affairs (BILIA) and former Chairman, National Human Rights Commission, Bangladesh Professor Mizanur Rahman spoke at the inaugural session.
“This forum serves to further fortify the longstanding bond between Indonesia and Bangladesh. At the governmental level, Indonesia and Bangladesh stand out as pivotal players within their respective regions,” said the Indonesian Deputy Minister.
Indonesia holds the distinction of being the largest democratic nation in its region, while also wielding considerable economic influence.
“This was underscored notably during Indonesia's Chairmanship of ASEAN last year, reaffirming its importance on the regional stage,” she said.
In numerous aspects, Mauludiah said Bangladesh evokes a striking resemblance to Indonesia, resonating with a tapestry of diversity and inclusivity interwoven seamlessly - from the rich culture, to the food, to the warmth of the people.
She said their media, CSO, academician, youth and the whole elements of society play a significant role in nurturing inclusive society and be part of their democratization process, a source of immense pride for the nation.
“They provide analysis, they become our close partners and allies, they represent the voice amplifier, the one who can and should curb the movement of hoax and hate speech and the collaborative effort blossomed fruitfully,” she said.
The dialog on “Democracy in Inclusive Society” is part of Indonesia flagship programme which is called the Bali Democracy Forum, held every year in Bali, Indonesia.
“Bangladesh’s participation in the Forum has never been absent. Even in 2011, PM Sheikh Hasina herself participated,” Ambassador Subolo said.
“Democracy, as we understand it, is not merely a system of governance; it is a philosophy that ensures the voices of all people, regardless of their background or beliefs, are heard and respected,” he said.
The Ambassador said inclusive democracy encompasses the involvement of every citizen in the decision-making processes that can shape people's lives.
“Both Indonesia and Bangladesh share a profound commitment to democratic principles," he said.
The envoy said the two nations have traversed unique paths, overcoming various challenges, to establish vibrant democracies that reflect the diversity and aspirations of the people.
“Through this journey, we have learned that true democracy thrives when it is inclusive, accommodates the views and aspirations of all segments of society, including minorities, women, youth, and marginalized communities,” he said.
The Ambassador said the journey towards inclusive democracy is a shared endeavor that requires collective action and cooperation. “And today’s dialogue is one of our momentums to unite and strengthen these efforts.”
Professor Mizanur Rahman said Bangladesh is the only country in South Asia which achieved its independence through a bloody War of Liberation, noting that it was not a charity or gift.
“We had to fight and attain our independence. We have a homegrown philosophy of democracy and inclusiveness,” he said, highlighting four fundamental pillars of the constitution - nationalism, democracy, secularism, and socialism.
Prof Mizanur said they have to get rid of the colonial and pre-colonial western thoughts and noted that the US has proved that democracy is never for all.
The Embassy of Indonesia in Dhaka in collaboration with the Bangladesh Institute of International and Strategic Studies (BIISS) hosted the dialogue.
Justice for Abontika: JnU Law Dept students, teachers form human chain
Students and teachers of Jagannath University’s Law Department formed a human chain and mourning rally, demanding justice for the death of Fairuz Sadaf Abontika, a student of the department who had died by suicide.
On Monday, with the participation of teachers and students of the department, the mourning rally marched the entire campus and later they formed a human chain at the university’s Shaheed Minar premises.
The teachers and students at the human chain demanded proper investigation into the reason behind Abontika’s suicide, and speedy trial of those responsible.
Abontika’s classmate Setu Pal said, “We never thought she would do this. Suicide is not a solution. I want a fair investigation. Those who are involved must be punished.”
JnU student Abontika’s death: classmate, teacher remanded
Tanim, another student of the Law Department, said, “I want justice for Abontika. Whoever is responsible for abetting the suicide should be brought to justice.”
Ahmed Ehsanul Kabir, a teacher of the Law Department, said, “I used to see her in class three days a week. She was an active and brilliant student. We have lost a bright young person. I have given my statement to the inquiry committee. Hope we will see justice.”
Chairman of the Law Department, Prof Ali Akkas Sarkar, said, “In my 34 years of teaching, I have seen many incidents but Abontika’s death is very painful. She had completed her honours. She could have gone on to become a judge. We demand fair investigation into the reason behind her suicide and immediate action. Speedy trial should be done if necessary. Let there be an exemplary trial.”
Other teachers and students of various departments were present at the event.
BRTC bus launched at Bangabandhu Industrial Park in Mirsarai on trial basis
The authorities concerned have launched BRTC bus service at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Industrial Park in Chattogram’s Mirsarai upazila on trial basis to ease their movement workers of the industrial park and general passengers.
Two double-decker buses of state-owned BRTC will be operating on a 34 kilometer road spanning from Sitakunda upazila to Mirsarai’ Bariarhat municipality.
Md Omar Faruk Mehedi, manager (operations) of the BRTC Depot in Noakhalia’s Sonapur, said they have decided to operate the BRTC bus on the route to ease movement of the industrial park workers.
He also said that general passengers can use the BRTC bus by paying the fare fixed by the government.
Gazipur gas cylinder blast: Death toll rises to 10
Terming the BRTC bus service on the route a time befitting initiative, Mirsarai Upazila Nirbahi Officer Mahfuza Jerin said the transport crisis for carrying over 10, 000 staff and workers of the industrial park has been aggravating day by day.
This bus service will play a role in reducing the suffering of the workers, she hoped.
Man held with gold powder, bar at Chattogram airport
Mirsarai Express Managing Director Mohammad Selim said they are planning to resume bus service ‘Zone Express’ for smooth movement of the workers of the industrial park.