United News of Bangladesh

The University of Dhaka (DU) is set to celebrate Pahela Baishakh on Tuesday with vibrant festivities, with preparations for the ‘Baishakhi Shobhajatra’ nearing completion. Marking Bengali New Year 1433, this year’s procession will begin at 9:00am from the Faculty of Fine Arts with the theme “Harmony of the New Year, Resurrection of Democracy.” Artists and students were seen working intensively to complete large-scale motifs, including the much-anticipated elephant structure. The procession will start from Gate No. 3 (North) of the faculty, proceed towards Shahbagh, make a U-turn there, pass the Raju Sculpture and TSC, head towards Doel Chattar, and return via Bangla Academy. Authorities have set strict entry and security guidelines. Participants will be allowed to enter only through Nilkhet and Palashi intersections, while other entry points will remain closed. To maintain order and aesthetic appeal, entering the procession from the sidelines is prohibited. Carrying ID cards is mandatory.

Brazil has endorsed Bangladesh’s nominee Dr Khalilur Rahman for the presidency of the 81st session (2026–2027) of the United Nations General Assembly. The assurance was conveyed on Monday when Brazilian Ambassador to Dhaka Paulo Fernando Dias Feres met Foreign Affairs Adviser to the Prime Minister Humaiun Kobir at the Prime Minister’s Office. The two sides also held a fruitful discussion on the existing friendly relations between Bangladesh and Brazil as well as issues of mutual interest and ways to further strengthen bilateral cooperation. Study finds Brazil’s oldest citizens may unlock secrets of long life They exchanged views on expanding trade and commerce, and enhancing collaboration in sectors such as agriculture and the poultry industry. The meeting was held in a cordial and friendly atmosphere, according to officials.

The National Board of Revenue (NBR) on Monday extended the deadline for submission of income tax returns for corporate taxpayers by one month. In an order issued on Monday, the revenue authority said taxpayers other than individuals will now be able to file their returns for the 2025–2026 tax year until May 15, 2026. The extension applies to all entities whose income year ended on June 30, 2025, according to the order signed under the relevant provisions of the Income Tax Act, 2023. Earlier, the deadline for submitting these tax returns was set to expire on April 15, 2026. With the latest decision, businesses and other eligible taxpayers have been given additional time to complete their filings. The NBR said the order was issued under Section 334 (clause b) of the Income Tax Act, 2023, exercising its authority to revise deadlines in the interest of proper tax administration. The move comes as part of ongoing efforts by the revenue board to streamline tax processes and ensure smoother participation in the tax system.  

Seven more patients died with measles and measles-like symptoms in 24 hours till 8 am on Monday morning, taking the total death toll to 156, according to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS). Among the deceased, two were confirmed measles patients, it said. Besides, 1,371 suspected measles cases were reported during the period and 729 patients were admitted to different hospitals. So far, a total of 10,954 suspected patients have been hospitalised. 10 more people die with measles, symptoms in 24 hours: DGHS Among them, 8,369 patients have recovered and discharged from the hospitals, DGHS said. In 24-hour period, Dhaka division recorded the highest number of suspected measles deaths with four. Besides, Dhaka district also accounted for the highest district-level death toll during the period, with four deaths. The DGHS said the total number of confirmed measles deaths between March 15 and April 13 stood at 30.

Around nine million people have been removed from the voter list in India’s West Bengal, triggering political tensions ahead of the state election later this month. Muhammad Daud Ali, 65, a former Indian army technician said, he recently found that his name and those of his three children were missing from the electoral roll, despite having valid documents such as a passport and service records. Only his wife’s name remains on the list. Officials said the deletions were made under a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process. The removed names account for about 12 percent of the state’s 76 million voters reports BBC. More than six million names were dropped after being marked as absent or deceased. Another 2.7 million people, including families like Ali’s, are still under review, and their status will be decided by special tribunals. The Election Commission said the update aims to remove duplicate and outdated entries while keeping the voter list accurate. However, the exercise has faced criticism and legal challenges since it was first carried out in Bihar last year. The issue has become more sensitive in West Bengal, where the ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) is in conflict with the Election Commission over the process. Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar said the goal is to ensure a clean voter list, with no eligible voter left out. Tensions have grown after comments by political leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who said the revision would help identify “illegal Bangladeshi infiltrators.” The TMC claims the term is being used to target Muslims, although some Hindu voters have also been affected. West Bengal shares a long and porous border with Bangladesh, making migration and voter identity a sensitive political issue. The state has been ruled by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s TMC since 2011, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) as its main rival. The TMC has alleged that the voter list revision has removed millions of voters, especially Muslims, to benefit the BJP. The BJP and the Election Commission have denied the claim. After several court challenges, the Supreme Court allowed the Election Commission to go ahead with the April polls without resolving all disputes. As a result, the fate of about 2.7 million voters remains uncertain.

Canadian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Ajit Singh on Monday underscored Canada’s support for Bangladesh’s power sector to enable its economic growth and energy security. He said Canada values its partnership with Bangladesh and is keen to support efforts to expand reliable, affordable, and cleaner energy. The High Commissioner,  Senior Trade Commissioner Debra Boyce and Trade Commissioner Gulam Farhad Quazi met with Power, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Iqbal Hassan Mahmood and discussed issues of mutual interest. Canada supports Rohingya response for environmental protection, clean cooking fuel The meeting focused on strengthening bilateral energy ties for their mutual prosperity, notably to grow their bilateral trade that reached over $4 billion in 2025. The meeting included a discussion on Canadian expertise that could be leveraged in areas such as renewable energy, training and innovative technologies, as well as by deepening collaboration with Canadian partners. Canada looks forward to building on this cooperation to unlock deeper ties between our people and countries, said the Canadian High Commission in Dhaka.

The government has introduced sweeping austerity measures, including suspension of interest-free car loans for public officials and a 30% cut in fuel consumption for official vehicles, in an effort to rein in public expenditure amid growing economic pressure. The Cabinet Division issued a notification recently confirming that the measures will remain in force until further notice. The decision follows a Cabinet meeting held on April 2, with Prime Minister Tarique Rahman in the chair. As part of the measures, interest-free loans for purchasing vehicles by public servants will remain suspended. Under the existing policy, officials with the rank of deputy secretary and above are entitled to interest-free loans of up to Tk 30 lakh to purchase vehicles. They also receive a monthly allowance of Tk 50,000 for maintenance and driver salary, along with an annual depreciation benefit of 10%. At the same, all government-funded foreign training programmes were also kept on hold. Besides, domestic training-related costs were cut by 50%, hospitality expenses for meetings and seminars by 50%, and seminar and conference expenses by 20%. Travel expenses were also reduced by 30%. As part of cost-cutting efforts, the government cut fuel consumption by 30% for official vehicles on a monthly basis, while the consumption of energy – electricity and gas – in government offices was reduced by the same margin. The government also suspended all purchases of vehicles, vessels, aircraft and computers in the public sector. Furthermore, the expenditure on beautification of residential buildings was slashed by 20% and non-residential buildings by 50%. The land acquisition will remain suspended for the time being.

Iran has threatened to target ports across the Middle East after the United States announced a plan to impose a naval blockade on Iranian ports and coastal areas, escalating tensions and raising concerns over global oil supply and regional stability. The US military said the blockade would take effect Monday, aiming to increase pressure on Tehran amid stalled ceasefire negotiations. In response, Iranian authorities warned that no port in the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman would remain secure if the move is enforced. Iranian state media quoted military officials as saying regional maritime security would either be ensured for all or for none, signaling possible retaliation. The US Central Command said the blockade would apply to vessels of all nations entering or leaving Iranian ports, though ships traveling between non-Iranian ports would still be allowed to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. The announcement has already disrupted limited shipping activity in the strait that resumed after a ceasefire, with vessel movement remaining significantly lower than pre-war levels. The development follows failed US-Iran talks held in Pakistan over the weekend. US officials said negotiations broke down after Iran refused to accept conditions related to its nuclear programme, while Tehran demanded compensation for damages from earlier strikes and the release of frozen assets. The blockade is expected to put further pressure on Iran’s oil exports, including shipments that reportedly bypass sanctions through covert routes. It may also impact global energy markets, as the Strait of Hormuz previously handled about one-fifth of the world’s oil supply. Oil prices rose sharply following the announcement, with both US crude and Brent crude registering notable gains. Meanwhile, the United Kingdom has said it will not participate in any US-led blockade, emphasizing efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and avoid deeper involvement in the conflict. Senior Iranian officials have issued strong warnings of retaliation, with one adviser saying the country has significant means to counter any blockade. Iran’s parliamentary speaker also cautioned Washington against escalation, saying Tehran would respond if attacked. Although Iran maintains that the strait remains open for civilian vessels, it warned of a firm response to military presence in the area. Despite recent high-level talks—the most significant since Iran’s 1979 revolution—both sides remain far apart on key issues, particularly Iran’s nuclear programme. The US has demanded strict limits, while Iran has rejected what it calls excessive conditions. There is still no clarity on what will happen after the current ceasefire expires on April 22, though diplomatic efforts to resume dialogue are ongoing. Iran has consistently denied seeking nuclear weapons, insisting its programme is for peaceful purposes, despite ongoing international concerns.

Prime Minister’s Foreign Affairs Adviser Humaiun Kobir on Monday described former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina as an "autocrat, terrorist and killer" who fled to India and is staying there as an "international terrorist," losing her relevance in Bangladesh. "We told (Indian side) she (Hasina) is a terrorist. She is irrelevant to Bangladesh. She doesn't have any room in Bangladesh. She doesn't hold any importance in Bangladesh. People have moved on," the Adviser told reporters at Secretariat. "I would say it's a good start to resetting the conversation," the Adviser said while commenting on the recent visit to India. India keen to strengthen people-centric cooperation with Bangladesh in all domains Bangladesh laid emphasis on making sure that Hasina does not do anything to destabilise the country using the soil of India, he said. "We will continue to seek her extradition through a transparent judicial process. It (extradition request) has been discussed. It will be dealt with through a transparent judicial process," Adviser Humaiun said. He said there would be some challenges as Hasina is still staying there. The Bangladesh side reiterated its request to extradite Sheikh Hasina and former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal to Bangladesh, who have been awarded the death penalty by the International Crimes Tribunal. Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman met Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and Oil and Natural Gas Minister Mr. Hardeep Puri in New Delhi on April 8. Prime Minister's Adviser Humaiun and Bangladesh High Commissioner to India Riaz Hamidullah were present at these meetings. They also held a meeting with India's National Security Adviser Ajit Doval following their arrival in India's capital city on April 7. Dhaka eyes goodwill gesture on visa front During the discussions, Minister Jaishankar said Indian visas to Bangladeshis, particularly medical and business visas, would be eased in the coming weeks, Humaiun said. Responding to a question, he  said the Indian side responded positively to resuming medical and business visas. "We hope there will be some goodwill gesture from the Indian side in the coming weeks," said the Adviser. In the discussions in New Delhi, both sides emphasised the importance of advancing bilateral relations between the two countries in various dimensions. They also discussed key regional and international issues. Dr Khalilur said the recently elected BNP government under the leadership of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman would pursue its foreign policy in accordance with the principle of "Bangladesh First" and on the basis of mutual trust, respect, and reciprocal benefit. He thanked the Indian government for apprehending the suspected killers of Shaheed Osman Hadi. Both sides agreed that the arrested individuals will be returned to Bangladesh in accordance with the procedures laid out in the extradition treaty between the two countries. Dr Khalilur expressed thanks to Minister Hardeep Puri for the recent supply of diesel to Bangladesh by India and requested an increase in the volume of diesel and fertilizer supply. Minister Puri indicated that the government of India will consider the request readily and favourably. The two sides also agreed to undertake consultations on key bilateral issues.

A former policeman died as he jumped off the rooftop of a three-storey building after hacking three people, including his son, at Banchanagar in Lakshmipur municipality on Monday morning. The deceased was identified as Nasir Ahmed, 55, hailing from Faridganj upazila in Chandpur district. The injured were identified as victim’s son Imran, 21, and neighbours Mizanur Rahman, son of Golam Rahman, and Nasir Ahmed, son of Abdul Mannan. Nasir went into retirement in August last year after serving as a constable at the Traffic Department of Bangladesh Police in Chandraganj Police Station of Lakshmipur. Police and locals said Nasir, along with his wife and two sons, has been living at a house at Banchanagar for the past seven years. After his retirement, he reportedly developed some mental health issues. Recently, his wife went to their village home with their other son, leaving Nasir alone at home with his college-going son Imran. On Monday morning, Nasir allegedly attacked Imran with a machete, leaving him seriously injured. As the injured son tried to escape from the house, Nasir chased him. Witnessing the scene, neighbours tried to resist him, said Hossain Mohammad Raihan Kazemi, additional superintendent of Lakshmipur police. However, Nasir hacked them too, leaving Mizanur and Nasir injured. At one point, he went up to the roof of the three-storey building and jumped from there. On information, police took Nasir to Lakshmipur Sadar Hospital, where he was declared dead. The other injured were also taken to hospital. Two of them were later sent to Dhaka for better treatment.

A Rangpur court on Monday convicted a man and sentenced him to death for killing a police officer in 2021. Rangpur Additional Metropolitan Sessions Judge Marzia Khatun handed down the punishment. The condemned convict was identified as Pervez Rahman Palash, a drug trader and son of Zahidul Islam from the Haragach area. The court also fined him Tk 10,000 and sentenced him to five years imprisonment in two separate sections of the case. Youth hacked to death in Rangpur According to the prosecution, Piarul Islam, an assistant sub-inspector of Haragach Police Station, was stabbed to death by the convict during an anti-narcotics drive at Shahebganj in Rangpur city on September 25, 2021. Police arrested Palash from the spot along with drugs. Two separate cases—one under the Narcotics Act and another for murder—were filed against Palash.

Pope Leo XIV arrived in Algeria on Monday on the first-ever papal visit to the North African country, beginning an 11-day tour of four African nations with a strong message of peace and Christian-Muslim coexistence. The two-day Algeria visit marks the start of his broader trip that will also take him to Cameroon, Angola and Equatorial Guinea, as the first U.S.-born pope seeks to engage with Africa’s growing Catholic population. The visit comes amid global tensions, including the ongoing U.S.-Israeli war involving Iran. US President Donald Trump recently criticised the pope, accusing him of supporting left-leaning views. Pope Leo, who had earlier condemned the “illusion of absolute power” behind the conflict during a prayer service, said during his flight that the Vatican’s calls for peace are rooted in the Gospel and stressed he was not concerned about political criticism. Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune welcomed the pope at Algiers international airport. The two leaders are scheduled to hold official talks at the presidential palace. During his stay, the pope is set to meet government officials, visit the capital’s Great Mosque, and attend a gathering at the Our Lady of Africa basilica. He will also take part in prayers at a nearby memorial dedicated to migrants who died while attempting to cross the Mediterranean to Europe. The Vatican said the visit’s main message is peace and interfaith harmony, reflected in its motto: “Peace be with you.” Algeria’s Catholic community is small, with around 9,000 followers, mostly foreigners, living alongside a Sunni Muslim population of about 47 million, according to Vatican data. Algiers Archbishop Cardinal Jean-Paul Vesco said the basilica regularly attracts Muslim visitors, showing a spirit of coexistence. “It shows that people of different faiths can live together and help build society,” Vesco told AP. However, concerns remain over religious freedom. The United States has placed Algeria on a watch list over alleged violations. While the constitution allows non-Muslims to practise their faith, efforts to convert Muslims are illegal, and some churches have been closed. Local residents expressed mixed feelings about the visit. “It’s good that the pope is coming, but will it change anything?” asked Selma Dénane, a student from Annaba. The visit also carries historical significance. During Algeria’s civil war in the 1990s, around 250,000 people were killed. Among them were 19 Catholic clergy, including seven monks from Tibhirine, who were abducted and killed in 1996. Pope Leo is expected to pay tribute to them during his visit. The pontiff will also meet members of his Augustinian order, inspired by St. Augustine, a major figure in early Christianity who was born in present-day Algeria. On Tuesday, the pope will travel to Annaba, where St. Augustine once served as bishop, highlighting the personal and spiritual importance of the visit. Church officials say Pope Leo is likely to focus strongly on peace during the trip, calling it a timely message amid ongoing global conflicts.

Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir on Monday said Bangladesh has to purchase liquefied natural gas (LNG) at nearly double the earlier price and crude oil at sharply higher rates due to volatility in the global energy market triggered by the Middle East conflict. “Under G2G contracts, we used to buy LNG at $10 per unit, which now has to be purchased at $20. On the other hand, crude oil was priced at $50-60 per barrel, which has now crossed $110. Soon after the formation of the government, fuel prices doubled due to the Middle East war,” he told a seminar organised by the Dhaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI) at a city hotel. The sudden outbreak of war created an unexpected havoc that no one had planned for, and managing this situation has now become a major challenge, the minister said. He also noted that fertiliser is being purchased at nearly double the price amid the volatile situation. “We require around 2.6 million tonnes of urea annually. A bulk portion has to be imported because for many years we have not been able to keep our fertiliser factories running throughout the year due to gas shortages. The gas we cannot use to run fertiliser plants has to be imported again using foreign currency. Gas that we used to buy at $456 now has to be purchased in excess of $800.” Muktadir said bearing the high cost of fuel has become “difficult” for the government. “The government’s manoeuvring capability, its financial cushion to prioritise spending has become very limited. The ability to allocate expenditures according to priorities has become extremely difficult for this government.” Highlighting the lack of fuel storage capacity in Bangladesh, he said the country will not have faced the current double cost burden if adequate reserves were available. “Bangladesh does not have proper fuel storage facilities. If we had the capacity to store LNG for two months, we would not have to buy LNG from the spot market at $20 instead of $10.” The minister also said the government plans to expand the tax net rather than increasing taxes. “To bring fiscal discipline, we need to widen the tax base. We are not increasing individual taxes; rather we are expanding the tax net. I believe the NBR and the finance ministry are working with that goal and intention.” He said the government will try its best in the upcoming budget to avoid additional pressure on people, while ensuring industries remain operational despite the energy crisis. Muktadir noted that subsidy pressure remains high in the budget. He said revenue collection as a share of GDP has remained low for a long time, while expenditure, particularly subsidies, continues to rise. Due to international price volatility in power and energy, the government has to provide large subsidies, while agricultural subsidies for fertiliser, electricity and other inputs also continue. As a result, financing development projects is becoming difficult, the minister said, adding that investment in major infrastructure projects, social safety net programmes and human resource development is being constrained. “To meet regular budget deficits, the government has to rely on domestic and foreign borrowing. This increases the debt burden and interest payments, which may create fiscal risks in the future,” he warned. Muktadir emphasised modernising the tax system and expanding the tax net, expressing hope that strengthening digital tax collection platforms will increase revenue and help manage subsidy pressures.

French Ambassador to Bangladesh Jean-Marc Séré-Charlet on Monday said they are deeply saddened by the passing of Asha Bhosle, an extraordinary artist whose voice transcended generations and borders. "Her legacy will live on for generations, he said. The envoy said Asha Bhosle also touched French audiences, notably through her celebrated 2014 performance at the Théâtre du Châtelet. "On behalf of France in Bangladesh, I extend my heartfelt condolences to her family, loved ones, and admirers around the world," said the Ambassador in a message. Legendary Indian playback singer Asha Bhosle passed away in Mumbai on April 12, 2026, at the age of 92.  

The family of self-proclaimed ‘Pir’ Abdur Rahman, also known as Shamim Reza and Jahangir, who was killed in a mob attack at his shrine in Daulatpur upazila of Kushtia, expressed unwillingness to file a case. “We, all family members, have decided not to file a case,” Shamim’s elder brother, retired school teacher Fazlur Rahman, said on Monday morning. “I am old. I cannot afford to deal with these matters,” he added. “After the burial on Sunday afternoon, the family members sat together at night. Police officers were also present. They repeatedly asked us to file a case but we have decided not to proceed,” said Fazlur Rahman. Earlier on Sunday night, Daulatpur Police Station Officer-in-Charge Arifur Rahman said they were waiting for the victim’s family to file a case. When asked again on Monday morning, OC Arifur Rahman said, “I have not heard that they will not file a case. They might come today.” Abdur Rahman, 65, was beaten and hacked to death on Saturday afternoon at a site known as “Shamim Baba’s Darbar Sharif” in Philipnagar Union. According to locals, an old video from 2023 resurfaced, leading to allegations of blasphemy and triggering the attack. Three of his followers—Zubayer, Mohon Ali, and Jamirun Nesa—were also injured in the incident and received treatment at a local hospital.

A lifetime devoted to music brought Asha Bhosle immense fame, but her personal life was shaped by profound love and deep heartbreak. The singer had three children-Hemant, Varsha, and Anand-from her first marriage to Ganpatrao Bhosle. Her eldest son, Hemant Bhosle, composed songs for films such as Dharam Shatru, Sansani: The Sensation, and Raja Jogi, and was also known for Kishore-Asha duets such as "Aji Kaho Kya Haal Hai" from Anpadh. Her daughter Varsha Bhosle chose a different path, working as a columnist for well-known publications. Meanwhile, her youngest son, Anand Bhosle, took charge of managing his mother's professional commitments. Two Personal Losses Despite her success, Asha Bhosle endured the pain of losing two of her children. Varsha died by suicide in 2012 at the age of 56. A few years later, in 2015, Hemant died after battling cancer. These tragedies came after an already difficult early phase in her personal life. At just 16, she had married Ganpatrao against her family's wishes, but the relationship turned troubled. After facing mistreatment from her in-laws, she returned to her maternal home with her children while pregnant with her third child. The couple eventually separated in 1960. About Her Family Born into the renowned Mangeshkar family, Asha was the daughter of Deenanath Mangeshkar and Shevanti. After her father's death when she was nine, the family moved from Pune to Kolhapur and later Mumbai, where she and her elder sister Lata Mangeshkar began working in films to support the household. Her siblings, including Usha Mangeshkar, Meena Khadikar, and Hridaynath Mangeshkar, also contributed to India's rich musical heritage. Years after her first marriage ended, Asha found companionship again with legendary composer RD Burman, forming one of Bollywood's most iconic singer-composer partnerships. Though they had no children together, their creative bond defined an era. Her family today extends to her grandchildren, including Chaitanya Bhosle and Zanai Bhosle. The legendary singer, whose versatile voice captivated generations of music lovers, breathed her last at Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital on Sunday at the age of 92. The veteran singer was admitted to the hospital after suffering from extreme exhaustion and a chest infection, according to her granddaughter, Zanai Bhosle. Doctors later confirmed that she died due to multi-organ failure. She will be cremated at 4 pm with full state honours at Shivaji Park, Mumbai. Several political leaders and Bollywood celebrities rushed to pay their last respects.   # With input from media reports

Indian High Commisioner to Bangladesh Pranay Verma on Monday reiterated India’s willingness to work with the government and the people of Bangladesh to strengthen people-centric cooperation in all domains based on mutual interest and benefit. He paid a courtesy call on Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapon and discussed issues of mutual interest. They discussed wide-ranging cooperation in information and broadcasting domain including engagements between media and broadcasting institutions of the two countries.  They agreed to enhance exchange visits of media delegations between the two countries to strengthen people-to-people relations and promote mutual understanding. The High Commissioner proposed various capacity building initiatives for journalists and media professionals under ITEC programme of Government of India. As part of these initiatives, a special training course for women journalists from Bangladesh will soon be organised in India. They also exchanged views on cooperation in films, including organization of film screening and film festivals in each other’s country, as well as collaboration in production and post-production technological support.

Speaker Hafiz Uddin Ahmad on Monday said India remains Bangladesh’s closest neighbour and its support for the nomination of Bangladesh Foreign Minister Dr Khalilur Rahman as President of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly reflects a cooperative and generous approach. “The current parliament is very vibrant. The opposition party is playing an active role. We need to identify areas of cooperation and take steps to strengthen parliamentary relations,” he said when outgoing Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Pranay Verma paid a courtesy call on the Speaker at his office. The Speaker also recalled that strong bilateral ties between Bangladesh and India were forged during the 1971 Liberation War when India extended all possible support to Bangladesh. During the meeting, Verma said the Parliamentary Friendship Group could play a key role in strengthening ties between the two countries. “Diplomatic relations will move forward through bilateral visits of parliamentary delegations,” he said. The meeting focused on enhancing bilateral relations including economic cooperation, connectivity and people-to-people contacts through constructive engagement. The High Commissioner also congratulated Hafiz Uddin Ahmad on his election as Speaker and presented him with a copy of the Constitution and a memento on behalf of the Government of India. Pranay Varma also paid courtesy call on Deputy Speaker Barrister Kayser Kamal. The Speaker and Deputy Speaker 'expressed interest in promoting deeper exchanges' with the Parliament of India. They discussed possible opportunities for exchanges between Parliamentary committees, capacity building opportunities for Members and officials of Parliament, and mutual visits of Parliamentary delegations, according to the Indian High Commission in Dhaka. The High Commissioner underlined the importance of Parliamentary exchanges and cooperation as a vital part of their efforts to strengthen people-to-people ties between the two countries. He briefed the Speaker and Deputy Speaker on various institutional initiatives taken by the Parliament of India to strengthen and modernize resources and practices. The High Commissioner also had a brief visit to the Parliament Library at the Jatiya Sangsad and exchanged views on potential collaboration between the libraries of the Parliaments of the two countries in areas such as digitization of records and collaborative research. Senior officials of the Indian High Commission, the Parliament Secretariat and other concerned officials were present.

Two fruit traders were killed and 25 others injured when a bus plunged into a roadside ditch after being hit by a pickup van on the Faridpur–Barishal highway in Bhanga upazila of Faridpur district on Monday. The deceased were identified as Jahangir Molla, 42, son of Seken Molla, and Alamgir Sheikh, 40, son of Neshar Uddin, from Koidubi Sadardi village in the Bhanga municipality area. The accident occurred around 9:30 am at Bablatala when a Madaripur-bound ‘Shah Farid’ bus from Faridpur hit the muskmelon-laden pickup van and fell into a road side ditch, leaving two people dead on the spot and 25 others injured, said Sub-Inspector Md Mamun of Bhanga Highway Police Station. The injured were taken to different hospitals.    

Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) Director General Md Ahsan Habib Palash on Monday said there is no specific security threat centering the Pahela Baishakh celebrations but the elite force remains fully prepared to face any sabotage. He made the remarks while briefing reporters after visiting security arrangements at Ramna Batamul in the capital. To ensure a festive and peaceful environment, RAB has deployed all its 15 battalions across the country. A total of 308 patrol teams including 181 pickup patrol units and 127 motorcycle patrol teams will remain active in the field until the end of Baishakhi programmes. Plainclothes intelligence surveillance has also been intensified, he said. In Dhaka, special security measures have been taken at key venues including Shahbagh, TSC, Suhrawardy Udyan, Rabindra Sarobar, Hatirjheel, Manik Mia Avenue, Bangla Academy and Ramna Batamul. Checkposts and observation posts have been set up alongside strengthening regular patrols. To prevent any possible sabotage, bomb disposal units and dog squads are conducting sweeping operations and remain on standby. Adequate reserve forces, control rooms, foot patrols and CCTV monitoring have also been ensured nationwide. Strict monitoring is ongoing to prevent the spread of rumours, provocative or false information. Special measures have also been taken to ensure women's safety and prevent eve-teasing and harassment at celebration venues, he added. He called upon all to immediately inform law enforcement agencies if any suspicious activity or security concern is noticed Expressing optimism, he said this year’s Pahela Baishakh will be celebrated in a peaceful and festive atmosphere like previous years.  

A new study suggests that a single injection given every six months could help lower blood pressure in patients who do not respond well to regular medication, offering a potential new way to manage hypertension. The findings, published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, come from a global clinical trial led by researchers at Queen Mary University of London. The trial, known as KARDIA-2, involved 663 adults whose high blood pressure remained poorly controlled despite taking standard medicines. Participants who received the experimental drug zilebesiran alongside their usual treatment showed greater reductions in blood pressure compared to those who continued with standard therapy alone, researchers said. High blood pressure is a major global health concern and a leading cause of heart attacks, strokes and death if left untreated. In the UK, it affects about one in three adults. Dr Manish Saxena, a hypertension specialist at Barts Health NHS Trust and a lead researcher in the study, said the results highlight both the effectiveness and safety of the new treatment. He noted that the long-lasting nature of the injection could make it easier for patients to manage their condition, as it requires only two doses a year. Zilebesiran works using RNA interference technology to lower blood pressure. It blocks the production of angiotensinogen, a protein made in the liver that helps regulate blood pressure. Reducing this protein allows blood vessels to relax, leading to lower pressure levels. The drug is given as an injection under the skin. Researchers are continuing to study the drug in a follow-up trial, KARDIA-3, to assess its benefits for patients with high blood pressure who also have cardiovascular disease or are at high risk. A larger global study is also planned later this year to examine whether the treatment can reduce serious outcomes such as strokes and cardiovascular-related deaths. The research was funded by Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, with Barts Health NHS Trust serving as a key trial site and the leading enrolment centre in Europe. Source: Science daily    

Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) has arrested seven people including suspected mastermind Moin Uddin on extortion charge at CKD Hospital in the capital’s Sher-e-Bangla Nagar area. The other arrestees are Sumon, Liton, Falan Mia, Rubel, Swapan Kazi, and Shawon Hossain Major M Mubin Rahman Tapos, Company Commander of RAB-2, said the incident which took place on April 11 drew widespread media attention after reports of extortion at the hospital surfaced. Acting on the information, a RAB-2 team rushed to CKD Hospital around 1:40 am, spoke with the complainant, Dr Kamrul and collected CCTV footage from the scene. They also obtained the phone number of the prime suspect, Moin Uddin. Following the initial investigation, multiple RAB units conducted coordinated drives to detain those involved. The main accused, Moin Uddin, 42, was arrested by RAB-6 from  Kalia thana area of Narail district. Based on the findings of the investigating officer, RAB-2 arrested suspect Suoan from Sher-e-Bangla Nagar. Another associate of Moin, named Liton, was also arrested from the same area. In separate operations, RAB-4 arrested four more suspects—Falan Mia, Rubel, Swapan Kazi, and Shaon Hossain.  

Dhaka University metro rail station will remain non-operational on Tuesday (Pahela Baishakh), the Dhaka Mass Transit Company Limited (DMTCL) said on Monday. Besides, Shahbagh station will remain closed until 12 pm, it said. The metro rail authorities expressed sincere apologies for the temporary inconvenience caused to passengers. Extensive security measures have been taken to ensure that people from all walks of life can celebrate the Bengali New Year peacefully, according to Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP). Dhaka Metropolitan area has been divided into nine sectors and 14 sub-sectors for effective security management. A large number of police personnel both in uniform and plainclothes will be deployed in each area. Specialised units including dog squads and bomb disposal teams will conduct sweeping operations at key venues. Fourteen security checkpoints with barricades will be set up in areas including Ramna Park, Suhrawardy Udyan, and Dhaka University and cisitors will be screened using archways and handheld metal detectors at entry points. Surveillance will be strengthened through CCTV cameras, video and still cameras, and drones. Observation towers will be installed, rooftops will be monitored, and special forces will also be deployed, he added. To prevent eve-teasing, mugging, and pickpocketing, plainclothes teams will remain active, while additional monitoring systems will be in place to control unauthorised hawker entry. Organised by the Faculty of Fine Arts of Dhaka University, Baishakhi Shobhajatra will begin at 9am and follow a route from the faculty through Shahbagh, TSC, and Doel Chattar before returning to the starting point. The entire procession route will remain under strict security and all programmes must conclude by 6pm, said DMP Acting Commissioner Md Sarwar on Sunday .

Every year, as the April sun climbs high over the delta, the very air in Bangladesh shifts. It isn't just the rising heat of the Boishakhi summer; it’s a palpable sense of a page turning. While the Gregorian calendar marks April 14th as just another date, for the nearly 170 million souls in this land, it is the rhythmic heartbeat of a new beginning. From the neon-lit avenues of Dhaka to the mist-shrouded ridges of the Chittagong Hill Tracts , the New Year arrives not as a single event, but as a symphony. While the majority celebrates Pohela Boishakh, the hills echo with seven other names: Boisuk, Sangrai, Biju, Changkran, Bishu, Sanglan, and Sangraing. Together, they form "Vaishabi," a celebration that proves unity doesn't require uniformity. The Colors of the Hill: The Vaishabi Spirit In the southeast, the New Year is deeply elemental a conversation with the earth, the water, and the ancestors. Biju (Chakma) The Chakma festival is a three-day journey of the soul. ● The Flower Ritual: Today, April 13th, children wake at dawn to gather wild blooms. They float them on the rivers (Phul Biju) to let the water carry away the hardships of the past. ● The Legend of Pajon: You cannot understand Biju without tasting Pajon. This isn't just a meal; it’s a medicine. It is a complex vegetable stew simmered with a minimum of 20 to 40 types of wild herbs, bamboo shoots, and forest vegetables. It is a taste of the forest itself.

Interns at Dinajpur Medical College Hospital went on work abstention early Monday protesting ‘attacks on physicians by a patients’ relatives’. The interns began the protest around 3:30 am locking the gate of emergency department, hospital sources said. According to hospital authorities, a 65-year-old patient, Abdus Samad from Ramnagar in the city, was admitted to the emergency department around 12:30 am in critical condition after suffering a heart attack. He was later transferred to the CCU of the cardiac ward and the patient’s relatives were informed about his critical condition. He died within an hour of treatment around 1:30 am. Following his death, his relatives allegedly assaulted attending medical officer, Dr. Abdullah Al Muin.  The relatives took the body away around 3:30 am. Medical services including patient admission were disrupted as intern doctors locked the emergency department gate following the chaos. However, hospital authorities denied that the gate had been locked and new patient admissions resumed at around 9:30 am. Additional police have been deployed at the hospital. Kotwali Police Station has detained a relative of the deceased patient, Yakub Ali, in connection with the alleged assault on the doctor. To resolve the situation, hospital director Dr. Fazlur Rahman called a meeting with department heads and protesting interns around 12 pm.

Former England captain Wayne Rooney believes Manchester City have a mental edge over Arsenal in the Premier League title race. League leaders Arsenal are currently nine points ahead, though they have played two more matches. They are set to face City at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday. Speaking on his show, Rooney said City’s experience in winning titles and the presence of manager Pep Guardiola give them an advantage. He said City’s players are more used to handling pressure and can stay calmer in crucial moments compared to Arsenal’s squad. Rooney also warned that losing a few matches can affect a team’s confidence, creating doubts about scoring goals and winning games, which can impact overall performance. City boosted their chances with a 3-0 win over Chelsea, while Arsenal suffered a 2-1 defeat to Bournemouth. According to Rooney, the outcome of Sunday’s clash could play a key role in deciding the title, with the winner likely to become favourites. He added that a draw would still be a positive result for Arsenal, but suggested they may need to adopt a more defensive and disciplined approach under manager Mikel Arteta. Rooney said Arsenal must remain compact, avoid leaving gaps and look to hit City on the counter-attack, stressing that they need to be resilient to stop City from scoring. Meanwhile, Tottenham Hotspur have dropped into the relegation zone after a defeat to Sunderland and a win for West Ham over Wolves. Rooney described Spurs’ recent performance as lacking intensity, saying they failed to benefit from a fresh start under new coach Roberto De Zerbi. He said the team appeared uncertain in their approach and needs quick improvement. Rooney warned that relegation would be a major setback for the club, adding that some players might consider leaving if that happens. He also cautioned that failing to return to the Premier League immediately would create serious long-term problems. Tottenham are still searching for their first league win of 2026 and will face Brighton at home next. Rooney said ending their winless run is crucial to rebuilding confidence, as continued poor results will make the situation even more difficult. Source: BBC

A chorus of top-ranking Iranian officials threatened retaliation. Mohsen Rezaei, a military adviser and a former Revolutionary Guard Commander, wrote on X that the country’s armed forces had “major untouched levers” to counter a Hormuz blockade. He said Iran would not be coerced by “tweets and imaginary plans.” Iranian parliament speaker, Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, who led Iran’s side in the talks, addressed Trump in a statement on his return to Iran: “If you fight, we will fight.” Iran’s Revolutionary Guard later said the strait remained under Iran’s “full control” and was open for non-military vessels, but military ones would get a “forceful response,” two semi-official Iranian news agencies reported. During the 21-hour talks this weekend in Pakistan, the U.S. military said two destroyers had transited the strait ahead of mine-clearing work, a first since the war began. Iran denied it.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez’s latest visit to China, his fourth in four years, reflects the steady growth of bilateral relations and highlights a model of cooperation at a time of global uncertainty. The regular high-level exchanges between the two countries underline a relationship built on consistency and mutual trust, offering an example of stable engagement between China and Europe despite a volatile international environment. Experts say such ties are the result of long-term efforts rather than sudden developments. Spanish scholar Jordi Bacaria noted that relations between the two countries have been carefully developed over time through sustained cooperation. Analysts believe reliability and policy consistency have become increasingly important as global tensions and uncertainties affect international partnerships. In this context, China’s focus on long-term cooperation and multilateralism has made it an attractive partner for many countries, including Spain. China and Spain, despite differences in history, culture and political systems, have managed to strengthen ties by focusing on shared interests. During a meeting last year between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Spain’s King Felipe VI, both sides stressed mutual respect, practical cooperation and fairness in global governance as key principles guiding their relationship. Economic cooperation remains a strong pillar of bilateral ties. China is Spain’s largest trading partner outside the European Union, while Spain is an important partner for China within the bloc. Bilateral trade exceeded $55 billion in 2025, marking a nearly 10 percent increase from the previous year, according to official data. Beyond trade, both countries see opportunities for deeper cooperation in areas such as technology and renewable energy. Spain’s focus on sectors like semiconductors and green energy aligns with China’s push for high-quality development, opening the door for further collaboration. The transition to clean energy has emerged as a key area of cooperation. Chinese investments in Spain’s electric vehicle and wind power sectors are supporting industrial growth, while Spain contributes its expertise in renewable energy. Spain’s engagement with China is part of a broader trend, as several European leaders have recently visited Beijing to strengthen economic and diplomatic ties. Observers say this reflects Europe’s efforts to enhance economic resilience and strategic independence. Sanchez’s visit, analysts say, sends a wider message that continued dialogue and cooperation remain essential even in a fragmented global landscape. At a time of growing uncertainty, China-Spain relations are seen as contributing to stability and offering a constructive path for broader China-Europe engagement.

Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) on Monday detained a suspected smuggler along with 10 gold bars worth approximately Tk 2.48 crore during an anti-smuggling drive in Chuadanga. The detainee was identified as Alamgir Khan,55, son of the late Badal Khan of Mobarakpara in Darshana, Damurhuda upazila. Tipped off, a BGB team conducted a dive at Darshana Railway Station in the morning after receiving information that gold was being smuggled to India, said Lieutenant Colonel Nazmul Hasan, commanding officer of Chuadanga-6 BGB. Later, law enforcers intercepted a suspect who attempted to flee after being signaled to stop. He was detained and a search led to the recovery of two packages wrapped around his waist with tape, containing 10 gold bars weighing 1.166 kgs. A case was filed in this connection and the seized gold will be deposited with the Chuadanga Treasury Office, he added.

Ancient grains like quinoa and spelt are often promoted as healthier alternatives to modern grains, but scientists say the benefits may not be as clear as widely believed. Ancient grains refer to crops that have changed very little over hundreds or even thousands of years. Unlike modern grains such as wheat, which have been developed through selective breeding, these older varieties have largely kept their original genetic traits. Recently, they have gained popularity, with many claims suggesting they are richer in nutrients. However, experts say there is limited evidence to prove that ancient grains are significantly better for health than modern ones. Grains such as rice, wheat, oats and corn form a major part of diets worldwide, providing carbohydrates, fibre and some protein. Nutritionists recommend that at least half of the grains people consume should be wholegrains. These include all parts of the grain – bran, germ and endosperm – and are rich in fibre, vitamins and minerals. Wholegrains have been linked to a lower risk of diseases like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and certain cancers. But researchers caution that these benefits may also be influenced by overall healthier lifestyles among people who eat more wholegrains. Ancient grains differ from modern ones mainly in how they have been cultivated. Modern crops have been bred over time for higher yields and better taste, while ancient grains remain closer to their original forms. Examples include spelt and emmer, which date back thousands of years. Despite their historical value, ancient grains are not widely grown today, as modern varieties are more productive and easier to farm. They are also more suitable for making foods like bread. One clear advantage of some ancient grains is that they are naturally gluten-free. For example, quinoa and millet can be suitable options for people with gluten intolerance. Some studies also suggest quinoa may help improve early signs of type 2 diabetes, such as lowering blood sugar levels. Even so, researchers say there is little proof that modern farming has reduced the overall nutritional quality of grains in a major way. Experts believe the growing popularity of ancient grains is partly driven by hype. While they can be beneficial in certain cases, especially for those avoiding gluten, their overall health advantages may not be significantly different from modern grains. Instead, nutritionists suggest that the key to a healthy diet is eating a variety of grains, particularly wholegrains, rather than focusing only on whether they are ancient or modern. “Variety is the best strategy,” experts say, noting that consuming different types of grains helps ensure a wide range of nutrients. With inputs from BBC

The U.S. military announced it will begin a blockade of all Iranian ports and coastal areas on Monday, tempering President Donald Trump ‘s earlier vow to entirely block the strategic Strait of Hormuz as early reports indicated that ships had stopped crossing the waterway. The move came after marathon U.S.-Iran ceasefire talks in Pakistan ended without an agreement, and it set the stage for a showdown. Iranian leaders vowed to counter the blockade. U.S. Central Command announced the blockade would begin on Monday at 10 a.m. EDT, or 5:30 p.m. in Iran, and would be “enforced impartially against vessels of all nations entering or departing Iranian ports and coastal areas, including all Iranian ports on the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman.” CENTCOM said it would still allow ships traveling between non-Iranian ports to transit the strait, a step down from the president’s earlier threat to blockade the entire strait. The announcement of the blockade halted the limited ship traffic that resumed in the strait since the ceasefire, said an early report from Lloyd’s List intelligence. Marine trackers say over 40 commercial ships have crossed since the start of the ceasefire, down from roughly 100 to 135 vessel passages per day before the war. Later Sunday, Trump extended his feud over the war with Pope Leo XIV, lashing out in a Truth Social post that called the Catholic leader “terrible on foreign policy.” The extraordinary broadside came after Leo denounced the war and demanded that political leaders stop and negotiate peace. The blockade could have far-reaching effects The blockage is likely intended to add pressure on Iran, which has exported millions of barrels of oil since the war began, much of it likely carried by so-called “dark” transits that evade Western government sanctions and oversight. Trump also hopes to undercut Iran’s control over the Strait of Hormuz after demanding that it reopen the waterway where 20% of global oil transited before fighting began. A U.S. blockade could further rattle global energy markets. Oil prices rose in early market trading after the blockade announcement. The price of U.S. crude rose 8% to $104.24 a barrel, and Brent crude oil, the international standard, rose 7% to $102.29. Brent crude cost roughly $70 per barrel before the war in late February. Iran says ‘if you fight, we will fight’ A chorus of top-ranking Iranian officials threatened retaliation. Mohsen Rezaei, a military adviser and a former Revolutionary Guard Commander, wrote on X that the country’s armed forces had “major untouched levers” to counter a Hormuz blockade. He said Iran would not be coerced by “tweets and imaginary plans.” Iranian parliament speaker, Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, who led Iran’s side in the talks, addressed Trump in a statement on his return to Iran: “If you fight, we will fight.” Iran’s Revolutionary Guard later said the strait remained under Iran’s “full control” and was open for non-military vessels, but military ones would get a “forceful response,” two semi-official Iranian news agencies reported. During the 21-hour talks this weekend in Pakistan, the U.S. military said two destroyers had transited the strait ahead of mine-clearing work, a first since the war began. Iran denied it. No word on what happens after ceasefire expires The face-to-face talks that ended early Sunday were the highest-level negotiations between the longtime rivals since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Trump said Tehran’s nuclear ambitions were the core reason for the talks’ failure. In comments to Fox News, he again threatened to strike civilian infrastructure if it didn’t give up its nuclear program. “In one half of a day they wouldn’t have one bridge standing, they wouldn’t have one electric generating plant standing, and they’re back in the stone ages,” Trump said. Vice President JD Vance, who led the U.S. side in the talks, said Washington would need “an affirmative commitment that they will not seek a nuclear weapon.” Iranian negotiators could not agree to all U.S. “red lines,” said a U.S. official who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to describe positions on the record. Those red lines included Iran never obtaining a nuclear weapon, ending uranium enrichment, dismantling major enrichment facilities and allowing retrieval of its highly enriched uranium, along with opening the Strait of Hormuz and ending funding for Hamas, Hezbollah and Houthi rebels. Iranian officials said talks fell apart over two or three key issues, blaming what they called U.S. overreach. Qalibaf, who noted progress in negotiations, said it was time for the United States “to decide whether it can gain our trust or not.” Iran’s foreign minister claimed that the U.S. tanked the negotiations when they were within “inches” of an agreement, but did not provide evidence. “We encountered maximalism, shifting goalposts, and blockade,” wrote Abbas Araghchi on X. Neither Iran nor the U.S. indicated what will happen after the ceasefire expires on April 22. Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said his country will try to facilitate a new dialogue in the coming days. Iran said it was open to continuing dialogue, state-run IRNA news agency reported. Iran’s nuclear program is a key sticking point Iran’s nuclear program was at the center of tensions long before the U.S. and Israel launched the war on Feb. 28. The fighting has killed at least 3,000 people in Iran, 2,055 in Lebanon, 23 in Israel and more than a dozen in Gulf Arab states, and damaged infrastructure in half a dozen countries. Tehran has long denied seeking nuclear weapons but insists on its right to a civilian nuclear program. The landmark 2015 nuclear deal, which Trump later pulled the U.S. out of, took well over a year of negotiations. Experts say Iran’s stockpile of enriched uranium, though not weapons-grade, is only a short technical step away.    

Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) has predicted rains in parts of four divisions including Dhaka in 24 hours commencing 9am on Monday. “Rain or thunder showers accompanied by temporary gusty/squally wind and lightning flashes is likely to occur at one or two places over Dhaka, Mymensingh, Chattogram  and Sylhet divisions,” said a Met office bulletin. Weather may remain mainly dry with temporary partly cloudy sky elsewhere over the country. Day temperature may rise slightly and night temperature may rise by (1-2)°C over the country.

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) at workplaces in the United States is growing, but many employees are still reluctant to rely on the technology, according to a new Gallup poll. The survey shows that while more workers are now using AI tools regularly, concerns are also increasing about the risk of job losses. Many employees who avoid AI say they prefer traditional methods, have ethical concerns or are worried about data privacy. The poll, conducted in February, highlights a mixed picture of how AI is changing workplaces. Some workers see it as a powerful tool that improves productivity and efficiency, while others fear its negative impact. Scott Segal, a social worker in northern Virginia, said he uses AI to gather information to help elderly and vulnerable patients access healthcare services. However, he also fears that AI could eventually replace his role. “I think people in jobs that can be replaced should start planning ahead,” said the 53-year-old. The poll found that about 30% of employees use AI frequently, either daily or several times a week, while around 20% use it occasionally. Around 40% of workers said their organisations have introduced AI tools to improve operations. Among them, nearly two-thirds reported that AI has had a positive impact on their productivity and efficiency. Managers appear to benefit more from AI than other employees. About 70% of leaders who use AI at least a few times a year said it has improved their efficiency, compared to just over half of other workers. Among employees who have access to AI but choose not to use it, 46% said they prefer to continue working in their usual way. Around 40% cited ethical concerns, data privacy issues, or doubts about AI’s usefulness. About a quarter said they had tried AI but found it unhelpful, while roughly 20% felt they lacked the skills to use it properly. Thuy Pisone, a contract administrator in Maryland, said she uses AI for simple tasks but avoids it for work she can already handle confidently, such as preparing presentations. The survey also found growing concern about job security. About 18% of US workers believe their jobs could be replaced by technology, automation or AI within the next five years, up from 15% in 2025. Workers at companies already using AI are even more worried, with 23% saying job loss is at least somewhat likely in the near future. Despite these concerns, most workers are not overly anxious. Around 70% said they are not very concerned or not concerned at all about losing their jobs to AI. Segal said he is considering starting a healthcare support service if AI replaces his current role, as he believes some human-centred services will take longer to be automated. For now, he said, he is even using AI tools to plan his financial future, including retirement savings.

President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO)of Norway-based telecom company Telenor Group Benedicte Schilbred Fasmer met Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Monday. The meeting was held at the Prime Minister’s Office at Secretariat, said a PMO press release.  

A total of 61 members of various robber gangs have been detained in joint operations over the past 18 months. Captain Mohammad Mesbaul Islam, Zonal Commander of Coast Guard West Zone Headquarters, said on Sunday that they launched drives  titled ‘Operation Restore Peace in the Sundarbans’ and ‘Operation Mangrove Shield,’ to curb robber activities in the Sundarbans. During the drives, members of several groups including Karim-Sharif, Nana Bhai, Chhota Suman, Alif, and Asabur, were detained. Authorities also recovered 80 firearms and 599 rounds of ammunition during the drives. Besides, 78 fishermen and three tourists were rescued. The Coast Guard sources said 944 kg of venison, 900 traps, and a large quantity of illegal goods linked to 29 poachers were seized as part of wildlife protection efforts. Illegal nets worth around Tk 1,806 crore and a significant amount of fish fry were also seized. Security surveillance has intensified across the Sundarbans including Harbaria, Kaikhali, Koyra, Nalian, Mandarbari, and Shyamnagar in Satkhira, as part of ongoing anti-poaching operations. Personnel from the Navy, RAB, Coast Guard, Police, Forest Department, and other agencies are participating in the joint drive.

Around 250 kilometres of highways and rural roads in Beanibazar upazila of Sylhet have fallen into disrepair, causing severe hardship for commuters. The roads riddled with potholes and damaged surfaces, have made vehicular movement slow and risky, often triggering long tailbacks. Commuters say travel time has increased significantly. Locals alleged that it now takes nearly twice as long as before to reach Beanibazar municipal town due to the poor condition of the roads. Officials concerned attribute the worsening situation to substandard construction, lack of regular maintenance and the movement of overloaded vehicles. 50,000 people stranded as key bridge collapses in Sunamganj Sources said about Tk 300 crore would be needed to repair the damaged road network. Sajjadur Rahman, an official of the Roads and Highways Department (RHD) in charge of Beanibazar, said around 29.5 kilometres of road — from Charkhai to Baraigram and Sheola to Sutarkandi — fall under RHD. “Of these, at least 10 kilometres require urgent repair. A proposal has already been sent to the higher authorities. Work will begin once approval is received,” he said. He added that more durable methods including the use of concrete in waterlogged areas are being planned for the upcoming repair work. According to municipality sources, around 39 kilometres of roads in the municipal area remain unpaved. Besides, most of the roughly 60 kilometres of paved and brick roads are in need of urgent repair. Brahmaputra erosion leaves 50 families homeless in Kurigram, over 100 at risk Limited revenue and budget constraints have made it difficult to carry out development work evenly across all wards over the past year, officials said. Broken roads have now become the main source of suffering for residents, with most of the approximately 4.5 kilometres of carpeting roads already damaged. Local Government Engineering Department (LGED) sources said there are 347 roads under its jurisdiction in the upazila, with a total length of 627 kilometres. Of these, 372 kilometres are earthen, 105 kilometres paved and 182 kilometres semi-paved. Upazila Sub-Assistant Engineer Saiful Islam said around 202 kilometres of road require urgent repair. Meanwhile, the upazila project implementation office is carrying out earth-filling and small bridge construction work on rural roads under Kabikha and Kabita projects based on demands from union parishad chairmen. Tk 1,359cr project aims to transform Munshiganj-Dhaka connectivity Beanibazar Upazila Nirbahi Officer Umme Habiba Majumdar said repair work on the damaged roads has started gradually. She expressed hope that public suffering would ease once the repairs are completed.

Indian legendary singer Asha Bhosle, whose versatile voice captivated generations of music lovers, breathed her last at Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital on Sunday. She was 92. Her death marks the end of an era in Indian music. Beyond her unparalleled contribution to cinema, the veteran singer also built a substantial financial legacy over a career spanning several decades. Estimated Net Worth According to OneIndia, Asha Bhosle had an estimated net worth of Rs 200-250 crore. Her earnings were largely driven by her long and prolific career in the Indian music industry, where she recorded thousands of songs across multiple languages. Career Earnings Over Decades Asha Bhosle began her journey at a time when playback singers were not paid royalties, especially in the early years of the industry. Despite this, her extensive body of work ensured a consistent income. Singing in a wide range of genres, from classical and ghazals to cabaret and pop, she remained in demand across generations. Her collaborations with leading composers and filmmakers resulted in some of Hindi cinema's most iconic songs, further strengthening her financial standing over time. Business Ventures Beyond Music Apart from her singing career, Asha Bhosle also explored her passion for food by launching an international restaurant chain called Asha's. The brand, founded in Dubai in 2002, expanded across several countries, including the UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain, and the United Kingdom, with outlets in cities like Birmingham and Manchester. Real Estate Holdings Reports suggest that the singer owned properties worth approximately Rs 80-100 crore. Her real estate portfolio included premium residential properties in Mumbai and Pune, along with a luxury apartment that she later sold. Global Performances And Continued Popularity Even in later years, Asha Bhosle remained active on the global stage, performing live in cities across Dubai, Trinidad, the United States, and Canada.

Hungarian voters on Sunday ousted long-serving Prime Minister Viktor Orbán after 16 years in power, rejecting the authoritarian policies and global far-right movement that he embodied in favor of a pro-European challenger in a bombshell election result with global repercussions. It was a stunning blow for Orbán — a close ally of both U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin — who quickly conceded defeat after what he called a ″painful″ election result. U.S. Vice President JD Vance had made a visit to Hungary just days earlier, meant to help push Orbán over the finish line. Election victor Péter Magyar, a former Orbán loyalist who campaigned against corruption and on everyday issues like health care and public transport, has pledged to rebuild Hungary's relationships with the European Union and NATO — ties that frayed under Orbán. European leaders quickly congratulated Magyar. His victory was expected to transform political dynamics within the EU, where Orbán had upended the bloc by frequently vetoing key decisions, prompting concerns he sought to break it up from the inside. It will also reverberate among far-right movements around the world, which have viewed Orbán as a beacon for how nationalist populism can be used to wage culture wars and leverage state power to undermine opponents. It's not yet clear whether Magyar’s Tisza party will have the two-thirds majority in parliament, which would give it the numbers needed for major changes in legislation. With 93% of the vote counted, it had more than 53% support to 37% for Orbán’s governing Fidesz party and looked set to win 94 of Hungary's 106 voting districts. “I congratulated the victorious party,″ Orban told followers. “We are going to serve the Hungarian nation and our homeland from opposition.″ Jubilation erupted along the Danube In a speech to tens of thousands of jubilant supporters at a victory party along the Danube River, Magyar said his voters had rewritten Hungarian history. “Tonight, truth prevailed over lies. Today, we won because Hungarians didn’t ask what their homeland could do for them — they asked what they could do for their homeland. You found the answer. And you followed through,” he said. On the streets of Budapest, drivers blared car horns and cranked up anti-government songs while people marching in the streets chanted and screamed. Many revelers chanted “Ruszkik haza!” or “Russians go home!” — a phrase used widely during Hungary’s 1956 anti-Soviet revolution, and which had gained increasing currency amid Orbán’s drift toward Moscow. Turnout in the election was nearly 80%, according to the National Election Office, a record number in any vote in Hungary’s post-Communist history. ‘Choice between East or West’ Orbán, the EU’s longest-serving leader and one of its biggest antagonists, traveled a long road from his early days as a liberal, anti-Soviet firebrand to the Russia-friendly nationalist admired today by the global far-right. The EU will be waiting to see how Magyar changes Hungary's approach to Ukraine. Orbán repeatedly frustrated EU efforts to support the neighboring country in its war against Russia’s full-scale invasion, while cultivating close ties to Putin and refusing to end Hungary’s dependence on Russian energy imports. Recent revelations have shown a top member of Orbán's government frequently shared the contents of EU discussions with Moscow, raising accusations that Hungary was acting on Russia’s behalf within the bloc. Members of Trump's “Make America Great Again” movement are among those who see Orbán's government and his Fidesz political party as shining examples of conservative, anti-globalist politics in action, while he is reviled by advocates of liberal democracy and the rule of law. In Budapest, Marcell Mehringer, 21, said he was voting “primarily so that Hungary will finally be a so-called European country, and so that young people, and really everyone, will do their fundamental civic duty to unite this nation a bit and to breakdown these boundaries borne of hatred.” Strained relationship with the EU During his 16 years as prime minister, Orbán launched harsh crackdowns on minority rights and media freedoms, subverted many of Hungary's institutions and been accused of siphoning large sums of money into the coffers of his allied business elite, an allegation he denies. He also heavily strained Hungary's relationship with the EU. Although Hungary is one of the smaller EU countries, with a population of 9.5 million, Orbán has repeatedly used his veto to block decisions that require unanimity. Most recently, he blocked a 90-billion euro ($104 billion) EU loan to Ukraine, prompting his partners to accuse him of hijacking the critical aid. His challenger came from the inside Magyar, 45, rapidly rose to become Orbán's most serious challenger. A former insider within Orbán's Fidesz, Magyar broke with the party in 2024 and quickly formed Tisza. Since then, he has toured Hungary relentlessly, holding rallies in settlements big and small in a campaign blitz that recently had him visiting up to six towns daily. In an interview with The Associated Press earlier this month, Magyar said the election will be a “referendum” on whether Hungary continues on its drift toward Russia under Orbán, or can retake its place among the democratic societies of Europe. Tisza is a member of the European People's Party, the mainstream, center-right political family with leaders governing 12 of the EU's 27 nations. Uphill election battle Magyar faced a tough fight. Orbán's control of Hungary's public media, which he has transformed into a mouthpiece for his party, and vast swaths of the private media market give him an advantage in spreading his message. The unilateral transformation of Hungary's electoral system and gerrymandering of its 106 voting districts by Fidesz also required Tisza to gain an estimated 5% more votes than Orbán’s party to achieve a simple majority. Additionally, hundreds of thousands of ethnic Hungarians in neighboring countries had the right to vote in Hungarian elections and traditionally have voted overwhelmingly for Orbán's party. Russian secret services have plotted to interfere and tip the election in Orbán's favor, according to numerous media reports including by The Washington Post. The prime minister, however, accused neighboring Ukraine, as well as Hungary's allies in the EU, of seeking to interfere in the vote to install a “pro-Ukraine” government.  

The legendary Indian singer Asha Bhosle will be cremated at 4 pm with full state honours at Shivaji Park, Mumbai. Several political leaders and Bollywood celebrities rushed to pay their last respects. Asha Bhosle’s son, Anand Bhosle, gave an official statement outside the hospital after her demise. He told reporters that those who wish to pay their last respects can visit her residence at 11 am on Monday. Antim Darshan of Asha Bhosle will be held from 10 am to 2 pm, followed by the funeral at 4 pm at Shivaji Park on Monday, as per the Bhosle family’s note. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Devendra Fadnavis, Amit Shah, and many Bollywood stars including Shah Rukh Khan, Akshay Kumar, Vicky Kaushal, AR Rahman, among others, mourned her demise. Asha Bhosle has received the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, the Padma Vibhushan, and the National Film Award, and holds a Guinness World Record as the most-recorded artist in music history, with more than 12,000 recorded songs across languages. Earlier, the legendary singer, whose versatile voice captivated generations of music lovers, breathed her last at Mumbai’s Breach Candy Hospital on Sunday at the age of 92. The veteran singer was admitted to the hospital after suffering from extreme exhaustion and a chest infection, according to her granddaughter, Zanai Bhosle. Doctors later confirmed that she died due to multi-organ failure. # With input from media reports

Music festival season has arrived: a time to gather outside with friends, listening to tunes, dancing, and maybe even getting the chance to rub shoulders with musicians you love. “Live music nourishes your soul and makes you feel truly alive,” says Chris Bro, host of the “Next” radio show in Maryland and a longtime fan of music festivals. Making the most of the experience also means planning ahead for potential hazards like heat, dehydration and more, say regular festivalgoers and the medical pros who care for them. The good news is music festivals are safer than ever, thanks to increased focus on on-site medical staff and equipment, says Matt Friedman, national medical director at CrowdRx, which provides medical care at over 20 major music festivals around the country each year. Different festivals, different risks Different types of festivals tend to have different types of medical emergencies, Friedman says. Much depends on the type of music, the length of the festival and the heat. "Jazz music festivals tend have a low medical-usage rate, whereas a heavy metal event will have more blunt traumas from mosh pits and alcohol-related incidents,” he says. Electronic dance music festivals tend to have friendly crowds, some of whom "occasionally overindulge or make poor decisions regarding stimulant drugs,” Friedman says. Classical music festivals, meanwhile, tend to have more cardiac events, given the older average age of attendees. “You want to have fun, but it’s really important to stay aware,” says Armelle Gloaguen, a musician who attended classic festivals like Clearwater, founded by Pete Seeger, and Woodstock ’94. “Be there for the music, not the drugs and alcohol, if you want to remember any of it. Don’t accept food or drinks from strangers, and be aware of your limits,” advises Gloaguen, who owns “Armelle for Kids,” which seeks to bridge cultures through music. Know the rules, and download the app Festivals' rules vary, so before you head out, check the parking situation and the list of what you can bring. For instance, Coachella, the annual festival in Indio, California, doesn’t allow chairs, outside food or umbrellas. At Tanglewood, in western Massachusetts, attendees are welcome to bring chairs and picnics, and umbrellas are fine; they just can’t be over 6 feet across. Download a festival's app and bring a portable phone charger. Once there, scope out the terrain. Keep an eye out for the nearest cooling station and medical tent as you figure out where to sit. Handling the heat “First and foremost, we see a lot of heat-related illnesses, since temperatures in the desert can get pretty high and rise quickly,” says Julie Puzzo, assistant medical director of the emergency department at JFK Memorial Hospital, near Coachella. “We see everything from heat cramps to heat stroke, which can be life threatening,” she says. Hydrate consistently with electrolyte-containing beverages, she says. Wear layers, a hat and other protective clothing, and avoid excessive alcohol. Opt for non-aerosol sunscreen, since many festival venues ban aerosol sprays. Festivals where heat is an issue are sometimes equipped with mobile cold-water immersion tanks to cool people down quickly, Friedman says. At multiday festivals, malnutrition can also be an issue, he says. “People are running on adrenaline for the first two days, but by day three they realize they are dehydrated and exhausted and haven’t eaten nutritious food since they arrived, and this exacerbates any other conditions they might have.” His top safety tip: Stick with your friends so you can watch out for one another. Leave sandals, heels and flip-flops at home Both doctors urge attendees to wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes, since attending a festival can involve more walking that you might expect. And it’s easy to happen upon small stones or other sharp objects on the grounds. “Trips and falls are common, and we see a lot of sprains and foot contusions,” says Friedman. Glasses, ear plugs, maybe an inhaler For anyone susceptible to respiratory problems, it’s a good idea to bring a backup inhaler, since dust-filled wind gusts can exacerbate breathing issues, Puzzo says. Eye problems like corneal abrasions are not uncommon at festivals, says Friedman, who recommends bringing large sunglasses or even goggles if it’s likely to be dusty. Outdoor venues can get buggy, too, so consider insect repellent. Protect your ears by not standing too close to speakers, and bring earplugs, says Greta Stamper, an audiologist at Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Florida. “It is also helpful to take listening pauses during festivals to allow your ears an opportunity to take a break. Having some quieter moments during the day can help your ears recover,” she says. If you notice that your hearing is muffled or your ears start ringing, your ears are telling you it's too loud, Stamper says. And if you’re coming with kids, give them added protection with over-the-ear headphones, not just earplugs, Friedman says. Pace yourself “Musical festivals are a marathon, not a sprint, so be sensible and take care of yourself,” Friedman says. As you kick back with friends, it’s easy to have a few drinks too many as the day wears on. Puzzo warns that drugs acquired at some big events might not contain what people think they do. This can be dangerous in any case, and is even more so if combined with extreme heat and alcohol. Embrace the moment Don't forget, though, to find joy in the music and the scene. Enjoy the unexpected, and making connections. “If you want to talk to your favorite musician, the most meaningful thing you can do is to thank them and talk about a specific song you love and why,” says Gloaguen.

The overcrowded capital of Dhaka ranked 9th among cities with the worst air quality on Monday morning, recording an AQI score of 131 at 8:15 am. According to the AQI index, the city’s air was classified as “unhealthy for sensitive groups,” indicating potential health risks for vulnerable populations. Thailand’s Chiang Mai, Pakistan’s Lahore, and India’s Delhi topped the list with AQI scores of 198, 184, and 166, respectively. An AQI between 50 and 100 is considered “moderate,” while 101 to 150 is deemed “unhealthy for sensitive groups.” Readings between 151 and 200 are classified as “unhealthy,” 201 to 300 as “very unhealthy,” and anything above 300 is regarded as “hazardous,” posing serious health risks. The Air Quality Index (AQI) is used to report daily air quality, indicating how clean or polluted the air is and outlining possible health effects. In Bangladesh, the AQI is based on five key pollutants: particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO₂), carbon monoxide (CO), sulfur dioxide (SO₂), and ozone. Dhaka has long struggled with air pollution. Air quality typically worsens during winter and improves with the monsoon rains. According to the World Health Organization, air pollution causes an estimated seven million deaths globally each year, largely due to stroke, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, and acute respiratory infections.  

Andreas Krieg, a senior lecturer in security studies at Kings College London, said Sunday that Trump’s plan to use the U.S. Navy to block the Strait of Hormuz is unrealistic. “We should bear in mind that the Americans have a much lower threshold of pain than the Iranians,” Krieg said. “The Iranians, whatever happens, can sustain this for far longer than the world economy, far longer the Gulf states, far longer then the Americans.” Krieg said Trump doesn’t have “any good options” and that he will have to concede on some issues. “There isn’t any tool in the toolbox in terms of the military lever that he could use to get his way,” he said. Earlier, President Donald Trump said the U.S. Navy would swiftly begin a blockade of ships entering or leaving the Strait of Hormuz, after U.S.-Iran ceasefire talks in Pakistan ended without an agreement. U.S. Central Command announced that it will blockade all Iranian ports beginning Monday at 10 a.m. EDT, or 5:30 p.m. in Iran. CENTCOM said the blockade will be “enforced impartially against vessels of all nations.” It said it would still allow ships traveling between non-Iranian ports to transit the Strait of Hormuz. Earlier in the day, the United States and Iran ended 21 hours of face-to-face talks in Islamabad without reaching a deal, leaving the fate of the fragile, two-week ceasefire still unclear. The war that has killed thousands of people and shaken global markets has entered its seventh week.

Oil prices rose in early market trading Sunday after the U.S. said it would blockade Iranian ports beginning Monday. The price of U.S. crude oil rose 8% to $104.24 a barrel and Brent crude oil, the international standard, rose 7% to $102.29. Brent crude has swung dramatically during the Iran war, rising from roughly $70 per barrel before the war in late February to more than $119 at times. On Friday, ahead of the peace talks, Brent for June delivery fell 0.8% to $95.20 per barrel. Iran has been effectively controlling the Strait of Hormuz, a key waterway for global oil shipping. U.S. Central Command said the blockade would be “enforced impartially against vessels of all nations” entering or departing Iranian ports and coastal areas, including all Iranian ports on the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman. It said it would still allow ships traveling between non-Iranian ports to transit the Strait of Hormuz. Around a fifth of the world’s traded oil typically flows through the Strait of Hormuz every day. Saudi Arabia, Iraq, the United Arab Emirates, Kuwait, and Iran are all major exporters. Traffic in the strait has been limited even in the days since the ceasefire. Marine trackers say over 40 commercial ships have crossed since the start of the ceasefire. Claudio Galimberti, chief economist of Rystad Energy, said the blockade will raise prices but might move the needle on talks.

Police have been deployed at the house of popular Baul singer Shafi Mondal in Daulatpur upazila of Kushtia following the killing of self-proclaimed pir Abdul Rahman Shamim alias Kalandar Baba over allegations of desecrating the Holy Quran. Daulatpur Police Station Officer-in-Charge Arifur Rahman confirmed the matter, saying the deployment was made as a security measure. “There is no specific information of any attack threat against his house,” the OC said. Baul artist Shafi Mondal said he has been staying in Dhaka for the past month and is unaware of developments in his village home. He suggested his daughter could provide more details. Shafi Mondal’s daughter Lina Mondal said her father is a spiritual singer and often visits different akhras for music-related activities. She said he had visited the Darbar Sharif in question, where photos and videos featuring him were later circulated online. She alleged that the viral footage was used to “create mob violence,” which led to the killing of Shamim. She further said her father follows Lalon philosophy and is a practitioner of Lalon Sain’s teachings, adding that differences in belief systems may exist but they respect religious values and Islamic practices. Earlier on Saturday, Shamim alias Kalandar Baba was beaten and hacked to death by a mob over allegations of Quran desecration. The Darbar Sharif was also attacked, vandalised and set on fire during the incident. Three of his followers were injured. The victim, locally known as Kalandar Baba, was the head of the Darbar Sharif. His body was handed over after post-mortem at Kushtia 250-bed General Hospital and later buried at South-West Filippur graveyard following a janaza on Sunday afternoon. No case has been filed so far, police said. The deceased’s elder brother Fazlur Rahman said the family will decide on legal action after discussions.

Detectives of Sylhet Metropolitan Police (SMP) detained seven people on Sunday on allegations of involvement in immoral activities and sealed a hotel in the city. The drive was carried out around 7:00pm at “Bhai Bhai Hotel” in the Laladighir Par area, where two men and five women were detained for their alleged involvement in such activities. The detainees were identified as Sadia Akter alias Sonia, 23; Sadia Akter, 28; Yasmin Begum, 28; Lovely Akter Beauty, 27; Jonura Begum, 26; Monem Ahmed, 30; and Monir Ahmed, 36. Following the operation, the hotel was sealed on allegations of being linked to immoral activities. Legal action is being processed against the detainees under Section 77 of the Sylhet Metropolitan Police Act, 2009. The incident was confirmed by SMP Additional Deputy Commissioner (Media) Md Manjurul Alam.

The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) has accused Israeli forces of ramming its vehicles and obstructing peacekeeping operations in southern Lebanon amid escalating cross-border tensions. In a statement, UNIFIL said Israeli soldiers on two occasions on Saturday rammed UN peacekeeper vehicles with a Merkava tank, causing significant damage in one incident, reports Al Jazeera. It also alleged that Israeli troops fired “warning shots” over the past week at clearly marked UNIFIL vehicles, striking and damaging them. In one case, a shot reportedly landed about a metre from a peacekeeper who had just dismounted his vehicle. The mission further said Israeli forces have repeatedly blocked peacekeepers’ movements along key routes in recent days, and since early April have destroyed force protection cameras at UNIFIL headquarters in Naqoura and at five other positions along the Blue Line from Ras Naqoura to Maroun ar-Ras. On Saturday, UNIFIL said Israeli forces also spray-painted windows at the headquarters’ pedestrian access gate, obstructing visibility of the external perimeter. The UN force said the actions are “inconsistent with Israel’s obligations under Security Council resolution 1701” and undermine the safety, security and freedom of movement of peacekeepers. Meanwhile, Israeli media reported that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited southern Lebanon, accompanied by Defence Minister Israel Katz and army chief Eyal Zamir. Footage released by Netanyahu showed him alongside Israeli troops in the area. Separately, reporting from southern Lebanon said Israeli forces have intensified strikes and operations in areas including Khiam, Nabatieh, Tyre and Qana, while also pushing efforts to gain control of the strategic border town of Bint Jbeil. The town, which holds symbolic importance due to past conflicts, is considered a key logistical and tactical position in the ongoing tensions between Israeli forces and Hezbollah.

Iran’s parliamentary Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has said US President Donald Trump’s recent threats “have no effect on the Iranian nation,” amid escalating tensions over the Strait of Hormuz. In comments carried by state media, Ghalibaf said Iran had shown “very good initiatives” and goodwill in talks with the United States, which he claimed had led to progress, reports Al Jazeera. He warned Washington, saying, “If you fight, we will fight, and if you come forward with logic, we will deal with logic.” Meanwhile, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said in a statement that the Strait of Hormuz remains “open to the harmless passage of civilian vessels” in line with international law. Trump warns of Hormuz blockade as US-Iran talks end without deal However, it warned that military vessels approaching the waterway would be considered in violation of the ceasefire and “will be dealt with severely.” The remarks come amid heightened tensions in the Gulf region following US threats of maritime action and growing concerns over the security of the world’s most critical oil shipping route. US President Donald Trump on Sunday said the US Navy would “immediately” begin a blockade to stop ships from entering or leaving the Strait of Hormuz after US-Iran talks ended without an agreement. He said he had instructed US naval forces to “seek and interdict” vessels in international waters that have allegedly paid a toll to Iran, warning that “no one who pays an illegal toll will have safe passage on the high seas.” US Vice President JD Vance said the latest round of marathon negotiations ended without agreement after 21 hours of talks in Islamabad. While, Iran’s semi-official Tasnim news agency reported that the talks concluded without outcome, citing “excessive demands” from Washington as a key obstacle to a deal.

Sylhet Metropolitan Police (SMP) has directed the closure of battery-run, or electronic (e) rickshaw showrooms in the city by Tuesday. The directive was issued through a public notice signed by SMP Commissioner Md Abdul Quddus Chowdhury on Sunday afternoon. According to the notice, authorities are conducting drives to remove illegal and unauthorized battery run vehicles, including rickshaws, easy bikes, tomtoms and mishuks — to ensure smooth traffic movement and public convenience in the city. Earlier, owners were requested to remove such vehicles from different parts of the city by October 15 last year. However, on October 14, traders sought six months’ time, which was granted considering their situation. That extended deadline will expire on Tuesday. The notice further said that, in the interest of the public and to maintain traffic discipline, it is essential to urgently remove shops and showrooms selling battery-run vehicles. Business owners have been instructed to vacate their shops and showrooms within the deadline, failing which strict legal action will be taken, the police commissioner warned.

In a milestone for Bangladesh’s private Hajj management, the official inauguration of Nusuk card distribution for Hajj pilgrims and a press meet will be held for the first time in the country on Monday. The programme is scheduled to take place at 5:00pm at FARS Hotel & Resorts (Recreation Hall, 7th floor) in Paltan, Dhaka. The initiative is being implemented by lead agency Amin Travels and Tours in coordination with partner agencies and HAAB, with support from Rawaf Muna. Under this initiative, Bangladeshi pilgrims will receive Nusuk cards, which are expected to make their Hajj journey easier, safer, more organised and hassle-free. Religious Affairs Minister Kazi Shah Mofazzal Houssain (Kaikobad), will attend the program as the chief guest. Special guests will include State Minister for Civil Aviation and Tourism M. Rashiduzzaman Millat, State Minister for Information and Broadcasting M. Yaser Khan Chowdhury, Adviser and spokesperson at the Chief Adviser’s Office Dr Mahdi Amin; and member of the Hajj Monitoring Committee-2026 M. D. Shamim Qaisar Lincoln, MP. Guests of honour will include Ehsan Kateb, Senior Vice President of Rawaf Mina, and Luai Faisal Abdullah Khan, Head of Rawaf Mina Service Center. Officials from the Ministry of Religious Affairs, Hajj Agencies Association of Bangladesh (HAAB) and other relevant organisations are also expected to attend. Organisers said the move would mark a significant step toward ensuring modern, digital and internationally standardised services in Bangladesh’s Hajj management.

Bangladesh Students’ Union, Jahangirnagar University (JU) unit, submitted a memorandum to the university administration demanding immediate action against cyberbullying, online harassment and so-called ‘social media trials’ centring the campus. They submitted the memorandum to Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Mohammad Kamrul Ahsan on Sunday, urging the authorities to identify those involved and bring them under legal accountability without delay. In the memorandum, they said incidents of gendered abuse and derogatory remarks particularly targeting female students and teachers have alarmingly increased since August 5, 2024. They cited a recent case where remarks made by Anthropology Department teacher Dr Rezwana Karim Snigdha in a talk show triggered slander, slut-shaming and cyberbullying on social media. They emphasised that while differences of opinion are a part of democratic practice, turning them into personal attacks and online harassment is unacceptable. The memorandum also alleged that several members of the university’s central students’ union (JUCSU) have directly or indirectly engaged in such harassment. It further claimed that some Facebook pages and fake accounts operating under the university’s name including ‘Jabian Sushil Samaj’, ‘JU Update’, ‘JUCSU News’, ‘JUCSU Update’ and ‘JU Crush and Confession’ have been spreading organised misinformation and propaganda. To address the situation, the organisation placed a five-point demand: identify and punish those involved in cyberbullying and harassment; conduct impartial investigations against accused JUCSU members; take action against fake and propaganda-driven online platforms; ensure visible and effective administrative measures; and formulate policies to prevent hate speech while protecting freedom of expression. JU Students’ Union General Secretary Faizan Ahmed Arko said that failure to take prompt action would disrupt the academic environment on campus. He added that the administration must play an active role in preserving the university’s tolerant, humane and progressive character, warning that students would be compelled to launch tougher programmes if their demands are not met.

The government has granted retrospective promotion to Md Kohinoor Mia, a police officer who was dismissed unfairly under the ousted Awami League regime, elevating him to the rank of Additional Deputy Inspector General (fourth grade). A notification issued by the Home Ministry on Sunday announced the promotion. According to the notification, signed by Deputy Secretary Tausif Ahmed on the President's orders, Md Kohinoor Mia, former Deputy Commissioner of Police (West) of Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP), has been promoted to the post. The promotion has been made effective from April 7, 2015. As per the notification, the promoted officer will be entitled to salary and allowance arrears in line with existing rules.

State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaid Islam on Sunday said the situation could deteriorate further, affecting the world, if a solution does not emerge from the US-Iran peace talks. "Every country will be affected - economically, socially, and in every way. We don’t want that at all," she told reporters at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, noting that they want the talks to be expedited and a resolution to be reached. Meanwhile, the State Minister requested Iran to consider facilitating the safe passage of Bangladesh-bound vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. She raised the issue when Ambassador of Iran to Bangladesh Jalil Rahimi Jahanabadi met her.  

A man died during an anti-drug drive in Kanutia Charpara village of Nawabpurpur union in Mohammadpur upazila of Magura, police said. The deceased was identified as Akubbor, 37, a resident of the village. Ashiqur Rahman, Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Magura Police Station, said the incident occurred around 10:30 am during a drug recovery operation in the Kanutia Charpara area of Mohammadpur Binadpur. A constable of the Department of Narcotics Control (DNC) was also injured during the incident. However, the victim’s wife Josna Khatun alleged that her husband was beaten to death. According to local sources, a DNC team conducted a raid at Akubbor’s house following drug-related complaints. It is alleged that he died on the spot after being hit with a stick during a scuffle. DNC constable Mithun Bepari was injured during the operation and received primary treatment. Following the incident, angry locals attacked members of the team and tried to assault them, but the situation was later brought under control with the intervention of the administration. Sub-Inspector of the Department of Narcotics Control, Most. Sahara Yasmin, said the raid was conducted based on a tip-off. She said 500 grams of marijuana were recovered from Akubbor’s house. She added that while he was being handcuffed and taken to a police vehicle, he suddenly fell ill. He was then taken to the 250-bed Sadar Hospital in Magura, where the on-duty doctor declared him dead. Dr Sadia Sakina Jhora, the on-duty doctor at the hospital, said the man had died before being brought in. “No visible signs of injury were found on his body. The real cause of death will be known after the autopsy,” she said. Magura Additional Superintendent of Police Md Mirajul Islam said an investigation is underway to determine the actual cause of the incident.

Mohammed Altaf Hussain has been appointed as the Acting Managing Director of Islami Bank Bangladesh Limited, one of the leading private sector banks in the country. His appointment will take effect from Monday (April 13). The decision was finalized during a meeting of the bank's Board of Directors on Sunday (April 12). During the same meeting, the board decided to send the current Managing Director and CEO, MD. Omar Faruk Khan, on a one-and-a-half-month mandatory leave, reportedly following a directive from Bangladesh Bank. Prior to this new role, Altaf Hussain served as the Additional Managing Director (AMD) of the bank. A seasoned banker with extensive experience, he has previously held the position of Joint Managing Director (Investment). Throughout his career, he has headed several key departments, including the Investment Management Wing, Dhaka Central Zone, Corporate Investment Division-2, and SME Investment Division-2. Hussain began his journey with Islami Bank in 2004 as a Vice President. Before joining the bank, he worked with various development organizations, including BRAC, MIDAS, SEDF, and Grameen Fund. On the academic front, Altaf Hussain earned his MBA from the Institute of Business Administration (IBA) at the University of Dhaka. He has also participated in numerous training programs organized by prestigious local and international institutions such as FBCCI, BIBM, IFC, DCCI, and CRISL. Industry insiders believe that Hussain’s vast experience and expertise in the investment sector will play a crucial role in maintaining the continuity of Islami Bank’s operations during this transitional period.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian told Russian President Vladimir Putin on Sunday that his country is prepared to reach a deal that would ensure “lasting regional peace.” He added that Iran’s national interests are a red line, according to a readout of the call carried by Iran’s state-media. Pezeshkian criticized the U.S. use of bases in Gulf countries to carry out strikes against Iran, while maintaining that Gulf countries are “brothers” and that Tehran is willing to cooperate with them to achieve regional security “without outside powers” Iran has said it has repeatedly struck U.S. facilities in neighboring Gulf countries since the war started in late February. Gulf countries say Iran has also targeted civilian infrastructure and facilities. Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday said the U.S. Navy would “immediately” begin a blockade to stop ships from entering or leaving the Strait of Hormuz, after U.S.-Iran peace talks in Pakistan ended without an agreement. Iran has demanded the right to collect tolls from vessels traveling through the strait, but Trump said no one who paid them would “have safe passage on the high seas.”  

US President Donald Trump has said the United Kingdom and several allied countries will deploy minesweeper naval vessels to the Strait of Hormuz amid rising tensions in the region. In an interview with Fox News, Trump said the UK and “a couple of other countries” are preparing to send minesweepers to help secure the strategic waterway, reports Al Jazeera. The US military’s Central Command (CENTCOM) said on Saturday it had begun “setting conditions for clearing mines,” indicating early operational steps to address potential maritime threats. A report by The New York Times on Friday said US officials believe Iran may not be able to clear the mines it has placed in the Strait because it cannot locate them. “And so I understand is the UK and a couple of other countries are sending mine sweepers,” Trump said. The developments come amid heightened concerns over maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global oil shipping route.

Prime Minister and BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman on Sunday urged BNP leaders and activists to cooperate with law enforcement agencies in maintaining peace and order across the country and not to take the law into their own hands. He gave the instruction at the Jatiya Sangsad Secretariat following the oath-taking ceremony of the newly elected members of parliament from Bogura-6 (Sadar) and Sherpur-3 constituencies, said his Additional Press Secretary Atikur Rahman Ruman. Addressing party members at the ceremony, he said they must work closely with the administration and law enforcement agencies so that peace and law and order are maintained in their respective areas. “If anyone does anything that disrupts the peace of the area, it is your responsibility to inform the law enforcement authorities. Never take the law into your own hands,” the Prime Minister said, pointing at party members. He also stressed the importance of development alongside maintaining order. “We must ensure development in every area at any cost, and we must also safeguard peace and stability under all circumstances.”

Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission (BSEC) Chairman Khondoker Rashed Maqsood on Sunday said the commission's financial literacy short video competition is not merely an event but part of a long-term movement to build a knowledge-based and responsible investor community across the country. "If the younger generation is equipped with the right knowledge at the right time, they will grow into responsible investors and lead the way in building a healthy capital market," Maqsood said at the award ceremony of the 'Financial Literacy Short Video Competition' held at BSEC's Multipurpose Hall in Agargaon. He stressed that the participants did more than showcase creativity; they carried forward vital messages about investment education to the broader public. "The videos they have created can be used on a larger scale in the future to raise awareness among general investors." The BSEC chairman expressed hope that such initiatives would continue regularly and reach people at every level of society. "Let us all come together to build a conscious, knowledge-based and prosperous capital market, one that will further strengthen our national economy." He also announced that the competition videos would be disseminated across the country, and that district and upazila level field administrations have been engaged to help spread investment education at the grassroots. In her welcome address, BSEC Commissioner Farzana Lalarukh described the competition as a milestone, noting it was the first of its kind in Bangladesh. "There is no alternative to adequate knowledge and awareness among investors for building a healthy, stable and sustainable capital market." She informed that the competition was open to undergraduate and postgraduate students from any educational institution nationwide. A total of 425 teams registered, with 90 teams submitting videos across three categories. She said the evaluation process was conducted with full transparency and impartiality, and expressed hope that similar competitions would be organised in the future. Khairul Bashar, Director of the Office of Communications at BRAC University and a member of the competition's jury board, praised the diversity and creativity of the participants. "The strength of youth is the core strength of Bangladesh. The new generation thinks differently; the videos showed remarkable creativity and excellent storytelling," he said, adding that stronger engagement between policymakers and young people is essential for the country's progress. Awards A total of nine prizes were awarded across three categories— 'Healthy Capital Market and Prosperous Economy', 'Risks in the Capital Market', and 'Financial Literacy for Capital Market Awareness',  with cash awards of Tk 60,000, Tk 45,000 and Tk 30,000 for first, second and third places respectively. Ten encouragement prizes of Tk 15,000 each were also given. Healthy Capital Market and Prosperous Economy: 1st— New Bangladesh (Hamdard University Bangladesh); 2nd— Looser (University of Rajshahi); 3rd— GM Studios (BRAC University). Risks in the Capital Market: 1st— Shwapno (IBA, University of Dhaka); 2nd— CINE ART (Jahangirnagar University); 3rd— DU Finance (University of Dhaka). Financial Literacy for Capital Market Awareness: 1st— The Blind Men (Hajee Mohammad Danesh Science and Technology University); 2nd— Akatsuki (BRAC University); 3rd— Information Scorpion (Bangladesh University of Professionals). Encouragement prizes went to: Progoti, Stock Sensei, AR Studio, Team AdorBador, FinFlicks, Team Arthosutra, Team Crisis, Team Elomelo, Team FinLit and Team Mughdo. The BSEC Chairman and Commissioners handed over crests, certificates and cheques to the winners.

Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) on Sunday disclosed that City Bank PLC has recommended a 30 percent dividend for the year ended December 31, 2025, comprising 15 percent cash and 15 percent stock. The bank fixed June 7, 2026 for its annual general meeting (AGM) to be held on a digital platform at 3:00 pm, while the record date is May 3, 2026. According to the disclosure, City Bank reported a consolidated earnings per share (EPS) of Tk 8.71 for 2025, up from Tk 6.67 in the previous year. Consolidated net asset value (NAV) per share stood at Tk 40.67, while net operating cash flow per share (NOCFPS) was Tk 47. The bank attributed the EPS growth to a 16 percent increase in operating profit, which rose to Tk 2,727 crore from Tk 2,351 crore a year earlier. Net profit also climbed to Tk 1,324 crore, compared to Tk 1,014 crore in 2024. The board recommended the stock dividend to strengthen the capital base, support future business expansion and improve regulatory ratios. It also clarified that the bonus shares will be issued from accumulated profit and not from any capital or revaluation reserves. Following the corporate declaration, there will be no price limit on the trading of the company’s shares on Sunday. City Bank’s shares last closed at Tk 31.40. The bank’s trailing price-earnings (P/E) ratio stood at around 3.61 as of April 12, reflecting a relatively low valuation compared to earnings. Historically, the bank has maintained a consistent dividend payout, with cash dividends of 12.5 percent in 2024, 15 percent in 2023 and 10 percent in 2022.

Bangladeshi playback singer and composer Runa Laila has said the world has lost a “rare jewel” following the death of legendary Indian singer Asha Bhosle. In a Facebook post on Sunday afternoon, she wrote, “I am completely devastated. The world has lost a rare jewel, irreplaceable and unsurpassable." Recalling her memories, she said, “As a child I would listen to Asha Didi’s songs and try to copy the superfine and finely honed intricacies in her unmatched voice. I learnt so much from her.”  

German Ambassador Rüdiger Lotz and Swedish Ambassador Nicolas Weeks separately called on Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir on Sunday, with both meetings centered on ways to deepen bilateral trade, investment and economic cooperation between their respective countries and Bangladesh. The meetings, held at the minister's office, underscored Bangladesh's growing importance as a trade and investment destination for European partners. Addressing both envoys, the minister noted that Europe remains a principal destination for Bangladeshi exports and that stronger bilateral trade cooperation could yield mutual benefits. He acknowledged non-tariff barriers with EU member states, adding that the commerce ministry has already initiated discussions with relevant ministries to address these hurdles. During his meeting with the German ambassador, Muktadir invited Germany to invest in Bangladesh's light engineering, textile and leather sectors, pointing out that the government has undertaken wide-ranging measures to foster a business-friendly environment. He stressed that foreign investment is critical to generating employment for the nearly two to 2.2 million new entrants joining the country's workforce each year. Ambassador Lotz expressed Germany's keen interest in strengthening commercial ties with Dhaka. He highlighted his country's willingness to work on market-oriented skill development and emerging market growth, while also calling for a level playing field for business and trade.

Police have recovered the burned body of an unidentified person from the Mouchak flyover in the capital. Acting on information received through emergency service 999, Shahjahanpur Police recovered the body around 1:30 am on Sunday, Sub-Inspector Md Mehedi Hasan said. He said the body was completely charred, making it impossible to determine the deceased's identity, age, or gender. The body was sent to the Dhaka Medical College Hospital morgue around noon for autopsy. “Victim’s identity can be determined through DNA testing,” he said.

Commerce and Industry Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir on Sunday said the government has taken a Tk 300 crore (Tk 3 billion) credit wholesaling programme to support the SME sector, which is being channelled to entrepreneurs through around 15 banks and four financial institutions. “SMEs and MSMEs are the lifeblood of the country’s economy. A large part of Bangladesh’s economy remains informal, where the SME sector plays a crucial role,” he said while inaugurating the seven-day SME Baishakhi Fair 1433 at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre in Agargaon. The minister said the allocation under the credit wholesaling programme will be gradually increased to Tk 2,000 crore in the future. He noted that strengthening the SME sector would help generate employment, diversify production and bring more people into economic activities, adding that the government will continue to play a supportive role for entrepreneurs. Muktadir also thanked the SME Foundation and other stakeholders for organising the fair and extended greetings on the occasion of the Bangla New Year. The SME Foundation has organised the fair on the premises of the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre, featuring more than 150 stalls showcasing products from entrepreneurs across the country. Chairperson of the SME Foundation and Industries Secretary Md Obaidur Rahman presided over the inaugural programme, while Board Member Shamim Ahmed attended as special guest. Managing Director Anwar Hossain Chowdhury delivered the welcome address. Organisers said the fair aims to celebrate Bangla heritage and culture while offering a vibrant and safe environment for people to enjoy the New Year festivities with family and friends. Entrepreneurs are displaying and selling a wide range of products, including handicrafts, jute goods, apparel and fashion items, agro-processed products, heritage items, homemade foods and street foods, artificial jewellery, leather goods, and lifestyle products. The fair will remain open to visitors every day from morning till night until April 18.

The Board of Directors of Islami Bank Bangladesh Limited has decided to send its Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Md. Omar Faruk Khan, on a one-and-a-half-month mandatory leave. The decision was taken during a board meeting on Sunday (April 12) and will come into effect from Monday (April 13). According to sources, the move follows a directive from Bangladesh Bank. While banking regulations typically require a board to seek central bank approval for removing or changing an MD, in this case, the mandatory leave was implemented directly upon the central bank's instructions. Khan was appointed as the MD of Islami Bank in August last year. A veteran banker with nearly four decades of experience, he joined Islami Bank in 1986. Throughout his career, he has held significant roles at the head office, including positions in Treasury, Foreign Trade, and Corporate Investment. He is also a Diplomat Associate of the Institute of Bankers, Bangladesh.

Iranian Ambassador to Bangladesh Jalil Rahimi Jahanabadi on Sunday said many ships are waiting in the Strait of Hormuz due to the war situation, and said he was hopeful that they will be able to cross the Strait “very soon”. “Some Bangladeshi ships are also stuck in the Strait of Hormuz. We will cooperate with Bangladesh. We will make arrangements for the release of Bangladeshi ships. The ships will be able to cross the Strait of Hormuz very soon. We will take action in this regard after talking to the Bangladesh government,” said the Ambassador. The Iranian Ambassador made the remarks while speaking as the chief guest at an anti-war crimes exhibition titled 'Remembering the Martyred Students of the Islamic Republic of Iran: Demanding Justice and Accountability for US-Israeli War Crimes' organized by the Revolutionary Students' Council at Dhaka University on Sunday. The Ambassador said the relations between Bangladesh and Iran are good and they consider Bangladesh as a brotherly country. “We have no enmity with Bangladesh.” Regarding the Pakistan-mediated talks between Iran and the United States, the Ambassador thanked Pakistan for arranging the talks, according to a media release. “At the same time, I thank those who have cooperated with us, including Oman."

An alleged key figure in the teen gang crime scene, known as ‘Alex Iman’ (presumably an alias), was killed in a clash between two rival groups over territorial dominance in the capital’s Mohammadpur area on Sunday afternoon. The incident occurred around 4:30pm on the slope of the Beribadh road in the Rayerbazar Boddhijibi area under Mohammadpur Police Station, said Jewel Rana, additional deputy commissioner (ADC) of Tejgaon Division. Police said Iman, described as the leader of the ‘Alex Group’ and an accused in multiple cases including murder, was critically injured during the clash. He was taken to Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College Hospital, where he died while undergoing treatment at the emergency department. Following the incident, members of Rayerbazar Police Outpost conducted a drive and arrested three suspects from the spot.

Police arrested three people along with fake currency worth Tk 50 lakh from Gulshan area in the capital on Sunday. The arrestees were Md Abu Hanif Palowan, 50, Rezaul Sheikh, 40, and Abdullah Mazumdar Ashik, 24. DMP's Deputy commissioner (Media) NM Nasiruddin said a team of police conducted a drive around 3:20 pm on Gulshan Road No. 36 based on secret information and arrested the trio. During the drive police recovered fake notes amounting to Tk 50 lakh and a private car from their possession, he added. During initial interrogation, the suspects admitted to being involved in the counterfeit currency business for a long time. Legal action against the accused is underway, police said.  

Expatriate voters showed little interest in exercising their franchise in the recent elections as only four expatriates voted in Bogura-6 by-polls and Sherpur-3 election, with only four ballots received from abroad. Only three expatriates voted in Bogura-6 by-election, while one expatriate in Sherpur-3 election, both held on April 9 -- two months after the 13th general election. “The Bogura-6 by-polls returning officer received three ballots from the expatriates, while the Sherpur-3 election returning officer received one ballots from them,” said Brigadier General Saleem Ahmad Khan, team lead of EC’s Out of Country Voting (OCV) System Development and Implementation initiative on Sunday. Besides, 1,065 domestic voters voted in Bogura-6, while 2,018 other domestic voters in Sherpur-3 under the In-Country Postal Voting (ICPV). A total of 7,309 voters -- 5,645 in-country ones and 1,664 expatriates -- earlier registered to vote through postal ballots in these two constituencies. Postal voting in these two constituencies began on March 30 and ended at 4.30pm on April 9. The current Election Commission, headed by Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin, introduced an IT-supported hybrid postal voting system -- in combination of online registration and manual postal ballot papers – in the 13th general election held on February 12 last. A total of 15,28,131 voters --767,233 expatriates and 760,898 government officials, election officials, Ansar and VDP members and prisoners—registered to vote through the postal ballots under OCV and ICPV programmes in the 13th national election. Of them, the returning officers finally received 11,65,593 returned postal ballots – 498,205 from abroad and 667,388 from in-country – in the election held in 299 out of 300 constituencies (except Sherpur-3) throughout the country.

A tense situation is prevailing in Kushtia district’s Daulatpur Upazila after a mob attack at a shrine that left a self-proclaimed ‘Pir’ dead. Abdur Rahman alias Shamim Reza alias Jahangir, 65, was beaten and hacked to death on Saturday afternoon at a site known as “Shamim Baba’s Darbar Sharif” in Philipnagar Union. According to locals, an old video from 2023 resurfaced, leading to allegations of blasphemy and triggering the attack. Three of his followers—Zubayer, Mohon Ali and Jamirun Nesa—were also injured in the incident and received treatment at a local hospital. Witnesses said more than a hundred people gathered nearby following announcements and marched towards the shrine around 2:30pm chanting slogans before launching the attack. Armed with rods and sticks, they broke into the compound, dragged the victim from an upstairs room and beat him indiscriminately despite his pleas. Most of the attackers were aged between 15 and 30, witnesses said adding that the killing appeared to be planned. After an autopsy on Sunday Hospital Residential Medical Officer Dr. Hossain Imam said multiple injury marks were found across the body, including 15 to 18 deep cut wounds on the face, along with serious injuries to the head, neck and back. He said the victim died due to excessive bleeding from multiple injuries. Additional Superintendent of Police Faisal Mahmud, spokesperson for district police, said the body was taken to Philipnagar village and burial preparations were underway following funeral prayers. Man beaten to death by mob in Kushtia for allegedly hurting religious sentiment Officer-in-Charge of Daulatpur Police Station Arifur Rahman said no written complaint has yet been filed by the family and no arrests had been made so far although additional police have been deployed in the area. The victim’s elder brother Fazlur Rahman said the family would decide on legal steps after the burial. Additional DIG of Khulna Range Sheikh Zainuddin visited the scene and termed the killing unacceptable. Members of police, Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), army and Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), along with local administration officials and the local lawmaker also visited the site. On Sunday morning, the shrine was found heavily vandalised, with two buildings damaged and rooms burnt, including the one where the ‘pir’ lived. Reza Ahmed Bachchu Molla, lawmaker from Kushtia-1 (Daulatpur), said no one has the right to take the law into their own hands, adding that those involved would be brought to justice through a fair investigation. Kushtia Superintendent of Police Mohammad Jasim Uddin said the situation escalated after the old video resurfaced. Although police attempted to rescue the victim, they were outnumbered by hundreds of agitated people and could not fully control the situation, he said. District Commissioner Touhid bin Hasan said the law and order situation is now calm, with security forces deployed and patrols ongoing. Police have also been placed on alert in sensitive locations including the shrine of Lalon Shah in Cheuriya.

Experts on Sunday urged the government to reduce the number of cigarette price tiers, introduce a specific tax system and hike the prices of all tobacco products in the upcoming 2026-27 national budget. They made the suggestions during a journalists' workshop titled "Tobacco Tax and Price Measures: Budget 2026-27" held at the BMA Bhaban in the capital. Organized jointly by research and advocacy organization PROGGA (Knowledge for Progress) and Anti-Tobacco Media Alliance (ATMA), the workshop was attended by 28 journalists from different print, television and online media outlets. During the workshop, the experts said that users of low and medium tier cigarettes, mostly the poor and working class, constitute the majority of total cigarette smokers. Merging the low and medium tiers into a single tier with a price hike would effectively encourage the low income demographic to quit and discourage youth from getting hooked on tobacco addiction. The proposals presented during the workshop for the FY 2026-27 national budget are as follows: The low and medium tier should be merged into one, and the price for TK10 sticks of the merged tier should be set at TK 100. The retail price of high-tier cigarettes should be increased to TK 150 from existing TK 140 for 10 sticks. The prices for 10 sticks of premium cigarettes should be raised to TK 200 from existing TK 185. The supplementary duty (SD) on all cigarette tiers should remain at the existing 67 percent. Besides, the government should introduce TK 4 per 10 sticks as a specific tax. The budget proposals also suggest retaining 15 percent VAT on the retail prices of tobacco products and continuing the existing 1 percent health development surcharge (HDS). In support of the proposals, speakers informed that budget proposals for FY 2026-27 placed by anti-tobacco organizations, if realized, can generate more than TK 85 thousand crore in tobacco tax revenue, representing an additional TK 44 thousand crore compared with the current fiscal year. Implementation of such proposals, in the long run, will also help prevent the premature deaths of 370,000 Bangladeshis, including nearly 185,000 youths. It would also encourage nearly 500,000 adults to abstain from smoking and discourage around 372,000 youths from lighting up. The discussants in the workshop include Mr. Sazzadur Rahman, Deputy Editor, The Business Standard; Mr. Mortuza Haider Liton, Convener, ATMA; Ms. Nadira Kiron and Mr. Mizan Chowdhury, both Co-convener, ATMA; Mr. Hasan Shahrear , Head of Programs, PROGGA and  ABM Zubair, Executive Director, PROGGA.

Saudi Arabia has expressed interest in launching operations of its new airline, Riyadh Air, in Bangladesh, aiming to enhance air connectivity between the two countries. Saudi Ambassador to Bangladesh Dr Abdullah Zafer H. Bin Abiyah expressed the interest at a meeting with Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khanam (Rita) at the latter’s office in the Secretariat here on Sunday. State Minister M. Rashiduzzaman Millat was also present, said a PID handout. During the meeting, the minister underscored the need to improve the services of Saudi airlines for Bangladeshi passengers. In response, the Saudi envoy assured that necessary steps would be taken to enhance service standards in the near future. He expressed Saudi Arabia’s interest in establishing a station and launching operations of Saudi Arabia's second flag carrier, Riyadh Air, in Bangladesh. At the time, the state minister urged Saudi authorities to consider operating flights not only from Dhaka but also from Sylhet and Chattogram, in order to better serve passengers across the country. During the meeting, both sides expressed optimism about further strengthening the longstanding bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia. Bangladesh emphasized the importance of joint initiatives to develop Bangladesh’s tourism sector with Saudi cooperation.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Sunday directed the authorities concerned to ensure the best possible services for Hajj pilgrims this year. “The Prime Minister said those engaged in serving Hajj pilgrims must ensure the highest standard of service this year. He also instructed the authorities concerned to remain vigilant so that pilgrims do not face any hardship,” said his Additional Press Secretary Atikur Rahman Rumon. He said the instruction was given at a meeting of the National Committee on Hajj Management held at the Secretariat chaired by the Prime Minister. Rumon said the meeting reviewed the common problems faced by pilgrims and discussed ways to reduce or resolve them. Rumon said the meeting also discussed improving overall Hajj management, storing pilgrims’ information online, evaluating Hajj agencies, identifying agencies facing complaints, and appointing guides (Moallem) from Bangladeshi expatriates living in Saudi Arabia from next year. Officials of the Religious Affairs Ministry said a total of 78,500 pilgrims from Bangladesh will travel to Saudi Arabia to perform Hajj this year. Of them, 4,565 will go under government arrangements, while 73,935 will travel through private agencies. Around 50 percent of the pilgrims will fly with Biman Bangladesh Airlines while the rest will travel by Saudia Airlines and Flynas. Hajj flights are scheduled to begin from the night of April 18. Religious Affairs Minister Kazi Shah Mofazzal Houssain (Kaikobad), Civil Aviation and Tourism Minister Afroza Khan Rita, State Minister Rashiduzzaman Millat, MP Shamim Qaiser Lincoln, Cabinet Secretary Nasimul Ghani, Principal Secretary ABM Abdus Sattar, and other senior officials were present at the meeting. Leaders of the Hajj Agencies Association of Bangladesh (HAB) including President Syed Golam Sarwar and Secretary General Farid Ahmed Mazumder, also attended the meeting.  

U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday said the U.S. Navy would “immediately” begin a blockade to stop ships from entering or leaving the Strait of Hormuz, after U.S.-Iran peace talks in Pakistan ended without an agreement. Trump sought to exert strategic control over the waterway responsible for the transportation of 20% of global oil supplies before the war, hoping to take away Iran’s key source of economic leverage in the fighting. The president added that he has “instructed our Navy to seek and interdict every vessel in International Waters that has paid a toll to Iran. No one who pays an illegal toll will have safe passage on the high seas.” Trump also said the U.S. was ready to “finish up” Iran at the “appropriate moment," stressing that Tehran's nuclear ambitions were at the core of the failure to end the war. Face-to-face talks ended earlier Sunday after 21 hours, leaving a fragile two-week ceasefire in doubt. U.S. officials said the negotiations collapsed over what they described as Iran’s refusal to commit to abandoning a path to a nuclear weapon, while Iranian officials blamed the U.S. for the breakdown of the talks without specifying the sticking points. Neither side indicated what will happen after the 14-day ceasefire expires on April 22. Pakistani mediators urged all parties to maintain it. Both said their positions were clear and put the onus on the other side, underscoring how little the gap had narrowed throughout the talks. “We need to see an affirmative commitment that they will not seek a nuclear weapon, and they will not seek the tools that would enable them to quickly achieve a nuclear weapon,” Vice President JD Vance said after the talks. Iran’s parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, who led Iran in the negotiations, said it was time for the United States “to decide whether it can gain our trust or not.” He did not mention the core disputes in a series of social media posts, though Iranian officials earlier said the talks fell apart over two or three key issues, blaming what they called U.S. overreach. Iran has long denied seeking nuclear weapons but has insisted on its right to a civilian nuclear program. It has offered “affirmative commitments” in the past in writing, including in the landmark 2015 nuclear deal. Experts say its stockpile of enriched uranium, though not weapons-grade, is only a short technical step away. Since the U.S. and Israel launched the war on Feb. 28, it has killed at least 3,000 people in Iran, 2,020 in Lebanon, 23 in Israel and more than a dozen in Gulf Arab states, and caused lasting damage to infrastructure in half a dozen Middle Eastern countries. Iran’s grip on the Strait of Hormuz has largely cut off the Persian Gulf and its oil and gas exports from the global economy, sending energy prices soaring. Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar said his country will try to facilitate a new dialogue between Iran and the U.S. in the coming days. “It is imperative that the parties continue to uphold their commitment to cease fire,” Dar said. The deadlock — and Vance’s take-it-or-leave-it proposal that Iran end its nuclear program — mirrored February’s nuclear talks in Switzerland. Though Trump has said the subsequent war was meant to compel Iran’s leaders to abandon nuclear ambitions, each side's positions appeared unchanged in negotiations following six weeks of fighting. An Iranian diplomatic official, speaking on the condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the closed-door talks, denied that negotiations had failed over Iran's nuclear ambitions. “Iran is not seeking to acquire nuclear weapons, but it has the right to nuclear energy for peaceful purposes,” they said, reiterating Iran's longstanding negotiating position. There was no word on whether they would resume, though Iran said it was open to continuing the dialogue, Iran’s state-run IRNA news agency reported. “We have never sought war. But if they try to win what they failed to win on the battlefield through talks, that’s absolutely unacceptable,” 60-year-old Mohammad Bagher Karami said in downtown Tehran. US moves to shift status quo in Strait of Hormuz The United States and Iran entered talks with sharply different proposals and contrasting assumptions about their leverage to end the war. Before negotiations began, the ceasefire was already threatened by deep disagreements and Israel’s continued attacks against the Iranian-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon. Iran’s 10-point proposal ahead of the talks called for a guaranteed end to the war and sought control over the Strait of Hormuz. It included ending fighting against Iran’s “regional allies,” explicitly calling for a halt to Israeli strikes on Hezbollah. Pakistani officials told The Associated Press in March that the U.S. 15-point proposal included monitoring mechanisms and a rollback of Iran’s nuclear program. Speaking on condition of anonymity as they weren’t authorized to discuss details, they said it also covered reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Indeed, Iran’s closure of the strait has proved its biggest strategic advantage in the war. During the talks, the U.S. military said two destroyers transited the critical waterway ahead of mine-clearing work, a first since the war began. Iran’s state media, however, reported the country's joint military command denied that. “We’re sweeping the strait. Whether we make a deal or not makes no difference to me,” Trump said as talks extended into early Sunday morning. Israel presses ahead in Lebanon The impasse raises new questions about fighting in Lebanon. Israel has pressed ahead with strikes since the ceasefire was announced, saying the agreement did not apply there. Iran and Pakistan claimed otherwise. Lebanon’s state-run National News Agency reported six people were killed Sunday morning in an Israeli strike in Maaroub, a village near the southern coastal city of Tyre. Though Israel’s strikes over Beirut have calmed in recent days, its attacks on southern Lebanon have intensified alongside a ground invasion it renewed after Hezbollah launched rockets toward Israel in the opening days of the Iran war. Negotiations between Israel and Lebanon are expected to begin Tuesday in Washington, Lebanese President Joseph Aoun’s office has said, after Israel’s surprise announcement authorizing talks despite the lack of official relations between the countries. Protests erupted in Beirut on Saturday over the planned negotiations. Israel wants Lebanon's government to assume responsibility for disarming Hezbollah, much like was envisaged in a November 2024 ceasefire. But the militant group has survived efforts to curb its strength for decades. The day the Iran ceasefire deal was announced, Israel pounded Beirut with airstrikes, killing more than 300 people in the deadliest day in Lebanon since the war began, according to the country's Health Ministry.

State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam on Sunday encouraged the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) to explore ‘suitable humanitarian engagement modalities’ in Bhasan Char to further enhance assistance efforts. The State Minister also thanked IFRC and the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society (BDRCS) for their continued contributions to the Rohingya humanitarian response, including healthcare delivery and the provision of safe drinking water in Cox’s Bazar. She received Head of Delegation of the IFRC Alberto Bocanegra at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and discussed areas of cooperation. Bocanegra reaffirmed IFRC’s commitment to deepening collaboration with the government of Bangladesh to strengthen effective humanitarian action, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. He expressed his interest in working with the government of Bangladesh to support ongoing efforts to contain and respond to the measles outbreak. He also conveyed IFRC’s readiness to assist the Government in scaling up capacity-building initiatives, enhancing disaster response mechanisms and advancing community resilience programmes in Bangladesh. The State Minister expressed appreciation for the long-standing partnership between Bangladesh and the IFRC, recalling its invaluable humanitarian support since the Liberation War of 1971. She commended IFRC’s prompt response to natural catastrophes, the COVID-19 pandemic and its initiatives in community-based disaster management. She emphasized the importance of harnessing youth volunteerism in disaster preparedness, particularly in early cyclone warning systems and community evacuation efforts. She encouraged IFRC to explore suitable humanitarian engagement modalities in Bhasan Char to further enhance assistance efforts.

Law Minister Md Asaduzzaman on Sunday said the repealed ordinances issued during the interim government will be reviewed through proper scrutiny. He alleged that opposition leaders are misleading people over the issue. He made the remarks at a press conference at the Home Ministry regarding 133 ordinances issued during the interim government period and later placed before the Jatiya Sangsad. The Law Minister said seven repealed ordinances would be reviewed in due course. “These ordinances need to be examined. We have committed to reviewing them through necessary amendments,” he said. He also rejected claims that the ordinances had been allowed to lapse, saying those making such statements were misleading the public. Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed and Chief Whip Nurul Islam were also present at the briefing.

Religious Affairs Minister Kazi Shah Mofazzal Houssain (Kaikobad) on Sunday said Prime Minister Tarique Rahman will inaugurate hajj flight on April 17. He said this while talking to reporters after a meeting of the National Committee on Hajj Management held at the Secretariat with the prime minister in chair. The minister also said the Prime Minister is highly concerned about the overall welfare of the pilgrims and is expected to visit a Hajj camp within the next few days where pilgrims will stay before departure. When asked whether rising fuel prices could create complications for Hajj flights, the minister said, “Pilgrims are guests of Allah. Insha’Allah, everything will be managed and there will be no complications.” This year, some 78,500 pilgrims from Bangladesh are set to go to Saudi Arabia to perform Hajj.

The DSE Brokers Association of Bangladesh (DBA) has requested the Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission (BSEC) to extend the compliance timeline for the Margin Rules 2025 by an additional three months, citing operational, technical and market-related challenges. In a letter sent to BSEC Chairman Khondoker Rashed Maqsood on April 7 and disclosed on Sunday, DBA President Saiful Islam said the rules, which came into effect on November 1, 2025, introduced several critical requirements aimed at strengthening risk management, investor protection and overall market stability. However, the existing six-month compliance deadline ending on April 30, 2026 appears insufficient for brokerage houses to fully implement key provisions, the association said. According to the letter, brokerage firms need additional time for formulation and implementation of board-approved conservative margin loan policies, which require internal consultations, risk assessments, board approvals and integration into operational systems. Many brokerage houses are still finalising policies due to limited skilled resources, technical support and client feedback. The DBA also noted that full compliance with risk-based capital adequacy (RBCA-2019) requires significant system upgrades, staff training, internal audits and technological enhancements, warning that rushed implementation may lead to operational errors or temporary disruptions in margin services. Another concern highlighted in the letter relates to adjustments of non-marginable securities held by existing margin loan clients. The association said thousands of loan accounts currently hold non-marginable securities of significant value and enforcing the deadline could trigger distressed sales, increase market volatility, create avoidable losses for retail investors and strain liquidity. The DBA further mentioned that the capital market is already under pressure due to recent global developments, including war-related uncertainties and fuel price shocks, making immediate enforcement more difficult. Seeking a smooth transition, it proposed extending the compliance period by three months up to July 31, 2026 allowing brokers to complete system and policy upgrades without disrupting services to existing margin loan clients. The association requested the regulator’s consideration and approval for the extension to ensure orderly implementation of the Margin Rules 2025 and protect investor interests.

Union Berlin have appointed Marie-Louise Eta as interim head coach, making her the first woman to take charge of a men’s team in one of Europe’s top five football leagues. Eta, 34, steps in until the end of the season following the dismissal of Steffen Baumgart after Union’s 3-1 defeat to FC Heidenheim, reports BBC. The club currently sit 11th in the Bundesliga, 11 points above the relegation zone with five matches remaining, but have managed only two league wins in 2026. Already a trailblazer, Eta became the Bundesliga’s first female assistant coach when she joined Union Berlin’s coaching staff in July 2023. She later briefly led the team from the touchline in January 2024, becoming the first woman to do so in a Bundesliga match. A former Germany youth international and UEFA Women’s Champions League winner with Turbine Potsdam, Eta has most recently been managing Union’s Under-19 side since July 2025 and is set to take over as the club’s women’s head coach in the summer. Union’s director of men’s football Horst Heldt said the decision was driven by the team’s poor recent form and the need for a fresh approach as they fight to secure their top-flight status. Eta acknowledged the pressure of the situation, noting that Union remain in a precarious position despite their points advantage over the relegation zone, but expressed confidence that the team can secure the necessary results. Her appointment marks another milestone in European football, more than two decades after Carolina Morace became the first woman to manage a men’s professional team in Europe, followed by figures such as Corinne Diacre and Hannah Dingley in similar roles.

Hours after securing bail in an attempt to murder case former Speaker Dr Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury was freed from Kashimpur Central Jail on Sunday. She walked out of Kashimpur Women's Central Jail around 6:30 pm after the bail order reached the jail authorities, said Kashimpur Women's Central Jail superintendent Kawalin Nahar. Earlier in the day, a Dhaka court granted bail to Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury in the case linked to the 2024 July uprising. Dhaka Additional Metropolitan Magistrate Zakir Hossain passed the order on Tk 50,000 on bond considering her illness and gender, said Public Prosecutor M Omar Faruq Faruqi. A Dhaka court on April 7 sent her to jail in the case following her arrest the same day. According to the case statement, Ashraful alias Fahim suffered bullet injuries to his left eye in the Azampur Bus Stand area of Uttara on July 18, 2024 during the mass uprising, which ultimately led to the fall of the Awami League government on August 5. Later, he filed a case against 25 named individuals, including Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury, and 120 unnamed ones. Following the fall of the Awami League government, she resigned on September 2, 2024. Abdul Hamid was elected Speaker after the Awami League came to power through the 2008 general election. Following his election as President, Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury was elected Speaker on April 30, 2013. Since then, she had been serving as Speaker until the government’s fall. Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury was a Member of Parliament from Rangpur-6 constituency.  

Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission (BERC) has increased the consumer-level price of furnace oil by Tk 24.59 per litre, adjusting it to Tk 94.69 from the previous Tk 70.10. The new price will come into effect from midnight today (Sunday). The decision was announced by BERC on Sunday (April 12) through a notification. According to the BERC notice, the price was adjusted under Sections 22(b) and 34 of the Bangladesh Energy Regulatory Commission Act, 2003. The commission cited the average Platts rate of furnace oil from March 1 to April 12 and the FOB (Free on Board) price of crude oil imported in February 2026, both of which were heavily influenced by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Furnace oil is primarily supplied by the Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC) and is a critical fuel source for the Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB), various public and private power plants, as well as several industrial units.

Chief Whip Nurul Islam on Sunday said democracy rests on mutual trust between the government and the opposition, urging all lawmakers to act responsibly and uphold parliamentary norms. “Democracy is a place of trust. We will trust the opposition, and the opposition will also trust us,” he told reporters on the Parliament premises following the oath-taking ceremony of newly elected Members of Parliament Rezaul Karim Badsha and Mahmudul Haque Rubel . Referring to remarks made by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, the Chief Whip urged lawmakers to refrain from taking the law into their own hands under any circumstances. “If any problem arises, you should seek help from the administration or inform me if necessary. But no one should ever take the law into their own hands,” he quoted the Prime Minister as saying. The Chief Whip said the government is committed to ensuring public welfare, noting that elected representatives have a responsibility to work both inside and outside parliament to strengthen democracy and build a humane, welfare-oriented state. Addressing the ongoing energy crisis, Nurul Islam said the government has allocated an additional Tk 36,000 crore in subsidies to stabilise the sector and protect public interests. He alleged that a previous “autocratic regime” siphoned off Tk 27 lakh crore from the country, stressing that the current government aims to ensure that national resources are used for the welfare of citizens rather than being laundered abroad. The Chief Whip also expressed concern over the spread of misinformation in parliament, citing a recent incident during a session when an opposition lawmaker claimed that a Jamaat activist had been killed during elections in Sherpur. “He even recited Inna Lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji'un, but the person was later found to be alive,” Nurul Islam said adding that he would propose expunging the statement from parliamentary records in the next session. He urged lawmakers to verify facts before making statements, warning that decisions based on false information could mislead the public. The Chief Whip said a special committee comprising members from both the treasury and opposition benches reviewed 133 ordinances in detail. “After thorough scrutiny, we agreed that 16 ordinances required amendments, which will be brought as bills later. The remaining 117 ordinances have been passed,” he said. He described the passage of 117 bills within just five days as “unprecedented” in Bangladesh’s parliamentary history, crediting the efforts of lawmakers, the parliament secretariat, and officials of the state-run printing press who worked tirelessly to meet the deadline. Despite this, he expressed disappointment over an opposition walkout triggered by what he described as minor amendment issues, although he acknowledged that walkouts are a legitimate democratic right. The Chief Whip also spoke about plans to develop a “July Museum” that would integrate key historical events including the Liberation War, the 1975 famine, the BAKSAL formation, the 1990 mass uprising, and the 2024 mass movement. He said the proposed institution would not be a conventional museum but a ‘living entity’ aimed at preserving and presenting the nation’s political and social history dynamically. “To accelerate the work, ministerial involvement is necessary. Otherwise, who will carry it forward?” he said.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed readiness to support peace efforts in the Middle East during a phone call with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian following failed US-Iran talks in Islamabad, Russian state media reported. According to Interfax, Putin said Russia is prepared to continue facilitating a political and diplomatic settlement to the conflict and to assist mediation efforts aimed at achieving a “just and lasting peace” in the region, the Kremlin said in its readout, reports Al Jazeera. The call comes amid heightened regional tensions following stalled negotiations between Washington and Tehran. Meanwhile, Iranian authorities have released updated figures on casualties from the recent US-Israel war on Iran. Abbas Masjedi Arani, head of Iran’s Forensic Medicine Organisation, said 3,375 bodies have been identified so far. He stated that the dead include 2,875 men and nearly 500 women. Officials did not immediately provide additional details on the circumstances of the deaths.

Russia and Ukraine on Sunday accused each other of breaching a Kremlin-declared Easter ceasefire, even as Orthodox Christians marked the holiday amid the ongoing four-year war. Russian President Vladimir Putin had announced a 32-hour truce over the Easter weekend, ordering a halt to hostilities from 4pm Saturday through Sunday. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Ukraine would observe the ceasefire but warned of a swift response to any violations. Ukraine’s military said it recorded 2,299 ceasefire breaches by Sunday morning, including shelling, assaults and drone activity, though it reported no use of long-range missiles or guided bombs. A Ukrainian officer also said Russian forces continued attacks on frontline positions. Russia’s Defence Ministry, meanwhile, claimed Ukrainian forces committed 1,971 violations, including drone strikes. Russian officials also reported civilian casualties in the Belgorod region following an alleged Ukrainian attack. Despite the fighting, thousands of Ukrainians gathered at outdoor locations to celebrate Easter services. Worshippers attended traditional blessings of food baskets containing dyed eggs and cakes, although many expressed scepticism about the ceasefire’s effectiveness. “Every time a ceasefire is announced for a holiday, the shelling continues regardless,” one resident said, while still expressing hope for peace and an end to the war.

Carlos Ulberg overcame a knee injury to deliver a stunning first-round knockout and capture the undisputed light heavyweight title at UFC 327 on Saturday night, in an event that also saw Donald Trump take centre stage cageside. Ulberg knocked out Jiri Prochazka at the 3:45 mark of the opening round with a powerful left hook, despite appearing to injure his knee early in the fight. Improving to 15-1, Ulberg said he relied on a single decisive moment to secure victory. Prochazka (32-6-1) targeted Ulberg’s legs after noticing the injury but later admitted he hesitated to press his advantage, calling it a key lesson. The title bout was arranged after former champion Alex Pereira vacated the belt to move up a division. Trump arrived at the Kaseya Center alongside Dana White and members of his family, drawing significant attention. He greeted attendees and members of the broadcast team, including Joe Rogan, as fans recorded his arrival. In the co-main event, Paulo Costa defeated Azamat Murzakanov via third-round knockout. Costa later greeted Trump and acknowledged him during his post-fight interview. Elsewhere, Josh Hokit defeated Curtis Blaydes by unanimous decision after a hard-fought bout. White later revealed a planned matchup between Hokit and Derrick Lewis for an upcoming event, partially influenced by Trump. In another light heavyweight contest, Dominick Reyes edged Johnny Walker by split decision. Veteran featherweight Cub Swanson closed out his career with a first-round TKO victory over Nate Landwehr.

There is no immediate plan to increase edible oil prices in the country, said Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir on Sunday. “People are already concerned due to the global situation including conflicts and other uncertainties. Our first priority is to ensure that prices of essential commodities do not increase during this time. We will take steps keeping that goal in mind,” he told reporters at Secretariat after a review meeting on the country’s edible oil supply situation. He said the government regularly holds meetings on edible oil as it is a sensitive commodity. “Any increase in its price causes dissatisfaction among consumers. So we regularly review the supply and import situation of edible oil,” he said. Representatives of edible oil supplying companies were present at the meeting held at the Commerce Ministry. Earlier on April 9, the Bangladesh Vegetable Oil Refiners and Vanaspati Manufacturers Association proposed a price hike. The proposal was sent to the ministry a few days earlier. After reviewing the proposal, the Commerce Ministry and the Bangladesh Trade and Tariff Commission decided not to hike the prices. Meanwhile, in two rounds of meetings held on Sunday, discussions were also held on providing certain facilities to suppliers to adjust their profit margins without raising prices. However, no final decision has yet been made on the nature of such facilities.

National Citizen Party (NCP) convener and opposition chief whip Nahid Islam on Sunday urged allies and supporters to prepare for a fresh mass movement saying that the current government will never voluntarily implement reforms. Nahid made the remarks while presiding over an view-exchange meeting between July uprising martyrs' families and July fighters organised by the 11-party alliance at the Diploma Engineers Institution auditorium in the capital. “Two years after the mass uprising, we still stand united in the conviction that Bangladesh must be transformed through fundamental reforms. And the primary obstacle standing in the way of that transformation is the current government,” Nahid said. Expressing frustration over the failure of parliamentary processes, he said, “We had hoped that everything would be resolved in parliament. But parliament has been rendered ineffective. We must now prepare for a mass movement. Without it, the government will not implement reforms.” He, however, stressed that this time the movement must be strategic. “We do not want to fail again or settle for half-success. This time, we will take to the streets with a plan.” Asserting collective ownership of the reform agenda, the NCP chief said, “Reforms do not belong to any single party, they are a demand for the survival of Bangladesh.” He pledged that the alliance's leaders would stand at the frontline of any confrontation. “If bullets come, they will hit our chests first.” Nahid also accused the BNP government of exploiting the legacy of the July uprising for political legitimacy. “July martyrs and the wounded are the assets of this nation. We do not want to use them for politics. But the government invokes July fighters and even the spirit of 1971 to legitimise its actions while genuinely embodying neither.” He further alleged that Bangladesh has been moving backwards since the BNP assumed power. “The BNP reaped the fruits of the mass uprising of the 1990s but discarded the three-alliance roadmap once in power. Even now, they are rejecting the July Charter and the ordinance.” Senior leaders of the Jamaat-e-Islami Bangladesh-led 11-party alliance were also present at the event.  

Reaffirming Bangladesh’s steadfast support for the just cause of Palestine and the brotherly Palestinian people, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam on Sunday reiterated Bangladesh’s consistent position in favour of a two-State solution, as well as peace and stability in the Middle East. The issues were discussed when Ambassador of Palestine to Bangladesh Yousef Ramadan paid a courtesy call on the State Minister for Foreign Affairs. Both sides also discussed ways to further strengthen bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Palestine, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The State Minister warmly welcomed the Ambassador and conveyed gratitude to the Palestinian leadership for their felicitations to the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) on its victory in the 13th Parliamentary Election and the formation of the government.    

The country has witnessed a significant surge in remittance inflows, as Bangladeshi expatriates living in different countries sent home US$1.21 billion in the first 11 days of April. According to the latest data of Bangladesh Bank (BB), the figure represents an 18.4% growth compared to the same period last year, when the country received $1.02 billion in remittance. In the current fiscal year (FY2025-26), the cumulative remittance inflow from July to April 11 has reached $27.42 billion, marking a substantial 20.02% increase from the $22.84 billion recorded during the corresponding period last year. Analysts and central bank officials attribute this "unusual" and robust growth to several key factors, including a stabilised dollar exchange rate and rising income levels for expatriates in developed economies among other factors. Officials from the Ministry of Finance and Bangladesh Bank expressed optimism regarding the trend. They noted that the consistent increase in expatriate income will play a vital role in mitigating foreign exchange shortages and maintaining a stable exchange rate for the national economy.

Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Acting Commissioner Md Sarwar on Sunday said extensive security measures have been taken to ensure that people from all walks of life can celebrate the Bengali New Year peacefully. There is no intelligence information indicating any militant threat centering the Pahela Baishakh celebrations and law enforcement agencies remain fully prepared to respond to any situation. He made the remarks while responding to questions at a press briefing at a temporary DMP control room in Ramna Park area in the capital. The DMP acting commissioner said the entire Dhaka Metropolitan area has been divided into nine sectors and 14 sub-sectors for effective security management. A large number of police personnel both in uniform and plainclothes will be deployed in each area. Specialised units including dog squads and bomb disposal teams will conduct sweeping operations at key venues. Fourteen security checkpoints with barricades will be set up in areas including Ramna Park, Suhrawardy Udyan, and Dhaka University and cisitors will be screened using archways and handheld metal detectors at entry points. Surveillance will be strengthened through CCTV cameras, video and still cameras, and drones. Observation towers will be installed, rooftops will be monitored, and special forces will also be deployed, he added. To prevent eve-teasing, mugging, and pickpocketing, plainclothes teams will remain active, while additional monitoring systems will be in place to control unauthorised hawker entry. The commissioner also said cyber patrolling has been intensified to prevent the spread of rumours and misinformation on social media. The traditional Chhayanaut programme at Ramna Batamul will be held from 6:15am to 8:25am with designated entry and exit gates including separate gates for men, women, and performers. Organised by the Faculty of Fine Arts of Dhaka University, Baishakhi Shobhajatra will begin at 9am and follow a route from the faculty through Shahbagh, TSC, and Doel Chattar before returning to the starting point. The entire procession route will remain under strict security and all programmes must conclude by 6pm. After 5pm, all gates of Ramna Park will be used only for exit, and no further entry will be allowed. Regarding traffic management, the DMP said vehicular movement will be diverted in Shahbagh and adjoining areas from 5am on April 14. Barricades will be placed at 14 key points, including Banglamotor, Kakrail, the High Court area, and Nilkhet, and commuters have been advised to use alternative routes. Designated parking arrangements will be available at selected locations while emergency services, including fire service units, ambulances, medical teams, and naval police divers, will remain on standby. The DMP assistant commissioner requested everyone to assist law enforcement agencies and report any suspicious activity to the national emergency helpline 999 or the DMP control room.

State Minister for Primary and Mass Education Bobby Hajjaj on Sunday said Bangladesh is facing a significant shortage of skilled human resources despite having millions of job opportunities. “Everyone says there is a shortage of jobs in Bangladesh, but the reality is quite the opposite. There are millions of jobs available: the problem is finding skilled people to grab them,” he said while speaking at a skills development summit. Global Entrepreneurship Network Bangladesh and Daffodil International University organised the programme at Daffodil Plaza in Dhanmondi. The state minister noted that nationals from neighbouring countries, particularly India, are coming to Bangladesh and securing employment, while Bangladeshis remain jobless in their own country due to a lack of marketable skills. Highlighting the gap between academic credentials and practical competence, he said, “When candidates appear before interview boards, they recite a list of degrees. But when it comes to skills, they fall short and that is why they fail to secure the jobs they desire.” Bobby Hajjaj stressed that a fundamental shift in mindset is the first step towards addressing the crisis. “The core problem is our mindset. Having taught for 17 years, I have seen a serious lack of skills-oriented thinking among students. We want to bring about that change from the primary level and build a generation that is truly ready for the job market.” He urged student participants to develop innovative, technology-driven projects capable of contributing to national development, and announced that students who successfully create practical and effective software solutions will be recognised and rewarded. The State Minister also assured that government support will be extended to help commercialise such innovative projects.  

Canadian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Ajit Singh on Sunday said Canada remains a ‘longstanding and steadfast partner’ in the Rohingya crisis response and accounted CAD 10 million contributions to provide clean, safe and sustainable cooking fuel for the Rohingyas in Cox’s Bazar. “This climate-responsive humanitarian contribution will reduce deforestation and carbon emissions in an environmentally fragile district that will benefit refugees, Bangladeshis, and the wider population,” said the High Commissioner. He said it will also lower the risks to vulnerable people, especially women, girls, and children, including those that stem from gathering firewood. “Canada is pleased to provide this $10 million contribution to UNHCR and IOM to strengthen environmental protection that benefits us all, as well as advance the wellbeing of vulnerable Rohingya refugees,” said the High Commissioner. The funding to UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, and IOM, the International Organization for Migration, will ensure the continued provision of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) to the Rohingya, essential for them to cook, while helping to preserve the fragile environment surrounding the camps and improve safety, health and dignity for refugees, particularly women and children, said the UN agency. Cox’s Bazar, one of the most climate-vulnerable regions of Bangladesh, faces recurrent flooding, landslides, cyclones, fires and environmental degradation. Since the start of LPG distribution to Rohingya refugees, the programme has reduced firewood use by 80% among refugee households, preventing an estimated 407,000t of CO₂ emissions every year. “Nine years on, Rohingya refugees are navigating one of the world’s most difficult displacement situations – protracted crisis compounded by climate vulnerability,” said UNHCR Deputy Representative in Bangladesh Juliette Murekeyisoni. “Canada’s support comes at a crucial time, and I am deeply grateful for it. Sustained international solidarity remains critical to ensuring that refugees can live in dignity while we work toward conditions for their voluntary, safe, and dignified return.” Chief of Mission for IOM in Bangladesh Giuseppe Loprete said safe, reliable energy is fundamental to the well-being of families who have experienced immense hardship for the past nine years. “We thank Canada for their generous support, which ensures that refugees can avoid dangerous firewood collection and live in healthier environments, while also protecting local forests and biodiversity.” The provision of LPG has been central to the response since 2018. Studies have shown it has dramatically improved indoor air quality in the densely populated camps and lowered household spending on cooking fuel. The UN refugee agency said Canada’s contribution will support LPG access for some 243,500 refugee households and help conserve up to 10,700 hectares of protected forest in Cox’s Bazar. It also strengthens community resilience by stabilizing slopes, reducing landslide risks, and lowering human wildlife conflict around ecologically sensitive areas.

Ten more patients died with measles and symptoms of the disease in 24 hours till 8 am on Sunday morning, taking the total death toll to 151, according to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS). Among the deceased, four were confirmed measles patients, it said. During this period, 1,268 suspected measles cases were reported during the period. Besides, 762 patients were admitted to different hospitals. So far, a total of 10,225 suspected patients have been hospitalised. Among them, 7,656 patients have recovered and discharged from the hospitals, DGHS said. In 24-hour period, Dhaka division recorded the highest number of suspected measles deaths with five. Besides, Dhaka district also accounted for the highest district-level death toll during the period, with five deaths. The DGHS said the total number of confirmed measles deaths between March 15 and April 12 stood at 28. The month-long Emergency Measles-Rubella Vaccination Campaign 2026 was launched in Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) areas on Sunday, amid growing concerns over the spread of preventable infectious diseases. Health and Family Welfare Minister Sardar Md Sakhawat Husain inaugurated the campaign at a function at the Nagar Bhaban auditorium in the morning. Under the campaign, a total of 402,456 children in DSCC areas have been targeted for vaccination. To achieve the target, 540 vaccination centres have been set up across the city, including 90 permanent and 450 temporary ones. Children aged 6 to 59 months will receive vaccines daily from 9:00am to 4:00pm. The month-long campaign will continue until May 11.        

Prime Minister and BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman has arranged the construction of a new house for the family of slain Feni Jatiyatabadi Jubo Dal leader Harunur Rashid, as part of a humanitarian initiative. The construction of the new house has begun under the initiative of ‘Amra BNP Poribar,’ following the directive of the Prime Minister and under the plan of his Additional Press Secretary Atikur Rahman Rumon, considering the prolonged financial hardship faced by the family. A delegation of ‘Amra BNP Poribar’, led by its Adviser Abul Kashem, inaugurated the construction work on Sunday morning at Bhorbazar of Farhadnagar union of Sadar upazila. They also conveyed the Prime Minister’s message of sympathy and support to the family. Member Secretary of the organisation Moksedul Momin Mithun was also present. Speaking on the occasion, Abul Kashem said the sacrifices of martyrs will never go in vain and standing beside their families is a moral responsibility. He added that the organisation will continue to support families affected by political violence and repression. Among those present were ‘Amra BNP Poribar’ members Masud Rana Liton, Shakil Ahmed and Farhad Ali Sajib, Joint General Secretary of Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD) Hasnain Nahian Sajib, Sweden BNP leader Sayham Sikandar Pappu and Dhaka College JCD leader Abdullah Al Misbah. Also present at the event were Sheikh Farid Bahar, convener of Feni district BNP; Alaudin Alal, member secretary; Fazlur Rahman Bakul, convener of Sadar upazila BNP; Aman Uddin Qaiser Sabbir, member secretary; Belayet Hossain Bacchu, district BNP member; Mezbah Uddin Bhuiyan, member secretary of municipality BNP; Noimullah Chowdhury Barat, member secretary of district Jubo Dal; senior joint convener VP Belal and joint convener Amzad Hossain Sumon. Harunur Rashid was killed on 4 December 2013 after being shot by police during a peaceful hartal procession brought out by local BNP on Trunk Road in Feni town. Earlier in 2017, Tarique Rahman also provided financial assistance for the wedding of Harunur Rashid’s eldest daughter.

A meeting of the National Committee on Hajj Management was held on Sunday, chaired by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman. The meeting was held at the Cabinet Room of the Prime Minister’s Office in the Bangladesh Secretariat, said Prime Minister’s Press Secretary Saleh Shibly. Various issues relating to the upcoming Hajj were discussed at the meeting, he said.  

Iran’s chief negotiator has blamed the United States for the collapse of high-stakes talks. However, U.S. officials said the negotiations collapsed over what they described as Iran’s refusal to commit to abandoning its nuclear programme. The discussions, held in Islamabad and lasting nearly 21 hours, ended without any agreement despite what Iranian officials described as multiple proposals aimed at moving the process forward. Neither side indicated what will happen after the 14-day ceasefire expires on April 22. Meanwhile, Pakistani mediators urged all parties to maintain it. Both said their positions were clear and put the onus on the other side, underscoring how little the gap had narrowed throughout the talks. “We need to see an affirmative commitment that they will not seek a nuclear weapon, and they will not seek the tools that would enable them to quickly achieve a nuclear weapon,” Vice President JD Vance said after the long talks. Iran’s parliament speaker Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, who led Iran in the negotiations, said it was time for the United States “to decide whether it can gain our trust or not.”    

After 21 hours of marathon-like negotiations, the United States and Iran failed to reach an agreement in the latest round of talks, U.S. Vice President JD Vance said on Sunday in Islamabad, Pakistan. Iran's semi-official Tasnim news agency also reported that negotiations in Islamabad concluded without any outcome, as "excessive demands" by the United States hindered the development of a common framework and agreement. WHAT HAPPENED? The third round of face-to-face U.S.-Iran talks concluded within a two-week conditional truce window, more than a month after the start of joint U.S.-Israeli military strikes on Iran. The historic talks in Islamabad has drawn global attention amid ongoing turbulence. However, the talks failed to produce any breakthrough. Confirming his constant communication with U.S. President Donald Trump and others in the administration, Vance said the U.S. side had presented its "final and best offer" after continuous communication, adding that a number of substantive discussions were conducted in "good faith," but the proposal had yet to secure any endorsement. Meanwhile, according to an Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson, the talks were conducted in an atmosphere of mistrust, and agreement shouldn't be expected to be reached within a single session. "We only accept an end of the war with guarantees that we won't be attacked again," said Mojtaba Ferdousi Pour, head of the Iranian diplomatic mission in Cairo, ahead of the talk. KEY STICKING POINTS The U.S. vice president said the key question between the two sides is whether Iran is willing to demonstrate sustained intent to refrain from pursuing nuclear capabilities, not only in the immediate term but in the years ahead. Vance said Iran's nuclear enrichment facilities have been "destroyed," shifting the focus of negotiations to securing a long-term commitment from Tehran not to develop nuclear weapons. "The simple fact is that we need to see an affirmative commitment that they will not seek a nuclear weapon and they will not seek the tools that would enable them to quickly achieve a nuclear weapon," Vance said. "That is the core goal of the president of the United States and that's what we've been trying to achieve through these negotiations." The Iranian side later confirmed that the two sides reached an understanding on several issues, but their views diverged on two or three critical ones. Earlier in the day, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei said on X that discussions with the United States over the past 24 hours included the Strait of Hormuz, the nuclear issue, war reparations, the lifting of sanctions, and the complete end to the war against Iran. WHAT'S NEXT? Trump said on Saturday that it "makes no difference" to him whether both sides reach a deal. However, the failure to secure a deal has cast fresh doubt over the ceasefire's durability, with disputes over its scope, including whether it extends to Lebanon. Uncertainty surrounding the Strait of Hormuz is adding to regional tensions. Despite the breakdown in talks, Pakistan reiterated its readiness to facilitate dialogue between the two sides. Pakistani Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar said on Sunday that Islamabad would continue to play a constructive role in promoting engagement between Iran and the United States. "We hope that the two sides continue with the positive spirit to achieve durable peace and prosperity for the entire region and beyond."

A moving bus caught fire on the Dhaka-Bogura highway in Shajahanpur upazila of the district on Sunday. Ariful Islam, station officer of Shajahanpur Fire Service and Civil Defence Station, said the fire broke out at the Kurigram-bound ‘Kurigram Travel’ bus from Chattogram around 8:00am while passing through the area. On information, a firefighting unit rushed to the spot and extinguished the fire after 30 minutes. The fire might have originated from the battery of the bus, Ariful Islam said. Sub-Inspector Abu Zarra of Kaliganj Police Station said as soon as the fire broke out, passengers quickly got down from the bus, avoiding any casualties. However, the fire burned down parts of the bus.

A Mymensingh court on Sunday convicted five people and sentenced them to life imprisonment for killing a farmer in 2012. Additional Sessions Judge Md Samsuddin handed down the punishment. The convicts are Shukkur Ali, Harez Ali, Amir Ali, Jamir Ali and Hatem Ali of Haluaghat upazila in the district. The court also fined them Tk 1 lakh each, in default, to suffer, one more year in jail. According to the prosecution, farmer Ahmed Ali of Mokamia village had an enmity with Shukkur Ali over a piece of land. As a sequel to the enmity, on October 14, 2012, around 20–25 supporters of Shukkur Ali stormed into the paddy field of Nurunnahar, wife of Ahmed Ali, and forcibly took away the harvested crop. At one stage, Shukkur Ali and his associates attacked Ahmed, his wife, and other family members, including Nurunnahar’s maternal uncle Habibur Rahman and grandmother Sufia, with sharp weapons when they resisted, leaving five people, including Ahmed, injured. They also swooped on Nurunnahar’s house and looted valuables, including cash. The injured were later taken to Haluaghat Upazila Health Complex. Habibur succumbed to his injuries ten days after the attack. Nurunnahar filed a case with Haluaghat Police Station against 25 people, including Shukkur Ali. After examining the records and witnesses, the court acquitted 20 others as the allegations brought against them could not be proved.

A total of 22,065 farmers have been initially selected to receive ‘Farmers Cards’ as the government is set to launch the distribution programme on Pahela Baishakh,  said Agriculture Minister Mohammed Aminur Rashid on Sunday. The programme will be formally inaugurated at Shaheed Maruf Stadium in Tangail, he said at a press conference at the Information Department conference room at Secretariat. He said the initiative will be launched on a pre-piloting basis in 11 blocks under 11 upazilas across 10 districts in all eight divisions. Distribution of the cards will begin simultaneously in most of the selected blocks on the day while the programme in Aranyapur block of Adarsha Sadar upazila in Cumilla will start on April 17, 2026. At the beginning of the programme, tribute was paid to former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia and martyred President Ziaur Rahman. The minister said information of 22,065 farmers was collected as of April 11. Of them, 2,246 are landless, 9,458 marginal, 8,967 small, 1,303 medium and 91 large farmers. Around 93.7 percent of the selected beneficiaries are landless, marginal and small farmers, he said. Under the pre-piloting phase, each farmer will receive Tk 2,500 in annual cash assistance through the card. The card will function as a banking debit card, and accounts have been opened in farmers’ names through Sonali Bank, he added. Through the card, farmers will be able to purchase fertiliser, seeds, fish feed and livestock feed, as well as access agricultural loans, subsidies, weather forecasts, market prices, training, pest control advice and agricultural insurance services. If the pre-pilot phase proves successful, a pilot programme will be launched in 15 upazilas by August 2026, with plans to expand the distribution nationwide and develop an integrated farmer database within the next four years, the minister added.  

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Sunday said the Armed Forces do not belong to any particular individual, family or political party, stressing that loyalty to the Constitution and unwavering public trust must remain the foundation of their duty. Addressing a Darbar with members of the Armed Forces at Senaprangan Auditorium in Dhaka Cantonment, he outlined an ambitious plan to modernise them as technology-driven, fully integrated and rapidly responsive forces capable of ensuring credible deterrence against any potential aggression. The Prime Minister also assured that any past grievances or injustices involving service members will be addressed through due legal and institutional processes, adding that no one will face such injustice in the future. “The Armed Forces do not belong to any individual, family or political party. They are a symbol of the strength and dignity of an independent state…The ultimate and sacred duty of every member is to protect the country’s independence and sovereignty,” he said. Tarique Rahman said the government also aspires to build such Armed Forces that command respect from external powers and earn the confidence of the people at home, expressing his commitment to further strengthening them. In view of current and emerging global security challenges, he said the government is determined to comprehensively reshape the forces and defence policy in order to safeguard national interests, public welfare and sovereignty. The Prime Minister also said the Army, Navy and Air Force will be further developed as faster, more responsive and fully integrated forces. He also said the country’s defence system will be modernised to establish a credible and effective deterrent capability for the protection of national sovereignty. Tarique Rahman also said a modern national security strategy and defence policy will be formulated, reflecting Bangladesh’s realities, national interests and future threats, ensuring a security framework that is Bangladesh-centric, people-centric and state dignity-oriented. “We want such an Army that is smart, technology-driven, rapidly responsive and time-befitting, where our fighting arms are modern, well-equipped, highly sophisticated, manoeuvre-capable and quickly deployable. At the same time, we aim to make our artillery force more precise, long-range and technology-based, and to develop a modern, multi-layered and effective air defence system,” he said. The Prime Minister said the government wants to enhance the country’s defence capabilities through drone technology, satellite surveillance and electronic warfare, making the overall defence system highly resilient, unformidable and effective. “We will also strengthen cyber capabilities to ensure digital security and data integrity of the forces. Alongside this, we will take the Army to a new level through modern and smart combat systems,” he said. He said the government is giving special importance to naval security, the Bay of Bengal, maritime routes, marine resources and the blue economy. Tarique Rahman said protecting coastal areas and maritime communication is one of the government’s key national priorities. “To safeguard our vast maritime boundary and blue economy, we aim to develop the Navy into a strong blue-water force with modern frigates, submarines and advanced solar and radar systems.” He said they will continue the modernisation of the Air Force to strengthen air surveillance, rapid deployment, airspace security and technology-based capabilities. “We are committed to enhancing air defence by inducting advanced multi-role combat aircraft and establishing a multi-layered integrated air defence system, taking the Air Force to new heights,” the Prime Minister said. He said a modern joint operations doctrine among the three services, along with an upgraded C4I system – command, control, communication, computer and intelligence – will ensure rapid decision-making and effective deployment in any crisis. “This will also ensure optimal use of limited resources so that our Armed Forces can protect national sovereignty, respond to disasters and uphold Bangladesh’s dignity in the international arena,” Tarique Rahman said. He said the government has plans to build a self-reliant defence capability by developing a domestic defence industry. “We will also ensure that a portion of our defence requirements can be produced domestically in the future, InshaAllah.” The Prime Minister said the present government also wants to strengthen military-to-military partnerships to deepen regional and international cooperation. “By combining patriotism, courage and wisdom of the new-generation soldiers with modern technology, we aim to build smart, professional and time-befitting Armed Forces, InshaAllah.” He highlighted some difficult and painful realities of the past one and a half decades. “The tragic chapter of Pilkhana remains a deep wound in our hearts. In that tragedy, we lost our finest sons, and ensuring a proper investigation and justice remains one of the commitments of the present government.” Referring to the 2009 BDR mutiny at Pilkhana, Tarique Rahman said a planned massacre was carried out to weaken the Army, and added that during the subsequent one and a half decades of rule under Awami League, there were also attempts to undermine and tarnish the image of the Armed Forces. He said the role of Bangladesh’s Armed Forces has been globally recognised not merely as an inevitable wartime force, but as a vigilant protector of independence and sovereignty. The Prime Minister also highlighted their contributions to tackling natural disasters and serving in United Nations peacekeeping missions to help war-torn countries achieve stability. He lauded the role of the military in safeguarding the country and its people in 2024, saying their actions gave hope to freedom-loving citizens. “In the unstable period following August 5, 2024, amid visible administrative paralysis, the Armed Forces played an extraordinary role,” he said. Tarique Rahman said the Armed Forces’ support to the interim government in holding the February 12 election in a free, fair and credible manner reflected their trust in democratic principles and commitment to the people. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to justice, saying any injustice done to members of the Armed Forces for political or other reasons will be addressed in accordance with due process. “This is not merely an administrative measure, but a necessary step to restore the chain of command and moral foundation of the Armed Forces,” he said. Earlier, upon his arrival at the venue, the Prime Minister was received by his Defence Adviser Brig Gen (retd) Dr AKM Shamsul Islam, Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral M Nazmul Hassan and Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan, along with the Principal Staff Officer of the Armed Forces Division.