United News of Bangladesh

A boatman went missing Wednesday after falling into the Padma River from a bulkhead in Charbhadrasan, Faridpur. The incident occurred around 11 a.m. near Tilar Char and Sabulla Sikder’s Dangi areas of Charbhadrasan Sadar Union. From 3 p.m. to 5 p.m., two divers from the Faridpur Fire Service conducted search operations but could not locate the missing boatman. The rescue mission was suspended for the day and will resume Thursday morning. The missing man has been identified as Arif Sheikh, 46, son of Mojibur Sheikh of Sholomari village in Alfadanga Upazila. Arif is the eldest of four siblings, married, and father of three children. According to his uncle, Abul Kasar, Arif worked as a boatman at the bulkhead. He had arrived at the CNB Ghat in Faridpur Sadar on Tuesday afternoon to unload sand and, while returning, accidentally fell into the river near Tilar Char and Sabulla Sikder’s Dangi. Charbhadrasan Fire Service leader Mortaza Fakir said the diver team conducted multiple search attempts but failed to recover Arif. CNB Ghat police officer-in-charge Nasim Ahmed confirmed the incident and said a police team also joined the search but found no trace of him as of Wednesday evening.

Chief Adviser’s Special Assistant (Home Ministry), Khoda Bakhsh Chowdhury has resigned from his post. His resignation was accepted by President Mohammed Shahabuddin, according to an official gazette issued on Wednesday. The gazette was published by Cabinet Secretary Dr Sheikh Abdur Rashid by order of the President. It said the resignation would take effect immediately.

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman left Heathrow Airport early Thursday for Dhaka, ending nearly 17 years in exile in London and sparking widespread interest, emotion and political excitement across the country “Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight BG-102, carrying Tarique and his entourage, took off around 12:23 am (BST),” said BNP media cell member Sayrul Kabir Khan. The flight is scheduled to land at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at 11:50 am on Thursday, via Sylhet Osmani International Airport. Senior BNP leaders, including members of the party’s Standing Committee, will receive him at the airport. Tarique is travelling with his wife, Zubaida Rahman, his daughter, Barrister Zaima Rahman, and other personal aides. Zaima Rahman’s pet cat, Jebu, is also travelling to Bangladesh with the family.” It will also mark the end of Zaima Rahman’s nearly 17-year exile in London. Party leaders say her return symbolises the close of a long chapter of forced separation from the country.

The Election Commission has asked for keeping the country's scheduled banks open on Saturday next to facilitate the nomination paper submission in the upcoming national election and the referendum scheduled for February 12, 2026. “It is requested, in accordance with instructions, to keep all scheduled banks across the country open on Saturday, December 27, 2025, to enable candidates to deposit the required money for their security deposits and purchase CDs of the voter list through bank draft, pay order, or treasury challan,” said a letter sent to the Governor of Bangladesh Bank by the EC on Wednesday. The letter said that the Election Commission announced the schedule for the 13th National parliamentary election on December 11, 2025. According to the schedule, the deadline for submitting nomination papers is December 29, 2025. However, banks will be closed on December 25 (Thursday, Christmas Day) due to the public holiday as well as on December 26 (Friday) and December 27 (Saturday) due to weekly holidays, which would prevent candidates from depositing the necessary fees and payments during these three days. In this circumstance, the EC asked for keeping the scheduled banks open on Saturday next EC Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed told reporters, “We have requested Bangladesh Bank to keep scheduled banks open this Saturday so that prospective candidates or their agents can complete the required payments without any inconvenience.”

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Wednesday said the interim government aims to build a healthy society, adding that the July Charter has been prepared to uphold the spirit of the mass uprising. “You are the mirror of society. By looking at you, we can understand whether everything is in order,” Prof Yunus said while exchanging Christmas greetings with representatives of the Christian community at the State Guest House Jamuna, that is doubling up as the CA's official residence. Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, he said that alongside the upcoming parliamentary election, a referendum will also be held. Through the referendum on the July Charter, the country will move one step forward, he said, adding that the next parliament will adopt reform measures based on the people’s verdict in the referendum. Prof Yunus called upon religious leaders to help raise public awareness about the forthcoming election and referendum. Religious Affairs Adviser Dr AFM Khalid Hossain, Archbishop of Catholic Christians in Bangladesh Bejoy N D'Cruze, President of the National Christian Fellowship of Bangladesh Bishop Philip P Adhikary, Trustee of the Christian Religious Welfare Trust Dr Benedict Alo D’Rozario, President of the National Council of Churches in Bangladesh Christopher Adhikari, and other prominent Christian leaders were present. Christian leaders highlighted Prof Yunus’s global reputation and his role in improving the country’s economic and overall situation. They expressed hope that the upcoming election would be free and fair under his leadership, according to the Chief Adviser’s press wing. Archbishop Bejoy N D’Cruze described Jesus Christ as a universal figure and said that inspired by Christ’s ideals of forgiveness and service to humanity, millions of people around the world, including in Bangladesh, are celebrating Christmas with joy and enthusiasm. Extending Christmas greetings to the Chief Adviser, he said, “After the July mass uprising, the people have kept their trust in you to rebuild Bangladesh anew. You are carrying out that responsibility with great dedication. We pray that your efforts will succeed through a beautiful and peaceful election.” Leaders of the Christian Religious Welfare Trust also thanked the interim government for granting Tk 2.5 crore to the trust on the occasion of Christmas. They said the grant is being distributed in three phases among 800 churches across the country. Later, Prof Yunus cut a cake with representatives of the Christian community to mark the Christmas celebration.

A union-level Chhatra Dal leader in Bhola was stabbed to death Wednesday evening while traveling to Dhaka to attend the homecoming event of BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman. The incident occurred in the Closer Bazar area, reportedly stemming from a longstanding personal feud. The deceased, Rezwan Amin Sifat, 28, was the son of Md. Alauddin Howlader, general secretary of Ward No. 9, Rajapur Union BNP, and a postgraduate student in accounting at Bhola Government College. Relatives and locals said Shifat had ongoing disputes with his cousins over past conflicts. On Wednesday afternoon, an argument took place between Sifat and his cousins Hasib and Sakib. Later, while Sifat was on his way to Dhaka, a group including his cousins ambushed him at Clouser Bazar, stabbing him and leaving him injured. Locals and family members rushed to his aid and took him to Bhola 250-Bed General Hospital, where doctors declared him dead. Shifat’s father, Md. Alauddin, and Rajapur Union Parishad panel chairman Shajahan Bepari said hundreds of thousands of BNP leaders and activists from Bhola were traveling to Dhaka to attend Tarique Rahman’s event. On Wednesday night alone, 10 launches departed Bhola for Dhaka. Sifat was preparing to join the procession when he was attacked. Bhola Sadar police OC (Investigation) Zia Uddin confirmed that the police visited the scene and efforts are underway to arrest the perpetrators.

Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman strongly condemned the crude bomb explosion near Moghbazar Flyover that killed a young man named Siam. He said the death of innocent Siam came as a price for the failure to apprehend the killers of martyred Sharif Osman bin Hadi. The incident occurred on Wednesday evening, and Dr. Shafiqur Rahman expressed his condemnation through a post on his verified Facebook page. He prayed for the departed soul, writing, “May Allah forgive the deceased Siam, have mercy on him, and grant patience to his grieving family.” Jamaat Ameer further stated, “The innocent Siam had to pay the price because the murderers of martyred Sharif Osman bin Hadi have not yet been brought to justice. A malicious group is carrying out covert attacks to destabilize the country.” Dr. Shafiqur Rahman urged the authorities to diligently perform their duties and called on the public to strengthen preventive measures against such attacks.

In the midst of Dhaka’s grey, concrete-heavy landscape, the "4th Urban Agriculture Fair" has brought a breath of fresh air. Since its opening last Sunday at the Rajdhani High School grounds on Manik Mia Avenue, the event has seen a massive influx of nature enthusiasts. Organized by the Urban Agriculture Foundation, the five-day fair features 65 stalls showcasing over a thousand plant species, with the grand finale set for this Thursday.

Three people died unnatural deaths in separate incidents in Chowgacha upazila of Jashore on Wednesday. The deaths occurred due to burn injuries, drowning and suicide in different areas of the upazila. An elderly woman, Fekshi Bala, 80, died after suffering severe burns while warming herself, along with other family members, by a fire at her home in Marua village under Jagadishpur union. She was the widow of Kartik Paramanik Biswas. According to family, her sari caught fire accidentally on Tuesday night. She was taken to Jashore 250-bed General Hospital, where she died during treatment on Wednesday noon. In another incident, a madrasa student drowned in a pond at Niamatpur village under Patibila union. The deceased was Hafiz Abdullah, 16, an eighth-grade student of Tanzimul Ummah Cadet Madrasa in Uttara, Dhaka. He was the son of Abdul Gni of Niamatpur village. According to locals, Abdullah’s lived in Narayanganj due to his father’s job. He came to the village two days ago from Narayanganj. He lost consciousness while bathing in a pond and drowned. He was taken to Chowgacha Upazila Health Complex, where doctors declared him dead. Meanwhile, a woman died by suicide at Ballavpur village under Sukhpukuria union. Man stabbed to death in Jashore The deceased was Monwara Begum, 30, wife of Solaiman Ali. She took her own life by hanging in her room around 10 a.m. on Wednesday, following a domestic dispute with her husband. Rezaul Karim, Officer-in-Charge of Chowgacha Police Station confirmed the incidents and said, “Legal steps were underway.”    

Leaders and activists of Barishal BNP set off for Dhaka on Wednesday night in a fleet of launches, celebrating Tarique Rahman’s return with fireworks and traditional drums. The launch convoy began departing the ghats one after another after 9:30 pm, carrying party members from across the district. Ziauddin Sikder, member secretary of Barishal City BNP, said five launches from the city alone are heading to Dhaka, while more than 15 launches have departed from other parts of the district. Abu Naser Rahmatullah, a member of BNP’s national executive committee, said the launches will enter Dhaka via Kanchpur and proceed directly to Kanchan Bridge, from where participants will march to the venue of the public gathering. BNP Chairperson’s adviser Mojibur Rahman Sarwar added that after the rally, everyone will return to Barishal by launch. He said arrangements for food and accommodation have been made on the vessels for the traveling party members.

Police have arrested one Himon Rahman Shikdar, an Adabar Thana Jubo League activist and an associate of Alamgir, the motorcyclist allegedly involved in the killing of Inqilab Mancha spokesperson and Dhaka-8 prospective candidate Sharif Osman Hadi. The arrest was made on Wednesday around 2:00pm during a raid at a residential hotel in the Adabar area, based on secret information received by the Intelligence and Analysis Division (IAD), said Officer-in-charge of Adabar Thana Ziaur Rahman. Following information provided by the arrestee, police recovered a foreign-made pistol, three rounds of live ammunition, fireworks, crackers, gunpowder and various materials used for making cocktails from the house of his associate Mehdi in the Baitul Aman Housing area under Adabar Thana. Police said preliminary interrogation revealed that Himon Rahman Shikdar and his associate were planning subversive activities. Efforts are underway to arrest others involved in the incident.          

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman is set to return home on Thursday after spending nearly 17 years in exile in London, a historic event that has generated widespread interest, emotion and political anticipation across the country. The flight carrying Tarique is scheduled to land at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at 11:50am via Sylhet airport from London’s Heathrow along with his wife Dr Zubaida Rahman, daughter Barrister Zaima Rahman and others. BNP has completed extensive preparations to welcome its top leader, with efforts taken to ensure maximum security. Senior leaders, including members of the party’s Standing Committee, will receive him at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport. After arrival, Tarique will briefly address party leaders, supporters and the nation near the 300 Feet area of the capital, where thousands of supporters are expected to gather. He will offer thanks to the people and perform a brief prayer of gratitude for his safe return. Tarique’s political adviser Mahdi Amin said the BNP Acting Chairman’s first and main priority upon landing is to visit Evercare Hospital to see his ailing mother, former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia, who has been receiving treatment there since November 23. However, considering the huge turnout of people and respecting public sentiment, he will stop briefly at the July 36 Expressway (300 Feet area) to express gratitude to the nation before proceeding to the hospital. After visiting his mother, he will go directly to his residence at House 196 on Gulshan Avenue, where he will stay with his family. Mahdi Amin said the programme at 300 Feet is not a rally or reception. “It is only a short moment to thank the people and request prayers for the country, its people and Madam Khaleda Zia. Tarique Rahman will be the sole speaker,” he said. To minimise public inconvenience, BNP has set up 20 medical camps across Dhaka with doctors, paramedics, medicines and ambulances. A six-bed temporary field hospital has also been arranged near the 300 Feet area, supported by ICU-equipped ambulances. Pure drinking water, mobile toilets and several thousand volunteers have been deployed to assist the public. Separate bus parking areas have been designated at key entry points to the capital to ease traffic congestion. Help desks have been set up at Kakoli, in front of the airport and at Abdullahpur to ensure smooth movement of airport-bound passengers, returning expatriates and ambulances, including motorbike escorts for emergencies. Govt welcomes Tarique Rahman’s return, assures full cooperation BNP Media Cell member Sayrul Kabir Khan said the entire programme will be broadcast live on BNP’s official Facebook pages, including BNP, BNP Media Cell and Our BNP, so people at home and abroad can watch it. Thirty large LED screens have been set up so people can watch the programme live. A three-layer security system has been put in place at the reception venue. Alongside government security, BNP has its own special arrangements. Retired Brigadier General ATM Shamsul Islam, head of Tarique’s security team, said tight security will be maintained throughout the programme. “We will use our party’s full security system. A small part of it is the Chairperson Security Force (CSF). Beyond that, our party leaders and activists, and above all, the people of Bangladesh, are the main foundation of our security,” he said. Shamsul Islam said the government is providing them with maximum cooperation and has instructed its various forces and agencies to extend all kinds of support. Large banners welcoming Tarique have appeared on major roads and intersections in the capital. The banners show him greeting people with raised hands, carrying slogans such as “Leader is coming,” “Tarique Rahman’s return, awakening of democracy,” “Bangladesh for all, Bangladesh first,” and “Tarique Rahman is coming, hope is rising.” Top leaders of parties that joined the long anti-fascist movement and leaders of the student-led mass uprising of August 5, 2024, have been invited to attend the brief programme near 300 Feet. BNP strikes election deal with 7 more partners, reserves 8 seats After returning, Tarique will regularly work from the BNP Chairperson’s office in Gulshan, where a new office room has been prepared for him on the second floor. A separate chamber has also been set up for the Acting Chairman at the party’s Nayapaltan central office. Both the Nayapaltan central office and the Gulshan chairperson’s office have been freshly painted, cleaned and decorated to mark his return. In preparation for the upcoming election, BNP has rented a four-storey building on Road No 90 in Gulshan as an election office. The building has strict security arrangements, a briefing room on the second floor, seating for various departments and a research cell. Mahdi Amin said the office will serve as a coordination centre for all election-related activities. Tarique has spent more than a decade and a half in exile in London. During this period, he lived there with his wife Dr Zubaida Rahman and daughter Barrister Zaima Rahman. From abroad, he continued to run the party, stayed in touch with leaders and activists, and guided BNP’s political strategy. Tarique Rahman is travelling on a Biman Bangladesh Airlines’ (BG-102) flight along with his wife Zubaida Rahman, daughter Barrister Zaima Rahman, and his late brother Arafat Rahman Koko’s two daughters—Jahia Rahman and Jafia Rahman. Journalist Saleh Shibli and a few of his personal aides are also on board the flight. Zaima Rahman’s pet cat, Jebu, is also travelling to Bangladesh with the family. Tarique’s homecoming: Special trains to run on 10 routes It will also mark the end of Zaima Rahman’s nearly 17-year exile in London. Party leaders say her return symbolizes the close of a long chapter of forced separation from the country. Tarique’s homecoming has sparked strong emotions among political circles, BNP leaders and activists, and the general public. Many political observers see the return not merely as that of a party leader, but as the end of a long wait and a moment tied to broader public hopes and expectations, with the possibility of one of the largest political gatherings in the country’s history. They also consider his return as a significant step towards political unity and the restoration of democracy through an inclusive and credible election. Excitement and enthusiasm have swept through BNP leaders and activists in the capital and beyond as the long-awaited return of the party’s Acting Chairman is set to take place on Thursday, ending years of speculation and debate over his homecoming. BNP activists from different parts of the country have already begun arriving in Dhaka to catch a glimpse of their leader. BNP leaders said nine special trains have been arranged to bring supporters from different parts of the country to Dhaka. BNP leaders say Tarique will lead the party in the upcoming 13th national parliamentary election. He is expected to contest the election from Bogura-6 constituency. BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said Tarique will be the party’s main leader in the election. “Under his leadership, we will cross the electoral hurdle successfully. If we receive the people’s mandate, Tarique Rahman will lead the next government,” Fakhrul said. Tarique Rahman awaits a historic welcome on Dec 25: Salahuddin He also said despite living in exile for years, Tarique remained closely connected with the party and proved his leadership through effective organisational management. BNP has asked its leaders and activists not to carry the party’s electoral symbol during the reception, as the election schedule has already been announced. Banners, festoons and placards will be allowed, but no election symbol will be displayed. Tarique left Bangladesh in 2008 for medical treatment after being released from jail during the military-backed caretaker government period and later settled in the United Kingdom with his family. During his exile, he faced numerous cases and legal hurdles. Following recent political changes and legal processes, he was cleared of all cases. Though Dr Zubaida Rahman visited Bangladesh twice earlier, Tarique Rahman was unable to return until now. Political analysts say the ongoing political crisis can only be resolved through elections, and Tarique Rahman’s return may help ease tensions. They note that he successfully united dozens of parties in the anti-fascist movement, proving his political experience and organisational strength. BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed at a press conference on Wednesday sincerely apologised in advance for any inconvenience or suffering caused by the unavoidable and minimal programmes taken by the party to organise the historic homecoming of its beloved leader. He said Tarique has chosen a government holiday for his return to avoid public inconvenience.            

Netflix’s hit sci-fi series Stranger Things is heading toward its long-awaited finale, with fans preparing for the final episodes that promise to resolve major mysteries surrounding Hawkins and its residents. Season five opened with the town under siege, as dangerous creatures from the Upside Down spilled into the real world through massive rifts. Vecna remained a central threat, while the main characters were shown facing what appears to be their final battle. Netflix is releasing the remaining episodes in stages. Three episodes are set to stream on Boxing Day in the UK, while the feature-length final episode will be available on New Year’s Day. In the United States, the finale will stream on December 31, with special cinema screenings also planned in selected locations. The opening episodes revealed that Hawkins is under military quarantine and that Eleven, played by Millie Bobby Brown, is once again being hunted for her supernatural abilities. She and Jim Hopper were shown fighting dark forces inside a military base linked to the Upside Down, while a mysterious new scientist was introduced. One of the biggest revelations so far is that Will Byers has discovered he also has supernatural powers, deepening his long-suspected connection to Vecna. At the same time, unsettling scenes involving Max, Holly and a cave linked to Vecna’s past memories raised new questions that are yet to be answered. Music has again played a key role in resisting Vecna’s control, echoing earlier seasons where songs helped characters break free from his influence. Fans believe this theme could be central to how the people of Hawkins defend themselves in the finale. Executive producer Shawn Levy has said the final episode has been carefully crafted to meet fan expectations, stressing that the creators wanted to avoid the kind of divisive endings seen in some other major TV series. Despite the show’s huge global success, creators Matt and Ross Duffer have ruled out any sequel, saying the story of Eleven, her friends and the town of Hawkins will end with this season. As anticipation builds, fans worldwide are waiting to see whether Stranger Things can deliver a satisfying conclusion to one of Netflix’s most popular series.   With inputs from BBC

One of the world’s most beloved children’s characters, Winnie-the-Pooh, is marking 100 years since his first appearance, with celebrations planned in England’s Ashdown Forest, the real-life setting of the famous stories. Winnie-the-Pooh first appeared on December 24, 1925, in a short story titled The Wrong Sort of Bees, published in the London Evening News. The character was created by author A A Milne and inspired by the toy bear of his son, Christopher Robin. The gentle bear, along with characters such as Tigger and Piglet and the game of Pooh sticks, soon gained global popularity. The fictional “100 Aker Wood” was based on Ashdown Forest in East Sussex, where Milne owned a country home. Pooh’s enduring fame continues to bring major economic benefits to the area. Local authorities have allocated about £450,000 in public funds to support events and programmes marking the centenary. Milne published Winnie-the-Pooh as a book in 1926, followed by The House at Pooh Corner in 1928. Two poetry collections featuring the characters were also released. A key attraction in the forest is Pooh Sticks Bridge, where Milne and his son invented the game. The original bridge was replaced by a replica in the late 1990s for safety reasons. The original structure was later sold at auction in 2021. Winnie-the-Pooh’s global reach expanded further in 1961 when Disney acquired the rights to the stories, introducing the character to new generations worldwide. Pooh Corner, a gift shop and tea room near the bridge, has drawn visitors since 1978. Its owner said people travel from across the world to see the places linked to Pooh and share personal stories about why the character matters to them. Guided tours of Ashdown Forest have also grown in popularity, with organisers saying most visitors now come from outside the UK, especially North America. Planned centenary events include new installations at the forest’s visitor centre and the creation of walking trails designed to protect sensitive areas. Local organisers say the anniversary highlights how Winnie-the-Pooh helped make Ashdown Forest internationally known and continues to shape its cultural and economic life a century on.   With inputs from BBC

A man was killed as a crude bomb thrown by miscreants from Moghbazar-Mouchak flyover exploded near the Moghbazar Muktijoddha Shangsad gate in the capital on Wednesday evening. The deceased was identified as Siam, 30, a construction worker. Md Mohiuddin, inspector (Operations) of Hatirjheel Police Station, said the crude bomb was hurled from the flyover onto the road that hit Siam on the head, leaving him dead on the spot.  Police are investigating the incident and collecting CCTV footage from nearby areas, he added.    

Hasnat Abdullah, chief coordinator of the NCP’s southern region, said on Wednesday that their demand for political reform in Bangladesh will continue, and they will not step back even if it costs them their lives. He made the remarks at a condolence and solidarity gathering organized by the Democratic Reform Alliance at King Community Centre in Feni, protesting the killing of revolutionary Osman Hadi. Hasnat Abdullah urged voters to support reform and justice in upcoming elections, and oppose authoritarianism. He criticized some political parties for dissolving their organizations for the sake of single constituencies, calling it an injustice to their own party. “We wanted a ballot revolution, but some parties are preparing for a bullet revolution. Everyone must fight against injustice,” he said. He also criticized the administration and police, saying, “In the last three elections, law enforcement acted as players rather than referees, causing the nation to pay a price. It may happen again if impartiality is not maintained.” In his remarks, Hasnat Abdullah further criticized those who demeaned martyr Osman Hadi, saying, “This generation will reject those who call Osman Hadi a ‘guinea pig’ and cannot even pronounce his name correctly.” He also warned that many officials appointed through controlled lotteries as DCs and SPs have started showing allegiance to certain parties. “Those who betray their party will have to flee like Benjir and Harun,” he cautioned. Hasnat Abdullah expressed concern over the lack of progress in the investigation into Hadi’s killing, calling it a dire warning. He urged the administration to act impartially, warning that failure to do so could again confront the younger generation with injustice. AB Party Chairman Mojibur Rahman Manju said Bangladesh has never bowed to authoritarian forces and will not do so in the future. He warned that those trying to return the country to a fascist era will never be forgiven. The leaders said the next election will be a vote for justice in Osman Hadi’s killing and for political reform. Other attendees included NCP Senior Joint Convener Samantha Sharmin, Joint General Secretary of the State Reform Movement Didar Bhuiya, AB Party Joint General Secretary Barrister Zobayer Ahmad Bhuiya, and central and district leaders of the Democratic Reform Alliance.

The Election Commission (EC) has extended the registration period for voting in the 13th National Parliament Election and Referendum through the ‘Postal Vote BD’ app until December 31. The decision was announced on Wednesday, according to an EC handout. As of 4:30pm on December 24, a total of 679,186 people had completed their registration via the app. Previously, the deadline for registration through the Postal Vote BD app was set for December 25.

Bangladesh’s Ready-Made Garment (RMG) industry has set a new global benchmark in sustainable (green) manufacturing, securing a record-breaking 38 new LEED certifications in 2025. This marks the highest number of green factory certifications achieved by the sector in a single year, further cementing the country’s position as the world leader in eco-friendly apparel production, said Bangladesh Apparel Exchange, an organization established to promote the apparel industry. The 2025 achievement is defined by a significant leap in quality. Of the 38 newly certified factories, 22 achieved the prestigious LEED Platinum rating, while 11 earned Gold and 5 received Silver. LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification is the world's most widely used green building rating system, recognizing projects that meet high standards for sustainable design, construction, operation, and maintenance, covering energy efficiency, water conservation, materials, and indoor air quality, with levels from Certified to Platinum based on points earned, providing a framework for healthier, cost-saving, and environmentally friendly buildings. The LEED developed by the non-profit US Green Building Council (USGBC). The apparel sector experts said that notably, no factories settled for basic certification, signaling a strategic shift from simple regulatory compliance toward high-level environmental excellence. Read more: Bangladesh consolidates global leadership with 268 LEED-certified RMG factories With these latest additions, Bangladesh now hosts a total of 270 LEED-certified garment factories. The country’s green portfolio currently includes-114 Platinum facilities, 137 Gold facilities, 15 Silver and 4 Certified facilities This represents the highest concentration of top-tier LEED-certified factories globally. Industry leaders attribute this progress to long-term investments by manufacturers and strategic guidance from the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA). "The momentum gained in 2025 reflects a proactive alignment with evolving global standards," said Mohiuddin Rubel, Former Director, BGMEA and Managing Director, Bangladesh Apparel Exchange. "As international buyers and regulators, particularly in the EU, demand lower environmental footprints, our manufacturers are leading the way in carbon efficiency and water stewardship." Read more: Bangladesh sets new record with 36 factories earning LEED certification in a year The record-breaking performance is seen as a preparation for the next phase of global trade requirements, including carbon pricing mechanisms and digital transparency frameworks. By integrating green buildings with circular production models, the Bangladeshi RMG sector is positioning itself as not only the largest but also the most future-ready apparel exporter in the world.

All banks across Bangladesh will remain open on Saturday to facilitate financial transactions linked to the upcoming 13th national parliamentary election. According to a circular issued by the Department of Off-site Supervision of the central bank, the decision followed a request from the Bangladesh Election Commission Secretariat made earlier on Tuesday. The central bank said the temporary opening will allow candidates to deposit nomination fees and purchase Voter List CDs through bank drafts, pay orders or treasury challans. The directive will apply to all branches of scheduled banks throughout the country. The circular said the move is aimed at supporting the electoral process and ensuring smooth completion of administrative formalities within the stipulated time.

Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) have arrested three more people in connection with the attack on the offices of  The Daily Star and Prothom Alo  in the capital’s Karwan Bazar area. With the latest arrests, the total number of arrestees has risen to 31. The arrestees are Mohammad Jakir Hossain Shanto (29), Mohammad Swapan Mondol (30) and Niaz Mahmud Farhan (21). Quoting the Counter Terrorism and Transnational Crime (CTTC) unit DMP’s DC (Media) Talebur  Rahman on Wednesday evening said Jakir Hossain Shanto was arrested on Tuesday  from Bailey Road area, while Swapan Mondol from Abdullahpur Mor area under Tongi Police Station in Gazipur district. 11 more arrested over attacks on Prothom Alo, The Daily Star offices Meanwhile, a team of the DB Cyber North Division under the DMP  arrested Niaz Mahmud Farhan early Tuesday  during a drive in Bhola district.  The arrestees have been produced before a court, police said.      

The Council of Advisers on Wednesday approved the draft of Bangladesh Telecommunication ((Amendment) Ordinance aimed at improving service quality, strengthening regulatory oversight and preventing the misuse of surveillance powers. The approval came at a meeting of the Council of Advisers chaired by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus at his office, according to an official release. One of the most significant changes under the amendment is a provision stating that internet or telecommunication services cannot be shut down under any circumstances (Section 97). The amendment also restores the independence and accountability of the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) by moving away from the controversial 2010 amendment framework and redefining the balance of authority between the Ministry and the regulator. Under the revised law, only select national-level licenses will require ministerial approval based on independent studies, while all other licensing powers will revert to the BTRC. To enhance oversight, an Accountability Committee chaired by the Chairman of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Posts and Telecommunications has been formed. The amendment also reduces the time required for license approvals and lowers previously high fines and recurring penalties to encourage investment in the telecom sector. Transparency measures have been strengthened, requiring the BTRC to hold public hearings every four months and publish follow-up actions online. Safeguards against conflicts of interest have also been introduced (Section 87). Strong protections against the misuse of personal data have been included. Surveillance or harassment using SIM and device registration information has been made a punishable offense (Section 71). Meanwhile, the controversial “speech offence” provision has been revised to criminalize only incitement to violence, aligning it with the Cyber Security Ordinance 2025 (Section 66A). The amendment introduces new provisions for appeal and arbitration in telecom-related disputes (Section 82B). A major institutional reform is the establishment of the Centre for Information Support (CIS) under the Ministry of Home Affairs (Section 97A), replacing the National Telecommunications Monitoring Centre (NTMC), which has been abolished. The CIS will only provide technical assistance for lawful interception and will not conduct surveillance itself. Lawful interception will be strictly limited to clearly defined circumstances such as national security, maintenance of law and order, urgent life-saving needs, and judicial or investigative purposes, following specific procedures and international best practices. To ensure accountability, the amendment establishes a quasi-judicial council and parliamentary oversight mechanisms. Complaints regarding unlawful interception may be filed with the council, while the Parliamentary Standing Committee will publish an annual public report on interception activities and review related budgets and institutional capacity. The ordinance also includes provisions for image and voice protection, SIM and device data protection, and alignment with international standards set by the United Nations and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU).

The Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) has taken extensive security measures across the country to ensure peaceful celebration of Christmas. It has intensified nationwide intelligence surveillance and deployed an adequate number of personnel since December 23. Sources at the RAB headquarters said its dog squad and bomb disposal unit are conducting round-the-clock sweeping operations at important churches, places of worship and major event venues. Besides, Rab's commando teams have been kept  standby to deal with any emergency situation. Checkposts have been set up at key points including churches and important locations in metropolitan cities, district towns and upazila levels. Besides, necessary reserve forces have been kept ready in all metropolitan areas and important district towns, said a RAB media releaes. RAB’s cyber monitoring teams are maintaining round-the-clock online surveillance to prevent the spread of rumours and false information in the virtual space. CCTV monitoring is being conducted at important churches and event venues by Christmas Celebration Committees. Volunteers appointed by the committees along with on-duty RAB members are carrying out searches. Special measures have also been taken to prevent harassment, eve-teasing and sexual harassment of women attending churches and programmes. RAB battalions are coordinating with local representatives and other law enforcement agencies through their respective control rooms. RAB has requested the public to inform them through hotline: 01777720029  regarding attempts to sabotage or disrupt communal harmony surrounding Christmas. Considering the movement of foreign diplomats, VIPs, prominent Christian community members and clergy during Christmas programmes, RAB said it is ensuring venue security through intelligence-based risk assessment.

Barrister Rumeen Farhana, International Affairs Assistant Secretary of BNP, has collected a nomination form to contest as an independent candidate from the Brahmanbaria-2 constituency in the upcoming 13th national election. Ali Hossain, former Organising Secretary of Sarail Upazila unit Jubo Dal, collected the nomination paper on behalf of Rumeen from Sarail Upazila Nirbahi Office on Wednesday afternoon. A number of former leaders and activists of BNP, Jubo Dal and Chhatra Dal from Sarail and Ashuganj upazilas were present at the time of Rumeen collecting the nomination form. Brahmanbaria-2 constituency consists of Sarail and Ashuganj upazilas and Budhanti and Chandura unions of Bijoynagar upazila. BNP strikes election deal with 7 more partners, reserves 8 seats BNP did not elect any candidates from the constituency as it left this seat for their alliance partner, Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Bangladesh. Maulana Junayed Al Habib, vice president of Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Bangladesh, will contest the seat.      

Members of Rapid Action Battalion (Rab) arrested one more person from Tejgaon area of the capital in connection with the attack, vandalism, looting and arson at the office of The Daily Star in the capital’s Karwan Bazar area. The arrestee was identified as Azmir Hossain Akash, 27, son of Alamgir Hossain of Tejturi Bazar in Tejgaon area of the capital. Tipped off, a team of Rab-3 conducted a drive in the area and arrested Azmir along with two monitors, one CPU, one hard disk, three cables, one switch adaptor and one mouse on Tuesday night. A group of miscreants carried out an attack on the newspaper office on the night of December 18, taking advantage of unrest in Shahbagh and Karwan Bazar areas following the death of Osman Hadi, a spokesperson of Inquilab Moncho. The attackers vandalised the premises, looted valuables from The Daily Star office and later set fire to parts of the building. Police have collected CCTV footage from the scenes and launched multiple drives to identify and arrest those involved, they added. A case was filed with Tejgaon Police Station in connection with the incident. According to the case statement, the attackers carrying local weapons, sticks, and flammable materials, gathered outside The Daily Star building around 12:25am and chanted provocative slogans against the newspaper. Around 12:35am, the group forcibly broke steel gates and glass doors to enter the premises. They assaulted staff, vandalised office property, looted valuables, and set fire to furniture and documents. More than 200 computers, laptops, cameras, printers, and other electronic equipment were damaged or destroyed. Besides, around Tk 35 lakh in cash stored in several lockers was looted. The assailants set fire to the ground, second, and third floors of the building, severely damaging assets and documents. After the attack, the Daily Star was forced to suspend its print edition on December 19, and its online operations were halted for 17 hours, it added.

National Citizen Party (NCP) on Wednesday urged the Election Commission (EC) to reconsider the dates for the submission of nomination papers and withdrawal of candidacies, keeping the voting date unchanged for the upcoming national election and the referendum scheduled for February 12. “They have given us several dates — when nomination papers will be submitted and when the candidacy can be withdrawn. We requested them today (Wednesday) to think about whether these dates can be reconsidered," NCP Chief Coordinator Nasiruddin Patwary told reporters after a meeting between a NCP delegation and Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin at the latter’s office in the city. The Election Commission on December 11 announced the schedule to hold the 13th parliamentary election and the referendum on the July National Charter (Constitutional Reform) Implementation Order on February 12 next. According to the announced schedule, the last date for submission of nomination papers is December 29, the scrutiny of nomination papers will be held from December 30 to January 4, while the last date for withdrawal of candidature is January 20. The election campaign will start on January 22 and continue till 48 hours before the balloting period (7:30am on February 10). Patwary alleged that the Awami League, in different ways, along with India, is trying to destabilise Bangladesh in an attempt to delay the election. “The Election Commission wants to organise the election on February 12. From the National Citizen Party, we have said that this announced date must not be postponed and that the election should be held on time. Because the Awami League, in different ways, and India, are trying to destabilise Bangladesh to delay the election. We asked the Election Commission today to ensure that the election is held on schedule,” he said. Replying to a question if there are any concerns regarding the February 12 elections, he said there are concerns in Bangladesh, but NCP repeatedly urged the Election Commission to ensure that the election is held on February 12. “We have asked the Election Commission not to make any small mistakes that could cause the (polling) date to be postponed. Today, we requested whether the nomination papers related dates could be reconsidered,” he said. Asked whether NCP candidates would contest the election using any other party’s symbol, the NCP leader said they will not contest using any other symbol. “We’ve formed an electoral alliance, but we will contest the election with the ‘Shapla Kali’ (Water Lily Bud) symbol. We will urge other parties not to sell off their own distinct identity. There may not be opportunities today, but opportunities will come in the future,” he said. ​​​​​​​NCP backs restoring political rights of ordinary AL supporters: Nahid In reply to a question if NCP has any doubts or concerns regarding the election, Nasiruddin said they do have concerns as one aspirant has already been killed. “We have instructed our candidates to follow the Election Commission rules. At the same time, we have told the Election Commission to ensure security for candidates of all parties,” he said. NCP Joint Member Secretary Zahirul Islam Musa was present at the time.  

Today is Wednesday, Dec. 24, the 358th day of 2025. There are seven days left in the year. This is Christmas Eve. Today in history: On Dec. 24, 1914, during World War I, impromptu Christmas truces began to take hold along parts of the Western Front, principally between British and German soldiers but also involving French troops. Also on this date: In 1814, the United States and Britain signed the Treaty of Ghent, which would end the War of 1812 following ratification by both the British Parliament and the U.S. Senate. In 1851, fire devastated the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C., destroying about 35,000 volumes (about two-thirds of the library’s collection). In 1865, several veterans of the Confederate Army formed a private social club in Pulaski, Tennessee, that was the original version of the Ku Klux Klan. In 1913, 73 people, most of them children, died in a crush of panic after a false cry of “Fire!” during a Christmas party for striking miners and their families at the Italian Hall in Calumet, Michigan. In 1943, President Franklin D. Roosevelt appointed Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower supreme commander of Allied forces in Europe. In 1992, President George H.W. Bush pardoned former Defense Secretary Caspar Weinberger and five others in the Iran-Contra scandal. In 2013, Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II granted a posthumous pardon to code-breaker Alan Turing, who was criminally convicted of homosexual behavior in the 1950s. In 2018, a series of explosions ripped through fireworks workshops in Tultepec, a town just north of Mexico City, leaving at least 24 people dead and dozens injured. In 2024, NASA's Parker Solar Probe survived its record-breaking closest approach to the sun, hurtling 3.8 million miles above its fiery surface. Since its 2018 launch, the probe has completed numerous other close fly-bys to observe solar wind and other events. Today’s Birthdays: Immunologist Dr. Anthony Fauci is 85. Filmmaker Lee Daniels is 66. Basketball Hall of Fame coach Jay Wright is 64. Singer Ricky Martin is 54. Novelist and film producer Stephenie Meyer is 52. TV host Ryan Seacrest is 51. Rock singer Louis Tomlinson (One Direction) is 34.

At least two people were killed after a powerful explosion tore through a nursing home near Philadelphia on Tuesday, collapsing part of the building, triggering a major fire and trapping residents inside, authorities said. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro said emergency responders rushed into the burning Bristol Health & Rehab Center in Bristol Township despite intense flames, a strong smell of gas and a secondary explosion, rescuing residents and staff. Fire officials said crews remained in “rescue mode” hours later, using search dogs, heavy equipment and sonar technology to locate possible victims. As of Tuesday evening, five people were still unaccounted for, though officials cautioned some may have left with family members. The blast occurred shortly after a utility crew arrived at the facility to investigate reports of a gas odor. While a gas leak is believed to be the cause, Shapiro said the finding remains preliminary. Fire Chief Kevin Dippolito described chaotic rescue efforts, with firefighters pulling residents from windows, stairwells and elevator shafts. Two people were rescued from a collapsed section of the building. Authorities have not released the identities of the victims or confirmed the number of injured. The 174-bed facility, formerly known as Silver Lake Healthcare Center, had recently been cited for safety violations during a state inspection. Investigations into the cause of the explosion are ongoing.  

Guineans are set to vote on Sunday in the country’s first presidential election since the military seized power in a 2021 coup, with analysts widely expecting junta leader Gen. Mamadi Doumbouya to secure victory amid a weakened opposition. Doumbouya, who overthrew longtime president Alpha Condé, is seeking a seven-year term under a new constitution that allows military leaders to run for office and extends the presidential mandate from five to seven years. Critics say the vote is taking place in a tightly controlled political environment that favors the incumbent. About 6.7 million registered voters are expected to cast ballots at around 24,000 polling stations nationwide. Results are anticipated within 48 hours, with a runoff planned if no candidate wins a majority. The regional bloc ECOWAS has deployed election observers. Nine candidates are contesting the race, but Doumbouya faces little-known challenger Yero Baldé, a former education minister. Several prominent opposition figures were either barred on technical grounds or forced into exile, further weakening competition. Rights groups and activists say Guinea has seen growing restrictions since the coup, including the silencing of civil society leaders, censorship of the press and the dissolution of more than 50 political parties last year. Many voters remain skeptical. Political analyst Alioune Tine said the election appears designed to legitimize military rule rather than restore democracy. Some residents in the capital, Conakry, have vowed not to vote, calling the process unfair. Despite criticism, Doumbouya retains support among segments of the population who credit him with infrastructure development and reform efforts. His campaign highlights major projects, including the Simandou iron ore mine, which began production last month and is being promoted as a driver of economic transformation and job creation. With state backing and extensive media coverage, Doumbouya’s campaign has dominated the race, leaving rivals with limited visibility and resources.

The European Union has warned it may take action against what it called “unjustified measures” after the United States barred five European nationals accused of pressuring US technology companies to censor American viewpoints. The warning came Wednesday from the European Commission after US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced travel restrictions against the five, whom he described as “radical” activists linked to “weaponized” nongovernmental organisations. Among them is former EU commissioner Thierry Breton, who previously oversaw Europe’s digital and social media regulations. Breton, a former French finance minister, clashed publicly last year with tech billionaire Elon Musk over content moderation and an online interview with Donald Trump ahead of the US election. In a statement, the European Commission strongly condemned the US decision, said it had sought clarification, and stressed it would act “swiftly and decisively” if necessary to protect the EU’s regulatory independence. French President Emmanuel Macron also criticised the move, calling it an attempt to intimidate Europe and undermine its digital sovereignty. Rubio said on social media that European ideologues had long tried to coerce American platforms into suppressing views they oppose, adding that the Trump administration would no longer tolerate what it called “extraterritorial censorship.” The Commission countered that the EU has the sovereign right to regulate its digital market in line with democratic values, insisting its rules ensure fair competition and user safety without discrimination or targeting any country. The visa bans fall under a policy announced in May to restrict entry for foreigners accused of censoring protected speech in the US. The other barred individuals include Imran Ahmed of the Centre for Countering Digital Hate, German activists Josephine Ballon and Anna-Lena von Hodenberg of HateAid, and Clare Melford of the Global Disinformation Index. Breton responded by noting that the EU’s Digital Services Act was approved democratically by all 27 member states, saying censorship “isn’t where you think it is.”

The Christian community will celebrate Christmas in the country as elsewhere across the world on Thursday, commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ. Christmas, the biggest religious festival of the Christian community, is the celebration of rebirth, new beginning, forgiveness and peace, and renewing relationship with God and human beings. The celebrations of the Christmas Day feature decoration of Christmas trees with colourful lights, special prayers, and distribution of gifts among children and exchange of pleasantries. Christmas carols and hymns will be sung before and after the prayer sessions at the churches. Bangladesh Television and Bangladesh Betar and different private TV channels and radio stations are supposed to air special programmes. President Mohammed Shahabuddin and Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus have issued separate messages on the eve of Christmas. In his message, President Sahabuddin said learning from the ideals and teachings of Jesus Christ, everyone, regardless of religion or caste, must work together for the welfare of the country and its people. Bangladesh is a land of communal harmony where people of all religions have been freely observing their own faiths and rituals, he said. The President urged all to further strengthen the existing communal harmony and join in the march towards building a modern and developed Bangladesh. Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus said Jesus was always devoted to serving the distressed, neglected, and hungry, and preached the values of forgiveness, love, and devotion until his death. His life and noble character continue to serve as an enduring example for his devotees and followers, he said. He said Bangladesh is a shining example of communal harmony where people have, for generations, maintained peaceful coexistence by respecting different religions, cultures, and rituals. Prof Yunus expressed hope that celebrating Christmas with due dignity and enthusiasm would further strengthen this bond of harmony. “The current government is working to build a non-discriminatory, just, and prosperous Bangladesh for all, regardless of religion, caste, or community,” he added. The Chief Adviser called upon all Christians to come forward inspired by the great ideals of patriotism and humanity to help realise the dream of a new Bangladesh. Prof Yunus also extended his heartfelt greetings to all followers of the Christian faith on the occasion of Christmas. Meanwhile, police have taken special security measures ahead of the celebration of Christmas. Earlier in a meeting on Dec 17 on security and law and order, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Bangladesh Baharul Alam said Christmas is a universal festival and emphasized that the police would remain alert throughout the celebrations. He expressed hope that with the capabilities of Bangladesh Police, both Christmas and New Year’s Eve would be celebrated in a peaceful environment. Security will also be heightened in all tourist areas including Cox’s Bazar and Kuakata. Authorities said action would be taken against anyone who honks loudly or drives recklessly on the roads. People are urged to contact the National Emergency Service 999 or their nearest beat police officer in case of any emergency.  

The country’s two stock exchanges will remain closed for three consecutive days from Thursday due to Christmas and the weekly holidays. The Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) and Chittagong Stock Exchange (CSE) said trading will be suspended on Thursday in observance of the government-declared general holiday for Christmas, the major religious festival of the Christian community. During this period, all capital market activities, including share trading, clearing, and settlement, will be halted. The Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission (BSEC) will also keep its official activities closed on Thursday. Banks to remain open Saturday for election-related transactions As Friday and Saturday are weekly public holidays, there will be no trading in the stock market for three straight days—from Thursday to Saturday. Normal trading and banking operations will resume on Sunday (December 28) after the holidays.

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami on Wednesday told the Election Commission (EC) that providing VVIP facilities to someone while denying theses to others is the violation of a level playing field in the election. “If someone gets many facilities, even VVIP facilities, while others do not, that cannot be called a level playing field,” said Jamaat-e-Islami Assistant Secretary General Ahsanul Mahboob Zubair while briefing reporters after a meeting with Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin. A three-member Jamaat delegation met the CEC in the afternoon at Nirbachon Bhaban in the city. The Jamaat leader said their leaders who are playing roles in the election, including the Ameer-e-Jamaat, the Secretary General and other central and top leaders, will conduct extensive tours in different areas. “They will need to travel massively. We have drawn attention to their security issues.” Read more: Jamaat-e-Islami backs Inqilab Moncho’s 24-hour ultimatum for Hadi killers He said the Election Commission told them that the issue falls under the jurisdiction of the relevant ministry and the EC would talk to it and take necessary initiatives from its side. Ahsanul Mahboob Zubair said a big party is violating the election code of conduct and they (Jamaat) sought immediate steps in this regard. “You may have seen various types of cards issued by a big party. We have seen those mainly through journalist friends. They are making different promises. They will distribute so many lakhs or crores of cards. They are promising that cardholders will receive thousands or lakhs of taka per card. These acts are clear violations of the election rules and the code of conduct,” he said. The Jamaat leader said they told the Commission to take action in this regard. “We have drawn their attention and urged them to take immediate measures.” Replying to a question, Ahsanul Mahboob said cards are being distributed by a big party. “They are saying 50 crore cards will be given. Each person will receive lakhs of taka.” He said they asked the EC to install CCTV cameras at polling stations as it is very important for ensuring a free and fair election. Read more: Govt welcomes Tarique Rahman’s return, assures full cooperation  “If CCTV cameras are not installed, we believe terrorists and those with ill intentions will get a major opportunity to disrupt and sabotage the election. If CCTV cameras are there, we hope that opportunity will no longer exist,” he added. The Jamaat leader said they also discussed the overall law and order situation and recommended recovery of illegal arms and the arrest of listed criminals.

The Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) has been identified as the most corruption-prone public service office in the country, according to the Citizen Perception Survey (CPS) 2025, released by the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS). The survey found that 63.29 percent of citizens who sought services from BRTA experienced corruption. BRTA was followed by law enforcement agencies (57.96 percent) and passport offices (57.45 percent) on the corruption list. The report was unveiled on Wednesday at the BBS auditorium in Agargaon, Dhaka. According to the survey, 31.67 percent of respondents admitted to having paid bribes directly while receiving government services in the past 12 months. Read more: BRTA chairman wants to see accident-free roads The rate of bribery was significantly higher among men (38.62 percent) compared to women (22.71 percent). An overwhelming 98.48 percent of respondents reported paying bribes in cash. BBS conducted the nationwide CPS between February 6 and 23, 2025, covering 64 districts. Data were collected through interviews with 84,807 respondents aged 18 and above (39,894 men and 44,913 women) from 45,888 households across 1,920 Primary Sampling Units (PSUs). The findings show that 63.29 percent of respondents who interacted with BRTA officials admitted to paying bribes to receive services, making it the most corruption-prone government office among those surveyed, while the least bribery was recorded in government and autonomous banks and insurance offices (2.98 percent), public educational institutions (2.94 percent), and the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) itself, which stood at 1.99 percent. Law enforcement agencies ranked second, where 61.94 percent of service recipients said they had to pay bribes. This was followed by the passport office at 57.45 percent and the land registry (cadastre) office at 54.92 percent, highlighting persistent corruption in citizen-facing and documentation-related services. Read more: Road crashes claim 380 lives in July: BRTA More than half of the respondents also reported bribery in interactions with judges, magistrates, prosecutors and other legal officials (53.77 percent), and the land record, acquisition and settlement offices (51.40 percent). At the mid-range, bribery was reported by 44.68 percent of respondents dealing with accounts offices, while customs, excise, and VAT offices recorded 35.37 percent. Local government offices at the union parishad, pourashava, and upazila levels stood at 32.91 percent, followed by district and upazila election offices at 26.04 percent. Lower levels of bribery were reported in social security and welfare offices (19.20 percent) and public utility services such as electricity, water and gas (18.41 percent). Interactions with elected local government representatives (14.94 percent) and income tax or revenue offices (14.08 percent) showed relatively lower but still notable corruption. Bribery incidence was lowest in the district and upazila administration (11.33 percent), agricultural offices (9.07 percent), and among public healthcare providers, including doctors and nurses (8.05 percent). Only 7.91 percent reported bribery involving elected Members of Parliament. The data underscore deep-rooted governance challenges, particularly in transport, law enforcement and land-related services, where citizens’ dependence on officials continues to fuel informal payments despite ongoing reform efforts. The survey assessed progress on six indicators of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 16, based on citizens’ perceptions and experiences related to security, good governance, quality of public services, corruption, access to justice, and discrimination. Read more: CNG drivers block road outside BRTA prompting Mohakhali-Uttara tailback Nationally, the average household size was four members, with 81.97 percent male-headed households and 18.03 percent female-headed households. On security, 84.81 percent of citizens reported feeling safe walking alone in their neighbourhoods after sunset while the sense of safety was lower among women (80.67 percent) compared to men (89.53 percent). The feeling of safety inside one’s home after dark was higher at 92.54 percent. In terms of governance, only 27.24 percent of citizens believed they could influence government decisions, while this figure dropped to 21.99 percent regarding political decision-making. Nationally, about 24.62 percent of respondents felt that the country’s political system is inclusive and responsive, with little difference between rural (24.47 percent) and urban (24.91 percent) areas. Regarding public service delivery over the past year, 47.12 percent of respondents accessed government health services, while 40.93 percent reported that at least one of their children attended a government primary or secondary school. Besides, 73.77 percent sought other government services such as identity cards or civil registration. Satisfaction levels varied across services: 72.69 percent for healthcare, 81.56 percent for primary education, 78.18 percent for secondary education, and 66.91 percent for other government services. The survey also found that 16.16 percent of citizens experienced disputes or conflicts in the past two years. Among them, 83.60 percent had access to some form of dispute resolution, either formal (such as courts) or informal (such as community leaders). Of these, 41.34 percent used formal institutions, while 68.96 percent relied on informal mechanisms. On discrimination, 19.31 percent of respondents reported experiencing some form of discrimination. Read more: BRTA provides financial assistance to families of road crash victims in Joypurhat The main bases were socio-economic status (6.82 percent) and gender (4.47 percent). Incidents occurred most frequently within families (49.72 percent), in public transport or open spaces (34.82 percent), and at workplaces (24.85 percent). Only 5.37 percent of victims reported such incidents to the authorities.

Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam on Wednesday reiterated government’s position, mentioning that Bangladesh Awami League will not be able to participate in the next national election scheduled for February 12. “Regarding Awami League, our position is clear,” he said, adding that AL activities and its registration as a political party are suspended. For this reason, Alam told reporters at the Foreign Service Academy, the AL will not be able to participate in the upcoming election. The Press Secretary made the remarks when his attention was drawn regarding the letter written to Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus by five US lawmakers on the importance of “inclusive, free and fair elections” on December 23.  Alam said he did not see the letter and is not aware of it. “At least I did not see the letter. I am not aware of the letter.” Representatives Gregory W. Meeks, Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and Bill Huizenga and Sydney Kamlager-Dove, Chair and Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on South and Central Asia, sent a letter to Prof Yunus, expressing concern over the ‘total ban of a political party’ ahead of elections in February. Cosigners of the letter include Rep. Julie Johnson and Tom Suozzi. Ultimately, they said, the Bangladeshi people deserve to be able to choose an elected government in a free and fair election in which all political parties can participate so that their voices are represented. They mentioned that Bangladesh is a critical partner for the United States, and they stand ready to work with Prof Yunus and his government to support both their bilateral relationship and Bangladesh’s democratic transition in the months ahead. “We welcome your willingness to step forward at a moment of national crisis in Bangladesh to lead an interim government ahead of elections in February of next year. It is vital that the interim government work with parties across the political spectrum to create the conditions for free and fair elections that allow the voice of the Bangladeshi people to be expressed peacefully through the ballot box, as well as reforms that restore confidence in the integrity and nonpartisanship of state institutions,” the letter reads. Prothom Alo, Daily Star attackers to be brought to book: Press Secretary They said they are concerned that this cannot happen if the government suspends activities of political parties or again restarts the flawed International Crimes Tribunal. “Freedom of association, as well as the principle of individual rather than collective criminal responsibility, are fundamental human rights. We are concerned that the decision to fully suspend the activity of any one political party, rather than focus on persons determined to have committed crimes or gross violations of human rights through the due process of law, is inconsistent with those principles,” the letter reads.

Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam on Wednesday said all those involved in the recent attacks on Prothom Alo and The Daily Star offices would be brought to book. Thirty-one people have so far been arrested in connection with the attacks, seeing videos and other visuals, he told a media briefing at the Foreign Service Academy in the capital. The Press Secretary said cases have been filed under the Penal Code as well as other relevant laws and action would be taken against everyone involved. Mob attacks on leading media outlets and cultural centres in Bangladesh were widely condemned at home and abroad while a UN expert on Tuesday said these are deeply alarming and must be investigated promptly and effectively by the government and the perpetrators brought to justice without delay. 11 more arrested over attacks on Prothom Alo, The Daily Star offices “I strongly condemn the targeted killing of an inspiring leader as well as the orchestrated mob violence against independent journalists and artists which followed the announcement of his death,” said Irene Khan, the Special Rapporteur on the freedom of expression and opinion. “The weaponisation of public anger against journalists and artists is dangerous at any time, and especially now as the country prepares for elections. It could have a chilling effect on media freedom, minority voices and dissenting views with serious consequences for democracy,” Khan said.    

International Crimes Tribunal-1 on Wednesday ordered commencement of  trial against four people including ex-BGB officer Lieutenant Colonel Redwanul Islam in connection with the killing of 28 people in Rampura during July-August Movement. The three-member tribunal led by Chairman Justice Md Golam Mortuza Majumder framed charges against them and passed the order. The other accused are ex- BGB Major Md Rafat Bin Alam, additional deputy commissioner of DMP Khilgaon zone Rashedul Islam and former Officer-in-Charge of Rampura police station Mashiur Rahman. Among them Major Rafat was produced before the court from Dhaka Cantonment sub-jail. Earlier on October 22, the two former BGB personnel were produced before the court. Ex-DMP Commissioner, 7 other policemen indicted in Chankharpool mass killing Later they were sent to jail after showing them arrested in the case. Earlier, prosecutor Faruk Ahmed brought charges against the four people. According to the prosecution, 28 people were killed and several others injured in Rampura area by members of law enforcement agencies during the July uprising.  

Venezuela’s parliament on Tuesday approved a measure that criminalizes a wide range of activities that disrupt navigation and commerce, including the seizure of oil tankers, in a move seen as a response to U.S. actions against the country. The bill, debated and approved within two days in the National Assembly, follows this month’s U.S. seizures of two tankers carrying Venezuelan oil in international waters, part of President Donald Trump’s four-month campaign to pressure Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro. The U.S. has said the vessels are part of a fleet used by Venezuela to bypass economic sanctions. Although the National Assembly, controlled by Maduro’s party, did not immediately publish the full text, the measure provides fines and prison sentences of up to 20 years for anyone who “promotes, requests, supports, finances or participates in acts of piracy, blockades or other international illegal acts” against commercial entities doing business with Venezuela. The bill, awaiting Maduro’s signature, also directs the executive branch to develop “incentives and mechanisms for economic, commercial and other protections” for national or foreign entities affected by piracy, maritime blockades, or other unlawful acts. Venezuela’s political opposition, including Nobel Peace laureate María Corina Machado, has expressed support for U.S. measures, saying Maduro’s days in power are numbered. Earlier this month, the U.S. Coast Guard seized a Panama-flagged tanker, Centuries, and, with Navy support, another vessel, Skipper, alleging they were transporting sanctioned Venezuelan oil. Following the first seizure, Trump announced a “blockade” of Venezuela and demanded the return of assets previously seized from U.S. oil companies. At a U.N. Security Council meeting called by Venezuela, U.S. Ambassador Mike Waltz described sanctioned tankers as Maduro’s primary economic lifeline, funding “narco-terrorist activities” and the Cartel de los Soles. Maduro was indicted in 2020 in the U.S. on narcoterrorism charges linked to the cartel, a network of high-ranking Venezuelan officials involved in drug and fuel trafficking. Venezuela’s U.N. Ambassador Samuel Moncada accused the U.S. of acting outside international and domestic law, calling the seizures a “military act” aimed at crippling the country’s economy and social cohesion. The move has raised concerns globally over potential violations of international maritime law, with most U.N. member states stressing the importance of respecting sovereignty and territorial integrity, though a few countries, including Panama and Argentina, have supported U.S. actions.

Hundreds of worshippers gathered Tuesday at Mar Elias Church in Syria to mark Christmas and honor 25 people killed in a June suicide attack, reaffirming their faith amid lingering fears. A small security detail stood guard as congregants held Mass and lit a neon Christmas tree on the church courtyard wall, adorned with photos of the victims. Among those remembered were three men celebrated as heroes for tackling the bomber, potentially saving many lives. The attacker opened fire and detonated an explosive vest inside the Greek Orthodox church on June 22, killing worshippers during Sunday prayers. Brothers Boutros and Gergis Bechara and congregant Milad Haddad confronted the bomber, pushing him away from the main congregation before the explosion. “If it weren’t for the three of them, maybe not one person would remain out of 400 people,” said Imad Haddad, Milad Haddad’s brother. He described attending the Christmas tree lighting as “a message of peace and love” and proof of the congregation’s resilience. Thana al-Masoud, widow of Boutros Bechara, said she takes comfort believing her husband and the others are martyrs. “Our Lord chose them to be saints and to spread His word to all the world,” she said, while acknowledging the pain of their loss. The June attack, blamed on an Islamic State cell, heightened fears among Syria’s Christian minority, which once made up about 10% of the population. Many fled during the 14-year civil war marked by sectarian violence and attacks on religious communities. Despite the trauma, some congregants say their faith has grown stronger. “Our God is present, and He was present in the church,” said Hadi Kindarji, recalling a spiritual experience during the explosion. Mar Elias priest Yohanna Shehadeh acknowledged ongoing fears but said the congregation prays for peace as Christmas approaches.    

Three people, including two police officers, were killed Wednesday in an explosion in Moscow, Russian investigators said, just days after a car bomb killed a senior general nearby. The two traffic police officers were approaching a “suspicious individual” when an explosive device detonated, Investigative Committee spokesperson Svetlana Petrenko said. The officers and a bystander standing nearby died from their injuries. Investigators and forensic teams are working at the scene, Petrenko added. The incident occurred in the same area where Lt. Gen. Fanil Sarvarov, head of the Operational Training Directorate of the Russian Armed Forces’ General Staff, was killed by a car bomb on Monday morning. Russian investigators have suggested that Ukraine may have been behind Sarvarov’s killing, marking the third targeted death of a senior Russian military officer in just over a year.

Colombia’s government has declared an economic state of emergency, allowing President Gustavo Petro’s administration to impose taxes by decree as the country faces rising debts and the need to fund hospitals and the military. Petro issued the decree late Monday after his administration failed to secure congressional approval for a tax bill that would have raised $4 billion for the 2026 budget, a year of presidential and congressional elections. Public spending under Petro, elected in 2022, has surged beyond levels seen during the pandemic, with the national budget reaching approximately $134 billion in 2025. The decree cites the need for funds to cover fuel subsidies, health insurance payments, and about $700 million in military-related infrastructure to counter drone attacks from rebel groups. The government has not yet published the specific taxes to be imposed. Leaked documents reported by local media indicate plans for new wealth taxes on businesses and individuals, as well as higher sales taxes on alcohol, including rum and wine. Business groups have criticized the decree as authoritarian and a way to bypass Congress. Bruce Mac Master, president of Colombia’s National Association of Industrialists, called it a “flagrant abuse of the rule of law” on social media. Many analysts expect the Constitutional Court to overturn the decree, noting that Colombian law allows a state of economic emergency only in cases of “grave, imminent and unexpected” threats to the economy. Jorge Restrepo, an economics professor at Bogota’s Javeriana University, said it will be difficult for the government to justify the decree. “This was not an unexpected situation … like a war or natural disaster,” he said, referring to the budget deficit. “We knew there was a fiscal crisis brewing since the middle of last year.”  

Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) on Wednesday reported irregularities amounting to Tk 2,926.88 crore in six government and IPP-based solar power projects implemented between October 2010 and October 2025. The findings were disclosed at a press conference held at the MIDAS Centre in Dhanmondi, where TIB unveiled its research report titled ‘Electricity Generation from Renewable Energy in Bangladesh: Governance Challenges and Ways Forward’. The six solar power projects recorded an average cost of Tk 13.08 crore per megawatt—against the standard Tk 8 crore, resulting in excess expenditure of Tk 2,926.88 crore, according to the study. The research report was jointly presented by TIB’s Energy Governance Coordinator Newazul Mowla and Assistant Coordinator Ashna Islam. They said the projects involved not only inflated costs but also irregularities in land acquisition. Agricultural land was reportedly shown as non-agricultural, and land prices were exaggerated. Besides, the per-unit electricity cost quoted for these projects was several times higher than comparable costs in neighbouring countries such as India, China and Pakistan. The report pointed to a lack of transparency in procurement and tendering processes in the renewable energy sector, along with multiple irregularities in price determination. These factors, it said, have directly influenced electricity tariffs and significantly increased overall project costs. TIB also highlighted Bangladesh’s heavy dependence on foreign technology in renewable energy development. Insufficient government investment, bureaucratic complexities, and the deliberate weakening of the Sustainable and Renewable Energy Development Authority (SREDA) were identified as major obstacles to sectoral growth. Overall, renewable energy continues to receive far lower policy priority than fossil fuels, despite existing policy and legal provisions, which themselves remain weak and inadequate. Bangladesh’s installed power generation capacity currently stands at 28,616 megawatts, of which only 1,314 megawatts come from renewable sources. Between 2010 and 2023, nearly USD 30 billion (about Tk 3.3 lakh crore) in foreign investment flowed into the country’s power sector, but 96.7 percent went to fossil fuel-based projects, while only 3.3 percent was allocated to renewable energy. If this trend continues, achieving 100 percent renewable energy by 2050 will be at serious risk, the report warned. The study found that energy policies and plans have failed to give renewable energy adequate priority. Inconsistencies, discrepancies and lack of coordination in renewable energy targets pose major challenges to achieving time-bound goals. It said ambitious electricity demand targets were set in the Power System Master Plan without sufficient analysis of ground realities, capacities and existing frameworks. At the same time, renewable energy targets were not aligned with national and international commitments and pledges, creating a significant policy mismatch. The research also flagged risks of undue influence on government policymaking and planning due to investment-related interests of development partners. Bangladesh’s energy sector remains heavily shaped by fossil fuel-centric policies, resulting in excessive subsidies and capacity payments that waste state resources. In contrast, inadequate incentives for renewable energy and privatisation policies risk allowing the sector to be dominated by corporate interests. Speaking at the event, TIB Executive Director Dr Iftekharuzzaman said renewable energy has never received due policy priority in Bangladesh, significantly reducing the likelihood of achieving the country’s renewable energy targets by 2050. “Bangladesh currently depends on fossil fuels for around 95 percent of its energy, while reliance on renewable energy is just over 4 percent. This clearly shows that the renewable energy sector has been consistently neglected,” he said. He said there are widespread inconsistencies and ambiguities in energy policies, strategies and planning. The power sector’s master plan is largely based on fossil fuels, leaving renewable energy sidelined. Dr Iftekharuzzaman also criticised the emphasis on so-called ‘clean energy’ as a way of projecting a transition, calling it untested and misleading. To ensure transparency and accountability in the renewable energy sector, TIB recommended the formation of an independent oversight and regulatory commission comprising experts and representatives from civil society.  

The U.S. Justice Department has released tens of thousands of new documents related to Jeffrey Epstein, the latest and largest tranche of files on the late financier and convicted sex offender. The documents include multiple mentions of President Donald Trump but provide little new information, officials said. Many references to Trump come from news clippings, though one email from a federal prosecutor highlighted that Trump flew on Epstein’s private jet more often than previously reported in the 1990s. Trump and Epstein were friends for years, but the president has not been accused of wrongdoing in connection with Epstein. The Justice Department said some documents contained “untrue and sensationalist claims” about Trump made shortly before the 2020 election. One alleged letter from Epstein to convicted sports doctor Larry Nassar was confirmed as fake. The latest release shows Trump listed on at least eight flights between 1993 and 1996, with co-passenger Ghislaine Maxwell on some trips. Other files revealed that Mar-a-Lago was subpoenaed in 2021 for employment records. Trump dismissed the files as a distraction from his administration’s work and criticized the release of photos showing him with Epstein alongside other well-known figures. Other high-profile names in the files include former President Bill Clinton, the late pop star Michael Jackson, singer Diana Ross, and the U.K.’s Prince Andrew. The documents include correspondence suggesting Andrew was in contact with Maxwell, though he denies any wrongdoing. Monday’s release is the largest so far, adding nearly 30,000 pages of news clippings, law enforcement tips, and surveillance videos from Epstein’s New York jail. Many materials were already publicly known. Officials said the staged release aims to protect victims, though some have called for full transparency. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said the documents still leave “more questions than answers,” pointing to mentions of 10 potential co-conspirators with few additional details.    

President Donald Trump’s newly appointed envoy to Greenland said Tuesday the U.S. is seeking dialogue with residents of the semi-autonomous Danish territory, and is not aiming to seize or control the strategically important Arctic island. Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry, speaking publicly for the first time since his appointment, stressed that the administration will not “go in there trying to conquer anybody” or take over another country. Landry’s remarks appeared to contrast with Trump’s repeated statements advocating U.S. control over Greenland for security reasons, including the possibility of military involvement to secure the mineral-rich island. “We should be talking to the Greenlanders directly,” Landry said on Fox News’ “The Will Cain Show.” “What are they looking for? What opportunities have they not received? Why haven’t they gotten the protection they deserve?” Trump’s appointment of Landry has again raised concerns in Denmark and across Europe. Danish officials said they would summon the U.S. ambassador to discuss the issue. “National borders and the sovereignty of states are rooted in international law,” Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen and Greenlandic Premier Jens-Frederik Nielsen said in a joint statement Monday. “You cannot annex another country, even under the guise of international security.” Trump had previously called for U.S. jurisdiction over Greenland during his presidential transition and early second term. Vice President JD Vance visited a U.S. military base on the island in March, criticizing Denmark for under-investment. The issue resurfaced in August after Danish officials reported covert influence operations in Greenland linked to Trump associates. Danish authorities said the U.S. administration gave no advance notice of Landry’s appointment, and Congress has yet to receive details. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, top Democrat on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, criticized the timing of the move. “Greenland’s sovereignty is not up for debate,” she said. “Denmark is a critical NATO ally that has stood side by side with the U.S.”  

The elevated expressway in the airport area will remain toll-free for the general people for four hours on Thursday. Vehicles entering Dhaka city through the airport area elevated expressway will not have to pay any toll from 11 am to 3 pm, according to the Chief Adviser’s press wing.    

The United States and Ukraine have reached agreement on most elements of a proposed peace framework aimed at ending the nearly four-year war, but sharp differences remain over territorial control in eastern Ukraine and the future management of the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said. Zelenskyy said a 20-point draft plan, prepared after lengthy talks in Florida, has been shared by the US with Russian negotiators. Moscow is expected to respond on Wednesday. Briefing reporters, the Ukrainian leader said the proposal largely reflects Kyiv’s positions and combines political and economic measures to ensure security while supporting post-war recovery. However, he described disputes over Donetsk territory and the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant as the most difficult issues, to be decided at the leaders’ level. Russia continues to demand that Ukraine give up remaining parts of the Donbas region it does not control, a demand Kyiv has rejected. Moscow currently occupies most of Luhansk and about 70 percent of Donetsk. To bridge differences, the US has suggested turning contested areas into free economic zones. Ukraine insists any such arrangement must be approved through a referendum, along with demilitarization of the area and deployment of international forces to maintain stability. Zelenskyy said no consensus has yet been reached with Washington on Donetsk or the Zaporizhzhia plant, though agreement has been found on most other points. Under the draft, the current contact line across five regions would be frozen once an agreement is signed. Ukraine proposes a 60-day ceasefire period to allow time for a referendum on any free economic zone. The plan also calls for Russian troops to withdraw from Dnipropetrovsk, Mykolaiv, Sumy and Kharkiv regions, with international forces stationed along the contact line to monitor compliance. The Zaporizhzhia plant remains another major sticking point. The US has proposed joint operation involving Ukraine, the US and Russia, each with equal shares. Kyiv has countered with a joint venture with the US, allowing Washington to decide how its share would be distributed. Zelenskyy said billions of dollars would be needed to restore the plant and related infrastructure. The draft also includes strong security guarantees for Ukraine, similar to NATO’s Article 5, to be detailed in a separate bilateral agreement with the US. Monitoring mechanisms would rely on satellite and early warning systems. Other provisions include maintaining Ukraine’s armed forces at 800,000 in peacetime, fixing a timeline for EU accession, accelerating a US-Ukraine free trade agreement, and launching a large reconstruction and development package aimed at mobilising up to $800 billion. The proposal also envisages elections in Ukraine after the agreement is signed, as well as the release of all prisoners held since 2014 and the return of civilian detainees and children to Ukraine.  

Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam on Wednesday said the government welcomes BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman’s scheduled homecoming on Thursday morning, affirming that all cooperation sought by his party is being extended with necessary security measures in place. "We welcome his return," he told reporters while responding to a question at a media briefing at the Foreign Service Academy in the capital. In terms of security, Alam said, things are being looked after in consultation with BNP keeping in mind what the party wants.   "From our part, we have the highest effort," said the Press Secretary, stressing that required security measures have been taken from the government side. Homebound Finally: Tarique set to arrive in Dhaka on Thursday morning Senior Assistant Press Secretary Foyez Ahmmad was also present. Regarding youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi's killers, Press Secretary Alam said the government is working with the highest priority in this regard.   "We are getting some vital clues. We have the highest efforts to investigate the matter," he said, referring to some arrests. After 17 years in exile, Acting Chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Tarique Rahman is poised to return home on Thursday morning (December 25, 2025), a moment the party describes as both politically significant and emotionally charged. BNP strikes election deal with 7 more partners, reserves 8 seats BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed disclosed a detailed timeline at a press conference held at the BNP chairperson’s Gulshan office on Wednesday (December 24, 2025). According to the plan, Tarique Rahman will depart London’s Heathrow Airport on a Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight, accompanied by his wife Dr Zubaida Rahman and daughter Zaima Rahman. Senior journalist Saleh Shibly and three personal aides will also travel with him. The aircraft is scheduled to land in Dhaka at 11:55am. From the airport, Tarique will proceed directly to a public reception arranged on the service lane of the 300 Feet Road, where he will deliver a brief address to supporters. To minimise public inconvenience and traffic congestion in Dhaka, Tarique Rahman alone will speak at the reception, said Salahuddin. After the programme, he will visit BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia, who is currently undergoing treatment in the Coronary Care Unit (CCU) of Evercare Hospital, Bashundhara, to enquire about her health. He will then return to his designated residence in Gulshan. On Friday, following the Jumma prayers, Tarique Rahman will visit the grave of BNP founder and former president Ziaur Rahman. He is also scheduled to pay tribute to the martyrs of the Liberation War at the National Memorial. On Saturday, Tarique Rahman will be formally registered as a voter. After completing the process, he will visit the grave of Osman Hadi near the Dhaka University Central Mosque. He will later go to the National Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedic Rehabilitation (NITOR), popularly known as Pangu Hospital, to meet those injured in the July 2024 uprising. Tarique Rahman was arrested during the caretaker government in 2007 and spent around 18 months in prison. After his release in 2008, he left for the United Kingdom for advanced medical treatment. Although he has been leading the party from abroad, his return now comes as he prepares to take a more direct role in party affairs after a long 17-year absence.  

The International Crimes Tribunal-1 on Wednesday fixed January 20 for delivering its judgment in the case filed over the killing of six students during July-August movement in Dhaka's Chankharpul area. A three-member ICT bench led by its chairman Justice Golam Martuza Majumdar passed the order after concluding the law-point arguments in the case. Four accused in the case-Inspector Arshad Hossain, constable Md Sujon Mia, Constable Emaz Hossain Emon and Constable Nasirul Islam- were produced before the tribunal. The four fugitive accused are former DMP commissioner Habibur Rahman, former joint commissioner of DMP Sudip Kumar Chakraborty, former additional deputy commissioner (Ramna zone) Shah Alam Md Akhtarul Islam and former assistant commissioner (Ramna zone) Mohammad. On July 14, the International Crimes Tribunal-1 framed charges against the eight policemen in the case. Earlier on May 25, the ICT-1 took the charges into cognisance when the chief prosecutor of ICT Tajul Islam submitted a chargesheet in the Chankharpul killing. On April 21, the investigation agency of the ICT submitted its report accusing eight policemen in the case. The 90-page report was prepared and submitted to the prosecution within 195 days of initiating the investigation. According to the report, six people—Shahriar Khan Anas, Sheikh Mahdi Hassan Junayed, Md Yakub, Md Rakib Hawladar, Md Ismamul Haque and Manik Mia- were killed in police firing during protests in Chankharpul area on August 5 last year. Tajul Islam said the report includes evidence—collected through various video footages—of direct involvement of some accused in the shooting. Others, mostly senior officials, were charged under the doctrine of command responsibility.  

BNP has reached an electoral understanding with seven more alliance partners of the anti-fascist movement, leaving eight parliamentary seats for them for the upcoming national election. BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir announced the list at a press conference at the party Chairperson’s Gulshan office on Wednesday afternoon (December 24, 2025). Under the arrangement, Nagorik Oikya President Mahmudur Rahman Manna will contest from Bogura-2, Jatiya Party (Kazi Zafar) leader Mostafa Jamal Haider from Pirojpur-1, and National People’s Party (NPP) Chairman Fariduzzaman Farhad from Narail-2. Islami Oikya Jote leader Mufti Rashid Bin Wakkas will contest from Jashore-5, while Gono Odhikar Parishad President Nurul Haque Nur will contest from Patuakhali-3 and the party’s General Secretary Rashed Khan from Jhenaidah-4. Bangladesh Revolutionary Workers Party General Secretary Saiful Haque will contest from Dhaka-12, and Ganosanghati Andolon Chief Coordinator Zonayed Saki from Brahmanbaria-6. LDP Secretary General Dr Redwan joins BNP Fakhrul said BNP reached the understanding after long discussions with the parties that simultaneously took part in the anti-fascist movement. “After detailed discussions with our partners in the simultaneous movement, we have reached agreements on these seats. I am sharing the list with you today.” He said discussions with other partners are still ongoing and more decisions may be announced later. Read more: LDP Secretary General Dr Redwan joins BNP The BNP Secretary General also said Cumilla-7 seat has been allocated to Dr Redowan Ahmed, who joined BNP on Wednesday, while Dhaka-13 has been allocated to NDM Chairman Bobby Hajjaj, who is expected to join the party soon. Fakhrul said alliance partners will contest the election with their respective party symbols, while those who have joined BNP will contest with the party’s ‘Sheaf of Paddy’ symbol. Warning party leaders and activists, Fakhrul said BNP will not field any candidate in the seats left for alliance partners as per the central decision. “If anyone contests as an independent candidate in those seats, organisational action will be taken against them,” he said. BNP Standing Committee Members Nazrul Islam Khan, Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury and Iqbal Hasan Mahmud Tuku were present at the press conference. Earlier on Tuesday, the party announced to leave four seats for Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Bangladesh, ahead of the upcoming 13th national parliamentary election. The Jamiat candidates are Md Manjurul Islam Afendi in Nilphamari-1, Monir Hossain Kasemi in Narayanganj-4, Md Ubaidullah Faruq in Sylhet-5 and Junayed Al Habib in Brahmanbaria-2. BNP has already announced party candidates for 272 of the 300 parliamentary seats in two phases. Read more: Homebound Finally: Tarique set to arrive in Dhaka on Thursday morning Of the remaining 28 seats, four were allocated to Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Bangladesh on Tuesday, while eight more seats were allocated to other alliance partners on Wednesday. Sixteen seats are yet to be finalised.

After 17 years in exile, Acting Chairman of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Tarique Rahman is poised to return home on Thursday morning, a moment the party describes as both politically significant and emotionally charged. BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed disclosed a detailed timeline at a press conference held at the BNP chairperson’s Gulshan office on Wednesday. According to the plan, Tarique Rahman will depart London’s Heathrow Airport on a Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight, accompanied by his wife Dr Zubaida Rahman and daughter Zaima Rahman and their beloved pet cat Jebu. Party sources said senior journalist Saleh Shibly and three personal aides will also travel with him. Arrival & Programmes “Our leader will leave London on a regular Bangladesh Airlines flight from Heathrow Airport around midnight (Bangladesh time). After a transit stop in Sylhet, he will arrive in Dhaka at 11:50am tomorrow (Thursday) morning, Insha’Allah,” said Salahuddin. He said BNP Standing Committee members will receive the party’s Acting Chairman at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka. From the airport, the BNP leader said, Tarique will proceed directly to join a reception programme as their party has arranged on the 36 July Expressway (300 Feet Road). “It will be a short programme. He (Tarique) will speak there thanking the people of the country, expressing his gratitude, and offering gratefulness to the Almighty Allah,” he said. To minimise public inconvenience and traffic congestion in Dhaka, Salahuddin said Tarique alone will speak at the reception. After the programme, he said the BNP Acting Chairman will visit his mother and BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia, who is currently undergoing treatment in the Coronary Care Unit (CCU) of Evercare Hospital, Bashundhara. After spending some time beside Khaleda, Tarique will proceed to House No-196 on Gulshan Avenue, where he will stay. On Friday, following the Jumma prayers, Tarique Rahman will visit the grave of his father and BNP founder and former president Ziaur Rahman.  He is also later scheduled to pay tribute to the martyrs of the Liberation War at the National Memorial in Savar. Read more: Sense of insecurity gripped nation ahead of Tarique’s homecoming: Abbas On Saturday, Tarique Rahman will be formally registered as a voter. After completing the process, he will visit the grave of Osman Hadi near the Dhaka University Central Mosque. He will later go to the National Institute of Traumatology and Orthopaedic Rehabilitation (NITOR), popularly known as Pangu Hospital, to meet those injured in the July 2024 uprising. Advance Apology Salahuddin, on behalf of BNP, sincerely apologised in advance for any inconvenience or suffering caused by the unavoidable and minimal programmes taken by the party to organise the historic homecoming of its beloved leader. “You know that Mr Tarique Rahman does not support any programme that may cause public inconvenience. He has already asked expatriate leaders, activists, and supporters not to gather at London’s Heathrow Airport on the day of his departure from there” he said. In Bangladesh too, the BNP leader said that although they sincerely tried to follow his instructions to avoid causing public suffering, it may not have been possible to fully comply.  “So, we express our advance apology and regret for any public inconvenience.” Salahuddin said Tarique has chosen a government holiday for his return to avoid public inconvenience. He said the programme at the 300 Feet Road is neither a public rally nor a reception. “It is only meant for him to express sincere gratitude to the people of the country and to request prayers for the well-being of the party chairperson and everyone in the country. There will be no second speaker at the event besides him.” The BNP leader said no matter how much they try to keep the event small, they do not have the ability to control the large flow of leaders, activists and supporters who has been waiting for 17 years and are coming to the capital from all parts of the country. “Still, we have instructed our supporters to mostly use the Kanchan Bridge to reach the venue.” He also outlined arrangements in the capital, including reception points at different locations, designated parking areas for vehicles, medical camps and field hospitals. Security Arrangements BNP Chairperson’s Chief Security Officer retired Brigadier General AKM Saiful Islam said, “We will use our party’s full security system. A small part of it is the Chairperson Security Force (CSF). Beyond that, our party leaders and activists, and above all, the people of Bangladesh, are the main foundation of our security.” He said the government is providing them with maximum cooperation and has instructed its various forces and agencies to extend all kinds of support. “We have developed close coordination with them. By integrating government organisations with our party’s own strength, we hope to build the strongest possible security arrangement based on the known security needs.” No Gathering at Sylhet Airport BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi said their beloved leader, Tarique Rahman, will return to the country on a Bangladesh Airlines flight, which will first land at Sylhet Airport. He instructed leaders and activists of Sylhet city and district not to gather at the airport. “No leaders or activists from Sylhet city or district should gather at the airport. No one should go there. Our leader will continue on the same flight to Dhaka. After arriving in Dhaka, he will speak to the people of the country at the programme we have arranged there,” Rizvi said. Tarique Rahman was arrested during the caretaker government in 2007 and spent around 18 months in prison. After his release in 2008, he left for the United Kingdom for advanced medical treatment. Although he has been leading the party from abroad, his return now comes as he prepares to take a more direct role in party affairs after a long 17-year absence. Read more: BNP strikes election deal with 7 more partners, reserves 8 seats

A woman and her granddaughter were killed after a fire broke out at their house at Kaderia Para village in Rangunia upazila of Chattogram district on Wednesday. The deceased were identified as Rumi Akhtar, 55, wife of Ruhul Amin, and her five-year-old granddaughter Jannat Akhtar, residents of the same village. Fire Service and locals said the fire erupted from an electrical short circuit and engulfed six tin-shed houses within a short time at dawn. The woman and the girl were trapped inside one of the houses and burned to death. Deputy assistant director of Chattogram Fire Service Abdul Mannan said firefighters from Rangunia Station rushed to the spot and managed to bring the fire under control after nearly an hour of effort. The affected-families claimed that properties worth around Tk 50 lakh were destroyed in the fire.  

Bangladesh’s overall inflation rose slightly in November and rice remained the single largest contributor to food inflation, accounting for 40.28 per cent, according to the Monthly Economic Update and Outlook released by the General Economics Division (GED) of the Planning Ministry. The government report said general inflation increased to 8.29 per cent in November from 8.17 per cent in October. Food inflation rose to 7.36 per cent from 7.08 per cent, while non-food inflation remained broadly stable at around 9 per cent. Overall rice inflation fell to 12.26 per cent in November from 13.77 per cent in October, with medium rice declining to 10.96 per cent, fine rice to 15.43 per cent and coarse rice to 11.04 per cent. Read more: Rice procurement faces disruption due to 0.5% source tax Despite the downward trend, rice prices remained elevated and continued to exert significant pressure on food inflation. Fish and dry fish contributed 40.77 percent to food inflation, slightly higher than the previous month. Contributions from meat, edible oil and fat declined, while milk, cheese and eggs recorded a modest increase and vegetables continued to have a strong disinflationary impact, though the negative contribution eased in November. At a detailed level, inflationary contributions from all major rice varieties declined. Among protein items, beef, hilsa and pangash fish showed higher inflationary pressure, while soybean oil and liquid milk eased. Potato and onion continued to post negative contributions, with potato remaining strongly disinflationary. The report noted that the gap between price inflation and wage inflation narrowed in October but widened slightly in November. Govt approves import of 1 lakh mt rice from India, Pakistan In November, price inflation stood at 8.29 per cent compared to wage inflation of 8.04 per cent, indicating continued pressure on real incomes despite partial adjustment through wage growth. On the monetary front, bank deposits reached Tk 19.24 crore in October, registering a year-on-year growth of 9.62 per cent, reflecting sustained depositor confidence. Credit growth moderated, with public sector credit growth slowing to 21.43 per cent and private sector credit growth easing slightly to 6.23 per cent. Total domestic credit growth decelerated to 9.62 per cent in October. Weighted average interest rate (WAIR) spreads varied across banking groups. Foreign commercial banks recorded the highest spread at 8.88 per cent while specialised and development banks posted the lowest at 3.37 per cent. State-owned and private commercial banks showed similar spreads of around 5.6 per cent, a level the GED said is desirable for improving banking sector efficiency. Revenue collection by the National Board of Revenue (NBR) fell short of the monthly target in November 2025 although it posted double-digit year-on-year growth. Govt to procure 50,000 mt of non-basmati parboiled rice, 80,000 mt fertiliser Against a monthly target of Tk 36,326 crore, collections stood at Tk 29,658 crore, achieving 83.95 per cent of the target. However, revenue increased by Tk 3,688 crore or 14.2 per cent compared to November 2024. The report said Annual Development Programme (ADP) utilisation improved year-on-year during July–November of FY2025-26, but overall implementation remained sluggish. Despite higher spending, utilisation continued to lag behind targets due to administrative bottlenecks, slow approvals and procurement delays. Bangladesh’s external sector showed strong performance in November. Remittance inflows reached a record USD 2.89 billion while export earnings stood at about USD 3.89 billion, driven largely by the ready-made garments (RMG) sector. Foreign exchange reserves peaked for the year, with gross reserves at approximately USD 32.34 billion and BPM6 reserves at USD 27.58 billion, strengthening external stability. RMG exports accounted for over 80 per cent of total export earnings underscoring continued dependence on the sector and the need for diversification. Read more: Rice biggest driver of October’s food inflation in Bangladesh: GED The GED also highlighted a growing divergence between the real effective exchange rate and the bilateral taka–US dollar rate, indicating potential real appreciation pressures and risks to external competitiveness.

A leader of Jatiyatabadi Samajik Sangskritik Sangstha (Jasas) was stabbed to death by unidentified miscreants at Latifpur village in Sreepur upazila of Gazipur district early Wednesday. The deceased was identified as Farid Sarkar, joint secretary of Gosinga union unit of Jasas. Nasir Ahmed, Officer-in-Charge of Jasas, said Farid Sarkar returned home from abroad after 17 years after the July movement last year and got involved in a brick kiln business. A group of miscreants intercepted Farid at his brick kiln on Tuesday midnight and stabbed him indiscriminately, leaving him injured. Being informed, Faruk Hossain, brother of Farid, took him to Shaheed Tajuddin Medical College and Hospital where the doctors declared him dead. Trader stabbed to death ‘by muggers’ in Jatrabari Family members of the victim said he had an enmity with his neighbour over a piece of land and they suspected that Farid might have killed over the issue. Police are investigating to unearth the motive behind the killing, said the OC. Legal action will be taken after identifying those involved in the killing, he said.

Dr Redwan Ahmed, Secretary General of the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), formally joined the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) on Wednesday and will contest the upcoming national election from the Cumilla-7 constituency under the party’s electoral symbol, the Sheaf of Paddy. Redwan Ahmed arrived at the BNP chairperson’s Gulshan office in the morning and formally joined the party at simple programme, leaving the LDP. Speaking on the occasion, he said, “We were part of the joint movement, and I agree with the number of seats BNP will leave for the LDP as an alliance partner. However, my party chairman Oli Ahmed does not agree with this decision.” He said most members of the LDP Standing Committee, as well as leaders and activists across the country, shared his position. “I hope Oli Ahmed will reconsider and agree to an electoral understanding with the BNP….whether he contests the election or not, I will contest it in agreement with BNP. I have been associated with the BNP since its early days, which is why I am formally returning to the party and will take part in the election,” Redwan said. Read more: BNP strikes election deal with 7 more partners, reserves 8 seats He also confirmed that he has already submitted his resignation letter to the LDP chairman and claimed that many LDP leaders and activists nationwide would join the BNP and work for its candidates. Welcoming him, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir congratulated Redwan Ahmed, saying his return was like “a son coming back home” and that it would further strengthen the BNP. He announced that Redwan Ahmed would contest the next election as the BNP candidate from the Cumilla-7 constituency. BNP Standing Committee members Nazrul Islam Khan, Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury, and Iqbal Hasan Mahmud Tuku were present at the joining ceremony. Read more: Shahadat Hossain Selim joins BNP dissolving his party

The World Bank has approved $150.75 million to help Bangladesh scale up support to create employment, opportunities and better income for low-income youth and micro-entrepreneurs, with a focus on women and those living in climate-vulnerable areas. The additional financing to the Recovery and Advancement of Informal Sector Employment (RAISE) Project will create employment and income opportunities for about another 176,000 youth across Bangladesh, in addition to the earlier 233,000 project beneficiaries. Participants will benefit from a comprehensive package of services including skills training, apprenticeships, entrepreneurship development, and access to microfinance to help young people and micro-entrepreneurs overcome barriers to employment and business growth. It will also introduce innovative approaches for women’s empowerment, including access to quality childcare, and climate resilient livelihoods to help communities adapt to climate shocks. Read more: China’s K Visa For Bangladeshi Professionals: Eligibility, Application Process, Fees World Bank Acting Division Director for Bangladesh and Bhutan Gayle Martin said that a good job can transform a life, a family, and a community. Yet, he said, every year many young Bangladeshis entering the labor market can't find work. The country also faces challenges in job quality, skills shortages and mismatches. “This additional financing will help more young people from low-income families, especially women and those in vulnerable communities, to access market-relevant skills, resources, and training they need for better employment and livelihood opportunities.” The financing will help the project expand its coverage beyond urban centers to rural communities, ensuring that marginalized youth and micro-entrepreneurs across the country can benefit from targeted support. It will pilot quality and affordable home-based childcare services by providing training and start-up grants to women. Read more: Bangladesh’s external debt crosses $104bn amid rising interest burden: WB By addressing both demand and supply of childcare needs, these efforts will boost female labor force participation and create new jobs in the care sector, while also enhancing children’s early health and development. Besides, women will be targeted with life skills training to enhance their confidence and empowerment. The additional financing will also supplement training with job intermediation efforts by organising job fairs, connecting potential employers with candidates and assisting in marketing and contract negotiations. Team Leader for the project Aneeka Rahman said that the RAISE project has shown that targeted support can make a real difference for youth and micro-entrepreneurs. “With this new financing, we can scale up proven interventions, expand access to microfinance, and introduce innovative solutions like quality childcare, helping even more young people and women unlock their potential and build resilient futures.” The project has already shown strong results: over 80 percent of graduated apprentices secured employment within three months of completing the program and the young microentrepreneurs reported better earning and business practices. With this additional financing, the World Bank’s total support to the RAISE project now stands at $350.75 million. Read more: Bangladesh sets its own economic policy, not dictated by IMF or WB: BB Governor

Bangladesh’s capital market showed mixed trends in the first half of trading on Wednesday, with indices rising at the Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) while declining at the Chittagong Stock Exchange (CSE). During the first half of the session, the benchmark DSE index, DSEX, advanced by 14 points. The Shariah-based DSES index also posted gains, while the blue-chip DS30 index rose by 4 points. Out of the traded securities on the DSE, prices of 194 companies increased against 94 that declined, while shares of 93 companies remained unchanged. The turnover in the first half crossed Tk 120 crore. DSE fails to sustain early gains, CSE extends rally In contrast, the CSE remained in the red since morning trading. After 12 noon, the overall index CASPI slipped by 4 points. Most of the traded issues on the CSE witnessed price declines, as shares of 39 companies fell against 28 gainers, while prices of 12 companies remained unchanged. Turnover at the port city bourse stood at over Tk 70 lakh in the first half of the session.

Iran and the United States reiterated their commitment to diplomacy during a tense U.N. Security Council meeting Tuesday, yet major differences over a nuclear agreement persist. Iran’s U.N. Ambassador Amir Saeid Iravani said Tehran remains committed to “principled diplomacy” and called on France, Britain, and the U.S. to take concrete steps to rebuild trust. He reaffirmed Iran’s adherence to the 2015 nuclear deal, which limits its nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief. U.S. Mission counselor Morgan Ortagus stressed that Washington is open to talks but only if Iran engages in direct, meaningful negotiations. She warned against Iran’s uranium enrichment, a key sticking point. Irvani criticized U.S. demands for zero enrichment as unfair, saying continued support from France and Britain could “effectively destroy diplomacy.” Meanwhile, Iran has accelerated uranium enrichment to 60%, nearing weapons-grade levels, prompting the three Western powers to reinstate sanctions under a “snapback” mechanism. Tensions drew sharp exchanges at the council, with Russia accusing France of failing in past diplomatic efforts. Source: AP 

Import and export trade through the country’s largest land port Benapole will remain suspended on Thursday and Friday on the occasion of Christmas and the weekend, officials said Wednesday. Benapole Port Director Shamim Hossain said that no goods will be imported or exported during the period, and customs operations at the port will remain closed. Onion import resumes through Benapole port after three months He, however, said trucks carrying Indian goods for clearance can return and regular trade activities will resume on Saturday. Officer-in-charge of Benapole Immigration Police SM Sakhawat Hossain said that movement of passengers with passports between the countries will remain as usual despite the suspension of trade.

President Mohammed Shahabuddin has appointed Justice Zubayer Rahman Chowdhury as the 26th Chief Justice of Bangladesh. According to a gazette notification issued by the Ministry of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs on Tuesday (December 23, 2025), President Shahabuddin made the appointment exercising his power following Article 95 (1) of the Constitution. Justice Zubayer is scheduled to take oath as the new Chief Justice on December 28. Read more: Violent clash over char capture in Hatiya leaves five dead The appointment follows the imminent retirement of the current 25th Chief Justice, Dr Syed Refaat Ahmed, whose retirement takes effect on December 27. Born on May 18, 1961, Justice Zubayer is the son of the late AFM Abdur Rahman Chowdhury, who also served as a judge of the Supreme Court. Obtaining LLB (Honours) and LLM degrees from the University of Dhaka, he did a master’s degree from the United Kingdom on international law. He started his career as a lawyer in the district judges’ court in 1985 and at the High Court (HC) in 1987. On August 27, 2003, he was appointed as an additional judge of the HC Division, with his position made permanent two years later. Read more: Judiciary must see constitutional changes as reality, not threat: CJ Syed Refaat President Shahabuddin appointed him as a justice of the Appellate Division on August 12, 2024, and he took oath the following day, on August 13.

Asian markets mostly rose Wednesday after the S&P 500 in the U.S. closed at a record high, following a report showing the U.S. economy grew at an unexpectedly strong annual rate of 4.3% in the third quarter. The initial government estimate for July–September growth indicated persistent inflation, while a separate report showed consumer confidence declined further in December. In comparison, the U.S. economy had expanded at a 3.8% annual pace in the second quarter. Trading in Asia was light ahead of Christmas, with many global markets set to close Thursday. U.S. markets will close early Wednesday for Christmas Eve and remain closed Thursday. In Asia, Tokyo’s Nikkei 225 remained flat at 50,411.10, while South Korea’s Kospi slipped 0.1% to 4,113.83. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng gained 0.2% to 25,818.93, and China’s Shanghai Composite rose 0.2% to 3,929.25. Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 fell nearly 0.4% to 8,762.70. Markets in Hong Kong and Australia closed early for Christmas Eve. Taiwan’s Taiex inched up less than 0.1%, and India’s Sensex rose 0.1%. Gold and silver extended gains after reaching record highs earlier in the week amid geopolitical tensions. Gold rose 0.4% to $4,525.50 per ounce, while silver climbed 1.8%. U.S. futures were slightly lower early Wednesday. On Tuesday, strong gains in tech stocks pushed the S&P 500 up 0.5% to 6,909.79, even though most stocks fell. The Dow Jones rose 0.2% to 48,442.41, and the Nasdaq gained 0.6% to 23,561.84. Nvidia advanced 3%, and Alphabet added 1.5%. Novo Nordisk surged 7.3% after U.S. regulators approved a daily pill version of its weight-loss drug Wegovy. The report also showed inflation higher than the Federal Reserve’s target. The Fed’s preferred gauge, the personal consumption expenditures (PCE) index, climbed to a 2.8% annual rate last quarter from 2.1% in the second quarter. Investors expect the Fed to maintain interest rates at its January meeting amid high inflation, slowing labor markets, and weak retail sales. Early Wednesday, the dollar fell against the yen to 155.96 from 156.17, after officials suggested possible intervention. The euro slipped to $1.1793 from $1.1796. Oil prices rose slightly, with U.S. crude at $58.45 per barrel and Brent crude at $61.90, as traders monitored supply risks in Venezuela and Russia. Source: AP 

Residents of the southwestern district of Chuadanga are grappling with reducing temperatures as dense fog and chilling winds disrupt daily life. Despite clear skies in the morning, the intensity of the cold persists, causing severe suffering, particularly, homeless and vulnerable people. The local met office has reported that a mild cold wave is sweeping across the district. At 9am on Wednesday, the district recorded this season’s lowest temperature of 10.5°C, with 95 percent of humidity. Due to severe cold, Chuadanga Sadar Hospital has been experiencing an increase of patients who are mostly affected by rotavirus-induced diarrhea, pneumonia, and respiratory. Dr. Asadur Rahman Malik Khokon, a pediatric specialist of the hospital, said nearly 200 to 300 elderly patients and 300 to 400 children are receiving treatment daily for cold-related ailments. Azim Uddin, a farmer suffering from asthma and respiratory issues, said he struggles to work in the fields during the cold and must take frequent breaks, though he continues laboring to earn his livelihood. Rokibul Hasan, senior observer at Chuadanga’s first-class meteorological office, predicted that temperatures may fall further in the coming days. He also forecast that another cold wave may sweep the southwestern districts at the end of December or the start of the new year.

The government has reduced customs duty on the import of dates by 40 percent ahead of the holy month of Ramadan, aiming to ensure adequate supply and keep prices within the purchasing capacity of general consumers. In a press release issued on Wednesday, the National Board of Revenue (NBR) said the existing customs duty on date imports has been lowered from 25 percent to 15 percent. The government issued a gazette notification on December 23, 2025 to this effect and it which will remain effective until March 31, 2026. The NBR noted that the decision has been taken to maintain market stability and prevent an unusual surge in prices during Ramadan, when demand for dates rises significantly as they are traditionally consumed to break the fast. In addition to the duty reduction, the NBR highlighted that amendments were made in the last budget to the provisions related to advance income tax (AIT) at the import stage. NBR chief calls for expanded VAT registration to cut reliance on imports Under the revised rules, the AIT applicable to the import of all fruits, including dates, has been reduced from 10 percent to 5 percent. Moreover, the 50 percent concession on advance income tax for date and fruit imports, which was introduced last year, has been retained for the current year as well, the revenue authority said.

The National Board of Revenue (NBR) has extended the value-added tax (VAT) exemption on Metro Rail services until June 30, 2026, aiming to promote the use of the environment-friendly mass transit system. According to an official release issued on Wednesday (December 24, 2025), the government earlier granted a VAT exemption on Metro Rail services. The existing exemption is scheduled to expire on December 31, 2025. Read more: Nagad brings metro rail card recharge facility for commuters In the greater public interest and following a recommendation from the Ministry of Road Transport and Bridges, the government decided to continue the VAT waiver for a further six months. A gazette notification to this effect was issued on December 23, 2025, extending the exemption up to June 30, 2026. The move is expected to help keep Metro Rail fares affordable for city dwellers while encouraging a shift from private vehicles to mass transit, thereby reducing traffic congestion and carbon emissions in the capital. Read more: Online recharge system launched for metro rail rapid, MRT Pass

Holly has long been a symbol of the season, appearing in wreaths, boughs, holiday cards, and catalog covers. But have you considered adding it to your garden? With hundreds of species and hybrids from around the world — and over a dozen native to the continental U.S. — holly offers year-round appeal and winter interest. Historically, ancient pagans used holly branches as crowns and believed the evergreens could repel evil spirits and hasten spring. Later, early Christians adopted holly as a symbol of eternal life. Its bright red berries and deep-green leaves complement traditional holiday colors, while providing an important food source for birds and wildlife (though most berries are toxic to humans). Plant holly in early spring, after the last hard freeze but before summer heat sets in, and water regularly during the first year. Most hollies are dioecious, meaning male and female plants are needed for berry production. One male can pollinate up to ten females within 50 feet. Plant tags may not indicate sex, but variety names often help — for example, “China Girl” (female) requires “China Boy” (male) to bear fruit. Here are a few top choices: Yaupon Holly (Ilex vomitoria): Native to the southern U.S., adaptable to sun or shade, and suitable for hedges or trees. Hardy in zones 7-9.American Holly (Ilex opaca): Slow-growing, pyramid-shaped, reaching 25-60 feet, thriving in acidic soil, zones 5-9.Blue Holly (Ilex x meserveae): European hybrid with blue-green spiny leaves, 2-8 feet tall, zones 5-7.Winterberry Holly (Ilex verticillata): Deciduous, berries on bare branches offer winter interest, zones 3-9.Caution: English or common holly (Ilex aquifolium), native to Europe and North Africa, can be invasive in parts of the U.S., particularly the Pacific Northwest and California. Avoid planting it in regions where it threatens native vegetation. With the right choices, holly can add beauty, history, and wildlife value to your garden all year long.

Dhaka, the overcrowded capital city of Bangladesh, has ranked second on the list of cities with the worst air quality with an AQI score of 236 at 9:50 am this morning (December 24, 2025). Today Dhaka’s air was classified as ‘very unhealthy’ referring to an alarming healthy threat, according to the AQI index. When the AQI value for particle pollution is between 50 and 100, air quality is considered ‘moderate’, usually sensitive individuals should consider limiting prolonged outdoor exertion, between 101 and 150, air quality is considered ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups’, between 150 and 200 is ‘unhealthy’, between 201 and 300 is said to be 'very unhealthy', while a reading of 301+ is considered 'hazardous', posing serious health risks to residents. India’s Kolkata, Egypt’s Cairo and India’s Delhi cities respectively occupied the first, third, and fourth spots on the list, with AQI scores of 247, 197, and 190 respectively. The AQI, an index for reporting daily air quality, informs people how clean or polluted the air of a certain city is and what associated health effects might be a concern for them. The AQI in Bangladesh is based on five pollutants: particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), NO2, CO, SO2, and ozone. Dhaka’s air turns ‘very unhealthy’ Dhaka has long been grappling with air pollution issues. Its air quality usually turns unhealthy in winter and improves during the monsoon. As per World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution kills an estimated seven million people worldwide every year, mainly due to increased mortality from stroke, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, and acute respiratory infections.

Leaves and bodies fall in No Other Choice, a chilling and darkly comic satire from acclaimed South Korean director Park Chan-wook, who once again proves himself a master of elegant menace and moral provocation. The film opens with You Man-su (Lee Byung-hun), a seemingly content family man, welcoming autumn while grilling dinner for his wife, Miri (Son Ye-jin), and their two children. Living in a striking modern house surrounded by nature, Man-su confidently declares, “I’ve got it all.” Almost immediately, that illusion collapses. After 25 years at a paper mill, he is abruptly laid off, joining countless others discarded without ceremony. As financial pressure mounts, Man-su is forced to sell his beloved home, abandon his greenhouse and even cancel Netflix — small humiliations that signal deeper collapse. Rather than follow a conventional path of reinvention, the film takes a sharply sinister turn. Assessing the job market, Man-su concludes he ranks only fifth among potential candidates for similar positions. His solution: eliminate the competition. Based on Donald Westlake’s novel The Ax, previously adapted in 2005, No Other Choice feels tailor-made for Park, whose filmography includes Oldboy, The Handmaiden and Decision to Leave. Park transforms familiar material into a biting critique of capitalism, unemployment and modern desperation, crafting a thriller that is both absurdly funny and deeply unsettling. Nolan’s The Odyssey trailer unveils epic journey Lee Byung-hun delivers a standout performance, portraying Man-su as neither a natural killer nor a traditional villain, but a tragically misguided everyman. His descent into violence is framed with Park’s signature visual precision — reflections, trees and carefully composed frames heighten the satire and dread. Like Bong Joon Ho’s Parasite, the film skewers class anxiety, but Park’s vision is colder and more fatalistic. The final moments expand the story’s implications to automation, artificial intelligence and a future where loss is permanent. In No Other Choice, the leaves that fall do not return. A Neon release, No Other Choice is rated R for violence, language and some sexual content. In Korean with English subtitles. Running time: 139 minutes. ★★★★ out of four. Source: AP 

Bolivia’s new government has lifted restrictions on international satellite internet companies, paving the way for services such as Starlink and Kuiper to operate in the country as authorities seek to improve one of South America’s slowest internet networks. President Rodrigo Paz on Tuesday signed a decree removing limits imposed by the previous administration, allowing global satellite providers to offer nationwide coverage. The restrictions had been introduced under former president Luis Arce, whose government last year denied SpaceX-owned Starlink a license, citing concerns over data protection and national sovereignty. Bolivia has long struggled to expand reliable internet access, particularly in remote areas. In 2013, the government of then-president Evo Morales purchased a Chinese-built satellite, Tupac Katari, promising it would transform connectivity. However, the satellite, which operates from a geostationary orbit about 35,000 kilometers above Earth, failed to deliver significant improvements in speed. By contrast, modern satellite networks such as Starlink operate much closer to Earth, enabling faster data transmission. A November report by connectivity firm Ookla ranked Bolivia last in South America for both mobile and fixed broadband speeds. President Paz said opening the market to international satellite companies would help “reduce the digital divide” and provide high-quality internet access nationwide. “We became spectators while the rest of the world advanced,” he said. “That is over.” The president also announced plans for foreign firms, including Tesla, Amazon, Tether and Oracle, to invest in data centers near El Alto and Cochabamba as part of efforts to attract investment and ease an economic crisis marked by dollar shortages. Source: AP 

Libya’s top military commander and seven others were killed on Tuesday when a private jet crashed shortly after taking off from Turkey’s capital, Ankara, Libyan and Turkish officials said. The aircraft was carrying Libya’s military chief, four senior officers and three crew members. Libyan authorities said a technical malfunction caused the crash. Libyan Prime Minister Abdul-Hamid Dbeibah confirmed the death of Gen. Muhammad Ali Ahmad al-Haddad, describing the incident as a “tragic accident” and a “great loss” for the country. The delegation had been in Ankara for high-level defense talks aimed at strengthening military cooperation between Libya and Turkey and was returning home when the crash occurred. Al-Haddad was the top military commander in western Libya and played a key role in U.N.-brokered efforts to reunify Libya’s divided armed forces. The other officers killed were Gen. Al-Fitouri Ghraibil, head of Libya’s ground forces; Brig. Gen. Mahmoud Al-Qatawi, chief of the military manufacturing authority; Mohammed Al-Asawi Diab, an adviser to the chief of staff; and Mohammed Omar Ahmed Mahjoub, a military photographer. The identities of the three crew members were not immediately released. Turkish officials said the Falcon 50 business jet went down near the village of Kesikkavak in the Haymana district, about 70 kilometers south of Ankara. Air traffic controllers lost contact with the plane about 40 minutes after its 8:30 p.m. departure from Esenboga Airport. At least 7 killed as small plane crashes in central Mexico According to Turkish authorities, the aircraft reported an electrical fault and requested an emergency landing before disappearing from radar while descending. Security camera footage broadcast on local television showed a flash resembling an explosion lighting up the night sky over the crash area. Ankara’s airport was temporarily closed and flights were diverted. Turkey’s Justice Ministry said four prosecutors have been assigned to investigate the crash. Libya announced it would send a team to Ankara to assist with the investigation. The incident comes amid renewed diplomatic and military engagement between the two countries. Turkey has long supported Libya’s western-based government and recently extended the mandate of Turkish troops deployed in Libya under a 2019 security agreement. Source: AP 

Along the Naogaon bypass road, tall palm trees once stood like silent sentinels—lining the highway, softening the concrete stretch with shade and symmetry, and serving a purpose far beyond aesthetics. Today, many of those trees bear blunt, shaved tops, their branches cut back abruptly, leaving locals fearful that a decades-old natural shield is slowly being destroyed, locals and environmental activists said. The cutting of branches from around 750 palm trees by the Northern Electricity Supply Company Limited (NESCO) has sparked anger and concern among residents and environmental activists, who say the work was carried out without consultation and with little regard for environmental consequences. For years, villagers along the bypass—from Rambhadrapur to Battali Boalia—had planted palm trees using seeds collected from nearby areas. Most of the trees are now between 20 and 30 years old. Outrage in Sylhet after date palm trees cut down at Shahjalal's shrine Over time, they transformed the two-kilometre stretch into a greener, cooler corridor, breaking the monotony of the road and offering protection against lightning, a known benefit of palm trees in Bangladesh. But recent branch-cutting and top-shaving to accommodate electricity poles and overhead lines have changed the landscape dramatically. During a recent visit to the area, the UNB correspondent observed that while several thousand palm trees stand along the stretch, around 750 have been visibly altered, with many appearing weakened. Residents fear the damage may be irreversible. “It was not right for the electricity office staff to shave the tops of the palm trees,” said local resident Sakhawat Hossain, pointing towards several injured trees. “Some trees died after similar work before. Even when we protested, no one listened,” he said. Man held for felling 50 Bakul trees on Dhaka-Chattogram highway Another local resident, Belal Hossain, echoed the frustration. “Palm trees take decades to grow. The electricity staff cut the branches and shaved the tops in just one day. They could have moved the poles slightly to save the trees, but instead they damaged them deliberately,” he said.

Indonesia cricketer Gede Priandana created history on Tuesday by becoming the first player to take five wickets in a single over in a men’s Twenty20 international. The seam-bowling allrounder achieved the remarkable feat during Indonesia’s match against Cambodia in Bali, with the visitors struggling at 106-5. Priandana began the over by dismissing opener Shah Abrar Hussain, who had scored 37, and completed a hat trick shortly afterward. After delivering a dot ball, he removed the final two Cambodian batters on either side of a wide — the only run conceded in the over. Cambodia were bowled out for 107, collapsing dramatically under Priandana’s spell. The achievement took his overall T20 international wicket tally to 24. Bangladesh to call back Mustafizur for key ODIs amid his IPL tenure Priandana also contributed with the bat, scoring six runs in Indonesia’s total of 167-5. Fellow opener Dharma Kesuma led the batting display with a dominant unbeaten 110, smashing six sixes. For Cambodia, India-born Luqman Butt top-scored with a rapid 48 from 30 balls, including four sixes, but his effort was not enough to prevent defeat. Source: AP 

Defending champions Senegal began their Africa Cup of Nations campaign in commanding fashion with a 3-0 victory over Botswana on Tuesday, while fellow title contenders Nigeria labored to a narrow 2-1 win against Tanzania. Nicolas Jackson struck twice as Senegal dominated from start to finish, living up to their pre-tournament billing. Substitute Cherif Ndiaye sealed the win late on, though Botswana goalkeeper Goitseone Phoko prevented a heavier defeat with a series of fine saves as the Zebras spent long spells under pressure with a five-man defense. “We have to keep going like this,” said Senegal coach Pape Thiaw. “There are no easy opening matches.” In contrast, Nigeria’s performance raised questions despite securing all three points in Group C. Semi Ajayi opened the scoring in the 36th minute with a header from Alex Iwobi’s cross, but Charles M’Mombwa equalized early in the second half against the run of play. Ademola Lookman quickly restored Nigeria’s lead, yet the Super Eagles struggled to regain control. “We are satisfied with the three points. That is the most important,” said Nigeria coach Éric Chelle. Victor Osimhen, who earlier had a goal ruled out for offside, showed visible frustration when substituted late on. Neymar undergoes minor knee surgery, aims for World Cup return Senegal, winners in 2021, could have scored more at the rain-soaked Grand Stade de Tanger, where just over 18,500 fans attended amid cold, wet conditions. Jackson finally broke through before halftime and added his second after the break before Ndiaye completed the rout in stoppage time. Elsewhere in Group C, Tunisia sent a warning to Nigeria with a 3-1 win over Uganda, inspired by two goals from Elias Achouri. In Group D, Théo Bongonda’s early strike gave Congo a 1-0 victory over Benin. Nigeria face Tunisia next on Saturday as the tournament continues. Source: AP 

Israeli settlers forcibly entered a Palestinian home in the southern part of the occupied West Bank overnight, killing livestock and injuring children in the latest attack amid a surge of settler violence, Palestinian officials said on Tuesday. Israeli police said five settlers were arrested over the incident. According to Amir Dawood, an official with the Palestinian Wall and Settlement Resistance Commission, settlers broke into a house in the town of As Samu', killed three sheep, injured four others, smashed doors and windows and released tear gas inside the home. He said three Palestinian children under the age of four were taken to hospital after being affected by the gas. Police said the suspects were arrested on suspicion of trespassing on Palestinian land, damaging property and using pepper spray, adding that an investigation is under way. CCTV footage shared by the Palestinian commission showed masked settlers approaching and entering the house, with sounds of smashing and animals heard in the background. Separate video clips appeared to show sheep being beaten inside a stable. Photographs released after the attack showed shattered car windows, a broken front door and dead sheep lying in pools of blood, while the interior of the house was left ransacked with broken glass scattered across rooms. Dawood said the same family had been targeted by settlers once before in less than two months, describing the incident as part of a continuing pattern of violence against Palestinians, their property and livelihoods. Settler attacks have risen sharply in recent months. During the October olive harvest, the United Nations recorded an average of eight attacks a day, the highest level since monitoring began in 2006. At least 136 further attacks were documented by Nov 24. Israel captured the West Bank, east Jerusalem and Gaza in the 1967 war. More than 500,000 Jewish settlers now live in the West Bank, alongside over 200,000 in east Jerusalem. Israel’s current government includes prominent supporters of the settler movement. Earlier this week, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich said the cabinet had approved plans for 19 new Jewish settlements, a move widely seen as further undermining prospects for a future Palestinian state.  

Universal Pictures has released the first trailer of The Odyssey, director Christopher Nolan’s upcoming epic based on Homer’s classic poem, offering audiences an early look at a large-scale battle and survival saga. The film follows Greek hero Odysseus, played by Matt Damon, as he struggles to return home after the Trojan War. The trailer opens with the aftermath of the war and shows Odysseus leading his men away from Troy, hoping to reunite with their families. The preview highlights a long and dangerous journey across seas and unfamiliar lands. Odysseus is seen sailing through violent storms, crossing harsh terrain and surviving shipwrecks, with strong visuals focusing on endurance and survival. One sequence confirms that the fall of Troy is part of the opening chapters, showing Odysseus and his men inside the Trojan Horse. Another dark scene hints at mythical threats, suggesting encounters with monsters without revealing them fully. Family ties are also central to the story. Tom Holland appears as Telemachus, the son of Odysseus, while Anne Hathaway plays his wife, Penelope. Dialogue in the trailer is limited, with the story largely driven by visuals. The film features a large ensemble cast, including Zendaya, Lupita Nyong'o, Charlize Theron, Robert Pattinson, Mia Goth, Benny Safdie, Jon Bernthal, John Leguizamo, Elliot Page, Himesh Patel and Corey Hawkins. Written and directed by Christopher Nolan, The Odyssey is produced by Nolan and Emma Thomas and backed by Universal. The film was shot entirely using IMAX’s largest format and is scheduled for worldwide release on July 17, 2026.   With inputs from NDTV

Marvel Studios has confirmed the return of Chris Evans as Steve Rogers in the Marvel Cinematic Universe with the release of the first teaser for Avengers: Doomsday, ending days of speculation sparked by leaked footage. The teaser takes a reflective tone, showing Steve Rogers riding his motorcycle home as a soft piano version of the Avengers theme plays. Instead of action-heavy scenes, the preview focuses on memory and nostalgia, with Rogers seen unpacking his old Captain America suit, suggesting a past life he once left behind. One of the most notable moments in the teaser features Rogers holding a newborn baby, reinforcing the idea that he chose a different life after the events of Avengers: Endgame. The teaser ends with a clear confirmation of his return in Avengers: Doomsday. Steve Rogers was last seen stepping away from the role of Captain America after passing the shield to Sam Wilson and choosing to remain in the past with Peggy Carter. His reappearance signals a new chapter in the MCU, challenging the sense of finality surrounding his earlier departure. Marvel has indicated that Doctor Doom will be the main antagonist, with the storyline expected to span multiple timelines and universes. The film will also feature several familiar MCU characters, including Chris Hemsworth. Avengers: Doomsday is scheduled for global release on December 18, 2026.   With inputs from NDTV

At least three people, including a four-year-old child, were killed after Russia launched a large overnight attack on several Ukrainian cities, Ukrainian officials said on Tuesday. President Volodymyr Zelensky described the assault as “massive” and said energy facilities were among the targets, causing power outages in several regions just days before Christmas. Ukraine’s air force said Russia fired 635 drones and 38 missiles, claiming that 621 of them were intercepted. Local authorities said a child died in the Zhytomyr region despite efforts by doctors to save the victim. Five others were injured in the same strike. In the Kyiv region, a 76-year-old woman was killed and three people were injured when a house was hit, according to emergency services. Another person, aged 72, was killed in an attack in the western Khmelnytskyy region. Poland scrambled fighter jets in response to the missiles and drones targeting western Ukraine, officials said. Ukraine’s energy operator warned of emergency power cuts across the country as temperatures are expected to drop below freezing. Acting Energy Minister Artem Nekrasov said it was the ninth major attack on the power system this year, with electricity supply almost completely lost in parts of Rivne, Ternopil and Khmelnytskyy regions. Russia’s defence ministry said it struck military-industrial sites and supporting energy facilities in Ukraine and claimed all targets were hit. Meanwhile, Russian officials said a Ukrainian drone attack caused a fire at a petrochemical plant in southern Russia’s Stavropol region, though no casualties were reported. The latest attacks came amid continued fighting and diplomatic efforts to end the war, which began with Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.   With inputs from BBC

US President Donald Trump said on Monday that the United States will either keep or sell crude oil seized from Venezuelan tankers, as Washington continues to step up pressure on President Nicolás Maduro’s government. Speaking to reporters in Florida, Trump said the oil could be sold, kept, or added to the US Strategic Petroleum Reserve. He also said the seized vessels would remain under US control. The comments came as the US Coast Guard continued to pursue a third oil tanker that authorities described as part of a Venezuelan “dark fleet” used to bypass US sanctions. Trump said the tanker would eventually be seized. Earlier this month, US forces seized two oil tankers linked to Venezuela. The Trump administration has accused Caracas of using oil revenues to fund drug-related crime, an allegation the Venezuelan government has rejected, calling the seizures acts of piracy. Trump suggested the actions could increase pressure on Maduro to leave office but said the decision ultimately rested with the Venezuelan leader. The US has expanded its military presence in the Caribbean and Pacific regions and has carried out strikes on vessels it claims were involved in drug trafficking. The military has faced criticism over a lack of public evidence linking the targets to drug smuggling. Venezuelan President Maduro responded by accusing Trump of interfering in Venezuela’s internal affairs and said the US leader should focus on domestic issues. The Trump administration has designated Maduro’s government as a foreign terrorist organisation and recently ordered a blockade of sanctioned oil tankers traveling to or from Venezuela. Venezuela has requested an emergency meeting of the UN Security Council to discuss what it described as continued US aggression.   With inputs from BBC

A mosque's imam was killed after being hit by an illegal and high-speed trolley in Zakiganj upazila of Sylhet on Tuesday evening. The accident took place around 6:30pm at the Atgram Station area of the upazila. The deceased was identified as Maulana Badrul Islam, 55, son of late Elias Ali of Kazirpaton village under Kajalsar union. He was serving as an imam at a mosque in Jagannathpur upazila. According to police and local sources, Badrul Islam was getting onto the Zakiganj-Sylhet road from his home when a fast-moving trolley hit him with force and he fell on the road with serious injuries. Locals rushed him to Zakiganj Upazila Health Complex, where doctors declared him dead. Krishak Dal leader killed in Sylhet road accident Confirming the matter, Zakiganj Police Station Investigation Officer Md Sujon Mia said police have visited the spot and are trying to seize the trolley involved in the accident. “The burial process is being carried out without an autopsy following a request from the victim’s family,” he added.

Iron Mia, 50, convener of the Bishwanath Upazila unit of Bangladesh Jatiotabadi Krishak Dal, was killed in a road accident at Nazirbazar in Dakshin Surma, Sylhet. The accident occurred at around 6:30pm on Tuesday. Irun Mia was a resident of Naogaon village in Bishwanath upazila. According to witnesses, he was heading back to Bishwanath on his motorcycle (Sylhet-2 11-2563) after attending a party programme in Osmaninagar when a covered van hit him at Nazirbazar. Motorcycle collision leaves 2 dead in Sylhet He sustained critical injuries and died on the way to hospital. Khan Md Mainul Zakir, Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Dakshin Surma Police Station, confirmed the death. “Police rushed to the spot after receiving the information. The covered van was seized, but its driver fled the scene. Legal action will be taken in this regard,” the OC added.    

Banik Barta, in collaboration with the Bangladesh Institute of Development Studies (BIDS), organised the ‘Gunijan Shongbordhona 2025’ (Eminent Persons’ Felicitation 2025) on Tuesday evening, honouring three distinguished personalities for their outstanding contributions to the country. The eighth edition of the event was held at Radisson Blu Water Garden in the capital. The programme began with an opening address by BIDS Director General Prof Dr A K Enamul Haque, while Banik Barta Editor and Publisher Dewan Hanif Mahmud conducted the event. This year’s honourees included renowned entrepreneur and former adviser to two caretaker governments Syed Manzur Elahi (posthumously); eminent academic, researcher, economist and former vice-chancellor of Jahangirnagar University Dr Amirul Islam Chowdhury; and internationally acclaimed scientist Dr Firdausi Qadri for her contributions to vaccine innovation, testing, application and infectious disease research in Bangladesh. Paying tributes to the honourees, Adviser to the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Science and Technology Dr Salehuddin Ahmed said the nation feels proud to honour three distinguished individuals who played glorious roles in their respective fields. “Following in the footsteps of such eminent personalities, we will move Bangladesh forward more rapidly. Let this be our collective commitment today,” he said. Speaking about Prof Dr Amirul Islam Chowdhury, Dr Salehuddin described him as a humble and knowledgeable individual who was successful both as a teacher and as an administrator, including his work at Gono Bishwabidyalay. Referring to Dr Firdausi Qadri, he said she demonstrated unmatched dedication to scientific research, while recalling her late husband Dr Saladin Qadri as a close friend. About Syed Manzur Elahi, the finance adviser said he was a soft-spoken individual who built numerous successful institutions with his own hands and brought a true revolution in business and commerce. “Manzur Elahi in business, Amirul Islam Chowdhury in research, and Firdausi Qadri in science made extraordinary contributions. It is such visionary individuals who have brought Bangladesh this far,” he added, praising Banik Barta for consistently honouring eminent personalities. Chief Adviser’s Special Assistant and former student of Prof Amirul Islam Chowdhury, Dr Anisuzzaman Chowdhury, said Prof Amirul was among a rare group of exceptional teachers. He also described Syed Manzur Elahi as an outstanding personality and acknowledged Dr Firdausi Qadri’s contribution in demonstrating how science serves humanity. Former adviser to the caretaker government and Executive Chairman of PPRC Dr Hossain Zillur Rahman said Bangladesh today needs three qualities most—decency, professionalism and responsibility—which he personally witnessed in Prof Amirul Islam Chowdhury. Recalling his role in establishing Begum Rokeya University in Rangpur, Dr Hossain said setting up a university in the monga-prone region was a significant and visionary initiative. ICC Bangladesh President Mahbubur Rahman said the late Syed Manzur Elahi made immense contributions to the country quietly and played a crucial role in keeping the caretaker government above controversy during his tenure as adviser. CPD Executive Director Dr Fahmida Khatun, a former student of Prof Amirul Islam Chowdhury, said she learned from him how to connect economic theory with real-life experiences, noting his integrity, modest lifestyle and ethical values. More than 500 distinguished guests from various sectors attended the programme. Since 2014, Banik Barta and BIDS have been jointly honouring eminent individuals who have made significant contributions to national development, policymaking, research and socio-economic progress. The 2025 event marked the eighth edition of the prestigious recognition programme.

The Election Commission (EC) on Tuesday instructed field administration and police officials to take all necessary legal measures to ensure a smooth and violence-free national election and referendum, warning that failure to hold a credible poll would amount to failure of the country itself. “If this election fails, we all will fail — Bangladesh will fail,” Election Commissioner Anwarul Islam Sarker addressing a view-exchange and electoral management briefing arranged in the city’s Nirbachan Bhaban for the returning officers and top officials of the field administration and police ahead of the upcoming national election and the referendum on the July National Charter (Constitutional Reform) Implementation Order, scheduled to be held simultaneously on February 12, 2026. The event was attended by 226 officials from the field administration, police and the Election Commission. During the briefing, Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin and four election commissioners gave the necessary instructions and guidelines to conduct a credible and peaceful election. CEC Nasir Uddin said the rule of law must be firmly established to ensure a free, fair, acceptable and credible election. He asked the officials to apply the law equally for everyone. “The rule of law means the law will be blind,” he said. Calling on the field administration to give the highest priority to communal harmony, the CEC said, for example, a Hindu body “burnt” in Mymensingh. “Bangladesh may face many such instances of incitement. Communal harmony must be maintained. Those in the administration and police must keep maintaining communal harmony as their top priority,” he added. The CEC earlier in his opening speech urged the returning officers (ROs) and field-level administration to act rightly and effectively on time to dispel the blame of failure in delivering a credible election. “I hope that we all together will discharge the huge responsibility that has fallen on our shoulders. Inshallah, we will fulfill this responsibility properly without any deviation. We will do the right work at the right time, effectively,” he said. Illegal arms, disinformation pose major challenges to Bangladesh polls: Officials The CEC said he had earlier stated deliberately that the Election Commission wanted to demonstrate what the rule of law truly means, as the Commission and the government administration have been facing collective blame for destroying the electoral system. “We all are being blamed that we have absolutely failed our responsibility particularly in delivering credible elections. We are being blamed for destroying the election system. It is alleged that we arranged a staged and managed election,” he said. Nasir Uddin said they want to prove that they can conduct a proper and beautiful election. “We want to be free from this blame. We want to dispel this blame. We want to prove that we can conduct a proper and fair election, and this is possible only through the rule of law,” he said. Anwarul Islam Sarker said everyone — the government, the people and voters — wants the best election. “We have no room for compromise. We may blend, but we will not break,” he added. Election Commissioner Tahmida Ahmed asked the officials to conduct the election properly, saying the country’s existence is tied to the success of the polls.“If we fail to do this election well, our existence will be at stake,” she warned. Election Commissioner Brig Gen (retd) Abul Fazal Md Sanaullah, said directives have already been issued to launch joint operations at the earliest possible time. “The Home Ministry will issue a circular very soon. Illegal arms must be recovered, and terrorists must be brought under the law,” he said. “If terrorists are not driven out of their areas, they will keep you on the run,” he warned the officials.

Vietnamese Ambassador to Bangladesh Nguyen Manh Cuong has said the aviation authorities in Bangladesh and Vietnam are now in the final stage of considering the new Air Services Agreement which will facilitate the establishment of official direct flight connecting Hanoi and Dhaka in 2026. Once the direct flight is launched, it will help strengthen and deepen the traditional friendship, especially the people-to-people relations and tourism. “There is no doubt that the traditional friendship and cooperation between Vietnam and Bangladesh is indeed growing stronger and moving toward a very bright future,” the Ambassador told reporters at the Embassy on Monday evening. He said there are still many untapped potentials that both sides should further cooperate to explore in the coming time. The government of Vietnam always cherishes the close ties between the two countries and stands ready to work with the government of Bangladesh in order to elevate their mutually beneficial cooperation to a higher level. The Embassy of Vietnam in Bangladesh will continue working closely with all Bangladeshi authorities and friends to become the bridge connecting the two countries, for the sake of peace, development and happiness of the two peoples, he said. Highlighting the economic and trade cooperation, the envoy said the bilateral trade volume in recent years always exceeds 1 billion USD, which is a great signal for the continued cooperation between the two governments and business communities. In the 11 months of 2025, the trade volume reached 1.06 billion USD. Vietnam's exports contributed about 951,6 million USD whereas Bangladesh's exports are estimated at nearly 115 million USD. The Ambassador said the cultural cooperation and people-to-people relations also greatly contribute to the long-lasting trust and friendship of the two countries. The people of both countries are interested in learning about each other’s country, culture, cuisine, lifestyle, and so on. “More exchange activities have been held between two countries, like delegations of businessmen, traders, investors coming to explore the market; artists, performers to attend the diplomatic events; students coming to study or in exchange programs; journalists, reporters to make the news and an increasing number of tourists,” he said. Vietnam floods: Death toll rises to 90 At multilateral forums, he said Vietnam and Bangladesh always highly appreciate the support that the two countries have given to each other. Vietnam expresses interest and supports Bangladesh's candidacy for the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) for the 2025-2027 term; the Council of Administration of the Universal Postal Union (UPU) for the 2026-2029 term; and the chairmanship of the 43rd UNESCO General Assembly. Bangladesh also supports Vietnam’s candidacy for the UN Human Rights Council for the 2026-2028 term.  

Eminent scientist Dr Firdausi Qadri, renowned for her contributions to vaccine innovation, testing and deployment as well as infectious disease research in Bangladesh with ICDDR, B, has said that awareness about science in the country remains limited, although gradual progress is taking place. She made the remarks on Tuesday, while speaking at the ‘Gunijan Shongbordhona 2025’, jointly organised by Bonik Barta and the Bangladesh Institute of Development Studies (BIDS). The eighth edition of the programme was held on Tuesday evening at the Radisson Blu Water Garden in the capital. Thanking the organisers for including her among the distinguished awardees, Dr Qadri said the term “Gunijan” (eminent personality) is a very high recognition that she personally finds difficult to associate with herself. “I only do research, work in public health and focus on capacity building. I often question whether I truly deserve such a title,” she said. She described herself as a simple person who enjoys working and has lived a modest life. An alumna of the University of Dhaka, she said she was born in Dhaka and has always carried a deep love for Bangladesh. “Even though my children live abroad, I have always told them that if I ever fall ill, I want my treatment to be done in Dhaka and to spend my final days here,” she said Dr Qadri said her greatest strength comes from her students and young researchers, many of whom were present at the programme at her invitation. “They are like my children. I learn from them every day, and they give me immense strength,” she added. She said her passion for research led her to join icddr,b, where she combined scientific research with teaching and long-term capacity-building efforts. She noted that she has taught at several universities and always maintained a close, respectful relationship with students. “I tell them that learning is mutual — I learn from them just as they learn from me,” she said. Addressing questions often raised about her personal life, Dr Qadri said she considers her students and colleagues her family. “I have a very large family here. That is what keeps me happy,” she said, adding that weekends are often difficult as she misses her academic community. Expressing her emotional attachment to the country, she said that despite disorder and imperfections, Bangladesh remains her home. “This is my country. I feel free here. Nothing else compares to that feeling,” she said. Dr Qadri also said recognition from her own country carries far greater meaning than any international award. “Receiving something from my own people gives me a joy that no global prize can replace,” she noted. This year, three distinguished individuals were honoured for their outstanding contributions to the country’s economy, research and public life. They are eminent entrepreneur and former adviser to two caretaker governments Syed Manzur Elahi (posthumous), former Jahangirnagar University vice-chancellor, economist and policymaker Professor Dr Amirul Islam Chowdhury, and scientist Dr Firdausi Qadri. Paying tribute to the awardees, speakers at the event included Adviser to the Ministries of Finance and Science and Technology Dr Salehuddin Ahmed; President of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Bangladesh Mahbubur Rahman; former caretaker government adviser and PPRC Executive Chairman Dr Hossain Zillur Rahman; and Executive Director of the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD) Dr Fahmida Khatun. More than 500 participants attended the programme. Since 2014, Bonik Barta and BIDS have been jointly organising the ‘Gunijan Shongbordhona’ to honour individuals who have made significant contributions to national development, policymaking, research, economic reform and social progress. The latest event marked the eighth edition of the prestigious recognition programme.    

Education Adviser Prof Dr CR Abrar on Tuesday said a vested quarter is attempting to destabilise the country by inciting violence to sabotage the upcoming national election, but the government will not bow to any pressure and will ensure a free, fair and inclusive election with the participation of all political parties. He made the remarks while speaking to journalists after visiting the family of Dipu Chandra Das, who was killed in a mob lynching over allegations of blasphemy in Tarakanda upazila of Mymensingh. “The government will not give in to any form of pressure. Certain miscreant groups are trying to create division and fuel unrest in the country. We must remain vigilant and ensure that such attempts do not succeed,” the adviser said. Expressing condolences to the bereaved family, he assured them of full government support and said those responsible for the killing would be brought to justice through proper legal procedures. The incident took place on December 18 in the Dubaliapara area of Bhaluka, where Dipu faced allegations of religious defamation. Tension spread in the area as news of the allegation circulated. At the time, Dipu was inside the Pioneer Knit Composite factory. As a crowd gathered outside the factory, Dipu was allegedly forced to resign from his job. Around 9pm, he was taken out of the factory and beaten by an enraged mob, leaving him dead on the spot. Following the incident, the victim’s younger brother, Apu Chandra Das, filed a case against 150 unnamed people with Bhaluka Model Police Station. RAB and police have so far arrested 12 people, who have been placed on three-day remand by a Mymensingh court.

The Dhaka University (DU) unit of Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal organized a goodwill and welcome rally in anticipation of the homecoming of Tarique Rahman, Acting Chairperson of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). The rally began at 4pm on Tuesday from the Teacher-Student Centre (TSC) of Dhaka University.  It later marched chanting slogans through the VC Chattar and Hallpara, parading along several important campus roads, and concluded with a brief gathering in front of Rokeya Hall. Leaders and activists of Chhatra Dal from various halls and units of Dhaka University participated in the welcome rally. At the brief post-rally gathering, DU Chhatra Dal President Ganesh Chandra Roy Sahas said, “National leader Tarique Rahman has led the anti-fascist movement of this country from abroad over the past 15 years. Putting an end to our long anticipation, he is going to return home very soon. We welcome his return.” He also called upon all members of Chhatra Dal to work toward implementing Tarique Rahman’s 31-point agenda to transform Bangladesh into a state based on equality, morality, and humane values. DU Chhatra Dal General Secretary Nahiduzzaman Shipon said, “We believe that his arrival will open a new chapter for democracy in this country. The nation will once again move forward on the path of democratic progress.”    

Yemen’s internationally recognised government and the Iran-backed Houthi movement have agreed to release about 2,900 detainees in the largest prisoner exchange since the country’s civil war began more than a decade ago, Saudi and Houthi officials said on Monday. Saudi Ambassador to Yemen Mohamed AlJabir announced the agreement in a post on X, saying it was reached under the supervision of the UN Special Envoy for Yemen and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). The deal, he said, will allow detainees from all sides to return to their families. AlJabir praised the negotiating teams for resolving a key humanitarian issue, noting that the agreement could help reduce tensions and build confidence between the rival sides. Houthi officials confirmed that the exchange includes Yemeni detainees as well as foreign nationals. Abdelkader al-Murtada, head of the Houthis’ National Committee for Prisoners’ Affairs, said the deal covers the release of seven Saudi and 23 Sudanese detainees in addition to Yemeni prisoners. Houthi spokesperson Mohamed Abdulsalam also acknowledged the agreement. The deal was reached during talks in Oman’s capital, Muscat, with the involvement of Saudi officials. It marks the largest exchange between the Houthis and the internationally recognised government since fighting erupted in 2014, when the Houthis seized the capital, Sanaa, and much of northern Yemen. The UN Special Envoy for Yemen, Hans Grundberg, welcomed the agreement, calling it a positive and meaningful step that could ease the suffering of detainees and their families across the war-torn country. The agreement followed a 12-day round of negotiations in Oman and was the 10th meeting aimed at advancing commitments under the 2018 Stockholm Agreement, which calls for the release of all conflict-related detainees, the envoy’s office said. ICRC Yemen head Christine Cipolla said the organisation stands ready to implement the releases, transfers and repatriations to ensure families are reunited safely and with dignity. The ICRC previously facilitated the release of more than 800 detainees in 2023 and over 1,000 prisoners in October 2020 as part of similar efforts. Source: AP 

The top officials of the field administration and police on Tuesday identified a range of challenges before the Election Commission (EC) in ensuring a polls-friendly environment ahead of the upcoming national election scheduled for February 12. They said the recovery of illegal arms, curbing AI-generated disinformation and controlling digital money transfers have emerged as major concerns in maintaining law and order and ensuring a credible electoral process. Besides, the granting bail of identified criminals, inter-party conflict and intra-party conflicts, scarcity of transport vehicles are among other challenges raised by the field-level officials including Divisional Commissioners, Deputy Inspectors General, Deputy Commissioners and Superintendents of Police. The field-level officials placed the challenges and sought stronger mechanisms and necessary instructions to address the challenges at a view-exchange arranged by the Election Commission at Nirbachan Bhaban in the capital. The views-exchange and briefing on electoral management affairs for deputy commissioners (DCs), superintendents of police (SPs) and other field-level high officials was held ahead of the 13th parliamentary election and the referendum on the July National Charter (Constitutional reform) Implementation Order, which is scheduled to be held simultaneously on February 12 next year. Besides, the briefing was attended by the Inspector General of Police, divisional commissioners, metropolitan police commissioners, deputy inspectors general (DIGs) of police, regional election officers and district election officers.   Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin, in his concluding speech in the event, asked the officials to apply the law equally for everyone. “The rule of law means the law will be blind.” Calling on the field administration to give the highest priority to communal harmony, the CEC said, for example, a Hindu body ‘burnt’ in Mymensingh. “Bangladesh may face many such instances of incitement. Communal harmony must be maintained. Those in the administration and police must keep maintaining communal harmony as their top priority,” he added. Earlier in his opening speech, the CEC urged the returning officers (ROs) and field-level administration to act rightly and effectively on time to dispel the blame of failure in delivering a credible election. “I hope that we all together will discharge the huge responsibility that has fallen on our shoulders. InshAllah, we will fulfill this responsibility properly without any deviation. We will do the right work at the right time, effectively,” he said. The CEC said he had earlier stated deliberately that the Election Commission wanted to demonstrate what the rule of law truly means, as the Commission and the government administration have been facing collective blame for destroying the electoral system. “We all are being blamed that we have absolutely failed our responsibility particularly in delivering credible elections. We are being blamed for destroying the election system. It is alleged that we arranged a staged and managed election,” he said. Nasir Uddin said they want to prove that they can conduct a proper and beautiful election. “We want to be free from this blame. We want to dispel this blame. We want to prove that we can conduct a proper and fair election, and this is possible only through the rule of law,” he said. During the open discussion, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Baharul Alam warned that the growing practice of blocking roads and highways over trivial issues must stop immediately, or else it will hamper the police’s ability to provide full security support for the national election. “We see attempts to create instability in society through road and highway blockades with minor demands or trivial matters. We think the time has come to stop these (practices). If we cannot establish order everywhere, it will not be possible for us to provide all-out support to the Election Commission for conducting the elections,” he said. Reflecting on past challenges, IGP Alam said police faced significant difficulties in maintaining law and order due to the reality during the post-July movement period in Bangladesh. “We must overcome such situations. I believe that we have enhanced our capabilities enough at this stage ahead of this election. We seek the Election Commission’s continued support for taking strict measures (to maintain the order),” he said. The IGP pledged that the police would exert their utmost efforts to ensure the elections are conducted successfully and peacefully. “On behalf of Bangladesh Police, I assure the Chief Election Commissioner and all election commissioners that we will be able to hold this election successfully, fairly and peacefully with all our strength and with all our efforts, and we have the full capability to do so. You can have faith in it," he said. The IGP said the EC issues directives on Superintendents of Police (SP) or senior officer postings, but clear guidelines are needed regarding transfers of lower-ranking personnel such as constables or sub-inspectors. The Rajshahi Metropolitan Police Commissioner warned about the growing threat of AI-generated fake photos and videos influencing elections. He said the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) is often approached to block such content, but fact-checking and takedown take time, which can affect elections. He proposed forming division-wise cyber patrolling teams, noting that police expertise and manpower in cyber monitoring remain limited. On digital money transfers, he suggested restricting electronic money transfers seven days before polling, while proposing a transaction ceiling through Bangladesh Bank to avoid adverse economic impacts. He also stressed the need for maximum emphasis on illegal arms recovery, noting that 455 police-recorded pistols remain unaccounted for, and suggested announcing incentives to boost arms recovery drives. The Mymensingh Divisional Commissioner suggested coordination with the judiciary to check granting bail for identified criminals, and urged enhanced border security support from the Home Ministry and uninterrupted power supply during the election period particularly during the vote-count. The Chattogram Deputy Commissioner highlighted challenges in remote and hard-to-reach areas, including Sandwip, calling for urgent arms recovery operations and, if necessary, the arrangement for helicopters and speed boats to address the issue. He also warned that electronic money transfer systems could be misused to influence voter turnout and suggested suspending such services for a specific period before polling. The Rajshahi Deputy Commissioner said no official directives had yet been issued on depositing licensed firearms and urged immediate instructions. He also sought a comprehensive policy decision to counter AI-generated misinformation. He further asked for guidance regarding voting by prisoners released after registering for postal ballots. The Kishoreganj SP said a lack of transport was hampering arms recovery efforts, though operations were continuing through checkpoints. He added that both inter-party and intra-party conflicts were creating law-and-order challenges. The Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Police of Chattogram Range expressed concern over what he described as excessive negative portrayal of the law-and-order situation in media and social platforms, warning it could negatively impact voter turnout. “We are trying our best in arms recovery. We may be falling short, but we are not getting enough support,” he said. The Sylhet Deputy Commissioner stressed the importance of cyber patrolling to counter fake news originating both domestically and abroad, suggesting engagement with social media platforms for content moderation. CEC Nasir, Election Commissioners in Jamuna for meeting with CA The Cumilla Superintendent of Police suggested appointing presiding officers for a constituency outside that parliamentary seat as many officials might have a good relation with candidates in many cases. Later, in the afternoon, Home Affairs Adviser Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, Cultural Affairs Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki and Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser on Home Affairs Khuda Baksh Chowdhury also briefed the officials in Nirbachan Bhaban. But none of them briefed reporters. Besides, Information Adviser Information Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Housing and Public Works Adviser Adilur Rahman Khan met the CEC.  

Climate activist Greta Thunberg was detained by police in central London on Tuesday while showing solidarity with pro-Palestinian activists who are on a hunger strike to protest their continued detention as they await trial over earlier demonstrations. The group Prisoners for Palestine released footage showing the 22-year-old Swedish activist holding a placard in support of the hunger strikers and Palestine Action, an organisation that was designated a terrorist group by the British government earlier this year. The arrests occurred during a broader protest in the City of London, the country’s financial district, where two activists sprayed red paint outside the premises of an insurance company. Prisoners for Palestine said the firm was targeted over its alleged links to Elbit Systems, an Israeli defence manufacturer. City of London Police said officers arrested a man and a woman on suspicion of criminal damage. A third woman was later detained on suspicion of expressing support for a proscribed organisation. Police in Britain typically do not identify individuals before charges are formally filed. According to Prisoners for Palestine, eight members of Palestine Action have launched a hunger strike to challenge their detention without bail while facing charges related to protests held across the UK. The group said the first two participants have been refusing food for 52 days and are now in a critical condition, warning that their lives are at serious risk. The UK government has declined to interfere in the matter, maintaining that decisions regarding bail and detention fall under the jurisdiction of the courts. Thunberg was previously acquitted in February 2024 of failing to comply with a police order to leave a protest blocking access to a major oil and gas conference in London. She has also faced fines in Sweden and the UK in connection with acts of civil disobedience linked to various protest movements. Source: AP 

Amid growing tensions between Dhaka and Delhi, India on Tuesday summoned Bangladesh High Commissioner Riaz Hamidullah. This development came hours after the Bangladesh Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned his Indian counterpart High Commissioner Pranay Verma to express Dhaka’s ‘grave concern’ over a series of incidents in India targeting Bangladeshi diplomatic missions. This is the second time the envoys to India and Bangladesh were summoned amid tense ties between the two countries. Dhaka-Delhi ties deep, multi-layered; future to be shaped by trust, dignity, mutual respect: Envoy Meanwhile, India deployed 15,000 security forces in front of the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi, a diplomatic source told UNB. It was not immediately known what message was conveyed to him, but there were speculations that the Bangladesh High Commissioner might be summoned as a countermeasure.

Cambodia on Tuesday underscored the primacy of ASEAN centrality and advised Bangladesh to have sustained engagements with ASEAN, both collectively and bilaterally. Bangladesh sought Cambodia’s support towards realising its interest in joining the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) overseen by ASEAN. Cambodia reaffirmed its support for Bangladesh’s bid to become an ASEAN Sectoral Dialogue Partner at the first-ever Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) held in Phnom Penh. The support was conveyed by FOC Co-Chair Un Kheang, Secretary of State, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation to his Bangladesh counterpart Dr Md Nazrul Islam, Secretary (Bilateral), Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The first FOC meeting was convened following the signing of an MoU back in 2020 during a bilateral Joint Commission meeting at the Ministerial level in Dhaka, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The FOC agenda covered the entire gamut of bilateral relations and stressed the need for activating the various Agreements and MoUs concluded between the two countries. Both sides noted steady growth in bilateral trade and emphasized deepening business to business contacts. They agreed to convene the first Joint Trade Council meeting at the earliest convenient time in Phnom Penh next year. Secretary Nazrul mooted the proposal for undertaking a feasibility study on a potential Free Trade Agreement between the two countries. Secretary Un acknowledged the need for both countries to further diversify their trading partners during the lead up to their respective LDC graduation. The Cambodian side flagged that more than 1,100 pharmaceutical products from Bangladesh were registered in their market. They proposed the formation of a Joint Working Group to discuss enhanced cooperation in the pharmaceutical sector, including for regulatory capacity building. Thailand, Cambodia set to resume border ceasefire talks The Bangladesh side expressed interest in possible investment in rice and cashew nuts processing in Cambodia for buy back arrangements. The two delegations also agreed to convene meetings of the Joint Working Groups on agriculture and aquaculture in the near future. The Bangladesh Secretary thanked Cambodia for hosting registered migrant workers in construction and RMG sectors. Both sides exchanged views on means to promote safe, orderly and regular migration and reaffirmed their commitment to jointly combat trafficking in persons and online fraud. The Bangladesh side thanked the Ministry of Labour and Vocational Training of Cambodia for publishing awareness materials in Bangla on migration procedures to Cambodia. The two sides acknowledged the need for concluding an Air Services Agreement to facilitate direct flights. The Cambodian delegation expressed interest in developing joint tourism products for enhanced people-to-people contacts. Secretary Nazrul briefed his Cambodian counterpart about the current situation with the Rohingya humanitarian crisis. He also elaborated on the reform initiatives undertaken by the Interim Government and the preparations for the next general elections in February 2026. Secretary Un shed light on Cambodia’s position on the ongoing armed conflicts along the border areas with Thailand. The two sides stressed the pressing need for return to dialogue and diplomacy in the spirit of the Kuala Lumpur Joint Declaration agreed upon earlier this year. The Bangladesh Secretary offered to host the next round of FOC in Dhaka toward the end of next year. He also shared the government’s active consideration of opening a full-fledged resident Mission in Phnom Penh. The Cambodian delegation at the meeting comprised nearly 40 officials representing various Ministries and agencies. Following the FOC, Secretary Nazrul had a bilateral meeting with Eat Sophea, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs. They discussed a number of priority issues of mutual interest to sustain the momentum of bilateral relations. Faiyaz Murshid Kazi, Bangladesh Ambassador to Thailand and Cambodia was, among others, present at the meetings.  

The government on Tuesday approved a proposal to dig five gas wells in Bhola at an estimated cost of Tk 907.29 crore to boost domestic gas production, reduce reliance on imported fuel and strengthen national energy security. It also endorsed several large-scale power distribution projects aimed at modernising and expanding electricity infrastructure in the Dhaka and Mymensingh divisions. The approvals came at a meeting of the Advisers Council Committee on Government Purchaseat the Cabinet Division Conference Room of the Bangladesh Secretariat with Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed in the chair. The committee approved the proposal from the Energy and Mineral Resources Division to drill five new gas wells in Bhola. These include Shahbazpur-5, Shahbazpur-7, Bhola North-3 and Bhola North-4 and Shahbazpur North East-1. The wells will be drilled through an international tender process using a one-stage, two-envelope procurement method on a turn-key basis. Bangladesh to drill 3 new gas wells as govt clears Tk 1,136cr exploration plan Following technical and financial evaluation, Sinopec International Petroleum Service Corporation of China was recommended as the responsive bidder. It is also expected to support industrial growth and ensure a more stable gas supply for power generation and other economic activities. In the same meeting, the committee reviewed and approved four major power distribution procurement proposals under a special revised project titled “Modernisation and Capacity Enhancement of BPDB Power Distribution System (Dhaka–Mymensingh Division).” The project include construction and augmentation of 12 air-insulated 33/11 kV substations on a turn-key basis, six substations at a cost of Tk 130.00 crore, another six substations costing Tk 113.82 crore. Two other approved proposals are construction and augmentation of 14 gas-insulated 33/11 kV substations, seven substations at an estimated cost of Tk 220.90 crore,  seven more substations costing Tk 207.91 crore. The committee noted that the power distribution projects would help meet rising electricity demand, reduce system losses, improve grid reliability and ensure a better quality of power supply across the Dhaka–Mymensingh division.

The upward trend in remittances sent by Bangladesh expatriates has continued in December, with receiving over US $2.42 billion in 22 days of the month. Bangladesh received $15.46 billion inward remittance so far in the current fiscal year FY 2025-26. Blessings on the remittance, the gross forex reserves of Bangladesh increased to $32.72 billion on Monday (December 18). As per the IMF standard BPM6, the forex reserves stood $28.03 billion. Bangladesh Bank Governor Dr. Ahsan H. Mansur in a discussion meeting recently said that the forex reserves may cross $35 billion by this month. Arif Hossain Khan, Executive Director and spokesperson of Bangladesh Bank (BB) said the $2.42 billion remittance figure for December 1-22 is an increase by 11.6 percent compared to the same period last year. In December of the previous year (2024), the country received around $2.17 billion in 22 days. Gross forex reserves hit $32.72 billion on strong remittances The growth is attributed to several factors, including incentives offered for sending money through legal banking channels, increased encouragement for using the formal system, and the active role of exchange houses. Remittance inflow has shown robust growth throughout the current fiscal year (FY 2025-26). From July 1 to December 22, 2025, the total remittance inflow reached $15.46billion. This represents an increase of $2.17 billion compared to the same period in the previous fiscal year (FY 2024-25), when the total stood at $13.31 billion. The year-on-year growth rate for the fiscal year to date is 16.2 percent.

What began as a tense standoff over seat sharing between the BNP and its allies is now giving way to cautious optimism, as leaders are signalling that a breakthrough has been reached, paving the way for a united front ahead of the election after days of behind-the-scenes negotiations. Talking to UNB, senior BNP and alliance leaders said negotiations over seat sharing have been concluded and a workable compromise has been reached. They, however, said a major challenge now facing BNP is how to manage internal party resistance in constituencies that may be shared or given up for allies. Though BNP has already finalised the seats it will share, the party has not officially disclosed how many seats it will leave for its partners. A BNP Standing Committee member, wishing anonymity, said the final announcement on seat sharing with allied political parties will be made very soon as the process has already been finalised. A key feature of the understanding, he said, is that some allied candidates may ultimately contest the election with BNP’s electoral symbol, the sheaf of paddy. Under the existing Election Commission rules, candidates from registered parties cannot contest polls under another party’s symbol, even if they are part of an alliance. To overcome this hurdle, the BNP leader said the party has adopted a new strategy. “Some selected candidates from allied parties will dissolve their parties or formally leave them and join BNP, enabling them to contest the election with the sheaf of paddy symbol.” He also said leaders of unregistered parties had already agreed earlier to contest the polls using the BNP symbol. Such discussions have already reached an advanced stage, as Shahadat Hossain Selim, chairman of the Bangladesh Liberal Democratic Party (BLDP), dissolved his party and joined BNP on December 8. Later, on December 22, Syed Ehsanul Huda, chairman of Bangladesh Jatiya Dal, also joined BNP after dissolving his party. Talking to UNB, Mustafa Jamal Haider of Jatiya Party (Zafar) and Dr Fariduzzaman Farhad of the National People’s Party (NPP) said their discussions with BNP have been productive and they would contest the election with the sheaf of paddy symbol. On contesting under the BNP symbol, Bobby Hajjaj of the National Democratic Movement (NDM), who has been given a signal to contest from the Dhaka-14 seat, said political realities sometimes require strategic decisions. “If I take any such step, it will be taken purely as part of political strategy. However, a BNP source said several leaders, including Mahmudur Rahman Manna, Saiful Haque, Andaleeve Rahman Partho, Zonayed Saki and Nurul Haque Nur, are not willing to resign from their parties to contest the election with the BNP symbol, as they want to run with their own party symbols. BNP senses ‘dangerous conspiracy’ against Bangladesh’s democratic transition The same source said Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) Chairman Colonel (retd) Oli Ahmed’s son, Professor Omar Farooq, and the party’s Secretary General Dr Redowan Ahmed will also contest the polls with their own party symbol. BNP is expected to leave those two seats for them. Talking to UNB, Saiful Haque said his party’s discussion with BNP over seat sharing ended with a promise of leaving the Dhaka-12 seat for him. “If BNP finally offers Dhaka-12, we will take a positive decision,” he said, adding that there is a mixed reaction within his party over seat sharing with BNP, as they expect BNP to offer more seats. Haque, however, said he will contest the polls with his party’s symbol spade. Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Bangladesh has emerged as an important party for BNP in seat-sharing negotiations which will also contest the election with its own ‘Date Palm Tree’ symbol. BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Tuesday said the party will share four parliamentary seats with its alliance partner Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Bangladesh for the upcoming 13th national parliamentary election. “Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Bangladesh will contest the upcoming election with BNP on the basis of an understanding. BNP has left Nilphamari-1, Narayanganj-4, Brahmanbaria-2 and Sylhet-5 constituencies for Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Bangladesh, where the party will contest the election with the ‘Date Palm Tree’ symbol,” Fakhrul said. The Jamiat candidates are Maulana Md Manjurul Islam Afendi in Nilphamari-1, Mufti Monir Hossain Kasemi in Narayanganj-4, Maulana Md Ubaidullah Faruq in Sylhet-5 and Maulana Junayed Al Habib in Brahmanbaria-2. Contacted, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said the party has already held discussions with its allies over seat sharing. “We hope the matter will be resolved within the next couple of days and announced formally,” he said. “Our understanding with alliance partners has been completed, and our bond with them has become even stronger,” Fakhrul added. Asked how many seats will be shared with alliance partners, he said the party will disclose the details in due course. “You will have to wait a little longer. Nothing can be said at this moment.” According to the Election Commission schedule, the 13th parliamentary election and referendum will be held on February 12, while the deadline for submitting nomination papers is December 29. BNP has already announced party candidates for 272 seats in two phases ahead of the 13th national parliamentary election. Sense of insecurity gripped nation ahead of Tarique’s homecoming: Abbas Of the remaining 28 seats, four have now been allocated to Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam Bangladesh as part of the alliance arrangement. Earlier, BNP confirmed former Bangladesh LDP chairman Shahadat Hossain Selim as its candidate in Laxmipur-1. A BNP leader said the party earlier announced candidates in some seats that are now to be shared with alliance partners. “It is now awkward for these candidates to step aside, as they have already been campaigning with the party symbol. In some other constituencies, the party may face strong rival candidates if those seats are shared with alliance partners,” he added.  

Bangladesh’s stock market opened on a positive note on Tuesday, the third trading day of the week, but the Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) failed to hold the gains by the end of the session, while the upward trend continued at the Chittagong Stock Exchange (CSE). At the DSE, the benchmark index DSEX fell by 13 points at the close. Among the other indices, the Shariah-based DSES dropped 4 points, while the blue-chip DS30 inched up by 1 point. Most stocks ended in the red, with prices of 242 companies declining against gains by 84 companies, while share prices of 63 issues remained unchanged. The turnover at the DSE increased, with shares and units worth Tk 407 crore traded during the day, up from Tk 395 crore in the previous session. Apex Foods Limited topped the DSE gainers’ list, soaring nearly 8 percent, while Premier Leasing and Finance Limited ended as the worst performer, shedding around 9 percent. Meanwhile, the bullish momentum continued at the CSE, where the overall index CASPI rose by 12 points. DSE, CSE begin sessions on positive note At the CSE, prices of 76 companies declined, while 68 advanced and 28 remained unchanged. The turnover also edged up at the port city bourse, with shares and units worth Tk 16 crore traded during the session, compared to Tk 15 crore a day earlier. Prime Bank 1st ICB AMCL Mutual Fund topped the gainers’ chart at the CSE with a 10 percent rise, while Hami Industries PLC ended at the bottom, plunging 10 percent.  

The government has approved several proposals including imports of rice, edible oil and lentils to strengthen food security and stabilise prices ahead of the holy month of Ramadan. The approvals were given at a meeting of the Advisers Council Committee on Government Purchase, on Tuesday at the Cabinet Division Conference Room at the Secretariat with Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed presiding. The meeting recommended two proposals from the Ministry of Food to procure a total of 100,000 metric tonnes of rice. Of this, 50,000 metric tonnes of non-basmati parboiled rice will be imported from India through the international open tender method at an estimated cost of Tk 217.53 crore while another 50,000 metric tonnes of white rice will be imported from Pakistan under a government-to-government arrangement at around Tk 241.52 crore. Officials said the rice imports would help maintain adequate public food stocks and curb market volatility during Ramadan when demand for essentials rises sharply. The Directorate General of Food will implement the procurement to ensure timely arrival of consignments and strengthen buffer stocks. To keep edible oil prices stable, the meeting also approved the procurement of 4.75 crore litres of edible oil. This includes 1 crore litres of refined rice bran oil from local sources and 3.75 crore litres of soybean oil from international sources through direct purchase methods. Govt to procure 50,000 mt of non-basmati parboiled rice, 80,000 mt fertiliser The Trading Corporation of Bangladesh is expected to distribute the oil through subsidised sales across the country. In addition, the committee approved the procurement of 10,000 metric tonnes of lentils through the national open tender method at an estimated cost of Tk 72.20 crore. The lentils will be procured in 50-kg bags and distributed through government channels to stabilise the market and support low- and middle-income consumers.

Bangladesh Bank seminar on Artificial Intelligence (AI) highlighted the growing role of AI in the financial sector and the necessity of a robust regulatory framework. The central bank announced in the seminar the formation of a seven-member team with AI specialists to monitor AI based financial transactions and banking operations. The seminar, held at the AKN Ahmed Auditorium of the Bangladesh Bank Training Academy (BBTA), brought together top regulators, IT experts, and banking leaders to outline a roadmap for AI adoption in Bangladesh. The seminar titled ‘Artificial Intelligence: Reshaping Financial Services and Its Regulation’ was held on Monday. A major highlight of the event was the announcement by Mohammad Jakir Hasan, Executive Director (ICT) of Bangladesh Bank, that the central bank has already initiated the formulation of an integrated AI policy. To lead these efforts, a specialized seven-member professional AI team has been formed within Bangladesh Bank. The upcoming policy will prioritize data security, the protection of consumer rights, and comprehensive risk management. The keynote paper was presented by Mohammad Ali, Managing Director of Pubali Bank PLC, who provided a clear roadmap and strategy for effective AI implementation in the financial sector. Md. Hanif Mia, Executive Director of BBTA and Chaired of the seminar, emphasized that while AI is a powerful tool, its success depends on responsible use. "Through proper policy, responsible use, and effective supervision, AI can make the financial sector of Bangladesh more inclusive, efficient, and stable," he stated. Among the panel discussants prof. Dr. BM Mainul Hossain, Director, IIT, University of Dhaka, stressed that a meaningful framework requires collaboration between regulators, technology users, and researchers. Md. Mahbub Karim, Director, Bangladesh Computer Council, noted that while national AI policies exist, Bangladesh Bank’s specific focus on the banking sector is a timely and essential addition. M. Rezaul Hassan, CEO, Reve Group, urged the industry to transition pilot AI projects into large-scale implementations by involving banking users more actively. Bangladesh Bank, fire service sign MoU In his closing remarks, the seminar chair called upon banks to view AI not just as a temporary project, but as a long-term strategic capability. He emphasized that banks must focus on high-quality data, skilled human resources, robust cybersecurity, and "explainable" AI systems to ensure long-term success. The event was attended by senior officials from various departments of Bangladesh Bank, members of the AI and Machine Learning implementation teams, and IT heads from various commercial banks and financial institutions.    

At least five people were killed and 10 others injured in a fierce clash between two groups over occupying Jaglar Char in Hatiya upazila of Noakhali district on Tuesday. Police said the incident occurred around 10:00 am in the char along the border of Wards 7 and 8 of Sukchar union. Three of the deceased have been identified as Samsuddin, his son Mobarak, and Alauddin, 40, son of Mohiuddin. Further details about the victims could not be gathered yet. Locals said several hundred landless families currently live on Jaglar Char, as nearly half of it is owned by the government while the rest is controlled by a private group. For years, an armed group allegedly led by Farid Member, also known as Farid Commander of Hironni union, and former chairman Mushfiq, had been controlling the char and its newly formed land. The group reportedly sold lands on the char to landless people at around Tk 20,000–30,000 per acre. On Tuesday morning, an armed group of 30-40 people, led by Kauya Kamal, Alauddin, and Nizam Member, attempted to seize control of the char. Sensing the move, supporters of Farid and Mushfiq, armed with lethal weapons, attacked their rivals, leaving four dead on the spot and several others injured. Of the injured, Alauddin was rushed to Noakhali General Hospital, where physicians declared him dead. Samsuddin, his son Mobarak, and two others from Farid and Mushfiq’s group were found dead at the scene. Officer-in-charge of Hatiya Police Md Saiful Alam said five people were killed in the clash and it took considerable time to control the situation due to the remote location of the char. Along with Coast Guard and Navy personnel, additional police forces have been deployed in the area to prevent further incidents, he added.

Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed said Tuesday Bangladesh manages its ties with India by keeping economic interests distinct from political rhetoric, with trade-related decisions driven by competitiveness and national interest rather than diplomacy. “Our trade policy is not driven by political considerations. If importing rice from India is cheaper than sourcing it from Vietnam or elsewhere, then it makes economic sense to buy from India,” he said while talking to reporters after a meeting of the Advisers Council Committee on Government Purchase. He said Bangladesh would import essentials such as rice from India if prices remain competitive, regardless of the prevailing political discourse between the two neighbours, mentioning that imports from alternative markets could cost Tk 10 more per kilogram. Dr Salehuddin stressed that Bangladesh has never pursued punitive trade measures against India for political reasons. “We do not believe in using trade as a tool for political retaliation. Our priority is to ensure supplies at the best possible price for our people,” he added. Referring to recent imports of onions from India, the finance adviser said delays had occurred despite surplus production in the Indian market, where farmers were reportedly unable to sell produce even at low prices. He said the issue had been addressed through direct engagement with the commerce ministry to facilitate imports in the interest of consumers. On the broader state of Bangladesh–India relations, Dr Salehuddin acknowledged that political rhetoric, particularly during periods of heightened political activity, can sometimes appear strained. He, however, maintained that such statements do not reflect the actual state of bilateral ties. “Political rhetoric is common, especially in public discourse. But that does not mean relations are deteriorating. Diplomacy involves many sensitive and nuanced aspects that are not always visible in public statements.” He dismissed concerns that relations with India had worsened, saying there was no abnormality in diplomatic or economic engagement between the two countries. “Nothing has gone bad. We are continuously working to maintain and improve relations.” Dr Salehuddin also addressed speculations that external forces might be attempting to create misunderstandings between Bangladesh and India, saying the interim government has no desire to see tensions between neighbouring countries. “We do not want any bitterness between the two nations. If anyone from outside is trying to instigate problems that is not in the interest of either country,” he said, adding that both sides are mindful of national sentiments and the need for mutual respect. He said Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus remains actively engaged in diplomatic efforts, including maintaining communication with individuals and institutions that have strong ties with India. The finance adviser also said he had personally spoken to the Indian High Commissioner, who assured him that efforts were underway to manage misunderstandings and maintain constructive engagement. “Some statements may appear in the media, and not everything can be controlled in a free environment. But that should not be interpreted as official policy,” he said. Police help Finance Adviser exit after 6 hours confined at Secretariat Highlighting Bangladesh’s regional outlook, Dr Salehuddin said the country believes strongly in regionalism and constructive engagement with all neighbours. “India is our largest neighbour and a major partner in trade, health services and many other sectors. We also maintain good relations with Bhutan and Nepal, and are gradually improving ties with Pakistan,” he added. He reiterated that Bangladesh cannot remain isolated and must work with countries in the region for shared prosperity. “Our economic and social interactions with India are extensive. These realities guide our approach, beyond temporary political narratives,” he said.    

The interim government on Tuesday reiterated that the killing of factory worker Dipu Chandra Das in Mymensingh was a heinous criminal act with no justification and no place in Bangladeshi society. Allegations, rumours, or differences of belief can never excuse violence, and no individual has the right to take the law into their own hands, the government said. The Office of the Chief Adviser confirmed that financial and welfare assistance will be provided to Dipu’s family, and that the relevant authorities will remain in close contact with them during the coming period. The Office of the Chief Adviser expressed its profound sorrow over the recent killing of factory worker Dipu and extended its deepest condolences to his family. On behalf of the interim government, Education Adviser Prof CR Abrar visited the family in Mymensingh on Tuesday to convey the government’s sympathy and assurance of support during this difficult time, said Chief Adviser’s Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder. The government reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to the rule of law and the authorities to investigate alleged offences and to ensure justice through due process rests solely with the state. Law enforcement authorities have arrested 12 people in connection with the crime. Investigations are going on, and the interim government has directed that the case be pursued fully and without exception. “Such acts of violence will be met with the full force of the law,” said the interim government. 10 arrested for killing Dipu Chandra Das in M’singh The government said it remains fully committed to ensuring the safety, dignity and equal protection of all citizens, regardless of religion, ethnicity, or background. It called upon all communities, institutions, and leaders to reject violence, resist attempts to create division or unrest, and uphold restraint, humanity, and respect for the law. The government reiterated its resolve to protect all citizens and to ensure that justice is served.  

Masud Hasan Jamaly, an avid sports enthusiast, passed away on Monday night at the age of 91, following prolonged health complications. He was laid to rest at Azimpur Graveyard following Zuhr prayers on Tuesday, said a media release. He is survived by his wife Raushan Ara Masud , daughter Rumana Jamaly and a host of relatives. After graduating in Electrical Engineering from Ahsanullah Engineering College in 1958, Hasan Jamaly served the Water and Power Development Board (WAPDA) for nearly 30 years. He retired as Member (Generation) of the Power Development Board. He earned the distinction of being a “University Blue” in football during his student years at Ahsanullah Engineering College. He also served as General Secretary of the Bangladesh Tennis Federation.

Ahead of the Jagannath University Central Students’ Union (JnUCSU) and hall union elections, the Jagannath University Chhatra Dal and Chhatra Odhikar supported panel “Oikyoboddho Nirbheek Jobiyan” has announced a 13-point manifesto, prioritizing the assurance of hygienic food and the resolution of the accommodation crisis. The manifesto was unveiled at a press conference held at around 3:00 pm on Tuesday (December 23) in front of the Language Martyr Rafiq Building on campus. The panel’s Vice President (VP) candidate, AKM Rakib, read out the manifesto, while other candidates of the panel presented its various points sequentially. The 13-point manifesto of the Chhatra Dal and Chhatra Odhikar backed panel includes: ensuring a democratic and secure campus; short-term and long-term solutions to the accommodation crisis; renovation, expansion, modernization of the main campus infrastructure and the speedy completion of the second campus construction; improvement and expansion of transportation and commuting facilities; ensuring hygienic and nutritious food; guaranteeing quality healthcare services and health insurance; enhancing the quality of education and research; ensuring harassment-free and faster administrative services; job creation, career development, and strengthening professional networking; expansion of sports and cultural activities; protection of women students’ rights; waste management, environmental protection, and greenery development; and special initiatives for financially disadvantaged and students with special needs. JnUCSU Election: Ballot numbers of candidates published Additionally, at the press conference, three independent VP candidates announced their withdrawal from the election in support of AKM Rakib. They are Chandan Kumar Das, Rakib Hasan, and Mashruf Ahmed. Speaking at the event, they stated that there is no place for disunity in the struggle to protect the rights of Jobiyan students. Therefore, in the greater interest and with the aim of presenting strong leadership, they decided to withdraw their candidacies. They also announced their full support for Rakib, the VP candidate of the “Oikyoboddho Nirbheek Jobiyan” panel. Other candidates of the “Oikyoboddho Nirbheek Jobiyan” panel were also present at the press conference.  

Colombia will resume spraying coca crops using drones, the government announced on Monday, as it struggles with record cocaine production that has heightened tensions with the Trump administration. Justice Minister Andrés Idárraga said the drone-based fumigation programme, approved by the government, will begin on Thursday and target areas where criminal gangs and rebel groups force farmers to cultivate coca, the raw material for cocaine. He said the use of drones would reduce risks to security forces operating in dangerous and remote regions. Colombia halted aerial fumigation in 2015 after the World Health Organization classified glyphosate, the herbicide used in spraying, as a probable carcinogen. Environmental groups had also warned that spraying from small aircraft polluted water sources, damaged legal crops and exposed rural communities to harmful chemicals. Following the ban, authorities expanded manual eradication campaigns carried out by soldiers. However, coca cultivation continued to grow, particularly in isolated areas protected by armed groups and sometimes surrounded by land mines. According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, coca was cultivated on an estimated 261,000 hectares in Colombia in 2024, nearly double the area recorded in 2016. Idárraga said the drones would operate no more than 1.5 metres from targeted plants to avoid spraying water sources and legal crops. Each drone can destroy about one hectare of coca every 30 minutes, making the method both controlled and efficient, he added. The idea of using drones for coca eradication was first proposed in 2018 but stalled due to political and institutional disagreements. President Gustavo Petro’s left-leaning government initially rejected forced eradication, arguing that impoverished farmers lacked viable alternatives. This year, however, the government has toughened its stance as drug-funded rebel groups stepped up attacks and refused to sign peace agreements. The United States has long criticised Colombia for suspending aerial fumigation. In September, the Trump administration added Colombia to a list of countries failing to cooperate in the fight against drugs for the first time in nearly 30 years, threatening military and economic assistance. Washington has also imposed sanctions on Petro and warned of possible land strikes against drug traffickers. Petro has rejected US accusations, saying Colombian security forces are seizing record amounts of cocaine even as production remains at historic highs.