The National Board of Revenue (NBR) has initiated a plan to digitize its tax audit selection process, replacing the long-standing manual method, to eliminate human interference and restore taxpayer confidence. The move comes in response to ongoing complaints from taxpayers who claim the existing manual system exposes them to unnecessary harassment. NBR Chairman Md Abdur Rahman Khan confirmed the development: “We have begun working on digitizing the selection process to ensure it is objective and transparent.” He acknowledged NBR's "image crisis" concerning how tax audit files are selected. "Taxpayers often complain that the manual selection process is subjective, and this has damaged trust in the system," he said. "Our goal is to eliminate any confusion by fully automating the audit selection process, free from human intervention." In line with the NBR's ongoing transition to a digital system, the authority has temporarily suspended the selection of new tax files for audits. Following the formation of the interim government, NBR's member of taxes (tax audit, intelligence and investigation), Md Alamgir Hossain, issued a directive instructing all field-level tax offices to halt new audit selections until further notice. The decision aims to address the complexities faced by both taxpayers and tax officials under the existing manual process. NBR to focus on out-of-court settlement of tax disputes to boost revenue Bangladesh continues to grapple with one of the lowest tax-to-GDP ratios in the South Asian region—just 7.3%. In contrast, neighboring countries like India (12%), Nepal (17.5%), and Bhutan (12.3%) have significantly higher ratios. Moreover, only 5.2% of Bangladesh's population are registered as taxpayers, a stark contrast to India’s 23.08%. Currently, 67% of the government’s revenue comes from indirect taxes. The NBR has acknowledged the need to shift this dependency toward direct taxes. The NBR chairman has said they are working to broaden the tax net in a way that is more convenient for taxpayers, encouraging compliance while reducing the burden of indirect taxation. The implementation of the Income Tax Act 2023 has introduced new audit guidelines that have raised concerns about potential increased bureaucracy and costs for taxpayers. Under the guidelines, taxpayers may face multiple stages of interrogation, which some fear could open the door to underhand dealings. To combat these concerns, the NBR has been developing specialized software, known as the "Risk Management Engine," which is designed to bring greater transparency to the tax audit process. The software will link with other government agencies to gather data and select tax files for audit based on risk factors, helping to detect tax evasion more effectively. Read more: How to file your Tax Returns in Bangladesh

Creating a safe environment for women in educational settings is essential for fostering their growth and learning. Whether in schools, colleges, or university campuses, ensuring the safety of female students and teachers is crucial for their well-being and success, particularly in Bangladesh, where cultural and social challenges persist. This requires comprehensive measures to protect girls and women from harassment, violence, and discrimination.    Ways to Ensure Female Students’ and Teachers’ Safety in the Educational Setting . Gender Sensitization Programs Promoting awareness and education on gender equality is crucial for ensuring women's safety in educational settings. This can be achieved by integrating gender studies into the curriculum and conducting comprehensive gender sensitisation programs for all students, teachers, and staff.  These programs should challenge traditional gender stereotypes, promote respect, and foster a culture of equality. Additionally, they should address important issues such as consent, healthy relationships, and bystander intervention. In Bangladesh, where deeply rooted gender roles often persist, such initiatives can play a key role in creating a safer and more inclusive environment. Read more: Workplace stress affecting women in Bangladesh needs attention Implementing Strict Anti-Harassment Policies Implementing and enforcing strict anti-harassment policies are essential for ensuring safety. These policies should clearly define all forms of harassment, including sexual harassment and bullying, and outline the consequences.  All students and staff must be aware of these rules and the procedures for reporting incidents. Regular workshops and training sessions should be conducted to raise awareness and ensure that everyone understands the policy. A zero-tolerance approach is vital to protect women and deter potential offenders. Safe Physical Environment Prioritising physical safety in schools and universities is crucial for protecting female students and teachers. Educational institutions should ensure that all areas, such as pathways, car parks, and secluded spots, are well-lit and equipped with CCTV surveillance.  Read more: Is Gym Good for Women? Installing emergency alarms and conducting regular security audits can help identify and address potential vulnerabilities. Additionally, providing separate restrooms and common areas for women is essential. These measures deter criminal activity and contribute to a safer and more secure campus environment. Establishing Safe Reporting Mechanisms Establishing safe and confidential reporting mechanisms is essential for addressing harassment and violence against women in educational settings. Institutions should create clear, accessible channels that allow female students and teachers to report incidents without fear of retaliation.  This could include anonymous reporting systems and dedicated hotlines that offer immediate assistance and support. By ensuring that these mechanisms are well-publicised and trusted, institutions can encourage more women to come forward, leading to quicker resolutions and a safer environment for all. Read more: Martial Arts Belts: Everything You Need to Know About Their Color and Significance Providing Self-Defence Training for Female Students and Teachers Self-defense training effectively empowers women, equipping them with the skills and confidence to protect themselves in dangerous situations. Educational institutions should offer regular self-defense classes focusing on practical, easy-to-learn techniques.  In Bangladesh, where women may encounter various threats, such training can be a crucial tool for ensuring personal safety. By providing these classes, institutions enhance the physical safety of female students and teachers and also contribute to their sense of security and empowerment.  Counselling and Support Services Providing gender-sensitive counselling services is vital for supporting female students and teachers who face harassment, abuse, or mental health challenges. These services should be staffed by trained professionals who understand the unique needs of women and can offer tailored support and guidance.  Read more: 8 Safe Motorcycle Riding Tips for Women Access to such counselling is crucial, as it provides emotional support and can connect victims to legal and medical assistance. By offering these resources, educational institutions help ensure that women receive the comprehensive care they need to navigate difficult situations safely.  Promoting a Culture of Respect and Inclusivity Fostering a culture of respect and inclusivity is essential for ensuring women's safety in educational settings. This requires promoting values of mutual respect among students and staff, celebrating diversity, and encouraging open dialogue about gender issues. When these principles are deeply embedded in the institution's culture, the likelihood of harassment decreases significantly.  By creating an environment where everyone feels valued and heard, educational institutions can significantly enhance the safety and well-being of female students and teachers which contributes to a more positive and supportive atmosphere.  Read more: Homemade Pepper Spray for Self-Defense: Ingredients, process, efficiency, precautions Engaging Parents and Guardians in Safety Efforts Involving parents and guardians is crucial for ensuring the safety of female students. Educational institutions should engage with parents through regular meetings, workshops, and open communication channels to inform them about safety measures and encourage their active involvement.  Schools and universities can organise parent-teacher meetings to discuss safety concerns, share information, and collaborate on initiatives. Parental awareness and support are vital for reinforcing safety practices both inside and outside of the educational environment. Regular Safety Audits and Inspections Regular safety audits and inspections are vital for maintaining a secure campus environment. These assessments should evaluate factors such as lighting, the presence of security personnel, and potential hazards. By collecting data on incidents of harassment and violence, institutions can identify areas needing improvement and develop effective prevention strategies.  Read more: Cyberbullying: What to Do If Someone is Harassing You Online Prompt corrective action based on audit findings is crucial to address any safety concerns. Continuous monitoring and evaluation of safety measures ensure that the campus remains a safe space for female students and teachers. Encouraging Peer Support Networks Peer support networks are a powerful tool for ensuring women's safety on campus, offering emotional support, safety tips, and assistance during critical times. Establishing student safety committees that include both male and female students can further promote a culture of safety and accountability.  These committees can identify safety concerns, implement preventive measures, and provide support to victims. Encouraging the formation of such groups within educational institutions fosters a sense of community and solidarity, enhancing the overall safety and well-being of female students and teachers.  Read more: Best Free Personal Safety Android, iOS Apps for Women in 2024 Collaboration with Law Enforcement Collaborating with local law enforcement is vital for improving safety in educational settings. Establishing robust relationships with police ensures a swift response during emergencies and acts as a deterrent to potential offenders. Regular visits from law enforcement officers can reassure both students and staff, creating a safer environment.  Additionally, strengthening legal frameworks to combat harassment, violence, and discrimination is essential. Effective enforcement of these laws, in partnership with local law enforcement, further enhances campus security and safeguards female students and teachers. Monitoring Online Harassment and Cyber Safety With the surge in digital communication, online harassment has become a pressing issue for women in educational settings. Institutions must tackle this by enforcing strict policies on digital conduct and monitoring online interactions.  Read more: Top 10 International Scholarships for Women to Study Abroad Providing comprehensive training on cyber safety can equip both students and staff to handle online threats effectively. Additionally, offering dedicated resources and support for those targeted by cyberbullying ensures that victims receive the help they need. By addressing online harassment proactively, educational institutions can foster a safer and more inclusive environment for all.  Closing Lines Ensuring women's safety in educational settings is a multifaceted challenge that requires a collective effort. By implementing the strategies outlined above, academic institutions in Bangladesh can create a safer and more supportive environment for female students and teachers. Continuous improvement in safety measures, driven by awareness, collaboration, and respect, is essential to fostering a learning environment where women can thrive. Read more: How to Ensure Safe Work Environment for Women in Bangladesh

International students from Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan have been targeted by violent mobs in Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan. The violence began on the night of May 17, after social media posts alleged that Kyrgyz youths had been beaten by foreign students. The mobs quickly mobilized, targeting specific areas in the city where international students reside. Pleas for Help from Bangladeshi Students Samia Kabir, a Bangladeshi student at the International School of Medicine in Bishkek, reached out to UNB in a state of distress. “We are here, five Bangladeshi girls. We are inside our apartment right now. Some people are gathering in front of our apartment. Please help us,” she pleaded on the evening of May 18. She further added, “We have been asked by the authorities to stay inside. We hear some noises from other apartments nearby…some Pakistanis are likely to be there.” Mustafa, another Bangladeshi student living in an area farther from the capital, commented on the overall situation, noting that the Bangladeshi student population in Kyrgyzstan exceeds 1,000. He mentioned that those outside Bishkek feel relatively safer, but the danger remains, especially in shared hostels where students from Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan live together. Read more: South Asian students, inc Bangladeshis, endure night of horrors in Kyrgyz capital Why Kyrgyzstan Attracts Foreign Students Kyrgyzstan has become a preferred destination for students from South Asia seeking quality medical education. According to the Migration Data Portal, in 2021, Kyrgyzstan hosted the highest number of international students among Central Asian countries, with a total of 61,418. The country’s appeal includes a low cost of living, access to subcontinental cuisine, a favorable student-teacher ratio, and no entrance fees, making it an attractive option for medical students from Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan. The Incident that Sparked the Violence The violence is believed to have been triggered by an incident of harassment involving female students from Egypt. A video showing a brawl between Kyrgyz and Egyptian students, circulated widely on social media on May 13, led to public outrage. The fight was seen as a gross disrespect to the hospitality extended to foreign students. On the night of May 17, many Kyrgyz youths took to the streets, accusing officials of leniency towards the foreign students involved in the incident. Despite police efforts, which included the immediate detention of three students involved in the fight, the unrest escalated.

Jagannath University (JnU) assistant proctor Deen Islam,  who was arrested in connection with student Abantika's suicide, walked out of jail on bail on Wednesday (May 08, 2024). However, another accused, Abantika’s classmate Amman Siddiqui, is still behind the bar. Read more: Accused JnU teacher, student arrested over Abantika's suicide Deen Islam walked out of Cumilla jail on Wednesday afternoon, Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Cumilla Kotwali Police Station Md Feroz Hossain confirmed. OC Md Feroz Hossain said Deen Islam was released on bail today on the order of the High Court. Family members of Deen Islam received him at the jail gate after his release, he said. Earlier on March 16, police arrested the two accused following the death of Fairuz Abantika who committed suicide the previous day. Read more: Abantika’s death: JnU students place 6-point demand

Cyberbullying has emerged as a widespread concern in the contemporary digital era, as harassment across diverse online platforms has become increasingly frequent. This type of bullying poses significant threats to the mental health and overall well-being of individuals. This underscores the importance of addressing this issue promptly and effectively.  What is Cyberbullying or Cyber Harassment? Cyberbullying, also known as cyber harassment, refers to the use of digital communication tools such as social media platforms, messaging apps, or online forums to intimidate, threaten, or harass individuals. This form of bullying encompasses various actions, including sending hurtful messages, spreading rumours, sharing embarrassing photos or videos without consent, and creating fake accounts to impersonate and harass someone.  Cyberbullying can occur anonymously, making it difficult to identify perpetrators. Also, it can have profound and lasting effects on the mental and emotional well-being of victims. Read more: '80% of cyberbullying victims are women' Types of Cyberbullying Harassment Harassment entails sending mean or threatening messages to someone online. It can be done through text messages, emails, social media posts, or online chat rooms. Exclusion  Exclusion involves intentionally leaving someone out of an online group or activity. For instance, a cyberbully might create a social media group and exclude their target. Outing and Doxxing  Doxxing includes sharing someone's private information online without their consent. For example, their home address, phone number, or embarrassing photos. Read more: Online bullying serious problem for 85% of Bangladesh youths: Survey Impersonation  Impersonation means creating a fake online profile and pretending to be someone else. The cyberbully can then use this fake profile to send mean messages or damage the victim's reputation. Trickery  Trickery mainly is deceiving someone into sharing personal information or embarrassing photos. For example, a cyberbully might create a fake survey to obtain personal details. Cyberstalking  This involves using technology to harass, intimidate, or threaten someone. This includes sending threatening messages or tracking the victim's online activity. Read more: Why are Suicide Rates Higher Among Men? Flaming  Flaming is described as posting angry or insulting messages on someone's social media page or online forum. Trolling  Trolling entails posting inflammatory or off-topic messages in an online forum to upset other users. Fraping  A frape happens when someone changes another person’s information on social media without them knowing or giving permission.  Read more: How to Protect Your Child from Sexual Abuse? Impacts of Cyber Harassment Emotional Distress  Cyberbullying can lead to profound emotional turmoil, including feelings of sadness, humiliation, and anger. Victims often experience heightened anxiety, constantly anticipating the next hurtful encounter, which undermines their sense of safety and well-being. Psychological Effects Research shows a significant correlation between cyberbullying and psychological challenges. Victims of cyberbullying frequently endure elevated levels of stress, anxiety, depression, and even suicidal ideation.  The relentless influx of derogatory messages and harassment often fosters sentiments of powerlessness and diminished self-worth. Also, the incessant negativity and pressure can prove overwhelming for those targeted. Read more: Students with Depression: Tips for Parents and Educators Social Isolation and Self-Esteem Damage  Cyberbullying can cause individuals to retreat from both online and offline social interactions, fearing additional harassment or scrutiny from their peers. This can foster feelings of isolation and solitude. Additionally, cyberbullying can profoundly impact an individual's self-esteem, as the recurrent attacks can engender feelings of worthlessness and insecurity.  Academic Consequences  The emotional distress caused by cyberbullying can impact victims' ability to concentrate on their studies and perform academically. Consequently, this can lead to a decline in grades and overall academic performance of the bullied person. Physical Health Issues  The prolonged stress and anxiety caused by cyberbullying can manifest in physical health problems such as headaches, insomnia, and gastrointestinal issues. Victims may also experience changes in appetite and energy levels. Read more: Digital Detox: Unplugging for Stress Relief and Mental Wellbeing Long-term Effects  The effects of cyberbullying can extend beyond the immediate harassment, affecting victims' long-term mental health and well-being. Some individuals may carry the trauma of cyberbullying into adulthood, impacting their relationships and overall quality of life. Bystander Effects  Observing cyberbullying can exacerbate mental health issues and foster an atmosphere of apprehension and vulnerability. It can instil fear of becoming a target, erode trust in online interactions and impact individuals' well-being.  What to do If You Experience Cyberbullying in Bangladesh Stay Calm It is essential to maintain composure and refrain from impulsive reactions to harassment. Responding to the bully may exacerbate the situation, as it gratifies their desire for a reaction. So, try to resist the temptation to engage with their messages or posts. Read more: Helicopter Parenting: Signs, Pros, Cons and How to Change Document Evidence It is important to document instances of cyberbullying, whether through screenshots of messages or posts or by noting down dates and times. This evidence will prove invaluable should you need to report the bullying at a later stage. Reach Out for Support It is highly recommended to discuss your experiences with a reliable friend, family member, another trusted adult, or mental health professional. They can provide valuable support and advice on navigating through the situation effectively. Block the Bully You may utilise privacy settings to block the person responsible for the harassment from reaching out to you further. Most social media platforms and messaging apps offer the option to block individuals. It can effectively prevent any further contact with them. Read more: Workplace stress affecting women in Bangladesh needs attention Report the Abuse to the Platform Utilising the available reporting tools to report instances of cyberbullying is crucial. Most social media platforms and online forums provide mechanisms for reporting abusive behaviour. Report the cyberbullying to the relevant website or platform, as they typically have anti-bullying policies and may take disciplinary action against the perpetrator, such as suspending their account. Seek Legal Advice In instances of severe cyberbullying, it is advisable to seek advice from a legal professional. The available remedies for cyberbullying may vary depending on individual circumstances. Victims are advised to seek legal counsel from a lawyer knowledgeable about cyberbullying and relevant laws for guidance. File a Report Victims of cyberbullying have the option to file a criminal complaint with the police under the Cyber Security Act of 2023. This act criminalises cyberbullying and imposes imprisonment and/or fines on offenders found guilty. Read more: Parliament passes Cyber Security Bill 2023 Cyber Crime Help Desk Bangladesh Police operates a Cyber Crime Help Desk for women (https://www.police.gov.bd/en/police_cyber_support_for_women) where victims can report incidents of cyberbullying and seek assistance. Evidence and proof (links, screenshots, etc) of cyberbullying can be forwarded via email to [email protected]  Also, victims can lodge complaints through multiple channels, including the dedicated hotlines at the Police Headquarters, the nearest police station or the official Facebook page of "Cyber Police Centre, CID, Bangladesh Police." Alternative Reporting Cybercrime victims also have the option to file complaints with the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) by calling their hotlines or emailing [email protected].  Read more: Sibling Bullying and Abuse: Reasons, Types, Signs and Prevention BTRC pledges to take action within 24 hours, with perpetrators brought to justice within 3 days of filing the complaint. The government has also introduced a cyber-crime helpline at +88-02-55007183 for victims to report their complaints. Consider Civil Suit Victims can pursue a civil suit for damages against the perpetrator, seeking compensation for emotional distress and reputation damage caused by cyberbullying. In cases of criminal intimidation, the perpetrator may be liable under the Penal Code 1860. Seek Restraining Orders Although the term "restraining order" is not specifically defined in Bangladesh’s law, victims can apply under relevant sections before a competent executive magistrate to prohibit a perpetrator from making unlawful contact. Read more: Should You See a Therapist? 8 Surefire Signs You Need Help Take Care of Yourself The emotional strain of cyberbullying can impact your mental well-being. You should prioritise self-care by reaching out to loved ones, participating in activities that bring you joy, and seeking professional assistance if necessary. Concentrate on self-nurturing activities to alleviate stress during this demanding period.  Verdict  Cyber harassment is a serious issue that can have profound consequences on individuals' lives. It is crucial to recognise the signs of cyberbullying, take proactive measures to protect oneself and seek support if victimised. By working together to combat cyberbullying, we can create safer and more inclusive online communities. Read more: Bullying in School: How to Protect Children and Deal with the Issue

Following the devastating fire incident at the Green Cozy Cottage building on Bailey Road that killed 46 people and injured several others, authorities in Dhaka have launched a crackdown on restaurants lacking proper fire safety measures. Restaurant owners, however, are critical of the approach.  The Restaurant Owners Association has labelled these operations as “harassment” and “for show”, lacking in coordination. The operations, according to the association, seem to target the restaurant industry unfairly, calling for a more integrated approach to address safety violations. Professor Dr. Adil Muhammad Khan, President of the Bangladesh Institute of Planners, criticized the sporadic nature of these operations, arguing for regular and coordinated efforts. He highlighted the injustice in arresting restaurant workers for building faults, suggesting that the responsibility lies with RAJUK (the development authority) officials and building owners before considering the tenants such as restaurant operators. Entry-level women's recruitment doubles in banking sector, but board representation still lagging Imran Hasan, General Secretary of the Restaurant Owners Association, expressed the sector's frustrations over the lack of support from any ministry despite repeated pleas. He called for a meeting with the Prime Minister, signaling their readiness to shut down operations if found culpable.  However, he questioned the logic behind blanket closures, arguing for a constructive resolution. Around 200 restaurants in Dhaka have been closed, he said, raising concerns about the crackdown. Currently, Bangladesh houses approximately 481,000 restaurants, providing employment for 30 lakh people, the general secretary of Restaurant Owners Association said. He also underlined the struggles with bureaucratic red tape and the desperation for constructive dialogue and solutions. Hasan called for the Prime Minister's intervention, reflecting the dire situation of entrepreneurs and workers within the industry, whose livelihoods are at stake. Fire safety: How safe are the restaurants in Dhaka’s upscale areas? The opposition's Chief Whip, Mujibul Haque Chunnu, has also alleged lack of coordination in the drives against risky and unauthorized buildings operating amid fire risk. “A magistrate went and destroyed a shop. Another goes and says stop. The authorities need to take a concerted, slow and steady approach in conducting fire safety drives,” he said while participating in an unscheduled discussion in the Parliament last Tuesday. RAJUK's Chairman, Anisur Rahman Mia, meanwhile has announced plans to list at-risk buildings, intending to mark them clearly and disconnect utilities in coordination with service providers, emphasizing the need for collaboration among various agencies for effective regulation. This situation sheds light on the complexities of urban safety, regulatory enforcement, and the livelihoods dependent on sectors like dining, calling for balanced, fair, and coordinated efforts to ensure public safety without unjustly jeopardizing businesses and jobs. Read more: Why Fire Safety Audit is Essential for Commercial Buildings

Four Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD) activists were detained from a protest march - called in response to the recent attack on a JCD  leader Nadia Nusrat allegedly by Chhatra League men and her subsequent arrest on false charges in Feni. Sala Uddin Mamun, president of Feni district Chhatra Dal, said as part of their peaceful program, a procession was initiated, commencing from the trunk road and moving through Shaheed Shahidullah Qaiser Road. Also Read: Narsingdi JCD killings: BNP central leader Khokan, his wife among 70 implicated Police baton-charged their procession and detained four activists, he said. The detainees are Mohammad Yasin, Sharif, Jasim, and Hriday. Feni district Chhatra Dal's general secretary, Morshed Alam Milan, said 15-20 JCD activists were injured in the incident. Also Read: BCL attack injures five JCD members “During our peaceful program, the police unexpectedly started baton charging and arrested four people,” he said. According to the police, the clash between two factions of Chhatra Dal erupted during the procession, compelling them to employ baton charges to control the situation. Also Read: Over 150 sued in two cases filed over Chhatra Dal’s factional clash in Brahmanbaria Officer-in-Charge of Feni Model Police Station, Nizam Uddin, said, “When two groups of Chhatra Dal began clashing during the procession, the police arrested four individuals through baton charge to restore order” A case is being prepared regarding this incident, he added.  

Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) and rights groups have called on Bangladesh to “stop harassing” Prothom Alo journalist Rozina Islam in a public letter issued yesterday. The public letter was sent to Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan, and Health Minister Zahid Maleque. Law Minister Anisul Haq, and Foreign Minister AK  Abdul Momen were kept in the CC list.  The letter was published on the website of CPJ, and it reads: “We, the undersigned press freedom and human rights groups, write to seek your leadership in ensuring an immediate end to the harassment of Bangladeshi journalist and human rights defender Rozina Islam.” Also Read: Court orders PBI to investigate case against journalist Rozina “Islam’s work, for which she received the United States Department of State’s Anti-Corruption Champions Award in 2022, is a public service, not a crime, and should be protected under Sections 4 and 5 of the Disclosure of Public Interest Information (Protection) Act,” the letter adds. The public letter urged the authority of Bangladesh to respect and protect the journalist’s human rights, saying, “We urge the authorities to fully respect and protect the human rights of journalist and human rights defender Rozina Islam, including her right to a fair trial, and to immediately cease all forms of judicial harassment against her, facilitating the return of her passport from judicial custody, and ensuring that she is not subjected to further retaliation for her work.”  Also Read: Anti-Corruption Award: US Embassy in Dhaka congratulates journalist Rozina Islam The organizations that signed the public letter include Amnesty International, Anti-Death Penalty Asia Network, Capital Punishment Justice Project, Coalition For Women In Journalism, Committee to Protect Journalists, CIVICUS: World Alliance for Citizen Participation, Dart Center for Journalism and Trauma Free Media Movement, Front Line Defenders, International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH), International Federation of Journalists, International Women’s Media Foundation, Overseas Press Club of America, Pakistan Press Foundation, PEN America, PEN Bangladesh, PEN International, Reporters Without Borders, Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights, South Asian Journalists Association, and World Organisation Against Torture (OMCT).

BNP Vice Chairman Dr AZM Zahid Hossain on Wednesday accused police of harassing party members and their families ahead of their anti-government protest in Faridpur on Saturday. Zahid made the allegations at a press briefing held at Faridpur Press Club on Wednesday noon. “On Tuesday, police arrested eight of our activists from Nagarkanda upazila and one from Faridpur Sadar upazila. Besides, police raided the houses of five of our party members and harassed their family members,” Zahid Jahid.  Read more: 250 BNP activists sued in Sylhet for vandalising PM, Bangabandhu’s photos He said that BNP activists and leaders will defy all the obstacles, including a politically motivated transport strike, allegedly influenced by the government. He said that the opposition people will start reaching the venue from Thursday—two days before the scheduled protest. “The entire area stretching from Komorpur Abdul Aziz Institute field to Faridpur town will turn into a sea of people during our rally on Saturday,” Zahid hoped. Shama Obaid, organising secretary of BNP, said that the ruling Awami League (AL) has announced a programme for Friday to foil their rally the next day. Read more: Another BNP rally, another transport strike: This time in Faridpur “The transport strike on Friday and Saturday is another tactic of the government to prevent our party members from joining the rally. Such plans and strategies won’t work as our party leaders and activists will make our rally successful against all odds,” said Shama. Jahirul Haque Shahjada Mia, Advisor of BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia and Chowdhury Nayab Yusuf, Joint Secretary of Mahila Dal, among others, were present at the press briefing.

Lawyers in Chattogram on Sunday demonstrated and locked the courtroom of the First Additional District Judge’s Court protesting alleged harassment and misconduct by court staff in the city. Amid chaos, all the staff of the First Additional District Judge’s Court were immediately withdrawn over the harassment of a lawyer. According to court sources, bench assistant Saifuddin Parvez demanded money from lawyer Monjur Alam when he went to the court on Thursday to check some documents of a case. When the lawyer refused to bribe, Parvez along with other staff of the court used abusive words at Monjur and made insulting comments about lawyers in general. At one point of the altercation, the bench assistant and the other staff attacked Monjur, leaving him injured. As the court was closed on Friday and Saturday, the lawyers demonstrated and locked the courtroom and demanded action on Sunday. Read: Dhaka court asks jail authorities to produce ex-SP Babul on Nov 10 Upon receiving the information, Chattogram District Lawyer’s Association President Abu Mohammad Hashem and General Secretary AHM Zia Uddin along with other leaders rushed to the court and brought the matter before Chattogram District and Sessions Judge Aziz Ahmed Bhuiyan, who then withdrew Parvez and his accomplices. “Lawyers of the Judge’s Court are being harassed regularly by the court staff when they try to do their work. Court staff demand money from us whenever we go to check files, submit bail bonds or confirm bails from the High Court, and we are insulted if we refuse to pay. This can’t go on,” said Advocate TR Khan, Chairman of Jagrata Ainjibi Parishad.