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The Border Security Force (BSF) on Saturday evening caught a senior officer of the Bangladesh Police while he was trying to enter Indian territory illegally in West Bengal’s North 24 Parganas district, said top government officials. Officials said it was one of the rarest occasions that a Bangladeshi police officer has been caught while trying to enter India illegally.“He was intercepted by BSF troops during routine patrolling. On searching him, the force recovered some identity documents, confirming that the intruder was a senior Bangladeshi police officer,” the officials told news agency ANI, requesting anonymity.&nbsp;The intruder was intercepted while attempting to cross over through an unfenced stretch of the border. BSF personnel grew suspicious after his body language raised an alert.He was immediately detained and later handed over to the West Bengal Police for further questioning.The infiltrator, whose identity was not shared considering the ongoing investigation, was caught near Hakimpur Border Outpost between 6 pm and 7 pm in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas district.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/are-ukrainian-drones-pushing-russia-into-a-fuel-crisis-how-ukraine-is-choking-russia-s-energy-lifeline-1755970714532">Are Ukrainian drones pushing Russia into a fuel crisis? How Ukraine is choking Russia’s energy lifeline</a> &nbsp;<h2>Rare, serious infiltration attempt; raises serious concerns</h2>&nbsp;Officials added that the arrest of a “serving Bangladeshi police officer” marks a rare and serious infiltration attempt and raises serious concerns over motives and cross-border dynamics.Officials said investigations are underway to ascertain the reason behind his entry into Indian territory and whether he was acting independently or on behalf of a network.“Such incidents highlight the importance of constant vigilance on the Indo-Bangladesh border,” a senior official said, adding that coordination with state police and intelligence agencies is being strengthened.&nbsp;<h2>North 24 Parganas vulnerable, exploited by smugglers and touts</h2>&nbsp;The BSF guards the over 4,096 km India-Bangladesh border, which is one of the longest international borders in the world, and often witnesses cases of infiltration, smuggling, and illegal crossings. West Bengal accounts for nearly 2,217 km of this stretch, making it a sensitive zone for security agencies.Besides, North 24 Parganas, from where the Bangladeshi police officer was arrested, is particularly vulnerable due to its dense population, riverine terrain, and proximity to urban centres.The region is often exploited by smugglers, touts, and sometimes even organised groups attempting to cross over illegally, said officials.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/old-terror-hideout-linked-to-pakistan-based-militants-busted-in-srinagar-s-dachigam-1755970163041/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/old-terror-hideout-linked-to-pakistan-based-militants-busted-in-srinagar-s-dachigam-1755970163041/embed</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;The BSF also secures the 2,289 km-long India-Pakistan border that runs across Jammu and Kashmir in the north to Punjab, Rajasthan, and Gujarat along the western flank of the country.&nbsp;The force plays a critical role in preventing illegal immigration, trafficking and smuggling of contraband such as cattle, narcotics, and fake currency. It has introduced advanced surveillance, fencing projects, and coordinated patrols to plug gaps along the border.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranian-forces-claim-to-have-killed-six-terrorists-linked-to-israel-1755968268299">Iranian forces claim to have killed six ‘terrorists’ linked to Israel</a>&nbsp;

The arrest of a “serving Bangladeshi police officer” marks a rare and serious infiltration attempt and raises serious concerns over motives. Investigations are underway to ascertain the reason behind his infiltration attempt and whether he was acting independently or on behalf of a network.

The Border Security Force (BSF) on Saturday evening caught a senior officer of the Bangladesh Police while he was trying to enter Indian territory illegally in West Bengal’s North 24 Parganas district, said top government officials. Officials said it was one of the rarest occasions that a Bangladeshi police officer has been caught while trying to enter India illegally. “He was intercepted by BSF troops during routine patrolling. On searching him, the force recovered some identity documents, confirming that the intruder was a senior Bangladeshi police officer,” the officials told news agency ANI, requesting anonymity. The intruder was intercepted while attempting to cross over through an unfenced stretch of the border. BSF personnel grew suspicious after his body language raised an alert. He was immediately detained and later handed over to the West Bengal Police for further questioning. The infiltrator, whose identity was not shared considering the ongoing investigation, was caught near Hakimpur Border Outpost between 6 pm and 7 pm in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas district. Also Read: Are Ukrainian drones pushing Russia into a fuel crisis? How Ukraine is choking Russia’s energy lifeline Rare, serious infiltration attempt; raises serious concerns Officials added that the arrest of a “serving Bangladeshi police officer” marks a rare and serious infiltration attempt and raises serious concerns over motives and cross-border dynamics. Officials said investigations are underway to ascertain the reason behind his entry into Indian territory and whether he was acting independently or on behalf of a network. “Such incidents highlight the importance of constant vigilance on the Indo-Bangladesh border,” a senior official said, adding that coordination with state police and intelligence agencies is being strengthened. North 24 Parganas vulnerable, exploited by smugglers and touts The BSF guards the over 4,096 km India-Bangladesh border, which is one of the longest international borders in the world, and often witnesses cases of infiltration, smuggling, and illegal crossings. West Bengal accounts for nearly 2,217 km of this stretch, making it a sensitive zone for security agencies. Besides, North 24 Parganas, from where the Bangladeshi police officer was arrested, is particularly vulnerable due to its dense population, riverine terrain, and proximity to urban centres. The region is often exploited by smugglers, touts, and sometimes even organised groups attempting to cross over illegally, said officials. https://www.wionews.com/videos/old-terror-hideout-linked-to-pakistan-based-militants-busted-in-srinagar-s-dachigam-1755970163041/embed The BSF also secures the 2,289 km-long India-Pakistan border that runs across Jammu and Kashmir in the north to Punjab, Rajasthan, and Gujarat along the western flank of the country. The force plays a critical role in preventing illegal immigration, trafficking and smuggling of contraband such as cattle, narcotics, and fake currency. It has introduced advanced surveillance, fencing projects, and coordinated patrols to plug gaps along the border. Also Read: Iranian forces claim to have killed six ‘terrorists’ linked to Israel

The arrest of a “serving Bangladeshi police officer” marks a rare and serious infiltration attempt and raises serious concerns over motives. Investigations are underway to ascertain the reason behind his infiltration attempt and whether he was acting independently or on behalf of a network.

BSF nabs senior Bangladeshi police officer infiltrating India near border outpost in North 24 Parganas

Bangladesh will hold elections in February 2026, interim leader Muhammad Yunus said Tuesday. It will be the first election since a mass uprising overthrew the government last year. “On behalf of the interim government, I will write a letter to the Chief Election Commissioner requesting that the election be arranged before Ramadan in February 2026,” Yunus said in a broadcast on the one-year anniversary of the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.&nbsp;Yunus, 85, a Nobel Peace Prize winner, is leading the caretaker government as its chief adviser until elections and has said he will step down after the vote.&nbsp;“We will step into the final and most important phase after delivering this speech to you, and that is the transfer of power to an elected government,” the chief adviser said.&nbsp;Yunus had earlier said elections would be held in April, but key political parties have been demanding he hold them earlier and before the Islamic holy month of Ramadan in the Muslim-majority nation of 170 million people.&nbsp;“I urge you all to pray for us so that we can hold a fair and smooth election, enabling all citizens to move forward successfully in building a ‘New Bangladesh’, ” he added.&nbsp;“On behalf of the government, we will extend all necessary support to ensure that the election is free, peaceful, and celebratory in spirit.”

Interim leader Muhammad Yunus had earlier said elections would be held in April, but key political parties have been demanding he hold them earlier and before the Islamic holy month of Ramadan in the Muslim-majority nation of 170 million people. 

Bangladesh will hold elections in February 2026, interim leader Muhammad Yunus said Tuesday. It will be the first election since a mass uprising overthrew the government last year. “On behalf of the interim government, I will write a letter to the Chief Election Commissioner requesting that the election be arranged before Ramadan in February 2026,” Yunus said in a broadcast on the one-year anniversary of the ousting of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Yunus, 85, a Nobel Peace Prize winner, is leading the caretaker government as its chief adviser until elections and has said he will step down after the vote. “We will step into the final and most important phase after delivering this speech to you, and that is the transfer of power to an elected government,” the chief adviser said. Yunus had earlier said elections would be held in April, but key political parties have been demanding he hold them earlier and before the Islamic holy month of Ramadan in the Muslim-majority nation of 170 million people. “I urge you all to pray for us so that we can hold a fair and smooth election, enabling all citizens to move forward successfully in building a ‘New Bangladesh’, ” he added. “On behalf of the government, we will extend all necessary support to ensure that the election is free, peaceful, and celebratory in spirit.”

Interim leader Muhammad Yunus had earlier said elections would be held in April, but key political parties have been demanding he hold them earlier and before the Islamic holy month of Ramadan in the Muslim-majority nation of 170 million people.&nbsp;

Bangladesh to hold elections in February 2026, says Yunus

Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) started the trial of deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina in absentia on Sunday over crimes against humanity related to the suppression of the uprising led by students in 2024. In his opening statement, the chief prosecutor, Tajul Islam, described Hasina as the “nucleus of all crimes” and called for the maximum penalty. The prosecution also named Hasina’s two top aides, former home minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal and former Inspector General of Police Chowdhury Abdullaah Al Mamun, as the co-accused. While Hasina and Kamal are being tried in absentia, Mamun is in custody and has agreed to be the approver in the case.&nbsp;The ICT started the trial against Hasina on several charges, including killings and tortures to subdue the violent street campaign last year by Students Against Discrimination (SAD) that eventually toppled her Awami League government on August 5, 2024.&nbsp;<h2>First witness testifies in trial</h2>&nbsp;The first witness in the trial, a man shot in the face during the protests, testified on Sunday. Khokon Chandra Barman, 23, wears a mask to conceal his face, which was ripped apart by gunshot on August 5, 2024.“I want justice for the ordeal I’ve been going through and for my fellow protesters who sacrificed their lives,” he told the court.&nbsp;Barman lost his left eye, while his right eye was damaged along with his lips, nose, and teeth.A video showing Barman’s blood-covered face was also played in court.&nbsp;The prosecution said it would present more testimonies of individuals injured during the protests and eyewitnesses in the coming days. The ICT, originally established to prosecute war crimes from Bangladesh’s 1971 Liberation War, indicted Hasina, Kamal, and Mamun on July 10. Last month, Hasina was also sentenced to six months in prison in absentia in a contempt of court case by the ICT.&nbsp;Hasina fled Bangladesh on August 5 last year amid escalating unrest and is currently residing in India. The interim government led by Muhammad Yunus has sought Hasina's extradition, but India has yet to respond to the request.

The ICT, originally established to prosecute war crimes from Bangladesh’s 1971 Liberation War, started the trial against Sheikh Hasina on several charges, including killings and tortures to subdue the violent street campaign last year.

Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) started the trial of deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina in absentia on Sunday over crimes against humanity related to the suppression of the uprising led by students in 2024. In his opening statement, the chief prosecutor, Tajul Islam, described Hasina as the “nucleus of all crimes” and called for the maximum penalty. The prosecution also named Hasina’s two top aides, former home minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal and former Inspector General of Police Chowdhury Abdullaah Al Mamun, as the co-accused. While Hasina and Kamal are being tried in absentia, Mamun is in custody and has agreed to be the approver in the case. The ICT started the trial against Hasina on several charges, including killings and tortures to subdue the violent street campaign last year by Students Against Discrimination (SAD) that eventually toppled her Awami League government on August 5, 2024. First witness testifies in trial The first witness in the trial, a man shot in the face during the protests, testified on Sunday. Khokon Chandra Barman, 23, wears a mask to conceal his face, which was ripped apart by gunshot on August 5, 2024. “I want justice for the ordeal I’ve been going through and for my fellow protesters who sacrificed their lives,” he told the court. Barman lost his left eye, while his right eye was damaged along with his lips, nose, and teeth. A video showing Barman’s blood-covered face was also played in court. The prosecution said it would present more testimonies of individuals injured during the protests and eyewitnesses in the coming days. The ICT, originally established to prosecute war crimes from Bangladesh’s 1971 Liberation War, indicted Hasina, Kamal, and Mamun on July 10. Last month, Hasina was also sentenced to six months in prison in absentia in a contempt of court case by the ICT. Hasina fled Bangladesh on August 5 last year amid escalating unrest and is currently residing in India. The interim government led by Muhammad Yunus has sought Hasina's extradition, but India has yet to respond to the request.

The ICT, originally established to prosecute war crimes from Bangladesh’s 1971 Liberation War, started the trial against Sheikh Hasina on several charges, including killings and tortures to subdue the violent street campaign last year.

Bangladesh tribunal starts Sheikh Hasina’s trial for ‘crimes against humanity’, first witness testifies

Bangladesh jet crash: As the Bangladesh jet crash shook the whole nation, eyewitnesses recall the horrific ordeal as they witnessed the aircraft hitting the college in Dhaka, killing at least 20 people, while leaving over 100 injured on Monday (July 21). The Chinese-made F-7 BGI hit into Milestone School and College in Dhaka's Uttara during a routine training mission.&nbsp;One of the eyewitnesses to the deadly crash recalled the ordeal, saying that the jet crashed just 10 feet ahead of him.&nbsp;"The jet crashed right in front of my eyes, just 10 feet ahead of me," Fahim Hossain, the eyewitness of the crash of the Bangladesh Air Force aircraft, said.&nbsp;According to Bangladesh local media, The Daily Star, Hossain is an eleventh-grade student at the college. He said, "The jet crashed right in front of my eyes, just 10 feet ahead of me. It hit the ground floor of a two-storey building around 1:15 pm, where classes for the primary section were taking place."&nbsp;He added that the ground floor was severely damaged by the impact of the crash.&nbsp;Another student, Ariful Islam, said that he was on the seventh floor of a building when he saw the crash. He said that he was looking out the window and suddenly saw a plane crash into the adjacent building's first floor, where junior students were taking a class.&nbsp;"The entire area was engulfed in flames with a loud bang, and screams began coming from the building. We hurriedly evacuated our building," Islam told The Daily Star.&nbsp;While a staff member of the Air Force, Rasel Mia, arrived at the incident site shortly after the crash. He said, "What happened inside the ground flood is beyond description."&nbsp;One of the fathers, who was waiting near the College's entrance, said that he spoke to his son over the phone, but still hasn't found him. Meanwhile, some students escaped the crash and were panicked and in distress.&nbsp;<h2>Know about the F-7 BGI jet</h2>The aircraft that crashed in Dhaka's college was an F-7 BGI, a Chinese-made fighter jet considered an advanced variant of the Chengdu J-7. Manufactured by China's Chengdu Aircraft Corporation, the jet was mainly used as an interceptor aircraft in various air forces around the world.&nbsp;The J-7 is itself a Chinese clone of the Soviet-era MiG-21, which is one of the most mass-produced fighter aircraft in history. In 2013, as China discontinued the J-7 series, it began exporting the upgraded F-7 BGI version to countries like Bangladesh before that. Bangladesh got 16 F-7 BGI jets between 2011 and 2013 as part of its effort to modernise its aging fleet. The F-7 BGI had a KLJ-6F radar system that allowed it to spot targets at a distance of more than 86 km. Moreover, the plane can track six targets and engage two simultaneously. &nbsp;

Another student, Ariful Islam, said that he was on the seventh floor of a building when he saw the crash. He said that he was looking out the window and suddenly saw a plane crash into the adjacent building's first floor, where junior students were taking a class.

Bangladesh jet crash: As the Bangladesh jet crash shook the whole nation, eyewitnesses recall the horrific ordeal as they witnessed the aircraft hitting the college in Dhaka, killing at least 20 people, while leaving over 100 injured on Monday (July 21). The Chinese-made F-7 BGI hit into Milestone School and College in Dhaka's Uttara during a routine training mission. One of the eyewitnesses to the deadly crash recalled the ordeal, saying that the jet crashed just 10 feet ahead of him. "The jet crashed right in front of my eyes, just 10 feet ahead of me," Fahim Hossain, the eyewitness of the crash of the Bangladesh Air Force aircraft, said. According to Bangladesh local media, The Daily Star, Hossain is an eleventh-grade student at the college. He said, "The jet crashed right in front of my eyes, just 10 feet ahead of me. It hit the ground floor of a two-storey building around 1:15 pm, where classes for the primary section were taking place." He added that the ground floor was severely damaged by the impact of the crash. Another student, Ariful Islam, said that he was on the seventh floor of a building when he saw the crash. He said that he was looking out the window and suddenly saw a plane crash into the adjacent building's first floor, where junior students were taking a class. "The entire area was engulfed in flames with a loud bang, and screams began coming from the building. We hurriedly evacuated our building," Islam told The Daily Star. While a staff member of the Air Force, Rasel Mia, arrived at the incident site shortly after the crash. He said, "What happened inside the ground flood is beyond description." One of the fathers, who was waiting near the College's entrance, said that he spoke to his son over the phone, but still hasn't found him. Meanwhile, some students escaped the crash and were panicked and in distress. Know about the F-7 BGI jet The aircraft that crashed in Dhaka's college was an F-7 BGI, a Chinese-made fighter jet considered an advanced variant of the Chengdu J-7. Manufactured by China's Chengdu Aircraft Corporation, the jet was mainly used as an interceptor aircraft in various air forces around the world. The J-7 is itself a Chinese clone of the Soviet-era MiG-21, which is one of the most mass-produced fighter aircraft in history. In 2013, as China discontinued the J-7 series, it began exporting the upgraded F-7 BGI version to countries like Bangladesh before that. Bangladesh got 16 F-7 BGI jets between 2011 and 2013 as part of its effort to modernise its aging fleet. The F-7 BGI had a KLJ-6F radar system that allowed it to spot targets at a distance of more than 86 km. Moreover, the plane can track six targets and engage two simultaneously.

Another student, Ariful Islam, said that he was on the seventh floor of a building when he saw the crash. He said that he was looking out the window and suddenly saw a plane crash into the adjacent building's first floor, where junior students were taking a class.

'Flames, loud bang and screams': Eyewitness recall horrific ordeal as Chinese-made Bangladesh jet crashes into college

The pilot of the Bangladesh Air Force F7 aircraft that crashed on Monday (July 21), died, along with 18 other people, the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) confirmed, according to the state media. Flight Lieutenant Towkir Islam Sagar was the pilot of the Air Force training jet that crashed at Milestone School and College in Uttara, Dhaka.&nbsp;According to the ISPR, at least 18 people were dead and 164 were injured in the Bangladesh Air Force training jet crash. The injured were taken to different hospitals in the city for further treatment.&nbsp;Earlier, the flight lieutenant was being treated in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the Combined Military Hospital (CMH).Following the deadly crash, an emergency hotline was launched at the National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery following the crash today.&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bangladesh-jet-crash-who-was-flying-air-force-f-7-aircraft-before-it-crashed-onto-school-is-the-pilot-alive-1753099560727">Also read: Bangladesh jet crash: Who was Towkir Islam Sagar, pilot died after Air Force F-7 aircraft crashed onto school?</a><h2>Who was Towkir Islam Sagar?</h2>Sagar, the flight lieutenant of the F-7 aircraft, died while undergoing treatment at the military hospital in Dhaka. He completed his first 100 hours of flight training during his cadet years in PT-6 aircraft.&nbsp;Later, Sagar served with the 15th Squadron, logging approximately 60 hours of flight time, but later joined the 35th Squadron.&nbsp;He succumbed to his injuries at the CMH around 3:45 pm on Monday, the ISPR confirmed. The pilot died after the F-7 BJI model, made in China, jet, crashed onto the grounds of Milestone College just moments after taking off.&nbsp;Following the incident, panic erupted among students, teachers and staff as they ran for safety. Currently, eight units of the Fire Service, along with Bangladesh Army personnel are engaged in the rescue operations. Moreover, two platoons from Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and the Navy have also joined the efforts in the crisis situation.&nbsp;

According to the ISPR, at least 18 people were dead and 164 were injured in the Bangladesh Air Force training jet crash. The injured were taken to different hospitals in the city for further treatment.

The pilot of the Bangladesh Air Force F7 aircraft that crashed on Monday (July 21), died, along with 18 other people, the Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) confirmed, according to the state media. Flight Lieutenant Towkir Islam Sagar was the pilot of the Air Force training jet that crashed at Milestone School and College in Uttara, Dhaka. According to the ISPR, at least 18 people were dead and 164 were injured in the Bangladesh Air Force training jet crash. The injured were taken to different hospitals in the city for further treatment. Earlier, the flight lieutenant was being treated in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the Combined Military Hospital (CMH). Following the deadly crash, an emergency hotline was launched at the National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery following the crash today. Also read: Bangladesh jet crash: Who was Towkir Islam Sagar, pilot died after Air Force F-7 aircraft crashed onto school? Who was Towkir Islam Sagar? Sagar, the flight lieutenant of the F-7 aircraft, died while undergoing treatment at the military hospital in Dhaka. He completed his first 100 hours of flight training during his cadet years in PT-6 aircraft. Later, Sagar served with the 15th Squadron, logging approximately 60 hours of flight time, but later joined the 35th Squadron. He succumbed to his injuries at the CMH around 3:45 pm on Monday, the ISPR confirmed. The pilot died after the F-7 BJI model, made in China, jet, crashed onto the grounds of Milestone College just moments after taking off. Following the incident, panic erupted among students, teachers and staff as they ran for safety. Currently, eight units of the Fire Service, along with Bangladesh Army personnel are engaged in the rescue operations. Moreover, two platoons from Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and the Navy have also joined the efforts in the crisis situation.

According to the ISPR, at least 18 people were dead and 164 were injured in the Bangladesh Air Force training jet crash. The injured were taken to different hospitals in the city for further treatment.

Bangladesh jet crash: Pilot dies, along with 18 others after Air Force jet crashes into college

India’s external affairs ministry on Tuesday urged the Mohammad Yunus government in Bangladesh to reconsider its decision to demolish the ancestral home of noted filmmaker Satyajit Ray and offered help to preserve the iconic building, as it symbolises Bangla cultural ‘renaissance’. New Delhi described the move to demolish the “landmark” building in Mymensingh as a matter of “profound regret” and urged Dhaka to convert it into a museum symbolising shared culture of the two countries and pledged to extend cooperation for it. The building belonged to the filmmaker’s grandfather, Upendra Kishor Ray Chowdhury, also a renowned litterateur.&nbsp;“We note with profound regret that the ancestral property of noted filmmaker and litterateur Satyajit Ray in Mymensingh, Bangladesh, belonging to his grandfather and eminent litterateur, Upendra Kishor Ray Chowdhury, is being demolished,” the MEA said in a statement.&nbsp;“Given the building’s landmark status, symbolising Bangla cultural renaissance, it would be preferable to reconsider the demolition and examine options for its repair and reconstruction as a museum of literature and a symbol of the shared culture of India and Bangladesh,” the MEA said in a statement.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">We note with profound regret that the ancestral property of noted filmmaker and litterateur Satyajit Ray in Mymensingh, Bangladesh, belonging to his grandfather and eminent litterateur, Upendra Kishor Ray Chowdhury, is being demolished. The property, presently owned by the… <a href="https://t.co/FBz24oHPSN">pic.twitter.com/FBz24oHPSN</a>&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1945165615519416786?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Earlier in the day, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said that it is “extremely distressing” that eminent filmmaker Satyajit Ray’s ancestral home in Dhaka is being demolished by Bangladeshi authorities. She said the building is intricately tied to the cultural history of Bengal.&nbsp;Banerjee had appealed to the Mohammad Yunus government in Bangladesh to take steps to preserve the ancestral property. She said the demolition of such a place was “heartbreaking”. The Ray family is one of the foremost bearers and carriers of Bengali culture, Banerjee wrote on X.She called upon both the governments of Bangladesh and India to take steps to preserve the historic site, describing the Ray family as “torchbearers” of Bengal’s cultural legacy.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">খবরে প্রকাশ যে, বাংলাদেশের ময়মনসিংহ শহরে সত্যজিৎ রায়ের ঠাকুরদা, স্বয়ং স্বনামধন্য সাহিত্যিক-সম্পাদক উপেন্দ্রকিশোর রায়চৌধুরীর স্মৃতিজড়িত তাঁদের পৈতৃক বাড়িটি নাকি ভেঙে ফেলা হচ্ছে। ভাঙার কাজ শুরু হয়ে গিয়েছিল বলে খবর প্রকাশিত। এই সংবাদ অত্যন্ত দুঃখের। রায় পরিবার বাংলার…&mdash; Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) <a href="https://twitter.com/MamataOfficial/status/1945115503837520343?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

“I learnt from media reports that the memory-entwined ancestral house of renowned writer-editor Upendrakishore Roychowdhury in Bangladesh’s Mymensingh city is being demolished. The reports say that the demolition process had already begun. This is heartbreaking news. The Ray family is one of the most prominent torchbearers of Bengal’s culture,” Banerjee wrote on X.&nbsp;The house had fallen into disrepair and had been left unused for nearly a decade. It previously housed the Mymensingh Shishu Academy but was later abandoned.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also appealed to the Bangladesh government and “all the conscientious people of that country to take steps to preserve this heritage-laden house”. The Indian government should pay attention to this matter, she added.

India’s external affairs ministry on Tuesday urged the Mohammad Yunus government in Bangladesh to reconsider its decision to demolish the ancestral home of noted filmmaker Satyajit Ray and offered help to preserve the iconic building, as it symbolises Bangla cultural ‘renaissance’. New Delhi described the move to demolish the “landmark” building in Mymensingh as a matter of “profound regret” and urged Dhaka to convert it into a museum symbolising shared culture of the two countries and pledged to extend cooperation for it. The building belonged to the filmmaker’s grandfather, Upendra Kishor Ray Chowdhury, also a renowned litterateur. “We note with profound regret that the ancestral property of noted filmmaker and litterateur Satyajit Ray in Mymensingh, Bangladesh, belonging to his grandfather and eminent litterateur, Upendra Kishor Ray Chowdhury, is being demolished,” the MEA said in a statement. “Given the building’s landmark status, symbolising Bangla cultural renaissance, it would be preferable to reconsider the demolition and examine options for its repair and reconstruction as a museum of literature and a symbol of the shared culture of India and Bangladesh,” the MEA said in a statement.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also appealed to the Bangladesh government and “all the conscientious people of that country to take steps to preserve this heritage-laden house”. The Indian government should pay attention to this matter, she added.

India urges Bangladesh not to demolish Satyajit Ray’s ancestral home, offers help in repair

The International Crimes Tribunal on Wednesday sentenced Bangladesh's ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to six months in prison in a contempt of court case, according to local media, the Dhaka Tribune report. Her sentence will take effect immediately from the day of her arrest or surrender.The quantum of punishment for Hasina was decided by a three-member bench of the ICT-1, headed by Chairman Justice Md Golam Martuza Mozumdar, according to report.This marks the first conviction for the former Awami League leader since she departed office and left the country almost a year ago.Moreover, the tribunal also announced a two-month prison sentence to Shakil Akand Bulbul from Gobindaganj in Gaibandha in the same ruling.<h2>Here's what we know</h2>Earlier on July 1, Sheikh Hasina denied accusations that she committed crimes against humanity after prosecutors filed five charges against her in connection with abetment, incitement, complicity, facilitation and conspiracy and failure to prevent mass murder. All this leads to crimes against humanity under Bangladeshi law.According to the Dhaka Tribune report, the case was filed against Hasina after a phone call was leaked, which she allegedly made to Shakil Akand Bulbul in October last year.In the audio, the voice identified as Hasina, said, "227 cases have been filed against me, so I have obtained a licence to kill 227 people".The prosecution argued that this amounts to contempt of court, as it threatens the judicial process and intimidates war crimes.Notably, the ICT was set up by Hasina in 2009 to investigate crimes committed by the Pakistani army during Bangladesh’s war for independence in 1971.Earlier, Mohammad Tajul Islam, the chief prosecutor at Bangladesh’s domestic International Crimes Tribunal (ICT), alleged that Hasina orchestrated a “systemic attack” on protests against her government.Sheikh Hasina’s 16-year rule in Bangladesh ended on August 5 last year after a violent uprising. Hasina resigned and fled to India after the protesters almost converged on her official residence in Dhaka.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The quantum of punishment for Hasina was decided by a three-member bench of the ICT-1, headed by Chairman Justice Md Golam Martuza Mozumdar, according to report.

The International Crimes Tribunal on Wednesday sentenced Bangladesh's ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to six months in prison in a contempt of court case, according to local media, the Dhaka Tribune report. Her sentence will take effect immediately from the day of her arrest or surrender. The quantum of punishment for Hasina was decided by a three-member bench of the ICT-1, headed by Chairman Justice Md Golam Martuza Mozumdar, according to report. This marks the first conviction for the former Awami League leader since she departed office and left the country almost a year ago. Moreover, the tribunal also announced a two-month prison sentence to Shakil Akand Bulbul from Gobindaganj in Gaibandha in the same ruling. Here's what we know Earlier on July 1, Sheikh Hasina denied accusations that she committed crimes against humanity after prosecutors filed five charges against her in connection with abetment, incitement, complicity, facilitation and conspiracy and failure to prevent mass murder. All this leads to crimes against humanity under Bangladeshi law. According to the Dhaka Tribune report, the case was filed against Hasina after a phone call was leaked, which she allegedly made to Shakil Akand Bulbul in October last year. In the audio, the voice identified as Hasina, said, "227 cases have been filed against me, so I have obtained a licence to kill 227 people". The prosecution argued that this amounts to contempt of court, as it threatens the judicial process and intimidates war crimes. Notably, the ICT was set up by Hasina in 2009 to investigate crimes committed by the Pakistani army during Bangladesh’s war for independence in 1971. Earlier, Mohammad Tajul Islam, the chief prosecutor at Bangladesh’s domestic International Crimes Tribunal (ICT), alleged that Hasina orchestrated a “systemic attack” on protests against her government. Sheikh Hasina’s 16-year rule in Bangladesh ended on August 5 last year after a violent uprising. Hasina resigned and fled to India after the protesters almost converged on her official residence in Dhaka.

The quantum of punishment for Hasina was decided by a three-member bench of the ICT-1, headed by Chairman Justice Md Golam Martuza Mozumdar, according to report.

Bangladesh's Sheikh Hasina sentenced to 6 months in prison in contempt of court case - Here's what we know

The prosecutors of the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) in Bangladesh formally charged former prime minister Sheikh Hasina with crimes against humanity along with former home minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, and former inspector general of police Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun for the violent crackdown on the July 2024 uprising led by students.&nbsp;Hasina has rejected the charges as politically motivated. Bangladesh Television (BTV), the country’s national broadcaster, telecast the proceedings live.&nbsp;The ICT was set up by Hasina in 2009 to investigate crimes committed by the Pakistani army during Bangladesh’s war for independence in 1971.&nbsp;The 2024 student-led uprising that ultimately led to her ouster. The trial of the 77-year-old leader, currently living in self-imposed exile in India, began on Sunday.&nbsp;Mohammad Tajul Islam, the chief prosecutor at Bangladesh’s domestic International Crimes Tribunal (ICT), alleged that Hasina orchestrated a “systemic attack” on protests against her government.“Upon scrutinising the evidence, we reached the conclusion that it was a coordinated, widespread and systematic attack,” Islam told the court in his opening statement, said a Dhaka Tribune report.&nbsp;“The accused unleashed all law enforcement agencies and her armed party members to crush the uprising.” After taking the charges into cognisance, the tribunal directed investigators to produce all three accused before the court on June 16. Hasina and Kamal are absconding, while ex-IGP Mamun is already in custody.&nbsp;Sheikh Hasina’s 16-year rule in Bangladesh ended on August 5 last year after a violent uprising. Hasina resigned and fled to India after the protesters almost converged on her official residence in Dhaka.&nbsp;She faces multiple cases in Bangladeshi courts, where she is accused of numerous charges like mass murders and crimes against humanity and enforced disappearances.In a first, Bangladesh’s ICT allowed state-run BTV to broadcast the hearing of the case against the former prime minister.&nbsp;&nbsp;Islam brought charges of “abetment, incitement, complicity, facilitation, conspiracy, and failure to prevent mass murder during the July uprising” against Hasina and the two men.“This is not an act of vendetta, but a commitment to the principle that, in a democratic country, there is no room for crimes against humanity,” he said.&nbsp;The investigators have gathered video footage, audio recordings, Hasina’s phone calls, documentation of helicopter and drone activity, along with testimonies from victims of the crackdown in their investigation.&nbsp;The case listed 81 people as witnesses, Islam said.

Hasina has rejected the charges as politically motivated. Bangladesh Television, the country’s national broadcaster, telecast the proceedings live. The ICT was set up by Hasina in 2009 to investigate crimes committed by the Pakistani army during Bangladesh’s war for independence in 1971.

The prosecutors of the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) in Bangladesh formally charged former prime minister Sheikh Hasina with crimes against humanity along with former home minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, and former inspector general of police Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun for the violent crackdown on the July 2024 uprising led by students. Hasina has rejected the charges as politically motivated. Bangladesh Television (BTV), the country’s national broadcaster, telecast the proceedings live. The ICT was set up by Hasina in 2009 to investigate crimes committed by the Pakistani army during Bangladesh’s war for independence in 1971. The 2024 student-led uprising that ultimately led to her ouster. The trial of the 77-year-old leader, currently living in self-imposed exile in India, began on Sunday. Mohammad Tajul Islam, the chief prosecutor at Bangladesh’s domestic International Crimes Tribunal (ICT), alleged that Hasina orchestrated a “systemic attack” on protests against her government. “Upon scrutinising the evidence, we reached the conclusion that it was a coordinated, widespread and systematic attack,” Islam told the court in his opening statement, said a Dhaka Tribune report. “The accused unleashed all law enforcement agencies and her armed party members to crush the uprising.” After taking the charges into cognisance, the tribunal directed investigators to produce all three accused before the court on June 16. Hasina and Kamal are absconding, while ex-IGP Mamun is already in custody. Sheikh Hasina’s 16-year rule in Bangladesh ended on August 5 last year after a violent uprising. Hasina resigned and fled to India after the protesters almost converged on her official residence in Dhaka. She faces multiple cases in Bangladeshi courts, where she is accused of numerous charges like mass murders and crimes against humanity and enforced disappearances. In a first, Bangladesh’s ICT allowed state-run BTV to broadcast the hearing of the case against the former prime minister. Islam brought charges of “abetment, incitement, complicity, facilitation, conspiracy, and failure to prevent mass murder during the July uprising” against Hasina and the two men. “This is not an act of vendetta, but a commitment to the principle that, in a democratic country, there is no room for crimes against humanity,” he said. The investigators have gathered video footage, audio recordings, Hasina’s phone calls, documentation of helicopter and drone activity, along with testimonies from victims of the crackdown in their investigation. The case listed 81 people as witnesses, Islam said.

Hasina has rejected the charges as politically motivated. Bangladesh Television, the country’s national broadcaster, telecast the proceedings live. The ICT was set up by Hasina in 2009 to investigate crimes committed by the Pakistani army during Bangladesh’s war for independence in 1971.

Sheikh Hasina charged with ‘crimes against humanity’ as trial begins in Bangladesh

Senior leaders of the banned Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD), the Pakistan-based extremist outfit founded by 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks mastermind Hafiz Saeed, have claimed credit for the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in Bangladesh, saying that they took revenge for Pakistan’s dismemberment in 1971, and revealed that they played a role in the massive anti-government protests last year in Dhaka.The provocative claims were made in public speeches earlier this week by JuD leaders Saifullah Kasuri and Muzammil Hashmi.Hashmi is a UN-designated terrorist.&nbsp;Speaking at a rally in Allahabad, near Rahim Yar Khan in Pakistan’s Punjab province, Kasuri invoked the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War, and called the 2024 unrest in Dhaka a “revenge” for it. &nbsp;“I was four years old when Pakistan was dismembered in 1971. The then Indian prime minister Indira Gandhi had declared that she’d drowned the two-nation theory in Khaleej (Bay of Bengal). On May 10, l …we have taken the revenge of 1971,” Kasuri said while addressing supporters in Allahabad, about 400 km from Lahore. &nbsp;Kasuri was referring to the 1971 Liberation War, in which Bangladesh (formerly East Pakistan) gained independence following Pakistan’s surrender to Indian soldiers and Bangladeshi freedom fighters. &nbsp;In the speech, Kasuri also confirmed that the Jamaat-ud-Dawa/Laskar-e-Taiba headquarters in Pakistan’s Muridke were hit by Indian airstrikes under Operation Sindoor on May 7, and admitted that one of his associates, Mudassar, was “cut into pieces” in the attack.&nbsp;“I was not allowed to attend his funeral. On the day of his funeral, I cried a lot,” Kasuri said, but did not reveal who did not let him attend the burial, though senior officers of the military, police, and civilian administration of Punjab province attended the funeral of Mudassar and two other JuD members as was revealed in several photographs in the media, underlining the terror outfit’s clout and backing by the Pakistani establishment.&nbsp;<h2>‘We are preparing the next generation for jihad...We are not afraid of dying’</h2>&nbsp;Referring to the April 22 attack in India’s Jammu and Kashmir, Kasuri said, “I was in my constituency meeting with the people when the Pahalgam incident took place. India made me the mastermind of this attack. India made my city, Kasur, popular in the world.”&nbsp;He then menacingly said, “We are preparing the next generation for jihad...We are not afraid of dying.”&nbsp;Meanwhile, speaking at an event in Gujranwala, about 80 km from Lahore, Muzammil Hashmi addressed Indian leadership, saying, “We defeated you in Bangladesh last year...”Hashmi’s remarks referred to the ouster of Sheikh Hasina on August 5, which came after large-scale student-led anti-government protests.Following her removal, Hasina fled to India, and three days later, Muhammad Yunus assumed charge as the Chief Adviser of the interim government in Bangladesh.Consequently, diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh have improved dramatically after Hasina’s departure.&nbsp;These admissions by senior leaders of the terrorist groups expose Pakistan’s duplicity and again bring Islamabad under international scrutiny for its backing to extremist elements.&nbsp;Former Pakistani diplomat Husain Haqqani remarked, “The rhetoric of Jihadi extremists at their public rallies makes it difficult for the rest of the world to believe official assertions that Pakistan is no longer sponsoring them.”

In the speech, Kasuri also confirmed that the Jamaat-ud-Dawa/Laskar-e-Taiba headquarters in Pakistan’s Muridke were hit by Indian airstrikes under Operation Sindoor on May 7, and admitted that one of his associates, Mudassar, was “cut into pieces” in the attack.

Senior leaders of the banned Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD), the Pakistan-based extremist outfit founded by 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks mastermind Hafiz Saeed, have claimed credit for the ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in Bangladesh, saying that they took revenge for Pakistan’s dismemberment in 1971, and revealed that they played a role in the massive anti-government protests last year in Dhaka. The provocative claims were made in public speeches earlier this week by JuD leaders Saifullah Kasuri and Muzammil Hashmi. Hashmi is a UN-designated terrorist. Speaking at a rally in Allahabad, near Rahim Yar Khan in Pakistan’s Punjab province, Kasuri invoked the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War, and called the 2024 unrest in Dhaka a “revenge” for it. “I was four years old when Pakistan was dismembered in 1971. The then Indian prime minister Indira Gandhi had declared that she’d drowned the two-nation theory in Khaleej (Bay of Bengal). On May 10, l …we have taken the revenge of 1971,” Kasuri said while addressing supporters in Allahabad, about 400 km from Lahore. Kasuri was referring to the 1971 Liberation War, in which Bangladesh (formerly East Pakistan) gained independence following Pakistan’s surrender to Indian soldiers and Bangladeshi freedom fighters. In the speech, Kasuri also confirmed that the Jamaat-ud-Dawa/Laskar-e-Taiba headquarters in Pakistan’s Muridke were hit by Indian airstrikes under Operation Sindoor on May 7, and admitted that one of his associates, Mudassar, was “cut into pieces” in the attack. “I was not allowed to attend his funeral. On the day of his funeral, I cried a lot,” Kasuri said, but did not reveal who did not let him attend the burial, though senior officers of the military, police, and civilian administration of Punjab province attended the funeral of Mudassar and two other JuD members as was revealed in several photographs in the media, underlining the terror outfit’s clout and backing by the Pakistani establishment. ‘We are preparing the next generation for jihad...We are not afraid of dying’ Referring to the April 22 attack in India’s Jammu and Kashmir, Kasuri said, “I was in my constituency meeting with the people when the Pahalgam incident took place. India made me the mastermind of this attack. India made my city, Kasur, popular in the world.” He then menacingly said, “We are preparing the next generation for jihad...We are not afraid of dying.” Meanwhile, speaking at an event in Gujranwala, about 80 km from Lahore, Muzammil Hashmi addressed Indian leadership, saying, “We defeated you in Bangladesh last year...” Hashmi’s remarks referred to the ouster of Sheikh Hasina on August 5, which came after large-scale student-led anti-government protests. Following her removal, Hasina fled to India, and three days later, Muhammad Yunus assumed charge as the Chief Adviser of the interim government in Bangladesh. Consequently, diplomatic relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh have improved dramatically after Hasina’s departure. These admissions by senior leaders of the terrorist groups expose Pakistan’s duplicity and again bring Islamabad under international scrutiny for its backing to extremist elements. Former Pakistani diplomat Husain Haqqani remarked, “The rhetoric of Jihadi extremists at their public rallies makes it difficult for the rest of the world to believe official assertions that Pakistan is no longer sponsoring them.”

In the speech, Kasuri also confirmed that the Jamaat-ud-Dawa/Laskar-e-Taiba headquarters in Pakistan’s Muridke were hit by Indian airstrikes under Operation Sindoor on May 7, and admitted that one of his associates, Mudassar, was “cut into pieces” in the attack.

‘Took revenge for 1971’: Hafiz Saeed’s terror outfit JuD claims credit for Sheikh Hasina’s ouster in Bangladesh

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has asked for an early election in Bangladesh on Wednesday, placing additional pressure on the interim government led by Prof. Muhammad Yunus.&nbsp;For the past 10 months, this is for the first time that the BNP challenged the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government, and disparaged its key initiatives such as the so-called "humanitarian corridor" between Myanmar and Bangladesh.&nbsp;"Excuses are already being made about the national elections. Despite 10 months having passed, the interim government has not declared the election date yet," said Tarique Rahman, the acting chairman of the BNP, speaking at the rally via video link from London.&nbsp;Yunus had previously said that elections would take place in December 2025 but later moved the timeline to February 2026 and later to June 2026.&nbsp;Although Yunus' reforms are ongoing, his banning the Awami League could be the biggest and most far-reaching success for opposition parties like Bangladesh Nationalist Party and Jamaat-e-Islami who went mute under Sheikh Hasina's regime.&nbsp;&nbsp;The BNP is organising countrywide protests, calling for immediate reforms so that the general elections can be conducted. The party is evidently losing its patience as a complete ban on the Awami League gives it an even better chance to get elected after such a long hiatus.&nbsp;India's MEA rejects Yunus's India destabilising Bangladesh claim&nbsp;The ministry of external affairs on Thursday (May 29) dismissed Bangladesh's chief adviser Muhammad Yunus's claims that New Delhi is ‘destabilising’ his country. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that Bangladesh's accusations were an attempt to deflect attention from real issues. &nbsp;"As far as the government there is concerned, the responsibility for law and order and governance issues lies entirely with that government," Jaiswal said. "In such a situation, if someone says that external factors or someone else is to blame for the disturbances, it appears that they are trying to deflect attention from the real issue and shift the blame onto others. Such statements do not solve the problem; they seem like an attempt to avoid accountability," he added.&nbsp;US Embassy in Bangladesh issues advisory for its citizens&nbsp;Amid the ongoing political tension unfolding in Bangladesh, the US Embassy in Bangladesh has issued an advisory for its citizens.&nbsp;It read, “Due to the recent increase in the frequency of protests across Bangladesh, US&nbsp;citizens should practice vigilance and remember that demonstrations intended to be&nbsp;peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence, and can occur with little&nbsp;notice. &nbsp;You should avoid demonstrations and exercise caution in the vicinity of any large&nbsp;gatherings. &nbsp;Review personal security plans; remain aware of your surroundings,&nbsp;including local events; and monitor local news stations for updates.”&nbsp;Actions to Take:<ul><li>Monitor local media for updates</li><li>Avoid crowds</li><li>Avoid demonstrations</li><li>Be aware of your surroundings</li><li>Review your personal security plans</li></ul>

Bangladesh political turmoil: Call for early elections heats up as Yunus government delays persist

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has asked for an early election in Bangladesh on Wednesday, placing additional pressure on the interim government led by Prof. Muhammad Yunus. For the past 10 months, this is for the first time that the BNP challenged the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government, and disparaged its key initiatives such as the so-called "humanitarian corridor" between Myanmar and Bangladesh. "Excuses are already being made about the national elections. Despite 10 months having passed, the interim government has not declared the election date yet," said Tarique Rahman, the acting chairman of the BNP, speaking at the rally via video link from London. Yunus had previously said that elections would take place in December 2025 but later moved the timeline to February 2026 and later to June 2026. Although Yunus' reforms are ongoing, his banning the Awami League could be the biggest and most far-reaching success for opposition parties like Bangladesh Nationalist Party and Jamaat-e-Islami who went mute under Sheikh Hasina's regime. The BNP is organising countrywide protests, calling for immediate reforms so that the general elections can be conducted. The party is evidently losing its patience as a complete ban on the Awami League gives it an even better chance to get elected after such a long hiatus. India's MEA rejects Yunus's India destabilising Bangladesh claim The ministry of external affairs on Thursday (May 29) dismissed Bangladesh's chief adviser Muhammad Yunus's claims that New Delhi is ‘destabilising’ his country. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said that Bangladesh's accusations were an attempt to deflect attention from real issues. "As far as the government there is concerned, the responsibility for law and order and governance issues lies entirely with that government," Jaiswal said. "In such a situation, if someone says that external factors or someone else is to blame for the disturbances, it appears that they are trying to deflect attention from the real issue and shift the blame onto others. Such statements do not solve the problem; they seem like an attempt to avoid accountability," he added. US Embassy in Bangladesh issues advisory for its citizens Amid the ongoing political tension unfolding in Bangladesh, the US Embassy in Bangladesh has issued an advisory for its citizens. It read, “Due to the recent increase in the frequency of protests across Bangladesh, US citizens should practice vigilance and remember that demonstrations intended to be peaceful can turn confrontational and escalate into violence, and can occur with little notice. You should avoid demonstrations and exercise caution in the vicinity of any large gatherings. Review personal security plans; remain aware of your surroundings, including local events; and monitor local news stations for updates.” Actions to Take: Monitor local media for updates Avoid crowds Avoid demonstrations Be aware of your surroundings Review your personal security plans

For the first time in nearly a year, Bangladesh Nationalist Party has challenged the interim government led by Prof. Muhammad Yunus

Bangladesh’s former prime minister Sheikh Hasina was defiant and unbending, ready to brave the violent students’ protests when senior Armed Forces officers urged her to step down, and shouted at them, “Then shoot me and bury me here, in Ganabhaban.”The incident took place on the morning of August 5, 2024, a day that marked the collapse of her government.Hasina eventually resigned and fled to India hours before protesters entered Ganabhaban, the prime minister’s residence, and vandalised it.The scene was narrated by chief prosecutor Mohammad Tajul Islam during a hearing at the International Crimes Tribunal, according to a report in Prothom Alo, a Bengali-language daily newspaper published from Dhaka.&nbsp;The chief prosecutor also submitted formal charges concerning crimes against humanity during the student protests in Dhaka’s Chankharpul.&nbsp;Providing a glimpse into the last hours of Hasina in Bangladesh during the hearing, the chief prosecutor said&nbsp;Parliament speaker Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury had first asked Hasina to step down, but top leaders of the ruling Awami League rejected the proposal.&nbsp;<h2>‘Gang of Four’ stood firm behind Hasina</h2>&nbsp;According to the chief prosecutor, a close circle of loyalists, including Obaidul Quader, Asaduzzaman Khan, Anisul Huq, and Salman F Rahman, dubbed the “Gang of Four”, stood firm behind Hasina, asking her not to flinch.&nbsp;&nbsp;Tajul Islam told the tribunal that a highly “tense and volatile” meeting took place in the night of August 4 at the PM’s residence, which saw heated arguments. The meeting was attended by senior Cabinet members and all the heads of security forces. &nbsp;The then-defence adviser, Major General (Retd) Tariq Ahmed Siddique, suggested that Hasina resign, but she rejected the idea and directed the army chief to stand firm and crush the protests. The violent protests, which left over 500 dead, had been continuing for over two months against a controversial quota system in government jobs.Siddique then suggested the army shoot at some protesters in an attempt to suppress the protests and went on to propose firing at the crowd from helicopters, the report said, citing the prosecutor.&nbsp;The next morning, on August 5, military and police officials held another round of meetings with Hasina as the protests went out of control. The police told Hasina that the force was “nearly exhausted” and they were out of arms and ammunition.The army officials again suggested that Hasina resign. However, a furious Hasina shot back, “Then shoot me and bury me here, in Ganabhaban.”&nbsp;<h2>‘Time running out, protesters approaching Ganabhaban from all sides’</h2> The military officials then held a separate meeting with Hasina and said protesters were approaching Ganabhaban from all sides and time was running out. At that moment, Hasina’s younger sister, Sheikh Rehana, urged her to quit and fell at the feet of Hasina, who still remained unfazed. As a last resort, the military then contacted Hasina’s son Sajeeb Wazed Joy, who lives in the United States. Joy persuaded Hasina to step down and avoid bloodshed. The Awami League chief wanted to record a speech to be aired on TV but the military officials turned down the request and gave her only 45 minutes to leave as tens of thousands reached the gates of Ganabhaban. Hasina then left for India in a helicopter with her sister.

Tajul Islam told the tribunal that a highly “tense and volatile” meeting took place in the night of August 4 at the PM’s residence, which saw heated arguments. The meeting was attended by senior Cabinet members and all the heads of security forces.

Bangladesh’s former prime minister Sheikh Hasina was defiant and unbending, ready to brave the violent students’ protests when senior Armed Forces officers urged her to step down, and shouted at them, “Then shoot me and bury me here, in Ganabhaban.” The incident took place on the morning of August 5, 2024, a day that marked the collapse of her government. Hasina eventually resigned and fled to India hours before protesters entered Ganabhaban, the prime minister’s residence, and vandalised it. The scene was narrated by chief prosecutor Mohammad Tajul Islam during a hearing at the International Crimes Tribunal, according to a report in Prothom Alo, a Bengali-language daily newspaper published from Dhaka. The chief prosecutor also submitted formal charges concerning crimes against humanity during the student protests in Dhaka’s Chankharpul. Providing a glimpse into the last hours of Hasina in Bangladesh during the hearing, the chief prosecutor said Parliament speaker Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury had first asked Hasina to step down, but top leaders of the ruling Awami League rejected the proposal. ‘Gang of Four’ stood firm behind Hasina According to the chief prosecutor, a close circle of loyalists, including Obaidul Quader, Asaduzzaman Khan, Anisul Huq, and Salman F Rahman, dubbed the “Gang of Four”, stood firm behind Hasina, asking her not to flinch. Tajul Islam told the tribunal that a highly “tense and volatile” meeting took place in the night of August 4 at the PM’s residence, which saw heated arguments. The meeting was attended by senior Cabinet members and all the heads of security forces. The then-defence adviser, Major General (Retd) Tariq Ahmed Siddique, suggested that Hasina resign, but she rejected the idea and directed the army chief to stand firm and crush the protests. The violent protests, which left over 500 dead, had been continuing for over two months against a controversial quota system in government jobs. Siddique then suggested the army shoot at some protesters in an attempt to suppress the protests and went on to propose firing at the crowd from helicopters, the report said, citing the prosecutor. The next morning, on August 5, military and police officials held another round of meetings with Hasina as the protests went out of control. The police told Hasina that the force was “nearly exhausted” and they were out of arms and ammunition. The army officials again suggested that Hasina resign. However, a furious Hasina shot back, “Then shoot me and bury me here, in Ganabhaban.” ‘Time running out, protesters approaching Ganabhaban from all sides’ The military officials then held a separate meeting with Hasina and said protesters were approaching Ganabhaban from all sides and time was running out. At that moment, Hasina’s younger sister, Sheikh Rehana, urged her to quit and fell at the feet of Hasina, who still remained unfazed. As a last resort, the military then contacted Hasina’s son Sajeeb Wazed Joy, who lives in the United States. Joy persuaded Hasina to step down and avoid bloodshed. The Awami League chief wanted to record a speech to be aired on TV but the military officials turned down the request and gave her only 45 minutes to leave as tens of thousands reached the gates of Ganabhaban. Hasina then left for India in a helicopter with her sister.

Tajul Islam told the tribunal that a highly “tense and volatile” meeting took place in the night of August 4 at the PM’s residence, which saw heated arguments. The meeting was attended by senior Cabinet members and all the heads of security forces.

‘Shoot me, bury me here in Ganabhaban,’ thundered defiant Sheikh Hasina before fleeing Dhaka

Bangladesh is expecting to get $500 million in budgetary support from Japan in addition to $250 million for the country’s railways, besides support in other areas also, as the interim government’s chief adviser, Muhammad Yunus, heads to Tokyo on an official visit on Wednesday.&nbsp;Yunus will participate in the 30th Nikkei Forum Future of Asia and hold bilateral talks with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, said his press secretary Shafiqul Alam on Tuesday.&nbsp;Bangladesh has sought $1 billion from Japan in the form of a soft loan, and the announcement will come formally after the bilateral talks between the two leaders.&nbsp;Meanwhile, Yunus has called for expediting infrastructure development in the Matarbari region, aiming to transform the coastal area into Bangladesh's premier manufacturing and export-orientated free trade zone.&nbsp;&nbsp;In a meeting on Monday in Dhaka, Yunus reviewed the progress of the Moheshkhali-Matarbari Integrated Infrastructure Development Initiative (MIDI).&nbsp;Emphasising the strategic importance of the region, Yunus said, “We envision Matarbari as the nation’s largest hub for ports, logistics, manufacturing, and energy. To realise this vision, we must attract substantial foreign investment.”&nbsp;He directed officials to accelerate the construction of roads connecting the MIDI region to the rest of the country and to develop terminals capable of accommodating large ocean-going container vessels.&nbsp;&nbsp;Yunus said the development of the MIDI region would be the focal point of his visit to Japan, where he will hold bilateral talks with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, aiming to secure funding for key projects.It was revealed that Japan intends to establish its second exclusive Japanese economic zone within the MIDI region. Araihazar in Narayanganj, the site of the first Japanese Economic Zone, has already attracted sizeable foreign investments.&nbsp;Dhaka has signed an agreement with Japanese firms Penta-Ocean Construction Co., Ltd. and TOA Corporation to construct the country’s first deep-sea port at Matarbari.

Yunus will participate in the 30th Nikkei Forum Future of Asia and hold bilateral talks with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. Dhaka has sought $1 billion from Japan in the form of a soft loan, and the announcement will come formally after the bilateral talks between the two leaders.

Bangladesh is expecting to get $500 million in budgetary support from Japan in addition to $250 million for the country’s railways, besides support in other areas also, as the interim government’s chief adviser, Muhammad Yunus, heads to Tokyo on an official visit on Wednesday. Yunus will participate in the 30th Nikkei Forum Future of Asia and hold bilateral talks with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, said his press secretary Shafiqul Alam on Tuesday. Bangladesh has sought $1 billion from Japan in the form of a soft loan, and the announcement will come formally after the bilateral talks between the two leaders. Meanwhile, Yunus has called for expediting infrastructure development in the Matarbari region, aiming to transform the coastal area into Bangladesh's premier manufacturing and export-orientated free trade zone. In a meeting on Monday in Dhaka, Yunus reviewed the progress of the Moheshkhali-Matarbari Integrated Infrastructure Development Initiative (MIDI). Emphasising the strategic importance of the region, Yunus said, “We envision Matarbari as the nation’s largest hub for ports, logistics, manufacturing, and energy. To realise this vision, we must attract substantial foreign investment.” He directed officials to accelerate the construction of roads connecting the MIDI region to the rest of the country and to develop terminals capable of accommodating large ocean-going container vessels. Yunus said the development of the MIDI region would be the focal point of his visit to Japan, where he will hold bilateral talks with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, aiming to secure funding for key projects. It was revealed that Japan intends to establish its second exclusive Japanese economic zone within the MIDI region. Araihazar in Narayanganj, the site of the first Japanese Economic Zone, has already attracted sizeable foreign investments. Dhaka has signed an agreement with Japanese firms Penta-Ocean Construction Co., Ltd. and TOA Corporation to construct the country’s first deep-sea port at Matarbari.

Yunus will participate in the 30th Nikkei Forum Future of Asia and hold bilateral talks with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. Dhaka has sought $1 billion from Japan in the form of a soft loan, and the announcement will come formally after the bilateral talks between the two leaders.

Bangladesh eyes budgetary support, funding for railways as Yunus heads to Tokyo

Bangladesh chief adviser Prof. Muhammad Yunus has described Bangladesh as being in a ‘war-like situation’ following the ban on the Awami League's activities on May 12, 2025.&nbsp;&nbsp;In meetings with leaders from 20 political parties at the state guesthouse Jamuna, Yunus highlighted both internal and external efforts aimed at destabilising the nation, stressing the need for unity and vigilance to safeguard the country's progress.&nbsp;"A war-like situation emerged both inside and outside the country, preventing us from moving forward,&nbsp;causing everything to collapse, and pushing us back into subservience," chief adviser's press secretary Shafiqul Alam quoted Prof Yunus as saying on Sunday night (May 25).&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jamaat-e-islami-names-islamic-preacher-amir-hamza-as-parliamentary-poll-candidate-in-bangladesh-1748197293524">Jamaat-e-Islami names Islamic preacher Amir Hamza as parliamentary poll candidate in Bangladesh</a>&nbsp;"Since the Awami League's activities were banned on May 12, there have been relentless efforts to destabilise the situation. We must protect ourselves from this," Yunus said.&nbsp;Yunus asked everyone to be confident that he would not do anything that will put the country in danger. “I felt confident as we all sat together. If I fail to hold a fair election, I will feel guilty,” he added.&nbsp;Yunus reaffirmed his commitment to holding the election between December 2025 and June 2026. The polls will be held before June 30, and, as per Shafiqul Alam, "everyone expressed their satisfaction" with this decision.&nbsp;During a meeting with the chief advisor, political parties emphasised the need for a clear roadmap outlining the reforms, the election process, and accountability for the July atrocities.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-stateless-overnight-kuwait-strips-over-37-000-mostly-women-of-citizenship-1748190993092">‘Stateless Overnight’:&nbsp;Kuwait strips over 37,000, mostly women, of citizenship</a>&nbsp;They also demanded that the interim government initiate trials of Awami League leaders implicated in the mass killings during the July uprising.&nbsp;Mujahidul Islam Selim, former president of the Communist Party of Bangladesh, stressed that the reform process should involve the public. He cautioned that the interim government may not have sufficient time to implement all reform proposals.&nbsp;“The election can take place after making the necessary reforms and the interim government can leave fundamental issues to the people. Unnecessary delays can further worsen the already unstable situation.”&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/five-skiers-found-dead-near-switzerland-s-luxury-zermatt-resort-climber-s-body-found-1748193990164">Five skiers found dead near Switzerland’s luxury Zermatt resort; climber’s body found</a>

We’re in war-like situation: Bangladesh chief adviser Muhammad Yunus

Bangladesh chief adviser Prof. Muhammad Yunus has described Bangladesh as being in a ‘war-like situation’ following the ban on the Awami League's activities on May 12, 2025. In meetings with leaders from 20 political parties at the state guesthouse Jamuna, Yunus highlighted both internal and external efforts aimed at destabilising the nation, stressing the need for unity and vigilance to safeguard the country's progress. "A war-like situation emerged both inside and outside the country, preventing us from moving forward, causing everything to collapse, and pushing us back into subservience," chief adviser's press secretary Shafiqul Alam quoted Prof Yunus as saying on Sunday night (May 25). Also Read: Jamaat-e-Islami names Islamic preacher Amir Hamza as parliamentary poll candidate in Bangladesh "Since the Awami League's activities were banned on May 12, there have been relentless efforts to destabilise the situation. We must protect ourselves from this," Yunus said. Yunus asked everyone to be confident that he would not do anything that will put the country in danger. “I felt confident as we all sat together. If I fail to hold a fair election, I will feel guilty,” he added. Yunus reaffirmed his commitment to holding the election between December 2025 and June 2026. The polls will be held before June 30, and, as per Shafiqul Alam, "everyone expressed their satisfaction" with this decision. During a meeting with the chief advisor, political parties emphasised the need for a clear roadmap outlining the reforms, the election process, and accountability for the July atrocities. Also Read: ‘Stateless Overnight’: Kuwait strips over 37,000, mostly women, of citizenship They also demanded that the interim government initiate trials of Awami League leaders implicated in the mass killings during the July uprising. Mujahidul Islam Selim, former president of the Communist Party of Bangladesh, stressed that the reform process should involve the public. He cautioned that the interim government may not have sufficient time to implement all reform proposals. “The election can take place after making the necessary reforms and the interim government can leave fundamental issues to the people. Unnecessary delays can further worsen the already unstable situation.” Also Read: Five skiers found dead near Switzerland’s luxury Zermatt resort; climber’s body found

During a meeting with the chief advisor, political parties emphasised the need for a clear roadmap outlining the reforms, the election process, and accountability for the July atrocities

Controversial Islamic preacher Mufti Amir Hamza has been nominated as Jamaat-e-Islami’s MP candidate for the Kushtia-3 (Sadr) constituency in the upcoming national parliamentary elections. Jamaat’s Central Executive Council member Mubarak Hossain announced Hamza’s name at a gathering at the Abdul Wahid Auditorium in Kushtia district on Sunday (May 25).&nbsp;After announcing Hamza’s name, Hossain said, “The candidate (Amir Hamza) we have nominated for this seat is not limited to the country; he is a well-known candidate internationally.”&nbsp;“The announcement of candidates for most of the 300 seats has been completed, including the Kushtia-3 constituency. Jamaat-e-Islami will not accept any elections without reforms and progress in the judicial process,” he added.&nbsp;“Jamaat-e-Islami does not want to see elections like those in 2018 or 2019. Our biggest demand is that the elections be held under a caretaker government.”<h2>Hamza faced legal action in Bangladesh and Singapore</h2>&nbsp;Hamza has faced legal action in Bangladesh and Singapore for delivering provocative speeches, misinterpreting religion, and spreading extremism. Singapore launched an investigation against Hamza for giving a sermon to migrant workers in the country on 9 August, 2024, without a permit.Singapore’s home ministry said Hamza’s sermon propagated extremist and segregationist teachings that were dangerous and detrimental to Singapore’s communal harmony.&nbsp;In his sermon, Hamza referred to non-Muslims as kafirs (infidels) and praised extremists as models of religious devotion, said Singapore’s minister for home affairs and law, K Shanmugam.&nbsp;Hamza is notorious for his alleged extremist teachings and terror links, as he promotes religious intolerance, hatred, and violence in his sermons. He is also alleged to be an influential figure in Ansar al-Islam (AAI), a pro-Al-Qaeda terrorist organisation operating in Bangladesh.Earlier, on May 24, 2021, Hamza was arrested by the Counter Terrorism and Transnational Crime (CTTC) unit of Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP), and he confessed to misinterpreting religion and spreading extremism.

Hamza is notorious for his alleged extremist teachings and terror links, as he promotes religious intolerance, hatred, and violence in his sermons. He is also alleged to be an influential figure in Ansar al-Islam (AAI), a pro-Al-Qaeda terrorist organisation operating in Bangladesh.

Controversial Islamic preacher Mufti Amir Hamza has been nominated as Jamaat-e-Islami’s MP candidate for the Kushtia-3 (Sadr) constituency in the upcoming national parliamentary elections. Jamaat’s Central Executive Council member Mubarak Hossain announced Hamza’s name at a gathering at the Abdul Wahid Auditorium in Kushtia district on Sunday (May 25). After announcing Hamza’s name, Hossain said, “The candidate (Amir Hamza) we have nominated for this seat is not limited to the country; he is a well-known candidate internationally.” “The announcement of candidates for most of the 300 seats has been completed, including the Kushtia-3 constituency. Jamaat-e-Islami will not accept any elections without reforms and progress in the judicial process,” he added. “Jamaat-e-Islami does not want to see elections like those in 2018 or 2019. Our biggest demand is that the elections be held under a caretaker government.” Hamza faced legal action in Bangladesh and Singapore Hamza has faced legal action in Bangladesh and Singapore for delivering provocative speeches, misinterpreting religion, and spreading extremism. Singapore launched an investigation against Hamza for giving a sermon to migrant workers in the country on 9 August, 2024, without a permit. Singapore’s home ministry said Hamza’s sermon propagated extremist and segregationist teachings that were dangerous and detrimental to Singapore’s communal harmony. In his sermon, Hamza referred to non-Muslims as kafirs (infidels) and praised extremists as models of religious devotion, said Singapore’s minister for home affairs and law, K Shanmugam. Hamza is notorious for his alleged extremist teachings and terror links, as he promotes religious intolerance, hatred, and violence in his sermons. He is also alleged to be an influential figure in Ansar al-Islam (AAI), a pro-Al-Qaeda terrorist organisation operating in Bangladesh. Earlier, on May 24, 2021, Hamza was arrested by the Counter Terrorism and Transnational Crime (CTTC) unit of Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP), and he confessed to misinterpreting religion and spreading extremism.

Hamza is notorious for his alleged extremist teachings and terror links, as he promotes religious intolerance, hatred, and violence in his sermons. He is also alleged to be an influential figure in Ansar al-Islam (AAI), a pro-Al-Qaeda terrorist organisation operating in Bangladesh.

Jamaat-e-Islami names Islamic preacher Amir Hamza as parliamentary poll candidate in Bangladesh

Bangladesh’s former prime minister Sheikh Hasina has launched a fresh attack on the interim government head Muhammad Yunus while accusing him of seizing power with the backing of militants and now “selling the country to the United States”. Her renewed attack comes amid growing friction between Yunus and Bangladesh Army Chief Waker-uz-Zaman, who has demanded that elections be held by December this year.&nbsp;Yunus threatened to resign after the military called for general elections to be held in December, prompting fresh waves of protest across the nation.&nbsp;Hasina further accused Yunus of governing with the support of militant groups and condemned the recent ban on her party, the Awami League, calling it illegal and unconstitutional.In an audio message posted on her party’s Facebook account, Bangladesh’s ousted leader reiterated that Yunus seized power in Bangladesh government with the help of extremist groups.&nbsp;“He seized power with the help of terrorists, with the help of terrorists, all the terrorists, even those who are banned in various international arenas, from whom we protected the people of Bangladesh. After only one terrorist attack, we took strict measures. Many were arrested. Now prisons are empty. They released everyone. Now, Bangladesh is the reign of those militants,” she said.&nbsp;She alleged that Yunus has given the reins of the government to “terrorists”, against whom her government fought.&nbsp;“My father did not agree to America’s demands for St. Martin’s Island. He had to give his life for that. And that was my destiny as I never thought of selling the country to stay in power,” she said.&nbsp;She recalled how Bangladeshis took up arms and fought along with her father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, for Bangladesh’s independence and said, “It can’t be anyone’s intention to give up even an inch of that country’s soil to anyone. But what a misfortune it is today. Such a person came to power, a person who is absolutely loved by the people of the whole country, a person who is loved by the world, and what happened to that person today when he came to power?”&nbsp;“The constitution of our great Bengali nation, we got it through a long struggle and the liberation war. Who gave this militant leader, who has illegally seized power, the right to touch the constitution? He does not have the mandate of the people and has no constitutional basis. That position (Chief Advisor) also has no basis, and it does not exist. So, how can he change the law without a parliament? This is illegal,” Hasina added.&nbsp;On Saturday, Yunus warned of public-backed action if pressure was piled on them through “unreasonable demands” after calls for elections from the army chief and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party.&nbsp;Yunus was appointed as the transitional leader of the interim government on 7 August 2024, days after student-led protests against the government forced Hasina to resign as PM and flee Bangladesh.&nbsp;

Former PM Sheikh Hasina's renewed attack comes amid growing friction between Yunus and Bangladesh Army Chief Waker-uz-Zaman, who has demanded that elections be held by December this year. Hasina accused Yunus of seizing power with the help of terrorists and now governing with their support.

Bangladesh’s former prime minister Sheikh Hasina has launched a fresh attack on the interim government head Muhammad Yunus while accusing him of seizing power with the backing of militants and now “selling the country to the United States”. Her renewed attack comes amid growing friction between Yunus and Bangladesh Army Chief Waker-uz-Zaman, who has demanded that elections be held by December this year. Yunus threatened to resign after the military called for general elections to be held in December, prompting fresh waves of protest across the nation. Hasina further accused Yunus of governing with the support of militant groups and condemned the recent ban on her party, the Awami League, calling it illegal and unconstitutional. In an audio message posted on her party’s Facebook account, Bangladesh’s ousted leader reiterated that Yunus seized power in Bangladesh government with the help of extremist groups. “He seized power with the help of terrorists, with the help of terrorists, all the terrorists, even those who are banned in various international arenas, from whom we protected the people of Bangladesh. After only one terrorist attack, we took strict measures. Many were arrested. Now prisons are empty. They released everyone. Now, Bangladesh is the reign of those militants,” she said. She alleged that Yunus has given the reins of the government to “terrorists”, against whom her government fought. “My father did not agree to America’s demands for St. Martin’s Island. He had to give his life for that. And that was my destiny as I never thought of selling the country to stay in power,” she said. She recalled how Bangladeshis took up arms and fought along with her father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, for Bangladesh’s independence and said, “It can’t be anyone’s intention to give up even an inch of that country’s soil to anyone. But what a misfortune it is today. Such a person came to power, a person who is absolutely loved by the people of the whole country, a person who is loved by the world, and what happened to that person today when he came to power?” “The constitution of our great Bengali nation, we got it through a long struggle and the liberation war. Who gave this militant leader, who has illegally seized power, the right to touch the constitution? He does not have the mandate of the people and has no constitutional basis. That position (Chief Advisor) also has no basis, and it does not exist. So, how can he change the law without a parliament? This is illegal,” Hasina added. On Saturday, Yunus warned of public-backed action if pressure was piled on them through “unreasonable demands” after calls for elections from the army chief and the Bangladesh Nationalist Party. Yunus was appointed as the transitional leader of the interim government on 7 August 2024, days after student-led protests against the government forced Hasina to resign as PM and flee Bangladesh.

Former PM Sheikh Hasina's renewed attack comes amid growing friction between Yunus and Bangladesh Army Chief Waker-uz-Zaman, who has demanded that elections be held by December this year. Hasina accused Yunus of seizing power with the help of terrorists and now governing with their support.

Yunus a ‘militant’ leader, selling off Bangladesh to US: Sheikh Hasina

Bangladesh's Muhammad Yunus "needs to remain" in office as interim leader to ensure a peaceful transition of power, a cabinet member and special adviser to Yunus said Friday.Yunus, the 84-year-old Nobel Peace Prize winner who took over after a mass uprising last year, had threatened to quit the job if parties did not give him their backing, a political ally and sources in his office said.The South Asian nation of around 170 million people has been in political turmoil since the student-led revolt that toppled then-prime minister Sheikh Hasina in August 2024, with parties protesting on the streets over a string of demands."For the sake of Bangladesh and a peaceful democratic transition, Professor Yunus needs to remain in office," Faiz Ahmad Taiyeb, a special assistant to Yunus, and head of the Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology, said in a post on Facebook."The Chief Adviser is not going to step down," he added. "He does not hanker after power."Bangladesh's political crisis has escalated this week, with rival parties protesting on the streets of the capital, Dhaka, with a string of competing demands.Yunus's reported threat to stand down came after thousands of supporters of the powerful Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) rallied in Dhaka on Wednesday, holding large-scale protests against the interim government for the first time.Yunus has promised polls will be held by June 2026 at the latest, but supporters of the BNP -- seen as the front-runners in highly anticipated elections that will be the first since Hasina was overthrown -- demanded he fix a date.Yunus's relationship with the military has also reportedly deteriorated.According to local media and military sources, powerful army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman said on Wednesday that elections should be held by December.Taiyeb issued a warning to the army on Friday. "The army can't meddle in politics," he wrote."The army doesn't do that in any civilised country," he added."By saying that the election has to be held by December, the military chief failed to maintain his jurisdictional correctness."

Bangladesh minister says Yunus 'not going to step down'

Bangladesh's Muhammad Yunus "needs to remain" in office as interim leader to ensure a peaceful transition of power, a cabinet member and special adviser to Yunus said Friday. Yunus, the 84-year-old Nobel Peace Prize winner who took over after a mass uprising last year, had threatened to quit the job if parties did not give him their backing, a political ally and sources in his office said. The South Asian nation of around 170 million people has been in political turmoil since the student-led revolt that toppled then-prime minister Sheikh Hasina in August 2024, with parties protesting on the streets over a string of demands. "For the sake of Bangladesh and a peaceful democratic transition, Professor Yunus needs to remain in office," Faiz Ahmad Taiyeb, a special assistant to Yunus, and head of the Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology, said in a post on Facebook. "The Chief Adviser is not going to step down," he added. "He does not hanker after power." Bangladesh's political crisis has escalated this week, with rival parties protesting on the streets of the capital, Dhaka, with a string of competing demands. Yunus's reported threat to stand down came after thousands of supporters of the powerful Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) rallied in Dhaka on Wednesday, holding large-scale protests against the interim government for the first time. Yunus has promised polls will be held by June 2026 at the latest, but supporters of the BNP -- seen as the front-runners in highly anticipated elections that will be the first since Hasina was overthrown -- demanded he fix a date. Yunus's relationship with the military has also reportedly deteriorated. According to local media and military sources, powerful army chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman said on Wednesday that elections should be held by December. Taiyeb issued a warning to the army on Friday. "The army can't meddle in politics," he wrote. "The army doesn't do that in any civilised country," he added. "By saying that the election has to be held by December, the military chief failed to maintain his jurisdictional correctness."

Faiz Ahmad Taiyeb, a special assistant to Yunus's presence is crucial for peaceful transition of power in Bangladesh.

Chief Advisor of Bangladesh's interim government, Muhammad Yunus, has threatened to step down due to a lack of political unity. In an unofficial meeting held at the Chief Adviser's Office on Thursday, Yunus expressed his desire to resign and address the nation through a televised speech. He expressed his worries over his government's denigration.&nbsp;Rumour of Md. Yunus stepping down has been circulating on social media since Thursday afternoon.Information Adviser Mahfuj Alam, Local Government Adviser Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain and National Citizen Party (NCP) Convener Nahid Islam visited the Chief Advisor's residence on Thursday evening."We have been hearing news of sir's (Yunus) resignation since this morning. So I went to meet sir to discuss that issue . . . He said he is thinking about it. He feels that the situation is such that he cannot work," said Nahid Islam, convener of the NCP."I cannot work like this. The political parties cannot reach a common ground," &nbsp;said Nahid, quoting Yunus.Political tensions have been rife since Yunus' takeover. The interim government has failed to announce a clear roadmap for conducting the next parliamentary elections. Bangladesh Army Chief Waqar-Uz Zaman wants the election by December amid political turmoil, as per a report by a Bangladeshi daily, Prothom Alo.&nbsp;Opposition parties, like the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), have raised similar demands. However, the NCP, which was born during the student uprising that ousted &nbsp;Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, wants fundamental changes to the Election Commission before going for any election. On the other hand, BNP blames the interim government for unfairly favouring the NCP.&nbsp;Md. Yunus insists his government is working to ensure a fair and democratic election for Bangladesh.Eralier Md. Yunus has orchestrated the removal of the Foreign Secretary, Md Jashim Uddin, following his opposition to Yunus's initiative for Rakhine's ‘humanitarian corridor’ and a ‘safe zone’ for Rohingya Refugees.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Interim chief advisor of Bangladesh, Md. Yunus is considering resignation over a lack of consensus among political parties for the upcoming elections and other internal conflicts.

Chief Advisor of Bangladesh's interim government, Muhammad Yunus, has threatened to step down due to a lack of political unity. In an unofficial meeting held at the Chief Adviser's Office on Thursday, Yunus expressed his desire to resign and address the nation through a televised speech. He expressed his worries over his government's denigration. Rumour of Md. Yunus stepping down has been circulating on social media since Thursday afternoon. Information Adviser Mahfuj Alam, Local Government Adviser Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain and National Citizen Party (NCP) Convener Nahid Islam visited the Chief Advisor's residence on Thursday evening. "We have been hearing news of sir's (Yunus) resignation since this morning. So I went to meet sir to discuss that issue . . . He said he is thinking about it. He feels that the situation is such that he cannot work," said Nahid Islam, convener of the NCP. "I cannot work like this. The political parties cannot reach a common ground," said Nahid, quoting Yunus. Political tensions have been rife since Yunus' takeover. The interim government has failed to announce a clear roadmap for conducting the next parliamentary elections. Bangladesh Army Chief Waqar-Uz Zaman wants the election by December amid political turmoil, as per a report by a Bangladeshi daily, Prothom Alo. Opposition parties, like the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), have raised similar demands. However, the NCP, which was born during the student uprising that ousted Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, wants fundamental changes to the Election Commission before going for any election. On the other hand, BNP blames the interim government for unfairly favouring the NCP. Md. Yunus insists his government is working to ensure a fair and democratic election for Bangladesh. Eralier Md. Yunus has orchestrated the removal of the Foreign Secretary, Md Jashim Uddin, following his opposition to Yunus's initiative for Rakhine's ‘humanitarian corridor’ and a ‘safe zone’ for Rohingya Refugees.

Bangladesh's interim chief advisor is considering resignation over a lack of consensus among political parties for the upcoming elections and other internal conflicts.

Bangladesh Interim Chief Muhammad Yunus considering resignation over internal conflict: Reports

Bangladesh is set to replace its Foreign Secretary, Md Jashim Uddin, due to a fallout with the key figures of the interim government, especially Muhammad Yunus and Foreign Affairs Advisor Touhid Hossain, according to reports from official sources on Wednesday.While talking to reporters, Touhid said that the current Foreign Secretary, Jashim Uddin, is not interested in working on this position.Reports from Pratham Alo, a prominent newspaper of Bangladesh, suggest that Jashim Uddin had not been attending interministerial meetings for the last 12 days.&nbsp;Earlier, he opposed Yunus's initiative for Rakhine's ‘humanitarian corridor’ and a ‘safe zone’ for Rohingya Refugees, which was being endorsed by the UN. He reasoned that this might undermine the national security and sovereignty of Bangladesh. This view aligns more with Bangladesh's military leadership, which is worried that this corridor will be utilised by the United States to deliver non-lethal aid to the Arakan Army and People’s Defence Forces (PDFs) The rift between Foreign Secretary, Md Jashim Uddin and &nbsp;Muhammad Yunus's administration widened when Bangladesh and Pakistan held a bilateral talk on April 17. In Dhaka, Uddin claimed $4.32 billion of the undivided share of the assets owed to Pakistan prior to the partition of 1971. He also demanded $200 million in foreign aid in 1970, which was owed to East Pakistan during the 1970 Bhola cyclone.It is believed that Yunus and NSA Khalilur Rahman acted swiftly to remove Md Jashim Uddin following his repeated disagreements and policy clashes.

Foreign Secretary of Bangladesh Md Jashim Uddin, faces removal after policy clashes with interim government figures Muhammad Yunus and Touhid Hossain, including over Rohingya refugee corridors and Pakistan asset claims.

Bangladesh is set to replace its Foreign Secretary, Md Jashim Uddin, due to a fallout with the key figures of the interim government, especially Muhammad Yunus and Foreign Affairs Advisor Touhid Hossain, according to reports from official sources on Wednesday. While talking to reporters, Touhid said that the current Foreign Secretary, Jashim Uddin, is not interested in working on this position. Reports from Pratham Alo, a prominent newspaper of Bangladesh, suggest that Jashim Uddin had not been attending interministerial meetings for the last 12 days. Earlier, he opposed Yunus's initiative for Rakhine's ‘humanitarian corridor’ and a ‘safe zone’ for Rohingya Refugees, which was being endorsed by the UN. He reasoned that this might undermine the national security and sovereignty of Bangladesh. This view aligns more with Bangladesh's military leadership, which is worried that this corridor will be utilised by the United States to deliver non-lethal aid to the Arakan Army and People’s Defence Forces (PDFs) The rift between Foreign Secretary, Md Jashim Uddin and Muhammad Yunus's administration widened when Bangladesh and Pakistan held a bilateral talk on April 17. In Dhaka, Uddin claimed $4.32 billion of the undivided share of the assets owed to Pakistan prior to the partition of 1971. He also demanded $200 million in foreign aid in 1970, which was owed to East Pakistan during the 1970 Bhola cyclone. It is believed that Yunus and NSA Khalilur Rahman acted swiftly to remove Md Jashim Uddin following his repeated disagreements and policy clashes.

Bangladesh is set to replace its Foreign Secretary, Md Jashim Uddin, following a series of disputes with key figures in the interim government, particularly Muhammad Yunus and Foreign Affairs Advisor Touhid Hossain.&nbsp;

Bangaldesh's Foreign Secretary, Md Jashim Uddin is on his out way after clashes with the interim government of Muhammad Yunus

Deposed Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina has alleged that she and her sister escaped an assassination attempt on August 5 last year, moments before she left for India amid violent student protests in the country. Hasina&rsquo;s Awami League party posted an audio clip on Facebook, in which the ousted PM can be heard saying that she survived several assassination attempts throughout her political career and it was only because of God's grace that she was still alive.
"Me and my sister, Sheikh Rehana, managed to survive. We barely escaped death within a span of 20&ndash;25 minutes," Hasina said.
The Bangladeshi leader has been staying in India since she fled Dhaka in a helicopter.
In her recent allegation, the five-time PM didn&rsquo;t reveal the names of alleged conspirators.
<h2>Student protests in Bangladesh</h2>
Bangladesh was rocked by massive student protests last year, sparked following announcement of a controversial quota system in government jobs. The violence claimed over 500 lives and eventually forced the PM to abandon her residence and seek refuge in India. India has not provided political asylum to Hasina, owing to the lack of required legislation for the same. However, New Delhi reportedly extended her visa earlier this month.
The move came days after the interim government in Dhaka, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, officially asked for Hasina's extradition on December 23.
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The Bangladesh government wants to prosecute Hasina on charges related to her alleged involvement in incidents of violence and disappearances during the 2024 protests, which left over 500 people dead.
Earlier on Tuesday (Jan 7), Dhaka&rsquo;s immigration department declared it had cancelled 97 passports, including the one held by Hasina. A spokesperson for the government said the move was in response to Hasina&rsquo;s role in the disappearances and killings of students.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-army-official-praises-pakistan-for-fight-against-terror-in-high-level-meet-8621960">Bangladesh army official praises Pakistan for &lsquo;fight against terror&rsquo; in high-level meet</a>
Hasina&rsquo;s stay in India has complicated the situation and is bound to test the finesse of Indian diplomacy; however, it is unlikely to affect bilateral ties for now.
(With inputs from agencies)

Bangladesh | Hasina’s Awami League party posted an audio clip on Facebook, in which the ousted PM can be heard saying that she survived several assassination attempts

Deposed Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina has alleged that she and her sister escaped an assassination attempt on August 5 last year, moments before she left for India amid violent student protests in the country. Hasina’s Awami League party posted an audio clip on Facebook, in which the ousted PM can be heard saying that she survived several assassination attempts throughout her political career and it was only because of God's grace that she was still alive. "Me and my sister, Sheikh Rehana, managed to survive. We barely escaped death within a span of 20–25 minutes," Hasina said. The Bangladeshi leader has been staying in India since she fled Dhaka in a helicopter. In her recent allegation, the five-time PM didn’t reveal the names of alleged conspirators. Student protests in Bangladesh Bangladesh was rocked by massive student protests last year, sparked following announcement of a controversial quota system in government jobs. The violence claimed over 500 lives and eventually forced the PM to abandon her residence and seek refuge in India. India has not provided political asylum to Hasina, owing to the lack of required legislation for the same. However, New Delhi reportedly extended her visa earlier this month. The move came days after the interim government in Dhaka, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, officially asked for Hasina's extradition on December 23. Also read: Human Rights Watch chief warns Trump's return will threaten world's fraying rights system The Bangladesh government wants to prosecute Hasina on charges related to her alleged involvement in incidents of violence and disappearances during the 2024 protests, which left over 500 people dead. Earlier on Tuesday (Jan 7), Dhaka’s immigration department declared it had cancelled 97 passports, including the one held by Hasina. A spokesperson for the government said the move was in response to Hasina’s role in the disappearances and killings of students. Also read: Bangladesh army official praises Pakistan for ‘fight against terror’ in high-level meet Hasina’s stay in India has complicated the situation and is bound to test the finesse of Indian diplomacy; however, it is unlikely to affect bilateral ties for now. (With inputs from agencies)

Ousted Bangladesh PM Hasina ‘escaped death by 25 minutes’ amid violent student protests

Bangladesh&rsquo;s foreign secretary held a meeting with Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma in Dhaka on Sunday (Jan 12) and expressed his &ldquo;deep concerns&rdquo; over recent tensions along the border. State-run news agency BSS earlier reported that Verma had been &ldquo;summoned&rdquo; by Foreign Secretary Md. Jashim Uddin; however, that term was not used in the official press release issued by the foreign ministry.
<h2>Issues raised by Bangladesh&rsquo;s foreign secretary</h2>
The agenda of the meeting, which began at 3:00 pm local time and lasted 45 minutes, was to discuss recent border tensions, especially between the border security forces of respective nations.
"We have an understanding with regard to fencing the border for security. BSF and BGB (Border Security Force and Border Guard Bangladesh) have been in communication in this regard,&rdquo; said Verma shortly after holding the meeting.
<h2>Border tensions</h2>
Earlier, Bangladesh accused India of violating bilateral agreements citing the construction of fences at five locations along the Indo-Bangladesh border by the BSF.
Calling such construction activities unauthorised, Md. Jashim Uddin stated that this has &ldquo;caused tensions and disturbances along the border.&rdquo;
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The secretary added that the BSF and the BGB will hold DG-level talks in the coming days, and he hoped the matter will be resolved then. There are allegations that India is undertaking &ldquo;unauthorised&rdquo; construction of fences in these areas: Chapainawabganj, Naogaon, Lalmonirhat, and the Tin Bigha Corridor.
The foreign secretary is also believed to have expressed his displeasure over the recent killing of a Bangladeshi citizen by the BSF.
He "strongly resented these acts of killing and called for urgent action by the Indian authorities to stop recurrence of such incidents and conduct enquiries into all these border killings and take actions against those responsible," a statement issued by Bangladesh&rsquo;s foreign ministry said.
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The press release added that it was also "a matter of grave concern that despite repeated firm commitments from the Indian authorities to pursue a non-lethal strategy and to stop killings, such incidents of killing have been continuing.&rdquo;
Earlier, Bangladesh Home Affairs Adviser Lt Gen (retd.) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury claimed that the Border Guard Bangladesh and locals had forced the BSF to halt the construction work.
Alam said that of the total 4,156-kilometre-long border, fencing has already been done along 3,271 kilometres. Only 885 kilometres remain to be fenced, which has already drawn criticism from the new interim government in Bangladesh.
The new administration has alleged that the previous government of deposed PM Sheikh Hasina allowed India to enjoy unequal opportunities.
(With inputs from agencies)

Bangladesh State-run news agency BSS earlier reported that Verma had been “summoned” by Foreign Secretary Md. Jashim Uddin but the term was not used by foreign ministry.

Bangladesh’s foreign secretary held a meeting with Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma in Dhaka on Sunday (Jan 12) and expressed his “deep concerns” over recent tensions along the border. State-run news agency BSS earlier reported that Verma had been “summoned” by Foreign Secretary Md. Jashim Uddin; however, that term was not used in the official press release issued by the foreign ministry. Issues raised by Bangladesh’s foreign secretary The agenda of the meeting, which began at 3:00 pm local time and lasted 45 minutes, was to discuss recent border tensions, especially between the border security forces of respective nations. "We have an understanding with regard to fencing the border for security. BSF and BGB (Border Security Force and Border Guard Bangladesh) have been in communication in this regard,” said Verma shortly after holding the meeting. Border tensions Earlier, Bangladesh accused India of violating bilateral agreements citing the construction of fences at five locations along the Indo-Bangladesh border by the BSF. Calling such construction activities unauthorised, Md. Jashim Uddin stated that this has “caused tensions and disturbances along the border.” Also read: India: West Bengal CM accuses BSF of helping infiltrators to fuel destabilisation The secretary added that the BSF and the BGB will hold DG-level talks in the coming days, and he hoped the matter will be resolved then. There are allegations that India is undertaking “unauthorised” construction of fences in these areas: Chapainawabganj, Naogaon, Lalmonirhat, and the Tin Bigha Corridor. The foreign secretary is also believed to have expressed his displeasure over the recent killing of a Bangladeshi citizen by the BSF. He "strongly resented these acts of killing and called for urgent action by the Indian authorities to stop recurrence of such incidents and conduct enquiries into all these border killings and take actions against those responsible," a statement issued by Bangladesh’s foreign ministry said. Also read: India's border forces thwart infiltration bid by Bangladeshis, Rohingyas The press release added that it was also "a matter of grave concern that despite repeated firm commitments from the Indian authorities to pursue a non-lethal strategy and to stop killings, such incidents of killing have been continuing.” Earlier, Bangladesh Home Affairs Adviser Lt Gen (retd.) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury claimed that the Border Guard Bangladesh and locals had forced the BSF to halt the construction work. Alam said that of the total 4,156-kilometre-long border, fencing has already been done along 3,271 kilometres. Only 885 kilometres remain to be fenced, which has already drawn criticism from the new interim government in Bangladesh. The new administration has alleged that the previous government of deposed PM Sheikh Hasina allowed India to enjoy unequal opportunities. (With inputs from agencies)

Bangladesh foreign secretary meets Indian envoy amid border tensions

Amid growing calls for the extradition of deposed Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina, New Delhi has reportedly extended her visa. The Bangladeshi leader has been staying in India since August last year following the collapse of her government in the face of massive student protests.
However, as per media reports, Hasina has not been granted political asylum or refuge as India lacks legislation to facilitate that. The source quoted in these reports stressed that visa extension should not be seen as a step towards offering refuge.
"This is purely a technical extension to facilitate her stay," the source was quoted as saying. It has also been learnt that Hasina is staying in the capital region under tight security.
<h2>Increasing pressure from Dhaka</h2>
The move comes days after the interim government in Dhaka, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, officially asked for Hasina's extradition on December 23.
The Bangladesh government wants to prosecute Hasina on charges related to her alleged involvement in incidents of violence and disappearances during the 2024 protests, which left over 500 people dead.
Earlier on Tuesday (Jan 7), Dhaka&rsquo;s immigration department declared it had cancelled 97 passports, including the one held by Hasina. A spokesperson for the government said the move was in response to Hasina&rsquo;s role in the disappearances and killings of students.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/arrest-warrant-issued-for-former-prime-minister-sheikh-hasina-over-extrajudicial-killings-and-disappearances-8597086">Arrest warrant issued for Sheikh Hasina over extrajudicial killings and disappearances</a>
"Passports of 22 individuals were revoked for their involvement in enforced disappearances, while 75 others, including Sheikh Hasina, were implicated in the July killings," said the Bangladeshi official.
Hasina&rsquo;s stay in India has complicated the situation and is bound to test the finesse of Indian diplomacy; however, it is unlikely to affect bilateral ties for now.
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On the other hand, the government of Yunus is also facing allegations of going after his political opponents in a reckless manner and pursuing politically motivated charges in an attempt to consolidate power.
(With inputs from agencies)

South Asia | The Bangladesh leader has been staying in India since August last year following the collapse of her government in the face of massive student protests.

Amid growing calls for the extradition of deposed Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina, New Delhi has reportedly extended her visa. The Bangladeshi leader has been staying in India since August last year following the collapse of her government in the face of massive student protests. However, as per media reports, Hasina has not been granted political asylum or refuge as India lacks legislation to facilitate that. The source quoted in these reports stressed that visa extension should not be seen as a step towards offering refuge. "This is purely a technical extension to facilitate her stay," the source was quoted as saying. It has also been learnt that Hasina is staying in the capital region under tight security. Increasing pressure from Dhaka The move comes days after the interim government in Dhaka, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, officially asked for Hasina's extradition on December 23. The Bangladesh government wants to prosecute Hasina on charges related to her alleged involvement in incidents of violence and disappearances during the 2024 protests, which left over 500 people dead. Earlier on Tuesday (Jan 7), Dhaka’s immigration department declared it had cancelled 97 passports, including the one held by Hasina. A spokesperson for the government said the move was in response to Hasina’s role in the disappearances and killings of students. Also read: Arrest warrant issued for Sheikh Hasina over extrajudicial killings and disappearances "Passports of 22 individuals were revoked for their involvement in enforced disappearances, while 75 others, including Sheikh Hasina, were implicated in the July killings," said the Bangladeshi official. Hasina’s stay in India has complicated the situation and is bound to test the finesse of Indian diplomacy; however, it is unlikely to affect bilateral ties for now. Also read: Mark Zuckerberg sports $900,000 watch as he announces Meta policy overhaul On the other hand, the government of Yunus is also facing allegations of going after his political opponents in a reckless manner and pursuing politically motivated charges in an attempt to consolidate power. (With inputs from agencies)

India extends ousted Bangladesh PM Hasina’s visa as Dhaka presses for extradition

A Bangladesh court Thursday (Jan 2) denied bail to Hindu monk Chinmoy Krishna Das during a hearing amid heavy security. Justice Md Saiful Islam of Chattogram court dismissed the plea after hearing arguments from both sides. Local media outlet The Daily Star reported that 11 Supreme Court lawyers had earlier arrived at the court to represent Das.
Earlier on December 3, the court had adjourned the hearing of Das&rsquo;s bail plea to January 2 as no lawyer could appear to represent the detained Hindu priest.
Apurba Kumar Bhattacharjee, one of the lawyers appearing for Das on Thursday, told media, &ldquo;We have come to Chattogram under the banner of Ainjibi Oikya Parishad, and we will move for Chinmoy in the court for his bail. I already got the Vakalatnama from Chinmoy. I am a member of both the Supreme Court and Chattogram Bar Associations, so I don't need authorisation from any local lawyer to move the case.&rdquo;
<h2>Das facing sedition charges</h2>
Das, a priest formerly affiliated with the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), is facing stringent sedition charges following October 25 protest during which he allegedly raised a saffron flag above Bangladesh&rsquo;s national flag.
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The monk was detained on November 25, triggering massive clashes between enforcement agencies, police officers and protesting Hindus. During one of such clashes on November 27, a public prosecutor named Saiful Islam sustained critical injuries and later was declared dead by doctors. The situation became worse as authorities detained more Hindu monks on November 29 after they went to meet Das in jail.
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Later, reports emerged in Indian media claiming an ISKCON centre was vandalised and stormed by mob amid widespread unrest. The Indian government has also raised concerns over increasing incidents of violence against minority communities in Bangladesh, stressing that their safety is the responsibility of the government.
&ldquo;The primary responsibility for the protection of life and liberty of all citizens of Bangladesh, including minorities, rests with the Government of Bangladesh,&rdquo; Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar had said, referring to communal unrest in the neighbouring country.
(With inputs from agencies)

Chinmoy Das is facing stringent sedition charges following the October 25 protest during which he allegedly raised a saffron flag above Bangladesh’s national flag.

A Bangladesh court Thursday (Jan 2) denied bail to Hindu monk Chinmoy Krishna Das during a hearing amid heavy security. Justice Md Saiful Islam of Chattogram court dismissed the plea after hearing arguments from both sides. Local media outlet The Daily Star reported that 11 Supreme Court lawyers had earlier arrived at the court to represent Das. Earlier on December 3, the court had adjourned the hearing of Das’s bail plea to January 2 as no lawyer could appear to represent the detained Hindu priest. Apurba Kumar Bhattacharjee, one of the lawyers appearing for Das on Thursday, told media, “We have come to Chattogram under the banner of Ainjibi Oikya Parishad, and we will move for Chinmoy in the court for his bail. I already got the Vakalatnama from Chinmoy. I am a member of both the Supreme Court and Chattogram Bar Associations, so I don't need authorisation from any local lawyer to move the case.” Das facing sedition charges Das, a priest formerly affiliated with the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON), is facing stringent sedition charges following October 25 protest during which he allegedly raised a saffron flag above Bangladesh’s national flag. Also read: Bangladeshi Americans urge Trump to intervene amid attacks against minorities The monk was detained on November 25, triggering massive clashes between enforcement agencies, police officers and protesting Hindus. During one of such clashes on November 27, a public prosecutor named Saiful Islam sustained critical injuries and later was declared dead by doctors. The situation became worse as authorities detained more Hindu monks on November 29 after they went to meet Das in jail. Also read: Iran offers its good office in Nimisha Priya case Later, reports emerged in Indian media claiming an ISKCON centre was vandalised and stormed by mob amid widespread unrest. The Indian government has also raised concerns over increasing incidents of violence against minority communities in Bangladesh, stressing that their safety is the responsibility of the government. “The primary responsibility for the protection of life and liberty of all citizens of Bangladesh, including minorities, rests with the Government of Bangladesh,” Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar had said, referring to communal unrest in the neighbouring country. (With inputs from agencies)

Bangladesh unrest: No relief for Hindu monk Chinmoy Das as court rejects bail plea

Dhaka
Importers in Bangladesh are being ‘forced’ by the government to source goods from Pakistan, in an apparent sign of improving trade relations between the two South Asian neighbours. According to Bangladesh media reports, a second cargo ship, Panama-flagged 'MV Yuan Xiang Fa Zhan', visited Bangladesh’s Chittagong port Sunday (Dec 22). The ship was carrying a ‘substantial load of 811 containers of essential industrial materials such as soda ash, dolomite, and marble blocks, along with goods like garment raw materials, sugar, and electronic products,’ reported Bangladeshi news outlets.
This was the second cargo ship that docked at Chittagong airport since Bangladesh got independence in 1971. The first shipment arrived here in November. "To my knowledge, this was the first cargo ship that came directly from Karachi, mainly carrying raw materials for our textile and ceramic industries,” an official of the Chittagong Port Authority was quoted as saying by news agency PTI.
The reports came a day after the leader of Bangladesh’s interim government, Professor Muhammad Yunus, met with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Egypt's Cairo. Both leaders "agreed to strengthen relations between the two countries through increased trade, commerce, and exchange of sports and cultural delegations", as per the statement from Yunus' office.
Also read: <a data-ved="2ahUKEwiU1-WZ4L2KAxU3ja8BHfj8H-8QxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/we-want-her-back-bangladesh-formally-writes-to-india-to-facilitate-return-of-sheikh-hasina-786191" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/we-want-her-back-bangladesh-formally-writes-to-india-to-facilitate-return-of-sheikh-hasina-786191&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiU1-WZ4L2KAxU3ja8BHfj8H-8QxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">`We want her back...`: Bangladesh formally writes to India to facilitate return of Sheikh Hasina</a>
Now, the Economic Times has reported that some officials in Bangladesh’s shipping ministry are pushing for a review of the India-Bangladesh shipping pact, under which India has access to Chittagong and Mongla ports.
Since Yunus took charge of the Bangladesh government earlier this year, he has worked to reverse deposed PM Sheikh Hasina’s policies, which were fundamentally pro-India and anti-Pakistan. In a major shift, he has been working to improve Dhaka’s ties with Islamabad.
Amidst the government transition, India-Bangladesh trade has witnessed a decline. According to the administrator of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI), Md Hafizur Rahman, the trade has gone down significantly since August. “After the government change, we observed a downflow in trade between the two countries. But I believe this is not permanent,” he was quoted as saying by ANI.
(With inputs from agencies)

The reports came a day after the leader of Bangladesh’s interim government, Professor Muhammad Yunus, met with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Egypt's Cairo.



Dhaka Importers in Bangladesh are being ‘forced’ by the government to source goods from Pakistan, in an apparent sign of improving trade relations between the two South Asian neighbours. According to Bangladesh media reports, a second cargo ship, Panama-flagged 'MV Yuan Xiang Fa Zhan', visited Bangladesh’s Chittagong port Sunday (Dec 22). The ship was carrying a ‘substantial load of 811 containers of essential industrial materials such as soda ash, dolomite, and marble blocks, along with goods like garment raw materials, sugar, and electronic products,’ reported Bangladeshi news outlets. This was the second cargo ship that docked at Chittagong airport since Bangladesh got independence in 1971. The first shipment arrived here in November. "To my knowledge, this was the first cargo ship that came directly from Karachi, mainly carrying raw materials for our textile and ceramic industries,” an official of the Chittagong Port Authority was quoted as saying by news agency PTI. The reports came a day after the leader of Bangladesh’s interim government, Professor Muhammad Yunus, met with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Egypt's Cairo. Both leaders "agreed to strengthen relations between the two countries through increased trade, commerce, and exchange of sports and cultural delegations", as per the statement from Yunus' office. Also read: `We want her back...`: Bangladesh formally writes to India to facilitate return of Sheikh Hasina Now, the Economic Times has reported that some officials in Bangladesh’s shipping ministry are pushing for a review of the India-Bangladesh shipping pact, under which India has access to Chittagong and Mongla ports. Since Yunus took charge of the Bangladesh government earlier this year, he has worked to reverse deposed PM Sheikh Hasina’s policies, which were fundamentally pro-India and anti-Pakistan. In a major shift, he has been working to improve Dhaka’s ties with Islamabad. Amidst the government transition, India-Bangladesh trade has witnessed a decline. According to the administrator of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI), Md Hafizur Rahman, the trade has gone down significantly since August. “After the government change, we observed a downflow in trade between the two countries. But I believe this is not permanent,” he was quoted as saying by ANI. (With inputs from agencies)

Bangladesh 'forcing' importers to source goods from Pakistan amidst tensions with India: Report

Importers in Bangladesh are being ‘forced’ by the government to source goods from Pakistan, in an apparent sign of improving trade relations between the two South Asian neighbours. According to Bangladesh media reports, a second cargo ship, Panama-flagged 'MV Yuan Xiang Fa Zhan', visited Bangladesh’s Chittagong port Sunday (Dec 22). The ship was carrying a ‘substantial load of 811 containers of essential industrial materials such as soda ash, dolomite, and marble blocks, along with goods like garment&nbsp;raw materials, sugar, and electronic products,’ reported Bangladeshi news outlets.

This was the second cargo ship that docked at Chittagong airport since Bangladesh got independence in 1971. The first shipment arrived here in November. "To my knowledge, this was the first cargo ship that came directly from Karachi, mainly carrying raw materials for our textile and ceramic industries,” an official of the Chittagong Port Authority was quoted as saying by news agency PTI.

The reports came a day after the leader of Bangladesh’s interim government, Professor Muhammad Yunus, met with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Egypt's Cairo. Both leaders "agreed to strengthen relations between the two countries through increased trade, commerce, and exchange of sports and cultural delegations", as per the statement from Yunus' office.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiU1-WZ4L2KAxU3ja8BHfj8H-8QxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/we-want-her-back-bangladesh-formally-writes-to-india-to-facilitate-return-of-sheikh-hasina-786191" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/we-want-her-back-bangladesh-formally-writes-to-india-to-facilitate-return-of-sheikh-hasina-786191&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiU1-WZ4L2KAxU3ja8BHfj8H-8QxfQBKAB6BAgHEAE">`We want her back...`: Bangladesh formally writes to India to facilitate return of Sheikh Hasina</a>

Now, the Economic Times has reported that some officials in Bangladesh’s shipping ministry are pushing for a review of the India-Bangladesh shipping pact, under which India has access to Chittagong and Mongla ports.

Since Yunus took charge of the Bangladesh government earlier this year, he has worked to reverse deposed PM Sheikh Hasina’s policies, which were fundamentally pro-India and anti-Pakistan. In a major shift, he has been working to improve Dhaka’s ties with Islamabad.

Amidst the government transition, India-Bangladesh trade has witnessed a decline. According to the administrator of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI), Md Hafizur Rahman, the trade has gone down significantly since August. “After the government change, we observed a downflow in trade between the two countries. But I believe this is not permanent,” he was quoted as saying by ANI.

(With inputs from agencies)

Importers in Bangladesh are being ‘forced’ by the government to source goods from Pakistan, in an apparent sign of improving trade relations between the two South Asian neighbours.

Importers in Bangladesh are being ‘forced’ by the government to source goods from Pakistan, in an apparent sign of improving trade relations between the two South Asian neighbours. According to Bangladesh media reports, a second cargo ship, Panama-flagged 'MV Yuan Xiang Fa Zhan', visited Bangladesh’s Chittagong port Sunday (Dec 22). The ship was carrying a ‘substantial load of 811 containers of essential industrial materials such as soda ash, dolomite, and marble blocks, along with goods like garment raw materials, sugar, and electronic products,’ reported Bangladeshi news outlets. This was the second cargo ship that docked at Chittagong airport since Bangladesh got independence in 1971. The first shipment arrived here in November. "To my knowledge, this was the first cargo ship that came directly from Karachi, mainly carrying raw materials for our textile and ceramic industries,” an official of the Chittagong Port Authority was quoted as saying by news agency PTI. The reports came a day after the leader of Bangladesh’s interim government, Professor Muhammad Yunus, met with Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Egypt's Cairo. Both leaders "agreed to strengthen relations between the two countries through increased trade, commerce, and exchange of sports and cultural delegations", as per the statement from Yunus' office. Also read: `We want her back...`: Bangladesh formally writes to India to facilitate return of Sheikh Hasina Now, the Economic Times has reported that some officials in Bangladesh’s shipping ministry are pushing for a review of the India-Bangladesh shipping pact, under which India has access to Chittagong and Mongla ports. Since Yunus took charge of the Bangladesh government earlier this year, he has worked to reverse deposed PM Sheikh Hasina’s policies, which were fundamentally pro-India and anti-Pakistan. In a major shift, he has been working to improve Dhaka’s ties with Islamabad. Amidst the government transition, India-Bangladesh trade has witnessed a decline. According to the administrator of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI), Md Hafizur Rahman, the trade has gone down significantly since August. “After the government change, we observed a downflow in trade between the two countries. But I believe this is not permanent,” he was quoted as saying by ANI. (With inputs from agencies)

Amid diplomatic tensions between New Delhi and Dhaka over communal violence, Bangladesh on Tuesday (Dec 10) admitted that at least 88 incidents have happened targeting minority Hindu community since the ouster of deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina in August. The unelected interim government led by Muhammad Yunus also claimed that more than 70 people have been detained in connection with the violence targeting minorities. &nbsp;

The rare admission by Dhaka comes a day after Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri met with Bangladeshi officials and conveyed India’s concerns over attacks on Hindus. Shafiqul Alam, Muhammad Yunus’ press secretary, said 88 incidents against Hindus have taken place between August 5 and October 22.

“The number of cases and arrests is likely to increase as new incidents of violence have also been reported in [northeastern] Sunamganj, [central] Gazipur, and other areas,” News agency PTI quoted Alam as saying.

But the government maintains that the attacks on minorities should be seen as political violence as some of the victims were supporters of Hasina’s party.

“Some attacks targeted individuals who were former members of the ruling party or they were the result of personal disputes. Nevertheless, since violence occurred, the police are taking appropriate action,” Alamd added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwiu29nm7J6KAxXpUPUHHbYwOFcQxfQBKAB6BAgREAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-foreign-secretary-in-bangladesh-misri-raises-new-delhis-concern-over-safety-of-minorities-782674" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-foreign-secretary-in-bangladesh-misri-raises-new-delhis-concern-over-safety-of-minorities-782674&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiu29nm7J6KAxXpUPUHHbYwOFcQxfQBKAB6BAgREAE">Indian foreign secretary in Bangladesh: Misri raises New Delhi`s concern over safety of minorities</a>

Hindus have increasingly come under attack in Bangladesh since the collapse of the Hasina government. Some monks have been detained and charged with serious crimes whereas mobs have vandalised several temples.

In order to ease tensions, Misri visited Dhaka this Monday for the annual foreign office consultations with his counterpart Mohammad Jashim Uddin.

Watch:&nbsp;Rebel Group Claims to Have Taken Control of Myanmar’s Border With Bangladesh

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/rebel-group-claims-to-have-taken-control-of-myanmars-border-with-bangladesh-gravitas-783081/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Earlier, Yunus had tried to downplay the attacks on Hindus , saying most of these reports were "completely exaggerated".

Last week, the interim government head said the violence had occurred only “in some cases.”

"The main reason for the few incidents of violence that occurred was political," he claimed.

Yunus also argued that it was an effort to destabilise Bangladesh by framing these attacks with a religious narrative.

"With the cooperation of all of you, we have firmly handled this situation," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Amid diplomatic tensions between New Delhi and Dhaka over communal violence, Bangladesh on Tuesday (Dec 10) admitted that at least 88 incidents have happened targeting minority Hindu community since the ouster of deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina in August.

Amid diplomatic tensions between New Delhi and Dhaka over communal violence, Bangladesh on Tuesday (Dec 10) admitted that at least 88 incidents have happened targeting minority Hindu community since the ouster of deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina in August. The unelected interim government led by Muhammad Yunus also claimed that more than 70 people have been detained in connection with the violence targeting minorities. The rare admission by Dhaka comes a day after Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri met with Bangladeshi officials and conveyed India’s concerns over attacks on Hindus. Shafiqul Alam, Muhammad Yunus’ press secretary, said 88 incidents against Hindus have taken place between August 5 and October 22. “The number of cases and arrests is likely to increase as new incidents of violence have also been reported in [northeastern] Sunamganj, [central] Gazipur, and other areas,” News agency PTI quoted Alam as saying. But the government maintains that the attacks on minorities should be seen as political violence as some of the victims were supporters of Hasina’s party. “Some attacks targeted individuals who were former members of the ruling party or they were the result of personal disputes. Nevertheless, since violence occurred, the police are taking appropriate action,” Alamd added. Also read: Indian foreign secretary in Bangladesh: Misri raises New Delhi`s concern over safety of minorities Hindus have increasingly come under attack in Bangladesh since the collapse of the Hasina government. Some monks have been detained and charged with serious crimes whereas mobs have vandalised several temples. In order to ease tensions, Misri visited Dhaka this Monday for the annual foreign office consultations with his counterpart Mohammad Jashim Uddin. Watch: Rebel Group Claims to Have Taken Control of Myanmar’s Border With Bangladesh Earlier, Yunus had tried to downplay the attacks on Hindus , saying most of these reports were "completely exaggerated". Last week, the interim government head said the violence had occurred only “in some cases.” "The main reason for the few incidents of violence that occurred was political," he claimed. Yunus also argued that it was an effort to destabilise Bangladesh by framing these attacks with a religious narrative. "With the cooperation of all of you, we have firmly handled this situation," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

After weeks of denial, Bangladesh finally admits 88 incidents of violence against Hindus

A senior leader from Bangladesh’s opposition BNP party held a ‘Boycott Indian Products’ programme Tuesday (Dec 10) during which he also burned an India-made bedsheet. Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, who is a senior joint secretary general of the BNP (Bangladesh Nationalist Party), set the bed sheet made in India’s Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan state.

Watch:&nbsp;Bangladesh 'Optimistic' Of Ending Stalemate In Relations With India

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Rizvi declared, “This bedsheet is from India's Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan. This bedsheet made by Jaipur Textile... We are doing this to protest against Indian aggression." He later threw the bed sheet on the road, put kerosene on it and set it on fire. The scene unfolded in the Bangladeshi city of Rajshahi as the crowd chanted slogans against India and in favour of their government.

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BNP Leader Rizvi Sets Jaipur Bedsheets and Indian Saree Ablaze in Protest Against Indian Goods 
 
BNP’s Ruhul Kabir Rizvi takes his protest against Indian products to a new level, burning his wife’s Indian saree and Jaipur bedsheets. Calls for a nationwide boycott of Indian goods.… <a href="https://t.co/0FhiJnVTAd">pic.twitter.com/0FhiJnVTAd</a>
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The development comes amidst escalating tensions between the two neighbours, owing to increasing attacks against minority communities, especially Hindus.

"We are boycotting Indian products because they are not suitable for the people of this country. Their friendship is only with Sheikh Hasina," Rizvi added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwjI1qe0jZ2KAxWm3jgGHWf8GD0QxfQBKAB6BAgNEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-foreign-secretary-in-bangladesh-misri-raises-new-delhis-concern-over-safety-of-minorities-782674" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-foreign-secretary-in-bangladesh-misri-raises-new-delhis-concern-over-safety-of-minorities-782674&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjI1qe0jZ2KAxWm3jgGHWf8GD0QxfQBKAB6BAgNEAE">Indian foreign secretary in Bangladesh: Misri raises New Delhi`s concern over safety of minorities</a>

The senior BNP leader last week set an India-made saree on fire to voice his opposition to alleged disrespect shown towards the Bangladeshi flag in India. "This is the Indian saree. It belonged to my wife, and she herself gave it for this cause. Today, I am throwing it away in front of you," he said while addressing a crowd in Dhaka on December 5.

Interestingly, a similar protest was held in India some days back when protestors set fire to Bangladeshi-made Dhakai Jamdani sarees. The protest was held by the Bengali Hindu Suraksha Samiti in Kolkata's Salt Lake area, condemning what they described as “atrocities against Hindus” in Bangladesh. The demonstrators also called on Indian nationals to boycott goods made in Bangladesh and warned of retaliation if attacks against Hindus continued in the country led by the unelected interim government of Muhammad Yunus.

(With inputs from agencies)

A senior leader from Bangladesh’s opposition BNP party held a ‘Boycott Indian Products’ programme Tuesday (Dec 10) during which he also burned an India-made bedsheet.

A senior leader from Bangladesh’s opposition BNP party held a ‘Boycott Indian Products’ programme Tuesday (Dec 10) during which he also burned an India-made bedsheet. Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, who is a senior joint secretary general of the BNP (Bangladesh Nationalist Party), set the bed sheet made in India’s Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan state. Watch: Bangladesh 'Optimistic' Of Ending Stalemate In Relations With India Rizvi declared, “This bedsheet is from India's Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan. This bedsheet made by Jaipur Textile... We are doing this to protest against Indian aggression." He later threw the bed sheet on the road, put kerosene on it and set it on fire. The scene unfolded in the Bangladeshi city of Rajshahi as the crowd chanted slogans against India and in favour of their government. BNP Leader Rizvi Sets Jaipur Bedsheets and Indian Saree Ablaze in Protest Against Indian Goods BNP’s Ruhul Kabir Rizvi takes his protest against Indian products to a new level, burning his wife’s Indian saree and Jaipur bedsheets. Calls for a nationwide boycott of Indian goods.… pic.twitter.com/0FhiJnVTAd — Sneha Mordani (@snehamordani) December 10, 2024 × The development comes amidst escalating tensions between the two neighbours, owing to increasing attacks against minority communities, especially Hindus. "We are boycotting Indian products because they are not suitable for the people of this country. Their friendship is only with Sheikh Hasina," Rizvi added. Also read: Indian foreign secretary in Bangladesh: Misri raises New Delhi`s concern over safety of minorities The senior BNP leader last week set an India-made saree on fire to voice his opposition to alleged disrespect shown towards the Bangladeshi flag in India. "This is the Indian saree. It belonged to my wife, and she herself gave it for this cause. Today, I am throwing it away in front of you," he said while addressing a crowd in Dhaka on December 5. Interestingly, a similar protest was held in India some days back when protestors set fire to Bangladeshi-made Dhakai Jamdani sarees. The protest was held by the Bengali Hindu Suraksha Samiti in Kolkata's Salt Lake area, condemning what they described as “atrocities against Hindus” in Bangladesh. The demonstrators also called on Indian nationals to boycott goods made in Bangladesh and warned of retaliation if attacks against Hindus continued in the country led by the unelected interim government of Muhammad Yunus. (With inputs from agencies)

Video: Jaipur bedsheet burned in Bangladesh during ‘Boycott India’ campaign by BNP leader

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After weeks of denial, Bangladesh finally admits 88 incidents of violence against Hindus

Video: Jaipur bedsheet burned in Bangladesh during ‘Boycott India’ campaign by BNP leader