Anwarul Azim, who went to Kolkata for medical treatment, remained missing for 8 days. Awami League MP Anwarul Azim Anar has been missing since May 14 after arriving in Kolkata for medical treatment. Watch to know more.

Bangladesh MP Anwarul Azim Anar goes missing, had come to India on May 12

<p>A Bangladeshi lawmaker was "murdered" in Kolkata a week after he went missing after visiting the east Indian megacity, the country's home minister&nbsp; claimed on Wednesday (May 22). A joint investigation has been launched into the death of the&nbsp;Bangladesh Member of Parliament (MP) Anwarul Azim.</p>

<p>The lawmaker had reached India on May 12 and went for a medical checkup&nbsp;the following day&nbsp;with a family friend in&nbsp;Kolkata's&nbsp;Bidhannagar.&nbsp;But nobody could trace him after May 13, following which the friend had lodged a missing complaint with the West Bengal Police.</p>

<p>His body was recovered from an apartment in a posh residential complex at New Town on the northern outskirts of Kolkata under mysterious circumstances.</p>

<p>Azim, a member of Bangladesh's ruling Awami League party, was missing since the last eight days.</p>

<p>In Dhaka, Bangladesh Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan termed the incident a&nbsp;"planned murder."</p>

<p>"So far, we have come to know that all the killers involved are Bangladeshis. It was a planned murder,"&nbsp;the Bangladesh Home&nbsp;Minister was quoted by news agency ANI as saying.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Bangladesh's ruling party lawmaker missing in India</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bangladeshs-ruling-party-lawmaker-missing-in-india-724235/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Local media reported that Bangladeshi police have arrested at least three persons in this connection. As per reports, Indian police are&nbsp;also&nbsp;cooperating with Bangladeshi authorities over the matter, and an investigation has&nbsp;been launched.</p>

<p>"We will soon inform you about the motive (of the murderers),"&nbsp;Minister Khan told the media.</p>

<h2>MP tried calling his&nbsp;assistant</h2>

<p>In a police complaint filed by&nbsp;MP's&nbsp;family friend Gopal Viswas at Baranagar police station in Bidhannagar,&nbsp;it was claimed&nbsp;that Anwarul Azim had tried calling his assistant on the morning of May 16.</p>

<p>"On the morning of May 16, he (Anwarul Azim) called his assistant, but could not connect. Later, when his PA called him back, he did not answer,"&nbsp;the complaint read.</p>

<p>The MP's&nbsp;daughter also tried calling her father but to no avail.&nbsp;“Still, there has been no physical presence or direct contact with him since May 13,"&nbsp;Viswas wrote in the complaint.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ved="2ahUKEwj6mM3mjaGGAxVnk1YBHbGZA7EQxfQBKAB6BAgNEAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/unrest-in-kyrgyzstan-what-sparked-the-attacks-on-hostels-housing-indian-pakistani-students-722926" jsname="YKoRaf" ping="/url?sa=t&amp;source=web&amp;rct=j&amp;opi=89978449&amp;url=https://www.wionews.com/world/unrest-in-kyrgyzstan-what-sparked-the-attacks-on-hostels-housing-indian-pakistani-students-722926&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj6mM3mjaGGAxVnk1YBHbGZA7EQxfQBKAB6BAgNEAE">Unrest in Kyrgyzstan: What sparked the attacks on hostels housing Indian, Pakistani students?</a></strong></p>

<p>"His daughter called me (Viswas), and said, I&nbsp;can't&nbsp;communicate with my father. Then I contacted all his (Anarul&nbsp;Azim's) acquaintances on the phone, but it was not possible to contact him,"&nbsp;it added.</p>

<p>"I&nbsp;was then requested to come to Baranagar police station on May 18 to register the complaint in the missing diary,"&nbsp;a copy of the complaint said.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A Bangladeshi lawmaker was "murdered" in Kolkata a week after he went missing after visiting the east Indian megacity, the country's home minister claimed on Wednesday (May 22).

A Bangladeshi lawmaker was "murdered" in Kolkata a week after he went missing after visiting the east Indian megacity, the country's home minister claimed on Wednesday (May 22). A joint investigation has been launched into the death of the Bangladesh Member of Parliament (MP) Anwarul Azim. The lawmaker had reached India on May 12 and went for a medical checkup the following day with a family friend in Kolkata's Bidhannagar. But nobody could trace him after May 13, following which the friend had lodged a missing complaint with the West Bengal Police. His body was recovered from an apartment in a posh residential complex at New Town on the northern outskirts of Kolkata under mysterious circumstances. Azim, a member of Bangladesh's ruling Awami League party, was missing since the last eight days. In Dhaka, Bangladesh Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan termed the incident a "planned murder." "So far, we have come to know that all the killers involved are Bangladeshis. It was a planned murder," the Bangladesh Home Minister was quoted by news agency ANI as saying. Watch: Bangladesh's ruling party lawmaker missing in India × Local media reported that Bangladeshi police have arrested at least three persons in this connection. As per reports, Indian police are also cooperating with Bangladeshi authorities over the matter, and an investigation has been launched. "We will soon inform you about the motive (of the murderers)," Minister Khan told the media. MP tried calling his assistant In a police complaint filed by MP's family friend Gopal Viswas at Baranagar police station in Bidhannagar, it was claimed that Anwarul Azim had tried calling his assistant on the morning of May 16. "On the morning of May 16, he (Anwarul Azim) called his assistant, but could not connect. Later, when his PA called him back, he did not answer," the complaint read. The MP's daughter also tried calling her father but to no avail. “Still, there has been no physical presence or direct contact with him since May 13," Viswas wrote in the complaint. Also read: Unrest in Kyrgyzstan: What sparked the attacks on hostels housing Indian, Pakistani students? "His daughter called me (Viswas), and said, I can't communicate with my father. Then I contacted all his (Anarul Azim's) acquaintances on the phone, but it was not possible to contact him," it added. "I was then requested to come to Baranagar police station on May 18 to register the complaint in the missing diary," a copy of the complaint said. (With inputs from agencies)

Bangladesh MP who went missing in India's Kolkata was murdered, claims its home minister; probe on

Anwarul Azim, who went to Kolkata for medical treatment, remained missing for 8 days.Awami League MP Anwarul Azim Anar has been missing since May 14 after arriving in Kolkata for medical treatment. Watch to know more.

Bangladesh MP's disappearance: HM claims 3 people arrested

Bangladesh Home Minister claims lawmaker was murdered in India

<p>Bangladesh men's cricket team all-rounder, Shakib Al Hasan, has courted controversy after a video of him grabbing the neck of a fan and threatening to beat him went viral on social media.</p>

<p>The incident, believed to have transpired on the sidelines of a Dhaka Premier League (DPL) match, has once again raised questions over Shakib's problematic behaviour.</p>

<p>In the widely-circulated video, the selfie-seeking fan can be seen running up to Shakib who is busy talking with his colleagues. As soon as Shakib sees the fan coming, he instantly shrugs him off, but upon repeated insistence, goes on to hold his neck, almost landing a slap in the process.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>While it remains unclear if it was a playful banter from Shakib or a casual threat to the fan, those online did not appreciate the way the all-rounder dealt with the situation.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Shakib al Hasan 🇧🇩🏏 went to beat a fan who tried to take a selfie 🤳<br />
<br />
Your thoughts on this 👇👇👇 <a href="https://t.co/k0uVppVjQw">pic.twitter.com/k0uVppVjQw</a></p>
— Fourth Umpire (@UmpireFourth) <a href="https://twitter.com/UmpireFourth/status/1787756452674736445?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 7, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/word-cup-2023-i-was-at-war-bangladesh-captain-shakib-al-hasan-on-angelo-mathews-timed-out-dismissal-655865"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;World Cup 2023: 'I was at war', Bangladesh captain Shakib Al Hasan on Angelo Mathews' timed out dismissal</strong></a></p>

<h2><strong>Shakib's problematic behaviour&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>It's not the first time Shakib made headlines for the wrong reasons, on or off the field. Although the Bangladesh veteran is considered a top cricketer across all formats, some of his conduct has been loud, a little violent and questionable.</p>

<p>During one of the previous seasons of DPL, Shakib lost his cool after the on-field umpire denied his clear-cut LBW appeal. Shakib angrily kicked the wickets and even uprooted the stumps, throwing them down and approaching the umpire while shouting.</p>

<p>Besides this incident, ICC once banned Shakib for three matches after he threatened a spectator with the bat and made a lewd gesture towards a television crew.</p>

<p>During the ODI World Cup in India last year, Shakib was caught in controversy yet again after he appealed for a timed-out dismissal against Sri Lanka's Angelo Mathews.</p>

<p>The former Sri Lankan captain was adjudged out without facing a single ball as he did not arrive at the crease within the two-minute window, as stipulated in the tournament laws.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking after the match, Shakib justified his decision saying he was at war.&nbsp;"I don't know if it's right or wrong but I felt I was at war (grins). I had to take the decision to make my team win. If it's in the rules why not take those chances," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Bangladesh captain said picking up the fight with Mathews and Sri Lanka helped the team raise its game as well.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I thought that helped. At 36, the fight doesn't come all the time but today it helped, I won't deny that."</p>

<p>However, his decision led to negative reactions from spectators who questioned the Bangladeshi captain for&nbsp;not upholding the spirit of the game.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Bangladesh men's cricket team all-rounder, Shakib Al Hasan, has courted controversy after a video of him grabbing the neck of a fan and threatening to beat him went viral on social media.

Bangladesh men's cricket team all-rounder, Shakib Al Hasan, has courted controversy after a video of him grabbing the neck of a fan and threatening to beat him went viral on social media. The incident, believed to have transpired on the sidelines of a Dhaka Premier League (DPL) match, has once again raised questions over Shakib's problematic behaviour. In the widely-circulated video, the selfie-seeking fan can be seen running up to Shakib who is busy talking with his colleagues. As soon as Shakib sees the fan coming, he instantly shrugs him off, but upon repeated insistence, goes on to hold his neck, almost landing a slap in the process. While it remains unclear if it was a playful banter from Shakib or a casual threat to the fan, those online did not appreciate the way the all-rounder dealt with the situation. Shakib al Hasan 🇧🇩🏏 went to beat a fan who tried to take a selfie 🤳 Your thoughts on this 👇👇👇 pic.twitter.com/k0uVppVjQw — Fourth Umpire (@UmpireFourth) May 7, 2024 × Also read | World Cup 2023: 'I was at war', Bangladesh captain Shakib Al Hasan on Angelo Mathews' timed out dismissal Shakib's problematic behaviour It's not the first time Shakib made headlines for the wrong reasons, on or off the field. Although the Bangladesh veteran is considered a top cricketer across all formats, some of his conduct has been loud, a little violent and questionable. During one of the previous seasons of DPL, Shakib lost his cool after the on-field umpire denied his clear-cut LBW appeal. Shakib angrily kicked the wickets and even uprooted the stumps, throwing them down and approaching the umpire while shouting. Besides this incident, ICC once banned Shakib for three matches after he threatened a spectator with the bat and made a lewd gesture towards a television crew. During the ODI World Cup in India last year, Shakib was caught in controversy yet again after he appealed for a timed-out dismissal against Sri Lanka's Angelo Mathews. The former Sri Lankan captain was adjudged out without facing a single ball as he did not arrive at the crease within the two-minute window, as stipulated in the tournament laws. Speaking after the match, Shakib justified his decision saying he was at war. "I don't know if it's right or wrong but I felt I was at war (grins). I had to take the decision to make my team win. If it's in the rules why not take those chances," he added. The Bangladesh captain said picking up the fight with Mathews and Sri Lanka helped the team raise its game as well. "I thought that helped. At 36, the fight doesn't come all the time but today it helped, I won't deny that." However, his decision led to negative reactions from spectators who questioned the Bangladeshi captain for not upholding the spirit of the game. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch | Bangladesh all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan grabs fan by his neck, threatens violence

Rohingya refugees living in a camp in south-eastern Bangladesh are suffering a brutal heatwave as the temperatures have soared to 42 degrees celsius. A record since 1989.

Rohingya refugees suffer brutal heatwave

Bangladesh's Weather Bureau has declared last month as the hottest April on record. This comes as the South Asian nation and much of the region is enduring a suffocating heatwave.

Bangladesh endures suffocating heatwave

A two judge bench of the high court passed an order to close schools because of the heatwave. All primary schools across the country and educational institutions in almost half of the districts including the capital, will remain closed.

Bangladesh: Temperatures climb to 43 degrees Celsius, Authorities tell people to stay indoors

Bangladesh reeling under heatwave

Pakistan and Bangladesh two separate and Independent countries geographically divided by India. These two emerging economies come with grow potential but one of them may have surpassed the other and it is Bangladesh. Watch in for more details!

Bangladesh's remarkable economic rise

In a coordinated early morning operation on Thursday Bangladesh repatriated 288 members of Myanmar Security Forces who had sought Refuge across the border. The group included members from the Myanmar Border Guard Police (BGP), Army and immigration units.

Bangladesh repatriates Myanmar troops who fled conflict

Myanmar repatriates more Rohingya Refugees

<p>While lamenting its economy which is in shambles, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that 'East Pakistan', present-day Bangladesh, was perceived as a 'burden' on the nation's shoulders, however, it is no more a case as the country has now achieved strides in economic growth.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a thought-provoking remark, he also expressed a sense of shame as Bangladesh within nearly 50 years of its independence in 1971 got ahead of Pakistan in terms of its GDP per capita.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 2016, Bangladesh passed Pakistan for the first time with $1,659 GDP per capita compared to Pakistan's $1,468. Since then, Bangladesh has kept its lead. In 2023, Pakistan's GDP per capita income was $1,471, while Bangladesh's was $2,528.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-war-hamas-top-official-says-militant-group-ready-to-lay-down-arms-on-one-condition-714840">Israel war: Hamas top official says militant group ready to lay down arms on one condition</a></p>

<p>In an interactive session with Pakistani business leaders at the Sindh CM House in Karachi on Wednesday (Apr 24), Sharif reminisced, “I was quite young when... we were told that it’s a burden on our shoulders...Today you all know where that ‘burden’ has reached (in terms of economic growth)." He added, “And we feel ashamed when we look towards them."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/aus-nz-commemorate-anzac-day-heres-the-history-behind-it-714873">Aus &amp; NZ commemorate ANZAC Day. Here's the history behind it</a></p>

<p>It is pertinent to note that 'East Pakistan' faced several economic challenges during its time as part of Pakistan. 'West Pakistan', with greater political power, reportedly received a disproportionate share of the country's resources which led to neglect and underdevelopment in 'East Pakistan'.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-us-secretly-shipped-atacms-missile-to-kyiv-report-714884">Russia-Ukraine war | US secretly shipped 'ATACMS' missile to Kyiv: Report</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/russia-ukraine-war-us-secretly-shipped-atacms-missile-to-kyiv-report-714884/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>While Sharif held the meeting to strategise for economic growth, the business leaders also expressed concerns about political instability in Pakistan following the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, who is now languishing in Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Business leaders urge trade talks with India</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>In addition to this, they suggested initiating trade talks with India to benefit Pakistan's economy.</p>

<p>However, New Delhi has time and again made it clear that there is no possibility of trade with Pakistan as long as the country continues to sponsor cross-border terrorism.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chief of Arif Habib Group &nbsp;Arif Habib reportedly said, “You have made a few handshakes after taking charge that have produced good results and progress on the IMF deal is one of them."&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I suggest you do a few more handshakes. One of them is regarding trade with India, which would greatly benefit our economy. Secondly, you should also (patch up) with a resident of Adiala Jail (a reference to jailed PTI leader Imran Khan). Try to fix things at that level as well and I believe that you can do it.”</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


While lamenting its economy which is in shambles, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that 'East Pakistan', present-day Bangladesh, was perceived as a 'burden' on the nation's shoulders, however, it is no more a case as the country has now achieved strides in economic growth.

While lamenting its economy which is in shambles, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that 'East Pakistan', present-day Bangladesh, was perceived as a 'burden' on the nation's shoulders, however, it is no more a case as the country has now achieved strides in economic growth. In a thought-provoking remark, he also expressed a sense of shame as Bangladesh within nearly 50 years of its independence in 1971 got ahead of Pakistan in terms of its GDP per capita. In 2016, Bangladesh passed Pakistan for the first time with $1,659 GDP per capita compared to Pakistan's $1,468. Since then, Bangladesh has kept its lead. In 2023, Pakistan's GDP per capita income was $1,471, while Bangladesh's was $2,528. Also Read | Israel war: Hamas top official says militant group ready to lay down arms on one condition In an interactive session with Pakistani business leaders at the Sindh CM House in Karachi on Wednesday (Apr 24), Sharif reminisced, “I was quite young when... we were told that it’s a burden on our shoulders...Today you all know where that ‘burden’ has reached (in terms of economic growth)." He added, “And we feel ashamed when we look towards them." Also Read | Aus & NZ commemorate ANZAC Day. Here's the history behind it It is pertinent to note that 'East Pakistan' faced several economic challenges during its time as part of Pakistan. 'West Pakistan', with greater political power, reportedly received a disproportionate share of the country's resources which led to neglect and underdevelopment in 'East Pakistan'. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war | US secretly shipped 'ATACMS' missile to Kyiv: Report × While Sharif held the meeting to strategise for economic growth, the business leaders also expressed concerns about political instability in Pakistan following the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, who is now languishing in Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi. Business leaders urge trade talks with India In addition to this, they suggested initiating trade talks with India to benefit Pakistan's economy. However, New Delhi has time and again made it clear that there is no possibility of trade with Pakistan as long as the country continues to sponsor cross-border terrorism. Chief of Arif Habib Group Arif Habib reportedly said, “You have made a few handshakes after taking charge that have produced good results and progress on the IMF deal is one of them." “I suggest you do a few more handshakes. One of them is regarding trade with India, which would greatly benefit our economy. Secondly, you should also (patch up) with a resident of Adiala Jail (a reference to jailed PTI leader Imran Khan). Try to fix things at that level as well and I believe that you can do it.” (With inputs from agencies)

Shehbaz Sharif is 'ashamed' as Bangladesh beats Pakistan in economic growth

<p>Scorching heat prompted school closures in Bangladesh and forced nearly 33 million children out of their classes as parts of the country experienced temperatures surpassing 42C (108F).</p>

<p>This came after classes in the Philippines and India were suspended amid searing temperatures across the region.</p>

<p>Amid the soaring temperatures, thousands of Bangladeshis on Wednesday (Apr 24) gathered to pray for rain.</p>

<p>"Praying for rains is a tradition of our prophet. We repented for our sins and prayed for his blessings for rains," Muhammad Abu Yusuf, an Islamic cleric who led a morning prayer service for 1,000 people in central Dhaka, told AFP.</p>

<p>"Life has become unbearable due to lack of rain," he said. "Poor people are suffering immensely."</p>

<p>As per Bangladesh's weather bureau, average maximum temperatures across Dhaka over the past week rose by over 4-5 degrees (7.2-9 degrees Fahrenheit) Celsius&nbsp;as compared to the 30-year average for the same period.</p>

<p>Authorities had last week ordered&nbsp;schools to suspend classes until the end of the month.</p>

<p>The United Nations children's agency released a statement saying that it was "urging parents to be extra vigilant in keeping their children hydrated and safe" through the heatwave.</p>

<p>"The severity of this heatwave underscores the urgent need for action to protect children from the worsening impacts of climate change," UNICEF said in a statement.</p>

<p>Across Bangladesh, the temperatures have shot up to over 42C (108F) in the past week.</p>

<p>"April is usually the hottest month in Bangladesh. But this April has been one of the hottest since the country's independence (in 1971)," government forecaster Tariful Newaz Kabir told AFP.</p>

<p>"We expect the high temperature will remain until the end of this month," he said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/shehbaz-sharif-is-ashamed-as-bangladesh-edges-pakistan-in-economic-growth-714891">Shehbaz Sharif is 'ashamed' as Bangladesh edges Pakistan in economic growth</a></p>

<h2><strong>Soaring temperatures prompt suspension of classes in Philippines</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier, the Philippines witnessed the suspension of classes due to a heatwave that swept across the region.</p>

<p>The extreme weather conditions also triggered heatwave warnings in Thailand's capital Bangkok.</p>

<p>"It's so hot you can't breathe," news agency AFP quoted Erlin Tumaron, 60, who works at a Philippine seaside resort in Cavite province, south of Manila, as saying.</p>

<p>The heat index reached 47 degrees Celsius (117 degrees Fahrenheit) on Tuesday (Apr 23) in the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It's surprising our pools are still empty. You would expect people to come and take a swim, but it seems they're reluctant to leave their homes because of the heat."</p>

<h2><strong>El Nino weather phenomenon</strong></h2>

<p>El Nino weather phenomenon is being considered responsible for the scorching heat and severe weather conditions across the region.</p>

<p>The archipelago, which usually experiences high temperatures during the months of March, April and May, recorded the heat index at the "danger" level of 42C (108F).</p>

<p>It was expected to go even higher in at least 30 cities and municipalities on Wednesday, said the state weather forecaster.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Scorching heat prompted school closures in Bangladesh and forced nearly 33 million children out of their classes as parts of the country experienced temperatures surpassing 42C (108F).

Scorching heat prompted school closures in Bangladesh and forced nearly 33 million children out of their classes as parts of the country experienced temperatures surpassing 42C (108F). This came after classes in the Philippines and India were suspended amid searing temperatures across the region. Amid the soaring temperatures, thousands of Bangladeshis on Wednesday (Apr 24) gathered to pray for rain. "Praying for rains is a tradition of our prophet. We repented for our sins and prayed for his blessings for rains," Muhammad Abu Yusuf, an Islamic cleric who led a morning prayer service for 1,000 people in central Dhaka, told AFP. "Life has become unbearable due to lack of rain," he said. "Poor people are suffering immensely." As per Bangladesh's weather bureau, average maximum temperatures across Dhaka over the past week rose by over 4-5 degrees (7.2-9 degrees Fahrenheit) Celsius as compared to the 30-year average for the same period. Authorities had last week ordered schools to suspend classes until the end of the month. The United Nations children's agency released a statement saying that it was "urging parents to be extra vigilant in keeping their children hydrated and safe" through the heatwave. "The severity of this heatwave underscores the urgent need for action to protect children from the worsening impacts of climate change," UNICEF said in a statement. Across Bangladesh, the temperatures have shot up to over 42C (108F) in the past week. "April is usually the hottest month in Bangladesh. But this April has been one of the hottest since the country's independence (in 1971)," government forecaster Tariful Newaz Kabir told AFP. "We expect the high temperature will remain until the end of this month," he said. Also read: Shehbaz Sharif is 'ashamed' as Bangladesh edges Pakistan in economic growth Soaring temperatures prompt suspension of classes in Philippines Earlier, the Philippines witnessed the suspension of classes due to a heatwave that swept across the region. The extreme weather conditions also triggered heatwave warnings in Thailand's capital Bangkok. "It's so hot you can't breathe," news agency AFP quoted Erlin Tumaron, 60, who works at a Philippine seaside resort in Cavite province, south of Manila, as saying. The heat index reached 47 degrees Celsius (117 degrees Fahrenheit) on Tuesday (Apr 23) in the region. "It's surprising our pools are still empty. You would expect people to come and take a swim, but it seems they're reluctant to leave their homes because of the heat." El Nino weather phenomenon El Nino weather phenomenon is being considered responsible for the scorching heat and severe weather conditions across the region. The archipelago, which usually experiences high temperatures during the months of March, April and May, recorded the heat index at the "danger" level of 42C (108F). It was expected to go even higher in at least 30 cities and municipalities on Wednesday, said the state weather forecaster. (With inputs from agencies)

Scorching heat prompts school closures in Bangladesh

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuid62uq30uTYtQh" /></p>

<p>Thousands of Bangladeshis gathered to pray for rain on Wednesday in the middle of an extreme heatwave that prompted authorities to shut down schools around the country.</p>

<p>Extensive scientific research has found climate change is causing heat waves to become longer, more frequent, and more intense.</p>

<p>Bangladesh's weather bureau says that average maximum temperatures in the capital Dhaka over the past week have been 4-5 degrees Celsius (7.2-9 degrees Fahrenheit) higher than the 30-year average for the same period.</p>

<p>Muslim worshippers gathered in city mosques and rural fields to pray for relief from the scorching heat, which forecasters expect to continue for at least another week.</p>

<p>"Praying for rains is a tradition of our prophet. We repented for our sins and prayed for his blessings for rains," Muhammad Abu Yusuf, an Islamic cleric who led a morning prayer service for 1,000 people in central Dhaka, told AFP.</p>

<p>"Life has become unbearable due to lack of&nbsp;rains," he said. "Poor people are suffering immensely."</p>

<p>Police said similarly sized prayer services were held in several other parts of Bangladesh.</p>

<p>The country's largest Islamist party, Jamaat-e-Islami, issued a statement calling its members to join the prayer services planned for Wednesday and Thursday.</p>

<p>Authorities ordered all schools last week to cancel classes until the end of the month.</p>

<p>The UN children's agency said it was "urging parents to be extra vigilant in keeping their children hydrated and safe" through the heatwave.</p>

<p>"The severity of this heatwave underscores the urgent need for action to protect children from the worsening impacts of climate change," UNICEF said in a statement.</p>

<p>Temperatures across Bangladesh have reached more than 42C (108F) in the past week.</p>

<p>"April is usually the hottest month in Bangladesh. But this April has been one of the hottest since the country's independence (in 1971)," government forecaster Tariful Newaz Kabir told AFP.</p>

<p>Kabir said fewer rainstorms than average for the period had contributed to the heat.</p>

<p>"We expect the high temperature will remain until the end of this month," he said.</p>

<p>Hospitals in the southern coastal district of Patuakhali had recorded local outbreaks of&nbsp;diarrhoea&nbsp;due to higher temperatures and the resulting increased salinity of local water sources, state medical officer Bhupen Chandra Mondal told AFP.</p>

<p>"The number of&nbsp;diarrhoea&nbsp;patients is very high this year," he said. "This is all linked to climate change."</p>


Thousands of Bangladeshis gathered to pray for rain on Wednesday in the middle of an extreme heatwave that prompted authorities to shut down schools around the country.

Thousands of Bangladeshis gathered to pray for rain on Wednesday in the middle of an extreme heatwave that prompted authorities to shut down schools around the country. Extensive scientific research has found climate change is causing heat waves to become longer, more frequent, and more intense. Bangladesh's weather bureau says that average maximum temperatures in the capital Dhaka over the past week have been 4-5 degrees Celsius (7.2-9 degrees Fahrenheit) higher than the 30-year average for the same period. Muslim worshippers gathered in city mosques and rural fields to pray for relief from the scorching heat, which forecasters expect to continue for at least another week. "Praying for rains is a tradition of our prophet. We repented for our sins and prayed for his blessings for rains," Muhammad Abu Yusuf, an Islamic cleric who led a morning prayer service for 1,000 people in central Dhaka, told AFP. "Life has become unbearable due to lack of rains," he said. "Poor people are suffering immensely." Police said similarly sized prayer services were held in several other parts of Bangladesh. The country's largest Islamist party, Jamaat-e-Islami, issued a statement calling its members to join the prayer services planned for Wednesday and Thursday. Authorities ordered all schools last week to cancel classes until the end of the month. The UN children's agency said it was "urging parents to be extra vigilant in keeping their children hydrated and safe" through the heatwave. "The severity of this heatwave underscores the urgent need for action to protect children from the worsening impacts of climate change," UNICEF said in a statement. Temperatures across Bangladesh have reached more than 42C (108F) in the past week. "April is usually the hottest month in Bangladesh. But this April has been one of the hottest since the country's independence (in 1971)," government forecaster Tariful Newaz Kabir told AFP. Kabir said fewer rainstorms than average for the period had contributed to the heat. "We expect the high temperature will remain until the end of this month," he said. Hospitals in the southern coastal district of Patuakhali had recorded local outbreaks of diarrhoea due to higher temperatures and the resulting increased salinity of local water sources, state medical officer Bhupen Chandra Mondal told AFP. "The number of diarrhoea patients is very high this year," he said. "This is all linked to climate change."

Thousands in heatwave-hit Bangladesh pray for rain

Temperatures in Bangladesh have touched 43° C the scorching rise in heat comes amid a week-long heatwave. That is sweeping through the country, and authorities issued a nationwide Heatwave alert on Monday.

Bangladesh: Outdoor workers under heatwave threat

Qatar and Bangladesh will sign 11 cooperation documents -- six agreements and five MoUs -- as Dhaka is ready to welcome Qatar's Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani tomorrow afternoon. Watch to know more

Qatar's emir arrives in Bangladesh for official visit, Bangladesh-Qatar likely to sign MoUs

Recently, the Prime Minister of Bangladesh came down heavily on the opposition-led 'India-out' campaign in the country. An anti-India campaign has simmered, mirroring a similar campaign in Maldives. Who is driving this campaign? Is China influencing this?

Gravitas | China Behind Anti-India Plot in Bangladesh?

Bangladesh's prime minister Sheikh Hasina issued a scathing rebuttal to the opposition's call to boycott India. Hasina asked the BNP leaders to burn their wives' sarees before asking the country to sever ties with India. Her critics and the opposition have called the elections rigged and influenced by India's strong support for Hasina.

Bangladesh's BNP calls for 'India Out': South Asia's China factor

<p>In a significant development, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) rescued 27 Bangladeshi fishermen aboard a boat that drifted inside Indian waters,&nbsp;officials said on Friday (Apr 5).</p>

<p>The swift operation took place on Thursday (Apr 4) after the ICG spotted the fishing boat (BFB) Sagar II, adrift inside Indian waters&nbsp;during a patrol at Indo-Bangladesh International Maritime Border Line (IMBL).&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the probe it was revealed that the boat's steering gear suffered a breakdown, leaving the fishermen stranded at the sea.</p>

<p>''At about 1130 hrs on April 4, Indian Coast Guard Ship 'Amogh' during a patrol at Indo-Bangladesh International Maritime Border Line (IMBL) sighted a Bangladeshi fishing boat (BFB) 'Sagar II' adrift inside Indian waters,'' the ICG said in a statement.</p>

<p>"The boat had a steering gear breakdown for the last two days and had been adrift since then which led to the boat drifting inside Indian waters'', it added.</p>

<p>The Indian Coast Guard's technical team attempted to determine and fix the defect, however, the team observed that the rudder of the boat was "completely damaged" and that its repair could not be done at sea.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaCoastGuard?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndiaCoastGuard</a> Ship Amogh during patrol rescued 27 Bangladeshi fishermen on 4th Apr, adrift near Indo-Bangladesh International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) due to machinery breakdown. Rescued Bangladesh boat &amp; crew were handed over to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BCG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BCG</a> ship at IMBL. (1/2) <a href="https://twitter.com/giridhararamane?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@giridhararamane</a> <a href="https://t.co/IalII8J5gS">pic.twitter.com/IalII8J5gS</a></p>
— Indian Coast Guard (@IndiaCoastGuard) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiaCoastGuard/status/1776135407778058667?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaishankar-rebuffs-senior-un-officials-free-and-fair-remark-on-elections-in-india-707865">Jaishankar rebuffs senior UN official's 'free and fair' remark on elections in India</a></p>

<p>''As the sea state and weather conditions were conducive, it was decided that the distressed boat would be towed to the Indo-Bangladesh IMBL and handed over to another Bangladeshi fishing boat operating across IMBL or to Bangladesh Coast Guard Ship by the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Indian Coast Guard and Bangladesh Coast Guard,'' read the statement.</p>

<p>The Indian Coast Guard regional headquarters at Kolkata in the meantime informed the Bangladesh Coast Guard about the situation and also discussed further plan of action, said the officials.</p>

<p>''BCG ship 'Kamaruzzaman' arrived near the IMBL at about 1845 hrs on April 4. ICGS 'Amogh' handed over the 27 Bangladeshi fishermen along with their boat to BCG ship 'Kamaruzzaman','' the statement said.</p>

<p>''The operation reflects the commitment of the Indian Coast Guard towards safeguarding precious lives at sea against all odds. Such successful search and rescue (SAR) operations will not only strengthen the regional SAR structure but also enhance international cooperation with neighbouring countries. This is in keeping with the motto of the Indian Coast Guard 'Vayam Rakshamah' which means 'We Protect','' it added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a significant development, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) rescued 27 Bangladeshi fishermen aboard a boat that drifted inside Indian waters, officials said on Friday (Apr 5).

In a significant development, the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) rescued 27 Bangladeshi fishermen aboard a boat that drifted inside Indian waters, officials said on Friday (Apr 5). The swift operation took place on Thursday (Apr 4) after the ICG spotted the fishing boat (BFB) Sagar II, adrift inside Indian waters during a patrol at Indo-Bangladesh International Maritime Border Line (IMBL). During the probe it was revealed that the boat's steering gear suffered a breakdown, leaving the fishermen stranded at the sea. ''At about 1130 hrs on April 4, Indian Coast Guard Ship 'Amogh' during a patrol at Indo-Bangladesh International Maritime Border Line (IMBL) sighted a Bangladeshi fishing boat (BFB) 'Sagar II' adrift inside Indian waters,'' the ICG said in a statement. "The boat had a steering gear breakdown for the last two days and had been adrift since then which led to the boat drifting inside Indian waters'', it added. The Indian Coast Guard's technical team attempted to determine and fix the defect, however, the team observed that the rudder of the boat was "completely damaged" and that its repair could not be done at sea. @IndiaCoastGuard Ship Amogh during patrol rescued 27 Bangladeshi fishermen on 4th Apr, adrift near Indo-Bangladesh International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) due to machinery breakdown. Rescued Bangladesh boat & crew were handed over to #BCG ship at IMBL. (1/2) @giridhararamane pic.twitter.com/IalII8J5gS — Indian Coast Guard (@IndiaCoastGuard) April 5, 2024 × Also read: Jaishankar rebuffs senior UN official's 'free and fair' remark on elections in India ''As the sea state and weather conditions were conducive, it was decided that the distressed boat would be towed to the Indo-Bangladesh IMBL and handed over to another Bangladeshi fishing boat operating across IMBL or to Bangladesh Coast Guard Ship by the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Indian Coast Guard and Bangladesh Coast Guard,'' read the statement. The Indian Coast Guard regional headquarters at Kolkata in the meantime informed the Bangladesh Coast Guard about the situation and also discussed further plan of action, said the officials. ''BCG ship 'Kamaruzzaman' arrived near the IMBL at about 1845 hrs on April 4. ICGS 'Amogh' handed over the 27 Bangladeshi fishermen along with their boat to BCG ship 'Kamaruzzaman','' the statement said. ''The operation reflects the commitment of the Indian Coast Guard towards safeguarding precious lives at sea against all odds. Such successful search and rescue (SAR) operations will not only strengthen the regional SAR structure but also enhance international cooperation with neighbouring countries. This is in keeping with the motto of the Indian Coast Guard 'Vayam Rakshamah' which means 'We Protect','' it added. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian Coast Guard rescues 27 Bangladeshi fishermen during patrol

Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in a speech slammed the leaders of the opposition Bangladesh nationalist party the BNP for running a boycott Indian products campaign. Watch in for more details!

Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina slams opposition for 'Boycott India Campaign'

Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina: 'Burn your wives' Indian sarees'

<p>Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina slammed the opposition party - Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) - for making saree, a classic Indian garment, a matter of politics. The country's opposition party ran an anti-India campaign targetting sarees and other products, stating that they would burn their wives' Indian sarees.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The latest episode in the South Asian nation's politics gave a slight déjà vu of the recent India and Maldives diplomatic row which erupted after social media posts against Prime Minister Narendra Modi by three ministers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Hashtags like #IndiaOut and #BoycottIndia were trending on social media. In response, the campaign and the remarks by the ministers drew massive flak across India. Now, BNP's campaign has triggered a trend of similar hashtags on social media, including #BoycottIndianProducts.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-enforces-red-carpet-ban-at-official-events-to-cut-costs-amid-economic-crisis-706218">Pak enforces red carpet ban at official events to cut expenses amid economic crisis</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Hasina slams the Opposition</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Amid controversy, Hasina batted for India as during a speech on Wednesday, she said, "They must answer if they can eat without Indian spices. I want to know if they have truly boycotted Indian products."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The BNP leaders are advocating for boycotting Indian products. My question is – how many Indian sarees do the boycott campaigners' wives possess? Why don't they take the sarees from their wives and burn them?" she added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The opposition party in Bangladesh often targets the ruling party, Awami League, and its leader Hasina, for her friendly relations with New Delhi. The row, however, seems to have reignited when BNP leader Ruhul Kabir Rizvi publicly threw an Indian shawl away and expressed solidarity with the social media campaign for boycotting made-in-India products.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pm-modi-says-congress-callously-gave-away-katchatheevu-island-to-sri-lanka-706145">PM Modi says 'Congress callously gave away Katchatheevu' island to Sri Lanka</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Rizvi responded to Hasina's comments and said that leaders of the BNP usually do not buy Indian sarees. He further claimed that during a visit to India a long time ago, his maternal uncle gifted an Indian saree to his wife.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a separate incident, BNP's senior joint secretary general also said that Hasina has to fulfil all demands of neighbouring countries but she cannot raise her voice against India.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>BNP constantly targets India&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>In January, BNP's media cell claimed that "Bangladesh has suffered the most politically due to the wrong policies of the Indian government".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Referring to the contents of a YouTube video, the party's media also alleged in a post: "India has openly interfered and influenced Bangladeshi elections for the past 15 years." After Hasina won the election in January this year, the BNP claimed that it was not free and fair.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Pakistan lawmaker Isphanyar Bhandara bats for better ties with India, writes to PM Modi on ties&nbsp;</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-lawmaker-isphanyar-bhandara-bats-for-better-ties-with-india-writes-to-pm-modi-on-ties-706287/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2><strong>India and Bangladesh relations</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>India, the first country to recognise Bangladesh as a separate and independent state, enjoys a historic bond pertaining to similarities in language and culture. It goes far beyond a strategic partnership.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The relationship witnessed a spur of bilateral activities in the year 2023 with both prime ministers jointly inaugurating the India-Bangladesh Friendship Pipeline on March 18 in a virtual format.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina slammed the opposition party - Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) - for making saree, a classic Indian garment, a matter of politics.

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina slammed the opposition party - Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) - for making saree, a classic Indian garment, a matter of politics. The country's opposition party ran an anti-India campaign targetting sarees and other products, stating that they would burn their wives' Indian sarees. The latest episode in the South Asian nation's politics gave a slight déjà vu of the recent India and Maldives diplomatic row which erupted after social media posts against Prime Minister Narendra Modi by three ministers. Hashtags like #IndiaOut and #BoycottIndia were trending on social media. In response, the campaign and the remarks by the ministers drew massive flak across India. Now, BNP's campaign has triggered a trend of similar hashtags on social media, including #BoycottIndianProducts. Also read: Pak enforces red carpet ban at official events to cut expenses amid economic crisis Hasina slams the Opposition Amid controversy, Hasina batted for India as during a speech on Wednesday, she said, "They must answer if they can eat without Indian spices. I want to know if they have truly boycotted Indian products." "The BNP leaders are advocating for boycotting Indian products. My question is – how many Indian sarees do the boycott campaigners' wives possess? Why don't they take the sarees from their wives and burn them?" she added. The opposition party in Bangladesh often targets the ruling party, Awami League, and its leader Hasina, for her friendly relations with New Delhi. The row, however, seems to have reignited when BNP leader Ruhul Kabir Rizvi publicly threw an Indian shawl away and expressed solidarity with the social media campaign for boycotting made-in-India products. Also read: PM Modi says 'Congress callously gave away Katchatheevu' island to Sri Lanka Rizvi responded to Hasina's comments and said that leaders of the BNP usually do not buy Indian sarees. He further claimed that during a visit to India a long time ago, his maternal uncle gifted an Indian saree to his wife. In a separate incident, BNP's senior joint secretary general also said that Hasina has to fulfil all demands of neighbouring countries but she cannot raise her voice against India. BNP constantly targets India In January, BNP's media cell claimed that "Bangladesh has suffered the most politically due to the wrong policies of the Indian government". Referring to the contents of a YouTube video, the party's media also alleged in a post: "India has openly interfered and influenced Bangladeshi elections for the past 15 years." After Hasina won the election in January this year, the BNP claimed that it was not free and fair. Watch: Pakistan lawmaker Isphanyar Bhandara bats for better ties with India, writes to PM Modi on ties × India and Bangladesh relations India, the first country to recognise Bangladesh as a separate and independent state, enjoys a historic bond pertaining to similarities in language and culture. It goes far beyond a strategic partnership. The relationship witnessed a spur of bilateral activities in the year 2023 with both prime ministers jointly inaugurating the India-Bangladesh Friendship Pipeline on March 18 in a virtual format. (With inputs from agencies)

Bangladesh PM dares opposition amidst anti-India campaign: 'Burn your wives' Indian sarees'

There's a visible uptick in child marriages in Bangladesh. Data released by the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics say that 41.6% of women in Bangladesh in 2023 were married off before they even turned 18. This figure is based on a survey conducted over 300,000 households.

Report: 41.6% Bangladeshi women are child brides

A boat carrying Rohingya refugees from Bangladesh to Indonesia sinks. More than 70 Rohingya are "Presumed dead or missing" after a boat they were on capsized off the coast of Indonesia's Aceh province, while 75 have been rescued. The incident has once again drawn attention to the plight of the refugees who are increasingly embarking on dangerous sea journeys to seek a better life. When will the ordeal of Rohingyas end?

Rohingya refugees continue to risk their lives at sea

<p>A latest Bangladesh government survey of married women aged between 20 and 24 in more than 308,000 households nationwide&nbsp;has exposed a distressing reality. The Bangladesh Sample Vital Statistics-2023 (BSVS-2023), conducted by the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS), showed that at least 41.6 per cent of these young women were married before reaching the age of 18.</p>

<p>This data shows that child marriage is a major issue in Bangladesh, with girls being married off before the age of 18.&nbsp;This also revelation a concerning increase in child marriages over the past three years as the percentage in 2020 was at 31.3.</p>

<p>Moreover, in 2022, the survey found that 40.9 per cent of women were married before turning 18, and it was 32.4 per cent in 2021.</p>

<p>The shocking report does not cite the reasons behind the situation, however, several factors reportedly contribute to the prevalence of child marriage in Bangladesh.</p>

<p>This includes poverty, lack of education, and cultural and social norms. Notably, in many rural areas, girls are seen as economic burdens and so marrying them off at a young age is considered a way to reduce financial strain on families.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/a-new-first-of-its-kind-mosque-in-bangladesh-opens-doors-for-hijra-community-705609">A new first-of-its-kind mosque in Bangladesh opens doors for 'Hijra' community</a></p>

<p>There is another troubling statistics which shows that in 2023, 8.2 per cent of young women were married off before the tender age of 15. This was a rise from 6.5 per cent the year before, in 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Legal age for marriage in Bangladesh</strong></h2>

<p>The legal age for marriage in Bangladesh is 18 years for females and 21 years for males under the Child Marriage Restraint Act, 2017.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-halts-work-on-two-projects-in-pakistan-following-suicide-bomb-attack-705523">China halts work on two projects in Pakistan following suicide attack that killed 5 Chinese</a></p>

<p>Even as this law tries to prevent child marriage and protect the rights of underage individuals, child marriage remains a prevalent issue in the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/portugal-pm-elect-picks-new-cabinet-705707">Portugal PM-elect picks new cabinet</a></strong></p>

<section>
<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/portugal-pm-elect-picks-new-cabinet-705707/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>Shaheen Anam, executive director of the Manusher Jonno Foundation, reportedly said,&nbsp;"The main drivers include social norms, in which marrying off daughters is perceived as a solution due to concerns about elopement; safety concerns, stemming from the belief that marrying off daughters at a young age provides security and safeguards their well-being in uncertain circumstances; and poverty, which is particularly prevalent in climate change-affected and remote areas where families see it as one less mouth to feed."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>
</section>


A latest Bangladesh government survey of married women aged between 20 and 24 in more than 308,000 households nationwide has exposed a distressing reality. The Bangladesh Sample Vital Statistics-2023 (BSVS-2023), conducted by the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS), showed that at least 41.

A latest Bangladesh government survey of married women aged between 20 and 24 in more than 308,000 households nationwide has exposed a distressing reality. The Bangladesh Sample Vital Statistics-2023 (BSVS-2023), conducted by the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS), showed that at least 41.6 per cent of these young women were married before reaching the age of 18. This data shows that child marriage is a major issue in Bangladesh, with girls being married off before the age of 18. This also revelation a concerning increase in child marriages over the past three years as the percentage in 2020 was at 31.3. Moreover, in 2022, the survey found that 40.9 per cent of women were married before turning 18, and it was 32.4 per cent in 2021. The shocking report does not cite the reasons behind the situation, however, several factors reportedly contribute to the prevalence of child marriage in Bangladesh. This includes poverty, lack of education, and cultural and social norms. Notably, in many rural areas, girls are seen as economic burdens and so marrying them off at a young age is considered a way to reduce financial strain on families. Also Read | A new first-of-its-kind mosque in Bangladesh opens doors for 'Hijra' community There is another troubling statistics which shows that in 2023, 8.2 per cent of young women were married off before the tender age of 15. This was a rise from 6.5 per cent the year before, in 2022. Legal age for marriage in Bangladesh The legal age for marriage in Bangladesh is 18 years for females and 21 years for males under the Child Marriage Restraint Act, 2017. Also Read | China halts work on two projects in Pakistan following suicide attack that killed 5 Chinese Even as this law tries to prevent child marriage and protect the rights of underage individuals, child marriage remains a prevalent issue in the country. Watch | Portugal PM-elect picks new cabinet × Shaheen Anam, executive director of the Manusher Jonno Foundation, reportedly said, "The main drivers include social norms, in which marrying off daughters is perceived as a solution due to concerns about elopement; safety concerns, stemming from the belief that marrying off daughters at a young age provides security and safeguards their well-being in uncertain circumstances; and poverty, which is particularly prevalent in climate change-affected and remote areas where families see it as one less mouth to feed." (With inputs from agencies)

Child marriages in Bangladesh on rise, over 40 per cent young women married before 18

<p>Bangladesh in 2013 took a step towards recognising the rights of its transgender women, also referred to as Hijra, by acknowledging them as a third gender. This decision was an important one in the struggle for equality and acceptance for the community in the country.</p>

<p>And now, the South Asian country has opened a mosque specifically for members of the Hijra community near Mymensingh, located north of the capital Dhaka in Bangladesh.</p>

<p>This comes amid challenges faced by the community in Bangladesh, like in many other Muslim-majority societies, because Hijras challenge traditional binary understandings of gender which leads to social stigma.</p>

<p>Led by the 28-year-old community leader, Joyita Tonu, the opening ceremony reportedly spoke on the importance of providing a space free from discrimination.</p>

<p>"From now on, no one can deny a hijra from praying in our mosque," Tonu said while adding,&nbsp;"No one can mock us."&nbsp;</p>

<p>For many transgender individuals, the mosque is now a symbol of a newfound sense of belonging.&nbsp; A 42-year-old Sonia said, "I never dreamt I could pray at a mosque again in my lifetime."</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/solar-eclipse-2024-faa-issues-travel-warning-as-stargazers-prepare-for-april-8-705573">Solar Eclipse 2024: FAA issues travel warning as stargazers prepare for April 8</a></p>

<p>Founder of a hijra charity Mufti Abdur Rahman Azad told AFP that the new mosque has the status as the first-of-its-kind in the country.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Notably, interpretations of Islamic religious texts by some hardliners view transgender identities as incompatible with&nbsp;Islamic teachings and this in turn leads to rejection and discrimination within the Muslim communities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/china-halts-work-on-two-projects-in-pakistan-following-suicide-bomb-attack-705523">China halts work on two projects in Pakistan following suicide attack</a></p>

<p>The 65-year-old mosque's imam, Abdul Motaleb, pointed out that the teachings of Islam embrace the community. "They are like any other people created by Allah," he affirmed.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-china-firm-suspend-power-project-after-five-engineers-killed-in-khyber-pakhtunkhwa-attack-704829">Pakistan: China firm suspend power project after five engineers killed in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa attack</a></strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-china-firm-suspend-power-project-after-five-engineers-killed-in-khyber-pakhtunkhwa-attack-704829/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>"We all are human beings. Maybe some are men, some are women, but all are human. Allah revealed the Holy Koran for all, so everyone has the right to pray, no one can be denied," the imam told AFP.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Bangladesh in 2013 took a step towards recognising the rights of its transgender women, also referred to as Hijra, by acknowledging them as a third gender. This decision was an important one in the struggle for equality and acceptance for the community in the country.

Bangladesh in 2013 took a step towards recognising the rights of its transgender women, also referred to as Hijra, by acknowledging them as a third gender. This decision was an important one in the struggle for equality and acceptance for the community in the country. And now, the South Asian country has opened a mosque specifically for members of the Hijra community near Mymensingh, located north of the capital Dhaka in Bangladesh. This comes amid challenges faced by the community in Bangladesh, like in many other Muslim-majority societies, because Hijras challenge traditional binary understandings of gender which leads to social stigma. Led by the 28-year-old community leader, Joyita Tonu, the opening ceremony reportedly spoke on the importance of providing a space free from discrimination. "From now on, no one can deny a hijra from praying in our mosque," Tonu said while adding, "No one can mock us." For many transgender individuals, the mosque is now a symbol of a newfound sense of belonging. A 42-year-old Sonia said, "I never dreamt I could pray at a mosque again in my lifetime." Also Read | Solar Eclipse 2024: FAA issues travel warning as stargazers prepare for April 8 Founder of a hijra charity Mufti Abdur Rahman Azad told AFP that the new mosque has the status as the first-of-its-kind in the country. Notably, interpretations of Islamic religious texts by some hardliners view transgender identities as incompatible with Islamic teachings and this in turn leads to rejection and discrimination within the Muslim communities. Also Read | China halts work on two projects in Pakistan following suicide attack The 65-year-old mosque's imam, Abdul Motaleb, pointed out that the teachings of Islam embrace the community. "They are like any other people created by Allah," he affirmed. Watch | Pakistan: China firm suspend power project after five engineers killed in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa attack × "We all are human beings. Maybe some are men, some are women, but all are human. Allah revealed the Holy Koran for all, so everyone has the right to pray, no one can be denied," the imam told AFP. (With inputs from agencies)

A new first-of-its-kind mosque in Bangladesh opens doors for 'Hijra' community

<p>Pirates have demanded a staggering $5 million (₹420 million) for release of 23 Bangladeshi crew held captive aboard the ship MV Abdullah. The Bangladeshi-flagged vessel was seized earlier this month while en route from Mozambique to the United Arab Emirates, and subsequently taken to Somalia by the pirates.</p>

<p>The development comes amid an increased risk of piracy in the western Indian Ocean which has increased with Yemen's Houthi rebels&nbsp;targeting ships going to or from Israel in the Red Sea region.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-navys-marcos-action-underway-against-somali-pirates-on-board-vessel-mv-ruen-700894">Indian Navy makes 35 Somali pirates on board MV Ruen surrender, rescues crew</a></strong></p>

<p>Indian Navy swiftly responded to a piracy attack on the Bangladeshi-flagged MV Abdullah, deploying both a warship and an LRMP- long-range maritime patrol. The Indian warship intercepted the hijacked vessel on March 14, ensuring the initial safety of the Bangladeshi crew held hostage by armed pirates and maintaining proximity until it arrived in Somalia's territorial waters.</p>

<p>Indian Navy has offered to the Bangladesh government and the ship's owner to conduct operations aboard the smuggled ship MV Abdullah.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas | Indian navy rescues missile-hit vessel in the Gulf of Aden</strong></p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-indian-navy-rescues-missile-hit-vessel-in-the-gulf-of-aden-697383/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<p>On Saturday (March 23), Indian Navy Chief Adm R Hari Kumar said that Indian Navy is "keeping a close watch" on MV Abdullah situation after it has been taken to Somalia. He highlighted that it could be made into a "mother ship" for pirates.</p>

<p>This latest incident follows a successful operation by India earlier this month involving the MV Ruen, which was similarly hijacked and transformed into a mothership for piracy.</p>

<p>The Indian Navy's decisive action led to the apprehension of 35 Somali pirates and the rescue of 11 crew members from various nationalities.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the past 100 days, the Indian Navy has taken robust measures to address threats in the western Indian Ocean, responding to 13 major incidents including piracy, hijacking, and drone attacks, resulting in the saving of 110 lives.</p>

<p>With 5,000 naval personnel deployed at sea at various times and a fleet of several warships equipped with helicopters and advanced surveillance capabilities, the Indian Navy has effectively countered threats to maritime security.</p>


Pirates have demanded a staggering $5 million (₹420 million) for release of 23 Bangladeshi crew held captive aboard the ship MV Abdullah. The Bangladeshi-flagged vessel was seized earlier this month while en route from Mozambique to the United Arab Emirates, and subsequently taken to Somalia by the pirates.

Pirates have demanded a staggering $5 million (₹420 million) for release of 23 Bangladeshi crew held captive aboard the ship MV Abdullah. The Bangladeshi-flagged vessel was seized earlier this month while en route from Mozambique to the United Arab Emirates, and subsequently taken to Somalia by the pirates. The development comes amid an increased risk of piracy in the western Indian Ocean which has increased with Yemen's Houthi rebels targeting ships going to or from Israel in the Red Sea region. Also read | Indian Navy makes 35 Somali pirates on board MV Ruen surrender, rescues crew Indian Navy swiftly responded to a piracy attack on the Bangladeshi-flagged MV Abdullah, deploying both a warship and an LRMP- long-range maritime patrol. The Indian warship intercepted the hijacked vessel on March 14, ensuring the initial safety of the Bangladeshi crew held hostage by armed pirates and maintaining proximity until it arrived in Somalia's territorial waters. Indian Navy has offered to the Bangladesh government and the ship's owner to conduct operations aboard the smuggled ship MV Abdullah. Also watch | Gravitas | Indian navy rescues missile-hit vessel in the Gulf of Aden × On Saturday (March 23), Indian Navy Chief Adm R Hari Kumar said that Indian Navy is "keeping a close watch" on MV Abdullah situation after it has been taken to Somalia. He highlighted that it could be made into a "mother ship" for pirates. This latest incident follows a successful operation by India earlier this month involving the MV Ruen, which was similarly hijacked and transformed into a mothership for piracy. The Indian Navy's decisive action led to the apprehension of 35 Somali pirates and the rescue of 11 crew members from various nationalities. In the past 100 days, the Indian Navy has taken robust measures to address threats in the western Indian Ocean, responding to 13 major incidents including piracy, hijacking, and drone attacks, resulting in the saving of 110 lives. With 5,000 naval personnel deployed at sea at various times and a fleet of several warships equipped with helicopters and advanced surveillance capabilities, the Indian Navy has effectively countered threats to maritime security.

Pirates demand $5mn ransom for release of Bangladeshi crew of MV Abdullah

Sri Lanka emerging out of an economic crisis, has added the Indian rupee to its foreign currency basket. And it is expected that Bangladesh, too, may start settling trade with India in the Indian rupee. The South Asian nation is already settling trade with Nepal & Bhutan in the Indian rupee. As more countries express their desire to trade in Indian rupees, we tell you what it means for India and is the Indian currency is moving toward global domination.

The rise of the Indian currency: Lanka & B’desh look to settle trade in Indian rupee

The Centre on Monday announced the implementation of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019, a move that comes four years after the contentious law was passed and paves the way for citizenship to undocumented non-Muslim migrants from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan. WION tells you- Will the CAA's implementation polarise India's voters ahead of elections?

Gravitas: All you need to know about CAA; Indian govt clarifies on Citizenship law

<p>Bangladesh skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto thinks that Sri Lanka should move on from the time-out incident&nbsp;in ODI World Cup 2023. Shanto's comments came after culmination of three-T20I series which Sri Lanka won 2-1 on Saturday (Mar 9). Sri Lanka players notably pointed at their watches after lifting the trophy in a reference to the ODI WC incident.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"It is not about aggressive handling or anything like that. They showed the timed-out gesture, right? They haven't moved on from the timed-out incident," said Shanto about the celebrations and heated arguments between the game after Bangladesh batter Towhid Hridoy's dismissal.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/we-need-to-relook-says-india-coach-rahul-dravid-on-domestic-schedule-698516">'We need to relook,' says India coach Rahul Dravid on domestic schedule</a></p>

<p>"I think they should get out of it. They should stay in the present. We were within the rules [with the timed out dismissal]. They are in a frenzy about it. I am not too worried about it," Shanto added.</p>

<p>Sri Lanka's Kusal Mendis, who top scored in the match with 86, was also asked the question about the same and said: "Someone was doing the timed-out celebrations. I don't know why. We can celebrate our own things. I think we celebrated because we are happy."</p>

<p>The rivalry between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh has been getting quite intense in the recent times and the WC incident just added more fuel to the fire. Bangladesh skipper Shakib Al Hasan had appealed against Angelo Mathews for coming late in the ground and Mathews was subsequently given out - becoming the first player in history to get timed out.</p>

<p>As for the series, Sri Lanka won the first and the last match of the series which saw a couple of heated moments between the players. In the second match, which Bangladesh had won, an umpiring error had caused a lot of furor. Sri Lanka, nonetheless, were clinical on Saturday to wrap up the series win.</p>


Bangladesh skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto thinks that Sri Lanka should move on from the time-out incident in ODI World Cup 2023. Shanto's comments came after culmination of three-T20I series which Sri Lanka won 2-1 on Saturday (Mar 9).

Bangladesh skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto thinks that Sri Lanka should move on from the time-out incident in ODI World Cup 2023. Shanto's comments came after culmination of three-T20I series which Sri Lanka won 2-1 on Saturday (Mar 9). Sri Lanka players notably pointed at their watches after lifting the trophy in a reference to the ODI WC incident. "It is not about aggressive handling or anything like that. They showed the timed-out gesture, right? They haven't moved on from the timed-out incident," said Shanto about the celebrations and heated arguments between the game after Bangladesh batter Towhid Hridoy's dismissal. Also Read: 'We need to relook,' says India coach Rahul Dravid on domestic schedule "I think they should get out of it. They should stay in the present. We were within the rules [with the timed out dismissal]. They are in a frenzy about it. I am not too worried about it," Shanto added. Sri Lanka's Kusal Mendis, who top scored in the match with 86, was also asked the question about the same and said: "Someone was doing the timed-out celebrations. I don't know why. We can celebrate our own things. I think we celebrated because we are happy." The rivalry between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh has been getting quite intense in the recent times and the WC incident just added more fuel to the fire. Bangladesh skipper Shakib Al Hasan had appealed against Angelo Mathews for coming late in the ground and Mathews was subsequently given out - becoming the first player in history to get timed out. As for the series, Sri Lanka won the first and the last match of the series which saw a couple of heated moments between the players. In the second match, which Bangladesh had won, an umpiring error had caused a lot of furor. Sri Lanka, nonetheless, were clinical on Saturday to wrap up the series win.

Bangladesh skipper Najmul Shanto hits out at Sri Lanka for time-out celebration post T20I series win

bangladesh-0

Bangladesh, News on Bangladesh, stories on Bangladesh, articles on Bangladesh, Bangladesh stories at Wion, Bangladesh news, Bangladesh latest news

bangladesh 0