After a series of blockades and hartals in Bangladesh, the opposition BNP party called for a non-cooperation movement against the incumbent government from Wednesday, appealing to the country's citizens to boycott the January 7 election.

Bangladesh Nationalist Party launches non-cooperation movement

As Bangladesh gears up for its national elections in January 2024, the absence of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), the main opposition party in the South Asian nation,&nbsp;is raising questions about the political dynamics of the country.&nbsp;

The BNP's decision to boycott the 12th parliamentary elections next year, accusing the ruling Awami League of trying to rig the polls, comes on the heels of a series of developments, including clashes during a BNP rally, resulting in the imprisonment of top brass of Opposition leaders by the government led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.&nbsp;

Among those who were put behind bars was the 75-year-old BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, who had been leading the party in Khaleda Zia's absence.&nbsp;Jamaat-e-Islami party chief Shafiqur Rahman is already in jail and is facing charges of violence.&nbsp;

BNP has been demanding to hold elections under a caretaker government but Hasina's party says it is against the law.

With the BNP opting out of the January elections, many are expressing concerns about the possibility of lopsided elections in Bangladesh, an argument which the Awami League was quick to brush off saying that many others are still in the race.

A total of 26 out of the 44 officially registered political parties have opted to participate in the elections while 14 parties have chosen to boycott.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-protesters-set-train-on-fire-amid-opposition-strike-four-killed-671662">Bangladesh protesters set train on fire amid opposition strike, four killed</a>

Bangladesh Parliament, also known as Jatiya Sangsad, has 350 seats.&nbsp;

Hasina's party has announced that it will field candidates for 263 seats in the 2024 elections. The Awami League has left 26 seats for the Jatiya Party, and six for its allies in the 14 Party Alliance.

<h2>Will Awami League be re-elected?&nbsp;</h2>

Former Indian Ambassador to Bangladesh, Veena Sikri, told WION that smaller parties may participate, but the absence of major players like BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami, which the court barred from elections, appears to favour the Awami League's return to power.

"Smaller parties will get some seats, but they won't be in competition with the Awami League," noted&nbsp;Ambassador Sikri.

There are some reports which suggest that Islamist groups will be on the rise if the BNP opts out.

It points to the vacuum in the BNP leadership, with Khaleda Zia sick and her eldest son Tarique Rahman living in exile in London since September 2008. There is apprehension that Islamist groups might get more active in the party.&nbsp;

Former diplomat Sikri expressed concerns about the continuing pace of radicalisation in Bangladesh, despite efforts by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to address the issue. She noted that BNP and Jamaat e-Islami, the party that has contributed to the rise of radicalisation in Bangladesh, are on the same page.&nbsp;

The former diplomat highlighted that the senior leaders from Jamaat had earlier occupied significant positions within the then-BNP-led government.&nbsp;

While expressing dismay over the violence seething in Bangladesh by the opposition as&nbsp;a train was being set on fire Tuesday (Dec 19) killing four, including a mother and her son, the former ambassador said, "BNP should be urged to take part in the elections as creating a ruckus will only lead to loss of infrastructure. There is a need for mature elections."&nbsp;

"The process of radicalisation at the grassroots level is a big factor in Bangladesh, which is worrying," said&nbsp;Sikri.

"Sheikh Hasina has taken action against it and I would hope that such action would continue but I do not know how much effect did it have on the process of radicalisation. Because you do have the banned Islamist groups which are underground. The police know about it and they take action against these groups."&nbsp;

Recalling the Holey Artisan Bakery attack in Dhaka in 2016 where at least 22 people were reportedly killed by militants, Ambassador Sikri said, "After that, there was a lot of action."

"Students, farmers, and media should try to bring out the relationship between India and Bangladesh purely as a way of mutual benefit and not based on the role of religion and radicalisation. That should be completely kept out," the diplomat said. &nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/2024-bangladesh-general-election-why-is-opposition-calling-for-a-boycott-of-the-january-election-671778">2024 Bangladesh general election: Why is opposition calling for a boycott of the January election?</a>

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Speaking over the upcoming elections, the former Secretary (East) at the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Anil Wadhwa told WION, "BNP is not a serious challenger to the ruling party despite them being aggressive in organising mass protests. Hence a boycott and a combination of the boycott with the top leadership not being in contention is only going to help the ruling party."

"Sheikh Hasina seems more confident of winning the elections as the date of the hustings approaches. The people of Bangladesh would also not like to see the economy suffer and protests paralyse&nbsp;the&nbsp;country."&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

As Bangladesh gears up for its national elections in January 2024, the absence of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), the main opposition party in the South Asian nation, is raising questions about the political dynamics of the country.

As Bangladesh gears up for its national elections in January 2024, the absence of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), the main opposition party in the South Asian nation, is raising questions about the political dynamics of the country. The BNP's decision to boycott the 12th parliamentary elections next year, accusing the ruling Awami League of trying to rig the polls, comes on the heels of a series of developments, including clashes during a BNP rally, resulting in the imprisonment of top brass of Opposition leaders by the government led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Among those who were put behind bars was the 75-year-old BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, who had been leading the party in Khaleda Zia's absence. Jamaat-e-Islami party chief Shafiqur Rahman is already in jail and is facing charges of violence. BNP has been demanding to hold elections under a caretaker government but Hasina's party says it is against the law. With the BNP opting out of the January elections, many are expressing concerns about the possibility of lopsided elections in Bangladesh, an argument which the Awami League was quick to brush off saying that many others are still in the race. A total of 26 out of the 44 officially registered political parties have opted to participate in the elections while 14 parties have chosen to boycott. Also Read | Bangladesh protesters set train on fire amid opposition strike, four killed Bangladesh Parliament, also known as Jatiya Sangsad, has 350 seats. Hasina's party has announced that it will field candidates for 263 seats in the 2024 elections. The Awami League has left 26 seats for the Jatiya Party, and six for its allies in the 14 Party Alliance. Will Awami League be re-elected? Former Indian Ambassador to Bangladesh, Veena Sikri, told WION that smaller parties may participate, but the absence of major players like BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami, which the court barred from elections, appears to favour the Awami League's return to power. "Smaller parties will get some seats, but they won't be in competition with the Awami League," noted Ambassador Sikri. There are some reports which suggest that Islamist groups will be on the rise if the BNP opts out. It points to the vacuum in the BNP leadership, with Khaleda Zia sick and her eldest son Tarique Rahman living in exile in London since September 2008. There is apprehension that Islamist groups might get more active in the party. Former diplomat Sikri expressed concerns about the continuing pace of radicalisation in Bangladesh, despite efforts by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to address the issue. She noted that BNP and Jamaat e-Islami, the party that has contributed to the rise of radicalisation in Bangladesh, are on the same page. The former diplomat highlighted that the senior leaders from Jamaat had earlier occupied significant positions within the then-BNP-led government. While expressing dismay over the violence seething in Bangladesh by the opposition as a train was being set on fire Tuesday (Dec 19) killing four, including a mother and her son, the former ambassador said, "BNP should be urged to take part in the elections as creating a ruckus will only lead to loss of infrastructure. There is a need for mature elections." "The process of radicalisation at the grassroots level is a big factor in Bangladesh, which is worrying," said Sikri. "Sheikh Hasina has taken action against it and I would hope that such action would continue but I do not know how much effect did it have on the process of radicalisation. Because you do have the banned Islamist groups which are underground. The police know about it and they take action against these groups." Recalling the Holey Artisan Bakery attack in Dhaka in 2016 where at least 22 people were reportedly killed by militants, Ambassador Sikri said, "After that, there was a lot of action." "Students, farmers, and media should try to bring out the relationship between India and Bangladesh purely as a way of mutual benefit and not based on the role of religion and radicalisation. That should be completely kept out," the diplomat said. Watch | 2024 Bangladesh general election: Why is opposition calling for a boycott of the January election? × Speaking over the upcoming elections, the former Secretary (East) at the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Anil Wadhwa told WION, "BNP is not a serious challenger to the ruling party despite them being aggressive in organising mass protests. Hence a boycott and a combination of the boycott with the top leadership not being in contention is only going to help the ruling party." "Sheikh Hasina seems more confident of winning the elections as the date of the hustings approaches. The people of Bangladesh would also not like to see the economy suffer and protests paralyse the country."

Lopsided elections ahead? BNP’s boycott casts shadow on Bangladesh’s polls

2024 Bangladesh general election: Bangladesh's main opposition party urged voters on Wednesday to boycott next year's general election. The BNP reiterated demands for Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to step down. BNP called the upcoming election a "one-sided dummy election".

2024 Bangladesh general election: Why is opposition calling for a boycott of the January election?

Protesters in Bangladesh set a train ablaze on Tuesday, killing four people, among them a mother and child, amid a countrywide strike called by the opposition to press its demand for the government to resign ahead of next month's general elections.

Bangladesh National Party wants PM Sheikh Hasina to step down

Protesters in Bangladesh set a train ablaze on Tuesday, killing four people, among them a mother and child, amid a countrywide strike called by the opposition to press its demand for the government to resign ahead of next month's general elections.

It was the latest strife sparked by anti-government protests in which dozens of buses and vehicles have been set on fire, with at least six people killed since Oct. 28, when an opposition rally turned violent.

"Strike supporters set fire to three compartments of an express train," said fire service official Shahjahan Shikder. "Four bodies have been retrieved from a compartment."

Among the dead were a 32-year-old woman and her son, aged three.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/chinese-retailers-shift-to-lower-prices-raises-concerns-of-deepening-deflation-671637">Chinese retailers' shift to lower prices raises concerns of deepening deflation&nbsp;</a>

It was not immediately clear how many were aboard the train, headed for the capital of Dhaka from the northern district of Netrokona, when passengers saw the flames a short distance from its destination, police said.

"Apart from setting fire to trains, parts of the railway line are being removed at several places," said Railways Minister Nurul Islam Sujan.

"It is difficult to provide adequate security on such a large railway line," he added, vowing to deploy 2,700 paramilitary troops within a couple of days to guard against such activities.

With its top leaders either jailed or in the exile, the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) wants Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to step down and make way for a neutral government to oversee the Jan. 7 polls that it has boycotted.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-authorities-start-closing-bridges-with-mexico-to-contain-surge-in-immigration-671644">US authorities start closing bridges with Mexico to contain surge in immigration</a>

Hasina, who is seeking her fourth consecutive term of five, has repeatedly rebuffed the opposition calls to resign, blaming the BNP for the recent deadly street protests in support of their demand.

A senior BNP leader called for a judicial inquiry into the train fire, which he described as "sabotage".

"This kind of heinous and diabolical work is possible only with the help of illegal and anti-people forces," said the leader, Ruhul Kabir Rizvi.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/houthi-attacks-start-shutting-down-red-sea-merchant-shipping-671654">Houthi attacks start shutting down Red Sea merchant shipping</a>

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Of the 300 constituencies up for grabs in the election, Hasina's Awami League party has shared 26 with its ally the Jatiya Party, thus allowing the latter to field candidates in a total of 283 seats.

Rights groups have accused the government of targeting opposition leaders and supporters. The government denies the accusations but faces pressure from Western nations to hold free, fair and participatory elections.

In line with usual practice, Bangladesh's election panel has decided to deploy the army from Dec. 29 to deter any violence.

&nbsp;

Protesters in Bangladesh set a train ablaze on Tuesday, killing four people, among them a mother and child, amid a countrywide strike called by the opposition to press its demand for the government to resign ahead of next month's general elections. It was the latest strife sparked by anti-government protests in which dozens of buses and vehicles have been set on fire, with at least six people killed since Oct. 28, when an opposition rally turned violent. "Strike supporters set fire to three compartments of an express train," said fire service official Shahjahan Shikder. "Four bodies have been retrieved from a compartment." Among the dead were a 32-year-old woman and her son, aged three. Also Read | Chinese retailers' shift to lower prices raises concerns of deepening deflation It was not immediately clear how many were aboard the train, headed for the capital of Dhaka from the northern district of Netrokona, when passengers saw the flames a short distance from its destination, police said. "Apart from setting fire to trains, parts of the railway line are being removed at several places," said Railways Minister Nurul Islam Sujan. "It is difficult to provide adequate security on such a large railway line," he added, vowing to deploy 2,700 paramilitary troops within a couple of days to guard against such activities. With its top leaders either jailed or in the exile, the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) wants Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to step down and make way for a neutral government to oversee the Jan. 7 polls that it has boycotted. Also Read | US authorities start closing bridges with Mexico to contain surge in immigration Hasina, who is seeking her fourth consecutive term of five, has repeatedly rebuffed the opposition calls to resign, blaming the BNP for the recent deadly street protests in support of their demand. A senior BNP leader called for a judicial inquiry into the train fire, which he described as "sabotage". "This kind of heinous and diabolical work is possible only with the help of illegal and anti-people forces," said the leader, Ruhul Kabir Rizvi. Watch | Houthi attacks start shutting down Red Sea merchant shipping × Of the 300 constituencies up for grabs in the election, Hasina's Awami League party has shared 26 with its ally the Jatiya Party, thus allowing the latter to field candidates in a total of 283 seats. Rights groups have accused the government of targeting opposition leaders and supporters. The government denies the accusations but faces pressure from Western nations to hold free, fair and participatory elections. In line with usual practice, Bangladesh's election panel has decided to deploy the army from Dec. 29 to deter any violence.

Bangladesh protesters set train on fire amid opposition strike, four killed

Bangladesh: Four killed as protesters set train on fire

52 years ago on December 16, India witnessed its greatest military triumph after it crushed Pakistan. Bangladesh was liberated. What was Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw widely known as Sam Bahadur's Gameplan? How did The 1971 war change the geopolitical landscape of South Asia? Revisit some key moments of the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War.

1971 War: How India crushed Pakistan and liberated Bangladesh

On December 16, 1971, Bangladesh was liberated from the clutches of Pakistan. India fought a 13-day war to free its neighbour. How did it happen? What was India's role? Join Molly Gambhir on Gravitas Plus for more.

Gravitas Plus: Remembering Bangladesh Liberation War: How India helped its neighbour

On the evening of December 3, 1971, war came to India. It all started when Pakistan launched Operation Chengiz Khan, consisting of preemptive aerial strikes on Indian Air Force (IAF) bases across north and western India. Following the strikes, India declared war on Pakistan, marking their entry into the battle for East Pakistan's independence, siding with Bengali nationalist forces.

India ended the war in 13 days, and marked the formation of East Pakistan as the new nation of Bangladesh. On December 16 1971, the chief of Pakistani forces, General AA Khan Niazi, along with 93,000 troops, surrendered unconditionally before the Indian military, in what was the world's largest surrender in terms of the number of personnel since World War II.

Notably, the Indo-Pakistan war of 1971 was also one of the shortest wars in world history, fought for a mere one week and six days. It changed the world's perception of India, marking its recognition as a significant regional power.

'You surrender, or we wipe you out'

"You surrender, or we wipe you out" were the words the then Indian Army Chief Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, widely regarded as the architect of India's victory, gave to Pakistan during the Indo-Pak War of 1971.

Very few people know that Manekshaw and Yahya Khan, the third president of Pakistan, were colleagues before the partition. When they parted ways during the partition, Yahya offered to buy Manekshaw's red James motorcycle. He promised to pay ₹1,000 for it but did not keep his word. When the instrument of surrender was being signed on December 16, 1971, Manekshaw was heard saying, "Yahya never paid me the Rs 1000 for my motorbike, but now he has paid with half his country."

‘Liberator of Bangladesh’

One of the most iconic moments captured during the 1971 India-Pakistan war was when the shaken Pakistani Lt General Niazi signed the instrument of surrender next to India's Lt General Jagjit Singh Aurora, known as the 'Liberator of Bangladesh'.

Interestingly, General Aurora did not forsake his 18-round of golf inside Fort Williams headquarters in Kolkata before flying to Dhaka to accept the instrument of surrender.

During the war, Lt. General JFR Jacob, Eastern Command's Chief of Staff and Lt. General Aurora pursued the strategy of 'leaving the highways for the byways' to cut off the supply line of Pakistan's side, causing them to surrender on the 13th day of the war.

Diplomatic Initiatives

However, before resorting to military action, India exhausted its diplomatic initiatives to stop the genocide in Bangladesh. Indira Gandhi, the then prime minister, invited US National Security Adviser Henry Kissinger in July 1971 for breakfast and asked him to tell President Nixon to prevail upon Yahya Khan to hand over the power to Sheikh Mujib.

Indira Gandhi threatened to take action if the US didn't act after failing to get a satisfactory response. Both China and the US jointly tried to stall the liberation of Bangladesh through UNSC resolutions but failed due to Soviet interference.

(With inputs from agencies)

On the evening of December 3, 1971, war came to India. It all started when Pakistan launched Operation Chengiz Khan, consisting of preemptive aerial strikes on Indian Air Force (IAF) bases across north and western India.

On the evening of December 3, 1971, war came to India. It all started when Pakistan launched Operation Chengiz Khan, consisting of preemptive aerial strikes on Indian Air Force (IAF) bases across north and western India. Following the strikes, India declared war on Pakistan, marking their entry into the battle for East Pakistan's independence, siding with Bengali nationalist forces. India ended the war in 13 days, and marked the formation of East Pakistan as the new nation of Bangladesh. On December 16 1971, the chief of Pakistani forces, General AA Khan Niazi, along with 93,000 troops, surrendered unconditionally before the Indian military, in what was the world's largest surrender in terms of the number of personnel since World War II. Notably, the Indo-Pakistan war of 1971 was also one of the shortest wars in world history, fought for a mere one week and six days. It changed the world's perception of India, marking its recognition as a significant regional power. 'You surrender, or we wipe you out' "You surrender, or we wipe you out" were the words the then Indian Army Chief Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, widely regarded as the architect of India's victory, gave to Pakistan during the Indo-Pak War of 1971. Very few people know that Manekshaw and Yahya Khan, the third president of Pakistan, were colleagues before the partition. When they parted ways during the partition, Yahya offered to buy Manekshaw's red James motorcycle. He promised to pay ₹1,000 for it but did not keep his word. When the instrument of surrender was being signed on December 16, 1971, Manekshaw was heard saying, "Yahya never paid me the Rs 1000 for my motorbike, but now he has paid with half his country." ‘Liberator of Bangladesh’ One of the most iconic moments captured during the 1971 India-Pakistan war was when the shaken Pakistani Lt General Niazi signed the instrument of surrender next to India's Lt General Jagjit Singh Aurora, known as the 'Liberator of Bangladesh'. Interestingly, General Aurora did not forsake his 18-round of golf inside Fort Williams headquarters in Kolkata before flying to Dhaka to accept the instrument of surrender. During the war, Lt. General JFR Jacob, Eastern Command's Chief of Staff and Lt. General Aurora pursued the strategy of 'leaving the highways for the byways' to cut off the supply line of Pakistan's side, causing them to surrender on the 13th day of the war. Diplomatic Initiatives However, before resorting to military action, India exhausted its diplomatic initiatives to stop the genocide in Bangladesh. Indira Gandhi, the then prime minister, invited US National Security Adviser Henry Kissinger in July 1971 for breakfast and asked him to tell President Nixon to prevail upon Yahya Khan to hand over the power to Sheikh Mujib. Indira Gandhi threatened to take action if the US didn't act after failing to get a satisfactory response. Both China and the US jointly tried to stall the liberation of Bangladesh through UNSC resolutions but failed due to Soviet interference. (With inputs from agencies)

1971 Indo-Pakistan War: 13-day war which ended with the world's largest surrender of military personnel

Born in the boom of telegraphs and trunk calls in Germany's Bavaria region in May 1923, the immensely controversial and equally consequential US foreign policy practitioner Henry Kissinger <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/henry-kissinger-the-most-controversial-and-influential-american-of-20th-century-dies-at-100-664470">died in the hyperconnected times of internet</a> on November 30, 2023. The scholar-turned-diplomat was serving as the US National Security Advisor to President Richard Nixon in the December of 1971 when New Delhi&nbsp;intervened in the erstwhile East Pakistan after millions of refugees poured into India in the wake of atrocities committed by Punjabi-dominated West Pakistan military against their own Bengali brethren.&nbsp;

With an indecipherable ink of a Harvard scholar acting as the signature of his diplomacy, Kissinger also shaped the geopolitics of Indian subcontinent during that strife, which later came to be known as Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/south-asia/bangladesh/meet-lieutenant-general-js-aurora-sam-bahadur-manekshaw-jfr-jacob-the-liberator-of-bangladesh-1700980577673">Meet Lieutenant General J.S. Aurora: The 'Liberator of Bangladesh'</a>

India's military intervention in Bangladesh began on December 3 that year. Ducca (now Dhaka) fell in 12 days. The then West Pakistan Army signed an Instrument of Surrender on December 16, 1971, leaving about 93,000 Pakistani soldiers effectively under New Delhi's control in the newly-created Bangladesh.&nbsp;

But one of the most curious things about this war was the 'Chinese intervention' that never happened.

According to the US state department Archives, the then US President Richard Nixon instructed Kissinger "to ask the Chinese to move some forces toward the frontier with India" in December 1971.&nbsp;

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Kissinger should have apologized to people of Bangladesh , Bangladesh Foreign Minister Momen recounts his support to West Pakistan that led to genocide in the then East Pakistan. Details: <a href="https://t.co/02DvWHl8C1">https://t.co/02DvWHl8C1</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1730208439035675072?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 30, 2023</a></blockquote>
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"Threaten to move forces or move them, Henry, that's what they (Chinese) must do now," Nixon told Kissinger inside Oval Office on December 10, 1971.

The US did not share formal ties with Communist Party-led mainland China between 1949 to 1972, with absolute resumption of diplomatic relations only coming in 1979 — one of the most significant geopolitical events of the second half of 20th century which effectively tilted the balance of Cold War in Washington's favour.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/dubious-strategist-ruthless-diplomat-south-asian-loser-kissingers-bull-run-was-stopped-by-indian-defiance-664604">Dubious strategist, ruthless diplomat, South Asian loser: Kissinger's bull run was stopped by Indian defiance</a>

Kissinger's efforts to establish diplomatic ties between Washington and Beijing were being aided by Pakistan as a channel of communication at least since December 1970.

In April 1971, a month after Sheikh Mujibur Rehman proclaimed the birth of Bangladesh in the territory of erstwhile East Pakistan, and Pakistan reacted by launching 'Operation Searchlight', the Pakistani ambassador delivered Chinese leader Zhou Enlai's reply to Washington. This correspondence paved the way for Kissinger's secret trip to Beijing in July 1971 and beginning of events that fully restored US-China&nbsp;ties in 1979. The rest as they say, to use a cliche, is history.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/features/sam-manekshaw-and-indira-gandhi-and-that-one-cabinet-meeting-1701332854821">Sam Manekshaw and Indira Gandhi, and That One Cabinet Meeting</a> 
 
In an odd turn of events, while the US cosied up with Communist China, the Soviet Union, another Communist nation that two decades later become Russia, cemented its ties with India after signing&nbsp;a comprehensive treaty of ‘Peace, Friendship and Cooperation’ on August 9, 1971.

In order to aid Islamabad that was facilitating the dialogue between Washington and Beijing — and thereby giving Washington an edge against Moscow in Cold War&nbsp;—&nbsp;the US deployed Task Force 74 of the US Navy’s Seventh Fleet in the Bay of Bengal to prevent India from overrunning Pakistan.

In response, the Soviets deployed two groups of cruisers and destroyers as well as a submarine armed with nuclear warheads in the region.&nbsp;

The geopolitical calculations in the Oval Office where Nixon and Kissinger met on December 10, 1971,&nbsp;did not want the dismembering of Pakistan despite its mass atrocities on Bangla-speaking people of erstwhile East Pakistan.

<h2>Henry Kissinger was meeting Chinese at CIA 'safe houses': Benazir Bhutto</h2>

According to former Pakistani Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, her father, erstwhile prime minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto,&nbsp;was worried that the Chinese would not&nbsp; intervene militarily on the side of Pakistan. But both Islamabad and Washington were working in tandem&nbsp;to ensure a Chinese military intervention.

"While Papa is planning to ask Yahya to fly to Peking (now Beijing) as a last resort, Henry Kissinger, I read later, is having meetings with the Chinese in CIA 'safe houses' all over New York," the late former prime minister wrote in her autobiography Daughter of the East.

Contrary to the expectations from some corners in US and Pakistan, China did not move its forces towards its unresolved frontier with India during crucial days of Indian operations in present-day Bangladesh.

Peking did not intend to militarily confront Moscow, a fellow Communist nation, even for an all-weather partner like Pakistan and despite the prospect of resumption of ties with Washington at the height Cold War.&nbsp;

Nixon concluded to Kissinger at the end of that discussion on December 10, 1971 that "Russia and China aren't going to go to war."

"India, however, had emerged from the crisis confirmed as the preeminent power on the subcontinent, and Soviet support for India during the crisis had enhanced Soviet influence in India," the US state department concluded in a document on the war. 
 
And Kissinger's secret diplomacy eventually led to American diplomatic recognition of and closer ties with China, only for him to see it all unravel in his own lifetime, in the past decade.

Born in the boom of telegraphs and trunk calls in Germany's Bavaria region in May 1923, the immensely controversial and equally consequential US foreign policy practitioner Henry Kissinger died in the hyperconnected times of internet on November 30, 2023.

Born in the boom of telegraphs and trunk calls in Germany's Bavaria region in May 1923, the immensely controversial and equally consequential US foreign policy practitioner Henry Kissinger died in the hyperconnected times of internet on November 30, 2023. The scholar-turned-diplomat was serving as the US National Security Advisor to President Richard Nixon in the December of 1971 when New Delhi intervened in the erstwhile East Pakistan after millions of refugees poured into India in the wake of atrocities committed by Punjabi-dominated West Pakistan military against their own Bengali brethren. With an indecipherable ink of a Harvard scholar acting as the signature of his diplomacy, Kissinger also shaped the geopolitics of Indian subcontinent during that strife, which later came to be known as Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971. Also Read | Meet Lieutenant General J.S. Aurora: The 'Liberator of Bangladesh' India's military intervention in Bangladesh began on December 3 that year. Ducca (now Dhaka) fell in 12 days. The then West Pakistan Army signed an Instrument of Surrender on December 16, 1971, leaving about 93,000 Pakistani soldiers effectively under New Delhi's control in the newly-created Bangladesh. But one of the most curious things about this war was the 'Chinese intervention' that never happened. According to the US state department Archives, the then US President Richard Nixon instructed Kissinger "to ask the Chinese to move some forces toward the frontier with India" in December 1971. Kissinger should have apologized to people of Bangladesh , Bangladesh Foreign Minister Momen recounts his support to West Pakistan that led to genocide in the then East Pakistan. Details: https://t.co/02DvWHl8C1 — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) November 30, 2023 × "Threaten to move forces or move them, Henry, that's what they (Chinese) must do now," Nixon told Kissinger inside Oval Office on December 10, 1971. The US did not share formal ties with Communist Party-led mainland China between 1949 to 1972, with absolute resumption of diplomatic relations only coming in 1979 — one of the most significant geopolitical events of the second half of 20th century which effectively tilted the balance of Cold War in Washington's favour. Also Read | Dubious strategist, ruthless diplomat, South Asian loser: Kissinger's bull run was stopped by Indian defiance Kissinger's efforts to establish diplomatic ties between Washington and Beijing were being aided by Pakistan as a channel of communication at least since December 1970. In April 1971, a month after Sheikh Mujibur Rehman proclaimed the birth of Bangladesh in the territory of erstwhile East Pakistan, and Pakistan reacted by launching 'Operation Searchlight', the Pakistani ambassador delivered Chinese leader Zhou Enlai's reply to Washington. This correspondence paved the way for Kissinger's secret trip to Beijing in July 1971 and beginning of events that fully restored US-China ties in 1979. The rest as they say, to use a cliche, is history. Also read | Sam Manekshaw and Indira Gandhi, and That One Cabinet Meeting In an odd turn of events, while the US cosied up with Communist China, the Soviet Union, another Communist nation that two decades later become Russia, cemented its ties with India after signing a comprehensive treaty of ‘Peace, Friendship and Cooperation’ on August 9, 1971. In order to aid Islamabad that was facilitating the dialogue between Washington and Beijing — and thereby giving Washington an edge against Moscow in Cold War — the US deployed Task Force 74 of the US Navy’s Seventh Fleet in the Bay of Bengal to prevent India from overrunning Pakistan. In response, the Soviets deployed two groups of cruisers and destroyers as well as a submarine armed with nuclear warheads in the region. The geopolitical calculations in the Oval Office where Nixon and Kissinger met on December 10, 1971, did not want the dismembering of Pakistan despite its mass atrocities on Bangla-speaking people of erstwhile East Pakistan. Henry Kissinger was meeting Chinese at CIA 'safe houses': Benazir Bhutto According to former Pakistani Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, her father, erstwhile prime minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, was worried that the Chinese would not intervene militarily on the side of Pakistan. But both Islamabad and Washington were working in tandem to ensure a Chinese military intervention. "While Papa is planning to ask Yahya to fly to Peking (now Beijing) as a last resort, Henry Kissinger, I read later, is having meetings with the Chinese in CIA 'safe houses' all over New York," the late former prime minister wrote in her autobiography Daughter of the East. Contrary to the expectations from some corners in US and Pakistan, China did not move its forces towards its unresolved frontier with India during crucial days of Indian operations in present-day Bangladesh. Peking did not intend to militarily confront Moscow, a fellow Communist nation, even for an all-weather partner like Pakistan and despite the prospect of resumption of ties with Washington at the height Cold War. Nixon concluded to Kissinger at the end of that discussion on December 10, 1971 that "Russia and China aren't going to go to war." "India, however, had emerged from the crisis confirmed as the preeminent power on the subcontinent, and Soviet support for India during the crisis had enhanced Soviet influence in India," the US state department concluded in a document on the war. And Kissinger's secret diplomacy eventually led to American diplomatic recognition of and closer ties with China, only for him to see it all unravel in his own lifetime, in the past decade.

Cast From The Past: When Kissinger failed to make China attack India during 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War

One in four students from India and Bangladesh is dropping out of studies in the UK. The high drop-out rates raised concerns that the students are obtaining visas only to quit studies and move to work.

UK: High drop-out rates concerning, students quit studies to work | World News | WION

There is some good news for Bangladesh struggling with surging inflation, falling import cover and a weak currency ahead of the country's January elections. The international monetary fund's board approved its first review of Bangladesh's $4.7 billion bailout package. Dhaka will get $689.8 million in funds to combat its economic crisis.

IMF approves bailout of Bangladesh | World Business Watch

Political uncertainty overshadows Bangladesh polls. Banglades PM Sheikh Hasina has hinted that her party, the Awami League, may not share any seat with Jatiya Party.

Bangladesh: Awami League and Jatiya party hold three round of talks on seat sharing

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is heading to South Asian country's January 7 national elections with a 14-party alliance led by her Awami League (AL). Hasina is also the president of Awami League political party.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Earlier this week, the alliance leaders reportedly submitted the respective lists of their&nbsp;candidates at a meeting. It was not immediately clear how many seats Awami League will leave for its alliance partners.&nbsp;

The deadline for nomination of candidates for respective constituencies is scheduled to end on December 17. The alliance coordinator Amir Hossain Amu and Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader has been reportedly instructed to follow up the nomination within the said timeframe.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sheikh-hasina-elected-awami-league-president-for-10th-consecutive-term-546371">Sheikh Hasina elected Awami League president for 10th consecutive term</a>

"There must be an agreement with the alliance regarding seat sharing. 14 parties may have demands. But the Awami League will evaluate the popular ones. Candidates who can win the election will be given more importance," Quader, also the road transport and bridges minister, said during a press conference.

Hasina urged the alliance partners to&nbsp;be united before and after the polls and called upon the leaders to not withdraw the party candidates upon announcement.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Bangladesh: BNP looking at overthrowing Hasina's Awami government

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Besides, reports in the Bangladeshi media claim that more parties intend to join the electoral alliance of the Awami League-led 14 parties.

Awami League leadership said that the decision on seat sharing will be announced soon.

"I want all the candidates to be in the field. This will increase voter turnout. Voting will also be festive, participatory and competitive," PM Hasina said during the meeting.&nbsp;

It was decided that the alliance would not include any party, but there could be some strategic alliances before the election, Dhaka Tribune reported.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is heading to South Asian country's January 7 national elections with a 14-party alliance led by her Awami League (AL). Hasina is also the president of Awami League political party.

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is heading to South Asian country's January 7 national elections with a 14-party alliance led by her Awami League (AL). Hasina is also the president of Awami League political party. Earlier this week, the alliance leaders reportedly submitted the respective lists of their candidates at a meeting. It was not immediately clear how many seats Awami League will leave for its alliance partners. The deadline for nomination of candidates for respective constituencies is scheduled to end on December 17. The alliance coordinator Amir Hossain Amu and Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader has been reportedly instructed to follow up the nomination within the said timeframe. Also read | Sheikh Hasina elected Awami League president for 10th consecutive term "There must be an agreement with the alliance regarding seat sharing. 14 parties may have demands. But the Awami League will evaluate the popular ones. Candidates who can win the election will be given more importance," Quader, also the road transport and bridges minister, said during a press conference. Hasina urged the alliance partners to be united before and after the polls and called upon the leaders to not withdraw the party candidates upon announcement. Also watch | Bangladesh: BNP looking at overthrowing Hasina's Awami government × Besides, reports in the Bangladeshi media claim that more parties intend to join the electoral alliance of the Awami League-led 14 parties. Awami League leadership said that the decision on seat sharing will be announced soon. "I want all the candidates to be in the field. This will increase voter turnout. Voting will also be festive, participatory and competitive," PM Hasina said during the meeting. It was decided that the alliance would not include any party, but there could be some strategic alliances before the election, Dhaka Tribune reported. (With inputs from agencies)

Bangladesh elections 2024: PM Sheikh Hasina-led 14 party alliance to head to polls

Glenn Phillips hit an aggressive 87 to keep New Zealand in the game on day three of a finely poised rain-hit second and final Test against Bangladesh on Friday. All-rounder Phillips lifted New Zealand from a precarious 55-5 at the start of the day to 180 all out in response to Bangladesh's first innings total of 172 in Dhaka. Bangladesh wiped out the eight-run deficit to reach 38-2 when bad light forced early stumps, with 37 overs remaining on the day at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium. Opener Zakir Hasan was batting on 16 with Mominul Haque on nought.

Spinner Ajaz Patel removed Mahmudul Hasan Joy for two in the first over and skipper Tim Southee took down his Bangladesh counterpart Najmul Hasan Shanto for 15. "I think it played pretty similar to how it played on day one, bit of spin, bit of skid," Phillips told reporters.

"If you are only going to be out there for so many balls... you've got to score with the ones that are available. So obviously it's a good challenge." Bangladesh hope to set a target of around 200 runs. "I think the longer we can bat, the better it is for us. If we can score 200-220 runs, we can defend," said spinner Nayeem Hasan. Play resumed Friday after four sessions -- one in the morning -- were washed out because of rain with New Zealand trailing Bangladesh by 117 runs.

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Phillips came to the rescue with nine fours and four sixes in his defiant 72-ball knock. He put on a 55-run eighth-wicket stand with Kyle Jamieson (20) and stood strong till his departure. Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Taijul Islam picked up three wickets each for Bangladesh. Nayeem Hasan and Shoriful Islam claimed two wickets apiece.

Phillips and fellow overnight batsman Daryl Mitchell took an aggressive approach and were rewarded with a stand of 49 for the sixth wicket, before Bangladesh had their first success of the day. Mehidy took a superb catch, running to his left from mid-on and diving at full length to dismiss Mitchell for 18 off Nayeem.&nbsp;

Nayeem removed Mitchell Santner in his next over but Jamieson helped claw back the momentum towards New Zealand before his dismissal by Shoriful. Shoriful then forced Phillips to edge a catch behind the stumps before Taijul wrapped up the New Zealand innings with the wicket of Southee (14).&nbsp;

Fifteen wickets fell on the first day but no ball was bowled on the second day after constant rain in the national capital. The hosts, chasing a first-ever series win over the Black Caps, lead the two-Test series 1-0 after a 150-run victory in Sylhet.

Glenn Phillips hit an aggressive 87 to keep New Zealand in the game on day three of a finely poised rain-hit second and final Test against Bangladesh on Friday. All-rounder Phillips lifted New Zealand from a precarious 55-5 at the start of the day to 180 all out in response to Bangladesh's first innings total of 172 in Dhaka.

Glenn Phillips hit an aggressive 87 to keep New Zealand in the game on day three of a finely poised rain-hit second and final Test against Bangladesh on Friday. All-rounder Phillips lifted New Zealand from a precarious 55-5 at the start of the day to 180 all out in response to Bangladesh's first innings total of 172 in Dhaka. Bangladesh wiped out the eight-run deficit to reach 38-2 when bad light forced early stumps, with 37 overs remaining on the day at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium. Opener Zakir Hasan was batting on 16 with Mominul Haque on nought. Spinner Ajaz Patel removed Mahmudul Hasan Joy for two in the first over and skipper Tim Southee took down his Bangladesh counterpart Najmul Hasan Shanto for 15. "I think it played pretty similar to how it played on day one, bit of spin, bit of skid," Phillips told reporters. "If you are only going to be out there for so many balls... you've got to score with the ones that are available. So obviously it's a good challenge." Bangladesh hope to set a target of around 200 runs. "I think the longer we can bat, the better it is for us. If we can score 200-220 runs, we can defend," said spinner Nayeem Hasan. Play resumed Friday after four sessions -- one in the morning -- were washed out because of rain with New Zealand trailing Bangladesh by 117 runs. Also Read: Golf: Rory McIlroy urges for Ryder Cup rule change following Rahm's LIV move Phillips came to the rescue with nine fours and four sixes in his defiant 72-ball knock. He put on a 55-run eighth-wicket stand with Kyle Jamieson (20) and stood strong till his departure. Mehidy Hasan Miraz and Taijul Islam picked up three wickets each for Bangladesh. Nayeem Hasan and Shoriful Islam claimed two wickets apiece. Phillips and fellow overnight batsman Daryl Mitchell took an aggressive approach and were rewarded with a stand of 49 for the sixth wicket, before Bangladesh had their first success of the day. Mehidy took a superb catch, running to his left from mid-on and diving at full length to dismiss Mitchell for 18 off Nayeem. Nayeem removed Mitchell Santner in his next over but Jamieson helped claw back the momentum towards New Zealand before his dismissal by Shoriful. Shoriful then forced Phillips to edge a catch behind the stumps before Taijul wrapped up the New Zealand innings with the wicket of Southee (14). Fifteen wickets fell on the first day but no ball was bowled on the second day after constant rain in the national capital. The hosts, chasing a first-ever series win over the Black Caps, lead the two-Test series 1-0 after a 150-run victory in Sylhet.

BAN vs NZ 2nd Test day: Glenn Phillips helps New Zealand fightback against Bangladesh

Bangladesh Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen has expressed strong criticism of Henry Kissinger, the former US secretary of state who died at the age of 100, for his role in the 1971 war. Momen asserted that Kissinger supported the Pakistani military regime during the war and failed to apologise to the people of Bangladesh for his actions.

Kissinger, a key figure in Cold War foreign policy, passed away on Thursday (Nov 30).

"Henry Kissinger has been an iconic diplomat, he played an immense role in the diplomatic world, particularly designing US policy abroad," acknowledged Momen, reflecting on Kissinger's overall legacy.

However, the foreign minister did not shy away from pointing out Kissinger's actions during the 1971 India-Pakistan war that led to the creation of Bangladesh, stating, "But unfortunately, in 1971, he was dead against the people of the then East Pakistan."

Momen highlighted his role in violating "all American laws, international laws to support Pakistani military junta and also supplied weapons to illegally occupying forces of Pakistan".

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The Nixon administration, under which Kissinger served, had taken a strong anti-India stance during the 1971 Bangladesh liberation war and supported Pakistan.

Bangladesh Liberation War saw West Pakistani military actions in East Pakistan leading to over a million deaths and several other millions becoming refugees. &nbsp;"That is very sad for such a smart man to do such inhumane things; it is not acceptable," Momen emphasised.

Amid the war, the US deployed the warship USS Enterprise in the Bay of Bengal in a bid to support the then West Pakistan, but that did not give any advantage to the Pakistani military establishment.

The foreign minister delved into the motivations behind Kissinger's controversial decisions, pointing out that his pursuit of "ping pong diplomacy" and his desire to shape US relations with China and Pakistan influenced his stance during the 1971 war.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/if-trump-convicted-home-depot-billionaire-says-hed-still-likely-fund-campaign-664642">Will still fund Trump campaign even if he's convicted, says Home Depot billionaire</a>

Momen explained, "In order to satisfy General Yahya [Khan], he did all those mischievous things, so it's very sad."

Kissinger, who was Nixon's NSA, had secretly traveled to Beijing during his visit to Pakistan. That visit led to the 1972 visit of Richard Nixon to China to further improve ties, and by 1979, Washington had established full diplomatic ties with the People's Republic of China.

Expressing disappointment in Kissinger's failure to base decisions on facts rather than emotions, Momen added, "When you take a decision, that should be fact-based, not subject to emotions. Unfortunately, people like Kissinger with so much wisdom failed to rise to the occasion."

<section>
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Despite acknowledging Kissinger's impact on global diplomacy, the foreign minister stressed that an apology was warranted.
</section>

"We feel that he should have apologised to the people of Bangladesh for what he has done—the genocide, mass killing of the people of then East Pakistan," Momen declared.

"That is sad." &nbsp;

&nbsp;

Bangladesh Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen has expressed strong criticism of Henry Kissinger, the former US secretary of state who died at the age of 100, for his role in the 1971 war.

Bangladesh Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen has expressed strong criticism of Henry Kissinger, the former US secretary of state who died at the age of 100, for his role in the 1971 war. Momen asserted that Kissinger supported the Pakistani military regime during the war and failed to apologise to the people of Bangladesh for his actions. Kissinger, a key figure in Cold War foreign policy, passed away on Thursday (Nov 30). "Henry Kissinger has been an iconic diplomat, he played an immense role in the diplomatic world, particularly designing US policy abroad," acknowledged Momen, reflecting on Kissinger's overall legacy. However, the foreign minister did not shy away from pointing out Kissinger's actions during the 1971 India-Pakistan war that led to the creation of Bangladesh, stating, "But unfortunately, in 1971, he was dead against the people of the then East Pakistan." Momen highlighted his role in violating "all American laws, international laws to support Pakistani military junta and also supplied weapons to illegally occupying forces of Pakistan". Also Read | Cancer-stricken mother appeals for release of daughter held hostage by Hamas. Watch Video The Nixon administration, under which Kissinger served, had taken a strong anti-India stance during the 1971 Bangladesh liberation war and supported Pakistan. Bangladesh Liberation War saw West Pakistani military actions in East Pakistan leading to over a million deaths and several other millions becoming refugees. "That is very sad for such a smart man to do such inhumane things; it is not acceptable," Momen emphasised. Amid the war, the US deployed the warship USS Enterprise in the Bay of Bengal in a bid to support the then West Pakistan, but that did not give any advantage to the Pakistani military establishment. The foreign minister delved into the motivations behind Kissinger's controversial decisions, pointing out that his pursuit of "ping pong diplomacy" and his desire to shape US relations with China and Pakistan influenced his stance during the 1971 war. Also Read | Will still fund Trump campaign even if he's convicted, says Home Depot billionaire Momen explained, "In order to satisfy General Yahya [Khan], he did all those mischievous things, so it's very sad." Kissinger, who was Nixon's NSA, had secretly traveled to Beijing during his visit to Pakistan. That visit led to the 1972 visit of Richard Nixon to China to further improve ties, and by 1979, Washington had established full diplomatic ties with the People's Republic of China. Expressing disappointment in Kissinger's failure to base decisions on facts rather than emotions, Momen added, "When you take a decision, that should be fact-based, not subject to emotions. Unfortunately, people like Kissinger with so much wisdom failed to rise to the occasion." Watch | Jerusalem: 3 dead & 6 wounded in Jerusalem shooting; deadly attack after Israel-Hamas truce × Despite acknowledging Kissinger's impact on global diplomacy, the foreign minister stressed that an apology was warranted. "We feel that he should have apologised to the people of Bangladesh for what he has done—the genocide, mass killing of the people of then East Pakistan," Momen declared. "That is sad."

Kissinger should have apologised for 1971 war role: Bangladesh Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen

The former United States Secretary of State and noted diplomat Henry Kissinger has passed away at his home in Connecticut.

American diplomat Henry Kissinger's role in Vietnam-Bangladesh war

Bangaldesh Nationlist Party wants caretaker government to oversee polls. Bangladesh goes to poll on January 7.

Bangladesh: BOP demads PM Shaina resign ahead of polls

Bangladesh's main opposition party is boycotting the polls going to be held in January. This is going to create a ground for geo-political face-off.

Bangladesh: Elections minus opposition? Main opposition party to boycott Jan poll

After spending more than a year in "prison", a total of nine goats were released on Friday (Nov 24), in Barisal, a city on the banks of the Kirtankhola river in south-central Bangladesh, Dhaka Tribune reported.&nbsp;

The report added that the goats were apparently sent to prison for eating grass and leaves of trees in a graveyard in Barishal city.&nbsp;

Newly elected Barishal City Corporation (BCC) Mayor Abul Khair Abdullah (Khokon Serniabat) directed the release of the goats.&nbsp;

Last year on December 6, the animals were detained and held for approximately one year.&nbsp;

As per the report, the then BCC administrative official Swapon Kumar Das confirmed the development to the media outlet.&nbsp;

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Nine goats freed after one year in jail for eating grass in Barishal graveyard!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bangladesh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bangladesh</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/barishal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#barishal</a> <a href="https://t.co/8vLLSSOgRf">https://t.co/8vLLSSOgRf</a>
— UNB - United News of Bangladesh (@unbnewsroom) <a href="https://twitter.com/unbnewsroom/status/1728074782217003243?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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The move of release came after Shahriar Sachib Rajib, owner of the goats, appealed to the BCC mayor for release recently.&nbsp;

The report said that current BCC administrative officials Alamgir Hossain and Road Inspectors Reazul Karim and Imran Hossain Khan were present when the animals were handed over to the owner.

After spending more than a year in "prison", a total of nine goats were released on Friday (Nov 24), in Barisal, a city on the banks of the Kirtankhola river in south-central Bangladesh, Dhaka Tribune reported.

After spending more than a year in "prison", a total of nine goats were released on Friday (Nov 24), in Barisal, a city on the banks of the Kirtankhola river in south-central Bangladesh, Dhaka Tribune reported. The report added that the goats were apparently sent to prison for eating grass and leaves of trees in a graveyard in Barishal city. Newly elected Barishal City Corporation (BCC) Mayor Abul Khair Abdullah (Khokon Serniabat) directed the release of the goats. Last year on December 6, the animals were detained and held for approximately one year. As per the report, the then BCC administrative official Swapon Kumar Das confirmed the development to the media outlet. Nine goats freed after one year in jail for eating grass in Barishal graveyard!#Bangladesh #barishal https://t.co/8vLLSSOgRf — UNB - United News of Bangladesh (@unbnewsroom) November 24, 2023 × The move of release came after Shahriar Sachib Rajib, owner of the goats, appealed to the BCC mayor for release recently. The report said that current BCC administrative officials Alamgir Hossain and Road Inspectors Reazul Karim and Imran Hossain Khan were present when the animals were handed over to the owner.

Bangladesh: Nine goats jailed for eating grass in graveyard are finally set free

Stockholm-headquartered multi-national high fashion brand H&amp;M has announced that it will increase payments for its clothing items manufactured in Bangladesh to compensate for increased worker wages.&nbsp;

H&amp;M's decision comes weeks after protests by garment workers in Bangladesh, who were against Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina-led government's decision over wage hikes. The worker groups had deemed the wage hikes proposed by Hasina government as insufficient.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-garment-workers-protest-seeking-higher-minimum-wage-656324">Bangladesh garment workers protest seeking higher minimum wage</a>

According to Bloomberg, H&amp;M conveyed to its partner garment factories in Bangladesh that it will "absorb the increase of the wages in our product prices."&nbsp;

<h2>How much is the wage hike?</h2>

The Bangladeshi government had declared a 56 per cent raise in the minimum monthly wage for garment workers to 12,500 taka (approximately $113), effective from December.

The H&amp;M said it supports "fair and competitive wages" in its supply chain, and asserted H&amp;M asserted its dedication to enhancing working conditions.

Also watch |&nbsp;Bangladesh: Protests, violence, vandalism continue on the streets of Dhaka

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Despite the government's proposed $113 minimum hike, thousands of Bangladeshi garment workers, currently earning $75 per month, have protested to demand $208 per month, CNN reported.

<h2>Bangladesh wage hike protests</h2>

The protests have disrupted operations of garment supply chains and have led to factory closures and violent clashes with law enforcement authorities.

Three workers have lost their lives during the demonstrations, including one in a factory fire and another in clashes with the police,&nbsp;

In October, H&amp;M and other retailers addressed a letter to Bangladesh's prime minister, urging a minimum wage aligned with workers' basic needs.

The American Apparel and Footwear Association suggested more frequent reviews of Bangladesh's minimum wage, challenging the current five-year interval, as reported by CNN.

The wage increase, initially proposed in October, triggered protests from garment workers who argued that it failed to keep pace with inflation over the past five years.&nbsp;

Notably, Bangladesh ranks as the second-largest global exporter of ready-made garments, trailing only China.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Stockholm-headquartered multi-national high fashion brand H&M has announced that it will increase payments for its clothing items manufactured in Bangladesh to compensate for increased worker wages.

Stockholm-headquartered multi-national high fashion brand H&M has announced that it will increase payments for its clothing items manufactured in Bangladesh to compensate for increased worker wages. H&M's decision comes weeks after protests by garment workers in Bangladesh, who were against Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina-led government's decision over wage hikes. The worker groups had deemed the wage hikes proposed by Hasina government as insufficient. Also read | Bangladesh garment workers protest seeking higher minimum wage According to Bloomberg, H&M conveyed to its partner garment factories in Bangladesh that it will "absorb the increase of the wages in our product prices." How much is the wage hike? The Bangladeshi government had declared a 56 per cent raise in the minimum monthly wage for garment workers to 12,500 taka (approximately $113), effective from December. The H&M said it supports "fair and competitive wages" in its supply chain, and asserted H&M asserted its dedication to enhancing working conditions. Also watch | Bangladesh: Protests, violence, vandalism continue on the streets of Dhaka × Despite the government's proposed $113 minimum hike, thousands of Bangladeshi garment workers, currently earning $75 per month, have protested to demand $208 per month, CNN reported. Bangladesh wage hike protests The protests have disrupted operations of garment supply chains and have led to factory closures and violent clashes with law enforcement authorities. Three workers have lost their lives during the demonstrations, including one in a factory fire and another in clashes with the police, In October, H&M and other retailers addressed a letter to Bangladesh's prime minister, urging a minimum wage aligned with workers' basic needs. The American Apparel and Footwear Association suggested more frequent reviews of Bangladesh's minimum wage, challenging the current five-year interval, as reported by CNN. The wage increase, initially proposed in October, triggered protests from garment workers who argued that it failed to keep pace with inflation over the past five years. Notably, Bangladesh ranks as the second-largest global exporter of ready-made garments, trailing only China. (With inputs from agencies)

H&M to increase payments for clothes manufactured in Bangladesh to compensate higher wages

At least three boats carrying hundreds of Rohingya refugees set sail from Bangladesh this week, refugees said Friday, the latest in a wave of migrations that has seen more than 1,000 asylum seekers arrive on Indonesian shores.&nbsp;

Bangladesh is home to around one million Rohingya refugees, most of whom fled a violent 2017 crackdown by the Myanmar military that is now subject to a United Nations genocide probe.&nbsp;

Conditions for Rohingya refugees in the overcrowded, dangerous and under-resourced relief camps in Bangladesh are tough.&nbsp;

Mohammad Ullah, 26, a registered Rohingya refugee in the Nayapara camp in Cox's Bazar, said his former mother-in-law -- who had been looking after his four-year-old daughter after his wife died -- had taken the child with her on a boat to Indonesia on Tuesday night.&nbsp;

"She took my daughter saying that she was taking her to the beach -- and then did not return her," the distraught Mohammad Ullah told AFP.&nbsp;

"When I went to ask where she was, I found out she took my daughter with her family to take on a boat towards Indonesia."&nbsp;

He said Rohingya people saw Indonesia as a safe place, because they "easily resettle the refugees".&nbsp;

The mostly Muslim Rohingya are still persecuted in Myanmar, and thousands risk their lives each year on long and expensive sea journeys, often in flimsy boats, to try to reach Malaysia or Indonesia.&nbsp;

Chris Lewa, director of Rohingya rights organisation the Arakan Project, said they had confirmed two boats left this week, on the night of the 20 and 21 November, departures confirmed by Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh.&nbsp;

One boat was carrying around 200 people, and the second had up to 150 people, she said.&nbsp;

Rohingya refugees said Friday a third boat with around 200 people had set sail on Thursday night.&nbsp;

Skilled smugglers

Another Rohingya man in Bangladesh, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the route was run by organised smugglers skilled in being able to dodge naval patrols.&nbsp;

"Brokers take the Rohingya refugees in small boats going between the maritime boundaries of Bangladesh and Myanmar," he said. &nbsp;

"Then they take the refugees to larger vessels far out to the sea".&nbsp;

This month has seen a spike in journeys to Indonesia's westernmost province of Aceh -- a journey of about 1,800 kilometres (1,120 miles) -- with more than 1,000 arrivals in the biggest such wave since the 2017 crackdown in Myanmar.&nbsp;

Lewa, from the Arakan Project, said the boats were expected to reach Indonesia late next week.&nbsp;

"They left from Bangladesh. They are always arriving in Indonesia because Malaysia is not going to let them in," Lewa, who is based in Thailand but has a team in Bangladesh, told AFP. "So the best way is to land in Indonesia."&nbsp;

In Myanmar, those Rohingya who remain are facing new challenges to their movement.&nbsp;

The UN said last week that renewed fighting between Myanmar's military and an armed group belonging to an ethnic minority in Rakhine state -- where many Rohingya are from -- has displaced thousands and restricted movement.&nbsp;

"No Rakhine boat is going to leave right now," said Lewa.&nbsp;

More than 2,000 Rohingya are believed to have attempted the risky journey to other Southeast Asian countries in 2022, according to the UN refugee agency.&nbsp;

Nearly 200 Rohingya died or went missing last year while attempting hazardous sea crossings, the agency has estimated.

At least three boats carrying hundreds of Rohingya refugees set sail from Bangladesh this week, refugees said Friday, the latest in a wave of migrations that has seen more than 1,000 asylum seekers arrive on Indonesian shores.

At least three boats carrying hundreds of Rohingya refugees set sail from Bangladesh this week, refugees said Friday, the latest in a wave of migrations that has seen more than 1,000 asylum seekers arrive on Indonesian shores. Bangladesh is home to around one million Rohingya refugees, most of whom fled a violent 2017 crackdown by the Myanmar military that is now subject to a United Nations genocide probe. Conditions for Rohingya refugees in the overcrowded, dangerous and under-resourced relief camps in Bangladesh are tough. Mohammad Ullah, 26, a registered Rohingya refugee in the Nayapara camp in Cox's Bazar, said his former mother-in-law -- who had been looking after his four-year-old daughter after his wife died -- had taken the child with her on a boat to Indonesia on Tuesday night. "She took my daughter saying that she was taking her to the beach -- and then did not return her," the distraught Mohammad Ullah told AFP. "When I went to ask where she was, I found out she took my daughter with her family to take on a boat towards Indonesia." He said Rohingya people saw Indonesia as a safe place, because they "easily resettle the refugees". The mostly Muslim Rohingya are still persecuted in Myanmar, and thousands risk their lives each year on long and expensive sea journeys, often in flimsy boats, to try to reach Malaysia or Indonesia. Chris Lewa, director of Rohingya rights organisation the Arakan Project, said they had confirmed two boats left this week, on the night of the 20 and 21 November, departures confirmed by Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh. One boat was carrying around 200 people, and the second had up to 150 people, she said. Rohingya refugees said Friday a third boat with around 200 people had set sail on Thursday night. Skilled smugglers Another Rohingya man in Bangladesh, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the route was run by organised smugglers skilled in being able to dodge naval patrols. "Brokers take the Rohingya refugees in small boats going between the maritime boundaries of Bangladesh and Myanmar," he said.  "Then they take the refugees to larger vessels far out to the sea". This month has seen a spike in journeys to Indonesia's westernmost province of Aceh -- a journey of about 1,800 kilometres (1,120 miles) -- with more than 1,000 arrivals in the biggest such wave since the 2017 crackdown in Myanmar. Lewa, from the Arakan Project, said the boats were expected to reach Indonesia late next week. "They left from Bangladesh. They are always arriving in Indonesia because Malaysia is not going to let them in," Lewa, who is based in Thailand but has a team in Bangladesh, told AFP. "So the best way is to land in Indonesia." In Myanmar, those Rohingya who remain are facing new challenges to their movement. The UN said last week that renewed fighting between Myanmar's military and an armed group belonging to an ethnic minority in Rakhine state -- where many Rohingya are from -- has displaced thousands and restricted movement. "No Rakhine boat is going to leave right now," said Lewa. More than 2,000 Rohingya are believed to have attempted the risky journey to other Southeast Asian countries in 2022, according to the UN refugee agency. Nearly 200 Rohingya died or went missing last year while attempting hazardous sea crossings, the agency has estimated. 

Hundreds of Rohingya refugees set sail from Bangladesh

Russia has accused US Envoy to Bangladesh Peter Haas of aiding anti-government rallies and interfering in the upcoming general election. Bangladeshi media reports claim that Peter Haas was trying to broker deals between political parties in Bangladesh.

Russia accuses US envoy of interference in Bangladesh's internal matters

The election season is on political unrest is posing high risk to Bangladesh economy. Policy Research Institute, a nonprofit research organization suggests that government promises of economic policy changes after elections could alleviate these concerns. The scale and depth of current challenges mean more significant actions are required to avoid further worsening of macroeconomic conditions in Bangladesh.

Bangladesh political crisis: Bangladesh faces cost of living pressure and low reserve

Is violence hurting Bangladesh's economy?

Crackdown on anti-government protesters has intensified in Bangladesh ahead of elections. Over two days, 139 senior opposition party officials and activists have been convicted, said lawyers and prosecutors.

Bangladesh: More than 100 opposition officials and activists convicted in two days

Opp and ruling party's offices set on fire amidst Bangladesh political violence

Crackdown on anti-government protesters has intensified in Bangladesh ahead of elections. Over two days, 139 senior opposition party officials and activists have been convicted, said lawyers and prosecutors.

A large number of activists from the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), the opposition party in the country have been convicted. The charges include historic ones over protests, arson and obstructing the police. Sentences ranging from a few months to up to three-and-a-half years have been handed, reported AFP.

General elections will be held in Bangladesh on January 7. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is aiming for a fourth consecutive term. Countries like the US and others have expressed doubts about whether the vote will be free and fair.

Watch | Bangladesh elections: Opposition announces fresh blockade

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The opposition BNP has been holding big rallies and marches since last year and trying to force Hasina to quit her post.

Since last month, however, the police have been cracking down on the opposition. They've arrested almost the entire top BNP leadership. Thousands of activists and even supporters have been arrested.

AFP cited two prosecutors who said that on Sunday (November 19) and Monday, at least 132 BNP leaders and activists were jailed in Dhaka.

"Judge Md (Mohammed) Ataullah sentenced 70 BNP activists and leaders in four different cases Monday," prosecutor Shahid Uddin told AFP.&nbsp;

"They were found guilty of arson and obstructing police duty".&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Those sentenced include BNP's influential youth wing chief Sultan Salahuddin Tuku along with two ex-chiefs of the student wing and the chief of a district wing.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-opposition-parties-call-48-hour-nationwide-strike-demand-cancellation-of-polls-659463">Bangladesh opposition parties call 48-hour nationwide strike, demand cancellation of polls</a>

"These cases are from 2013-2018 when opposition enforced strikes and blockades," Uddin said. "They got jail terms ranging from six months to two years".&nbsp;

Judge Mohammad Sheikh Sadi sentenced an additional 62 BNP activists to three-and-a-half years in jail each over a 2018 case, the chief public prosecutor of Dhaka, Abdullah Abu, told AFP.&nbsp;

Seven more BNP activists were also jailed by Judge Sadi, lawyer Nazrul Islam told AFP, adding that they included Saiful Alam Nirob, a former BNP youth wing chief who the New York Times reported was facing more than 300 court cases.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Crackdown on anti-government protesters has intensified in Bangladesh ahead of elections. Over two days, 139 senior opposition party officials and activists have been convicted, said lawyers and prosecutors. A large number of activists from the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), the opposition party in the country have been convicted. The charges include historic ones over protests, arson and obstructing the police. Sentences ranging from a few months to up to three-and-a-half years have been handed, reported AFP. General elections will be held in Bangladesh on January 7. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is aiming for a fourth consecutive term. Countries like the US and others have expressed doubts about whether the vote will be free and fair. Watch | Bangladesh elections: Opposition announces fresh blockade × The opposition BNP has been holding big rallies and marches since last year and trying to force Hasina to quit her post. Since last month, however, the police have been cracking down on the opposition. They've arrested almost the entire top BNP leadership. Thousands of activists and even supporters have been arrested. AFP cited two prosecutors who said that on Sunday (November 19) and Monday, at least 132 BNP leaders and activists were jailed in Dhaka. "Judge Md (Mohammed) Ataullah sentenced 70 BNP activists and leaders in four different cases Monday," prosecutor Shahid Uddin told AFP. "They were found guilty of arson and obstructing police duty". Those sentenced include BNP's influential youth wing chief Sultan Salahuddin Tuku along with two ex-chiefs of the student wing and the chief of a district wing. Also Read | Bangladesh opposition parties call 48-hour nationwide strike, demand cancellation of polls "These cases are from 2013-2018 when opposition enforced strikes and blockades," Uddin said. "They got jail terms ranging from six months to two years". Judge Mohammad Sheikh Sadi sentenced an additional 62 BNP activists to three-and-a-half years in jail each over a 2018 case, the chief public prosecutor of Dhaka, Abdullah Abu, told AFP. Seven more BNP activists were also jailed by Judge Sadi, lawyer Nazrul Islam told AFP, adding that they included Saiful Alam Nirob, a former BNP youth wing chief who the New York Times reported was facing more than 300 court cases. (With inputs from agencies)

The general elections in Bangladesh will be held on January 7, 2024, Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Kazi Habibul Awal announced on Wednesday (Nov 15).The announcement was made in a televised speech for the first time in the history of Bangladesh. Earlier, the chief election commissioners used to air the recorded version of the polls schedule to address the nation, Dhaka Tribune reports.

Bangladesh elections: Opposition announces fresh blockade

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) on Thursday (Nov 16) announced a nationwide strike for 48 hours beginning from Sunday (Nov 19) in order to protest against the decision taken by the Election Commission (EC) for the next general elections due on January 7, 2024, as per local media reports.

BNP's Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi made the announcement at a virtual media briefing on Wednesday evening.

The closure will start at 6 am on Sunday (Nov 19) and will conclude at 6 pm on Tuesday (Nov 21).

Rizvi further said that this strike was also aimed at mounting pressure on the government to step down on giving power to a neutral government and free the arrested BNP leaders and workers, including its secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir.

Other opposition parties like Gono Odhikar Parishad and Labour Party also announced to enforce a 48-hour strike during the same period.

"Everybody in Bangladesh knows the outcome of this election," Abdul Moyeen Khan, member of the highest policy-making body of the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), told news agency Reuters on Thursday.

"What's the point in becoming a part of that drama? There is no point in going to a meaningless election. Democracy is dead in Bangladesh."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uttarkashi-tunnel-collapse-heavy-duty-drilling-machine-begins-creating-escape-passage-659399">Uttarkashi tunnel collapse: Drilling machine begins creating escape passage</a>

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Kazi Habibul Awal, on Wednesday (Nov 15), in a televised speech announced that the general elections in Bangladesh will be held on January 7, 2024.

<h2>Violent protests in Bangladesh&nbsp;</h2>

The announcement came amid violent protests&nbsp;staged by opposition parties demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for a caretaker government to take over.

Since October 28, at least four people, including a policeman, were killed and hundreds injured in violent protests.

Local media reports stated that around 8,000 opposition leaders and activists, including BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, have been arrested in a nationwide crackdown.

Hasina has tightly ruled the South Asian country since coming to power in 2009. However, her rule has been widely criticised for human rights violations, cracking down on free speech and suppressing dissent while jailing her critics.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) on Thursday (Nov 16) announced a nationwide strike for 48 hours beginning from Sunday (Nov 19) in order to protest against the decision taken by the Election Commission (EC) for the next general elections due on January 7, 2024, as per local media reports.

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) on Thursday (Nov 16) announced a nationwide strike for 48 hours beginning from Sunday (Nov 19) in order to protest against the decision taken by the Election Commission (EC) for the next general elections due on January 7, 2024, as per local media reports. BNP's Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi made the announcement at a virtual media briefing on Wednesday evening. The closure will start at 6 am on Sunday (Nov 19) and will conclude at 6 pm on Tuesday (Nov 21). Rizvi further said that this strike was also aimed at mounting pressure on the government to step down on giving power to a neutral government and free the arrested BNP leaders and workers, including its secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir. Other opposition parties like Gono Odhikar Parishad and Labour Party also announced to enforce a 48-hour strike during the same period. "Everybody in Bangladesh knows the outcome of this election," Abdul Moyeen Khan, member of the highest policy-making body of the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), told news agency Reuters on Thursday. "What's the point in becoming a part of that drama? There is no point in going to a meaningless election. Democracy is dead in Bangladesh." Also read: Uttarkashi tunnel collapse: Drilling machine begins creating escape passage Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Kazi Habibul Awal, on Wednesday (Nov 15), in a televised speech announced that the general elections in Bangladesh will be held on January 7, 2024. Violent protests in Bangladesh The announcement came amid violent protests staged by opposition parties demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for a caretaker government to take over. Since October 28, at least four people, including a policeman, were killed and hundreds injured in violent protests. Local media reports stated that around 8,000 opposition leaders and activists, including BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, have been arrested in a nationwide crackdown. Hasina has tightly ruled the South Asian country since coming to power in 2009. However, her rule has been widely criticised for human rights violations, cracking down on free speech and suppressing dissent while jailing her critics. (With inputs from agencies)

Bangladesh opposition parties call 48-hour nationwide strike, demand cancellation of polls

The general elections in Bangladesh will be held on January 7, 2024, Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Kazi Habibul Awal announced on Wednesday (Nov 15).

The announcement was made in a televised speech for the first time in the history of Bangladesh.

Earlier, the chief election commissioners used to air the recorded version of the polls schedule to address the nation, Dhaka Tribune reports.

November 30 will be the last day to file nomination papers, and they will be scrutinised from December 1 to December 4.

The last date for withdrawal of candidature is December 17, while on December 18, the EC will allot election symbols to candidates, Awal said.

Political parties can start campaigning from December 18 to January 5, 2024 midnight, the CEC said.

<h2>Violent protests rock Bangladesh&nbsp;</h2>

The announcement comes amid violent protests by opposition parties demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for a caretaker government to take over.

Since October 28, at least four people, including a policeman, were killed and hundreds injured in violent protests.

The main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), whose top leadership is either jailed or in exile, has previously said that it would boycott the upcoming national elections if PM Hasina does not resign and allows voting under a caretaker government, Reuters reported.

Local media reports stated that around 8,000 opposition leaders and activists, including BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, have been arrested in a nationwide crackdown.

Hasina has tightly ruled the South Asian country since coming to power in 2009. However, her rule has been widely criticised for human rights violations, cracking down on free speech and suppressing dissent while jailing her critics.

<h2>Crackdown on dissenters&nbsp;</h2>

Her main rival and two-time prime minister, BNP leader Khaleda Zia, has been under house arrest over corruption charges, which her party calls are engineered. Her son and BNP's acting chairman, Tarique Rahman, is in exile after several charges were brought against him that he denies.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sacked-uk-interior-minister-braverman-launches-scathing-attack-on-sunak-someone-needs-to-be-honest-658627">Sacked UK interior minister Braverman launches scathing attack on Sunak: 'Someone needs to be honest</a>

Hasina's government is also facing pressure from Western countries to hold "free and fair" elections, notes Reuters news agency.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greenhouse-gases-hit-record-high-in-2022-un-658820">Greenhouse gas concentration hit record high in 2022: UN</a>

The United States, the top buyer of Bangladeshi garments, said in May it was implementing a policy allowing for the restriction of visas to Bangladeshis who undermine the democratic election process in the country of nearly 170 million people.

(With inputs from agencies)

The general elections in Bangladesh will be held on January 7, 2024, Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Kazi Habibul Awal announced on Wednesday (Nov 15). The announcement was made in a televised speech for the first time in the history of Bangladesh.

The general elections in Bangladesh will be held on January 7, 2024, Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Kazi Habibul Awal announced on Wednesday (Nov 15). The announcement was made in a televised speech for the first time in the history of Bangladesh. Earlier, the chief election commissioners used to air the recorded version of the polls schedule to address the nation, Dhaka Tribune reports. November 30 will be the last day to file nomination papers, and they will be scrutinised from December 1 to December 4. The last date for withdrawal of candidature is December 17, while on December 18, the EC will allot election symbols to candidates, Awal said. Political parties can start campaigning from December 18 to January 5, 2024 midnight, the CEC said. Violent protests rock Bangladesh The announcement comes amid violent protests by opposition parties demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for a caretaker government to take over. Since October 28, at least four people, including a policeman, were killed and hundreds injured in violent protests. The main opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), whose top leadership is either jailed or in exile, has previously said that it would boycott the upcoming national elections if PM Hasina does not resign and allows voting under a caretaker government, Reuters reported. Local media reports stated that around 8,000 opposition leaders and activists, including BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, have been arrested in a nationwide crackdown. Hasina has tightly ruled the South Asian country since coming to power in 2009. However, her rule has been widely criticised for human rights violations, cracking down on free speech and suppressing dissent while jailing her critics. Crackdown on dissenters Her main rival and two-time prime minister, BNP leader Khaleda Zia, has been under house arrest over corruption charges, which her party calls are engineered. Her son and BNP's acting chairman, Tarique Rahman, is in exile after several charges were brought against him that he denies. Also read | Sacked UK interior minister Braverman launches scathing attack on Sunak: 'Someone needs to be honest Hasina's government is also facing pressure from Western countries to hold "free and fair" elections, notes Reuters news agency. Also read | Greenhouse gas concentration hit record high in 2022: UN The United States, the top buyer of Bangladeshi garments, said in May it was implementing a policy allowing for the restriction of visas to Bangladeshis who undermine the democratic election process in the country of nearly 170 million people. (With inputs from agencies)

Bangladesh general elections to be held on Jan 7, 2024

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