27 hours after massive fire broke out at a popular shopping centre in Dhaka, firefighters with the help of military personnel managed to extinguish the blaze. This is the second such incident reported in Bangladesh's capital in the last two weeks.

Bangladesh: Massive fire in popular shopping centre in Dhaka, 30 injured

Over 1,000 shops were gutted in a fire&nbsp;at the New Supermarket in Dhaka, Bangladesh&nbsp;early on Saturday. Many traders are in despair as they lost everything they owned in the massive blaze, the cause of which is still not ascertained.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Firefighters battled the blaze for many hours and entered the building through the roof in an effort to limit the fire's damage. Some firefighters fell sick due to&nbsp;smoke inhalation.

Personnel from the police, Border Guard Bangladesh, the fire service, the Rapid Action Battalion, the army, the air force, and the water-carrying vehicles, joined hands to extinguish the blaze.&nbsp;

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The fire started on the market's second floor, according to director general of the Fire Service and Civil Defence Brig Gen Md Main Uddin. The market's second and third levels sustained the heaviest damage.

Desperate traders were seen putting their lives in danger to protect their possessions. Traders along with their staffers hurriedly attempted to save whatever things they could from their stores without wearing any form of safety equipment.

Shop owners and employees were assisted in salvaging their belongings by firefighters and representatives of other law enforcement authorities.

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A shop owner said there were more than 1,000 shops, mostly clothing stores, in the South Building of the market, and there are about 500 shops on the first and second floors.

Some vendors did succeed in getting their shop items out of the market.&nbsp;

"It was 6:30am when I came to know that there was a fire in the market. It was impossible for me to shift so many goods alone. I do not even know the people who were helping me get my belongings out. Without them, it would have been impossible to save my belongings,” said Asif, a trader with shop on the first floor.

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“My shop is on the ground floor. There is no fire there, but due to the heat, it was not possible to stay there for long. Moreover, it was not possible to go there due to the accumulation of hot water on the ground floor,” he added.

“My shop, my goods, my livelihood – all gone,” inconsolable Abdul Malek, another owner at the New Supermarket said, “What do I do now?” he had just stocked up for the upcoming Eid-ul-Fitr sales which had already started off quite well.

Meanwhile, in order to determine whether there was any conspiracy behind the blaze to sow discord prior to the elections that are scheduled for early next year, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina ordered a comprehensive probe. 
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Over 1,000 shops were gutted in a fire at the New Supermarket in Dhaka, Bangladesh early on Saturday. Many traders are in despair as they lost everything they owned in the massive blaze, the cause of which is still not ascertained.

Over 1,000 shops were gutted in a fire at the New Supermarket in Dhaka, Bangladesh early on Saturday. Many traders are in despair as they lost everything they owned in the massive blaze, the cause of which is still not ascertained. Firefighters battled the blaze for many hours and entered the building through the roof in an effort to limit the fire's damage. Some firefighters fell sick due to smoke inhalation. Personnel from the police, Border Guard Bangladesh, the fire service, the Rapid Action Battalion, the army, the air force, and the water-carrying vehicles, joined hands to extinguish the blaze. Also Read | US: Train carrying hazardous material derails in Maine due to track washout The fire started on the market's second floor, according to director general of the Fire Service and Civil Defence Brig Gen Md Main Uddin. The market's second and third levels sustained the heaviest damage. Desperate traders were seen putting their lives in danger to protect their possessions. Traders along with their staffers hurriedly attempted to save whatever things they could from their stores without wearing any form of safety equipment. Shop owners and employees were assisted in salvaging their belongings by firefighters and representatives of other law enforcement authorities. Also Read | Sudan: Army and RSF clashes leave 56 civilians, dozens of fighters dead A shop owner said there were more than 1,000 shops, mostly clothing stores, in the South Building of the market, and there are about 500 shops on the first and second floors. Some vendors did succeed in getting their shop items out of the market. "It was 6:30am when I came to know that there was a fire in the market. It was impossible for me to shift so many goods alone. I do not even know the people who were helping me get my belongings out. Without them, it would have been impossible to save my belongings,” said Asif, a trader with shop on the first floor. Watch | What is next in Syrian Civil War?; The rapid development of AI | This World × “My shop is on the ground floor. There is no fire there, but due to the heat, it was not possible to stay there for long. Moreover, it was not possible to go there due to the accumulation of hot water on the ground floor,” he added. “My shop, my goods, my livelihood – all gone,” inconsolable Abdul Malek, another owner at the New Supermarket said, “What do I do now?” he had just stocked up for the upcoming Eid-ul-Fitr sales which had already started off quite well. Meanwhile, in order to determine whether there was any conspiracy behind the blaze to sow discord prior to the elections that are scheduled for early next year, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina ordered a comprehensive probe. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Over 1,000 shops gutted in Dhaka’s New Supermarket, traders' hopes of brisk Eid sales shattered

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina claims that the United States is meddling in Bangladesh's general elections. She blamed Washington of supporting a military dictator and hence trying to topple the government. Hasina further said that the US has the power to overthrow any government.

US meddling in Bangladesh's general elections? Sheikh Hasina accuses US of trying to topple govt

From CPEC to Sri Lanka's Bri-projects to investments in Bangladesh, we look at China's debt-trap diplomacy in the Indian subcontinent. Can South Asian nations slow down their debt dependence on china? Watch this report.

China's economic dominance waning? | Inside South Asia

Adani Power Limited (APL) said that it has started supplying electricity to Bangladesh as it announced the commissioning of its first of the two 800 MW thermal power generation units in the eastern Jharkhand district of India.&nbsp;

The unit at Godda region is presently supplying 748MW of power to the neighbouring country as part of a wider agreement to provide 1,496MW net capacity power. &nbsp;

The second 800MW thermal plant is expected to be commissioned soon, as it has been delayed due to pandemic and non-completion of the transmission infrastructure in Bangladesh.&nbsp;

The Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB) had entered into a long-term Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with APL’s wholly-owned subsidiary&nbsp;Adani&nbsp;Power Jharkhand Limited (APJL) in November 2017 to procure 1,496 MW net capacity power from 2X800 MW ultra-supercritical power project at Godda.&nbsp;

On Sunday, APL, India’s largest power producer, in a statement said that the electricity supplied from Godda will significantly improve the situation in Bangladesh as it will replace expensive power generated from liquid fuel, bringing down the average cost of power purchased.&nbsp;

Bangladesh is undergoing an electricity crunch and depends mostly on gas and diesel-fired electricity with high tariffs.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Godda Power Plant is composed of two units of the latest technology available in the world, which is “Ultra Super Critical Technology" equipped with latest techniques for controlling emissions and consumption of coal and water, the company claims.&nbsp;

In order to reduce emission and adhere to the lasts environment norms, the company said it has installed Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) and Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR). &nbsp;

The plant is going to be one its kind in India and in Bangladesh, operating on the latest environment emission norms, the company said.&nbsp;

Adani Power CEO SB Khyalia in a press release said that the power supply would make the industries and ecosystem more competitive in Bangladesh. &nbsp;

Khyalia said it is the first power plant in the country that started its operations from Day 1 with 100 per cent flue gas desulphurisation, selective catalytic reduction and zero-water discharge. &nbsp;

"The Godda power plant is a strategic asset in the India-Bangladesh's&nbsp;long-standing relationship," Khyalia said.

Adani&nbsp;Power has an installed thermal power capacity of 13,610 MW spread across seven power plants in Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, and Madhya Pradesh, apart from a 40 MW solar power plant in Gujarat.&nbsp;

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Adani Power Limited (APL) said that it has started supplying electricity to Bangladesh as it announced the commissioning of its first of the two 800 MW thermal power generation units in the eastern Jharkhand district of India.

Adani Power Limited (APL) said that it has started supplying electricity to Bangladesh as it announced the commissioning of its first of the two 800 MW thermal power generation units in the eastern Jharkhand district of India. The unit at Godda region is presently supplying 748MW of power to the neighbouring country as part of a wider agreement to provide 1,496MW net capacity power. The second 800MW thermal plant is expected to be commissioned soon, as it has been delayed due to pandemic and non-completion of the transmission infrastructure in Bangladesh. The Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB) had entered into a long-term Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with APL’s wholly-owned subsidiary Adani Power Jharkhand Limited (APJL) in November 2017 to procure 1,496 MW net capacity power from 2X800 MW ultra-supercritical power project at Godda. On Sunday, APL, India’s largest power producer, in a statement said that the electricity supplied from Godda will significantly improve the situation in Bangladesh as it will replace expensive power generated from liquid fuel, bringing down the average cost of power purchased. Bangladesh is undergoing an electricity crunch and depends mostly on gas and diesel-fired electricity with high tariffs. The Godda Power Plant is composed of two units of the latest technology available in the world, which is “Ultra Super Critical Technology" equipped with latest techniques for controlling emissions and consumption of coal and water, the company claims. In order to reduce emission and adhere to the lasts environment norms, the company said it has installed Flue Gas Desulphurisation (FGD) and Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR). The plant is going to be one its kind in India and in Bangladesh, operating on the latest environment emission norms, the company said. Adani Power CEO SB Khyalia in a press release said that the power supply would make the industries and ecosystem more competitive in Bangladesh. Khyalia said it is the first power plant in the country that started its operations from Day 1 with 100 per cent flue gas desulphurisation, selective catalytic reduction and zero-water discharge. "The Godda power plant is a strategic asset in the India-Bangladesh's long-standing relationship," Khyalia said. Adani Power has an installed thermal power capacity of 13,610 MW spread across seven power plants in Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, and Madhya Pradesh, apart from a 40 MW solar power plant in Gujarat. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India’s Adani Group starts supplying electricity to Bangladesh 

Promoting innovation and connectivity, a cooperative-run digital programme aims to transform the lives and livelihoods of smallholder dairy farmers and processors in Bangladesh. Watch how the Food and Agriculture Organization #FAO of the United Nations is helping enable equal access to digital technologies for farmers

Digital village for 'digital Bangladesh'

A deadly clash between two ethnic groups in Bangladesh has claimed eight lives and left scores injured. Additional police force has been deployed in south-eastern Bandarban district fearing more violence among the feuding groups.

According to local media reports, a gunfight had erupted between the two groups on Thursday night in the rugged terrains of Rowangchhar, touted to be the hotbed of insurgency.

Following the clashes, nearly 200 people fled their homes, fearing violence among feuding groups, and took refuge at an army camp at Roangchhari.

Local media say that there has been no previous record of the two groups confronting each other, and are unclear what could have caused the gun attack.

The police believe that the suspects were members of the newly-formed outfit called Kuki Chin Front (KNF)—a break-away faction of the United People's Democratic Front (UPDF).

The UPDF is a regional political party based in the Chittagong Hill Tracts of Bangladesh.

KNF was formed in 1998 and claims to seek a fully autonomous Hill Tracts through peaceful and democratic means.

Security officials claim that the KNF is an armed group mostly dominated by the Bom ethnic community. They have reportedly formed an alliance with an Islamist militant group in the hills.

The KNF claims it represents six of the 16 ethnic minority groups of Chittagong Hill Tracts.

They want a separate state to be formed with several sub-districts of two of the three hill districts.

The security agencies have launched a manhunt to track down and arrest the KNF chief, Nathan Bome.

Meanwhile, authorities are maintaining heightened security in the affected areas. In the event of further violence, they may enact movement-restrictive measures, such as imposing a curfew in the region, officials added.

Police officer Abdul Mannan said that they recovered eight bodies from the scene, and brought them to the district on Friday for autopsy and other legal formalities, reports PTI news agency.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
 
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A deadly clash between two ethnic groups in Bangladesh has claimed eight lives and left scores injured. Additional police force has been deployed in south-eastern Bandarban district fearing more violence among the feuding groups.

A deadly clash between two ethnic groups in Bangladesh has claimed eight lives and left scores injured. Additional police force has been deployed in south-eastern Bandarban district fearing more violence among the feuding groups. According to local media reports, a gunfight had erupted between the two groups on Thursday night in the rugged terrains of Rowangchhar, touted to be the hotbed of insurgency. Following the clashes, nearly 200 people fled their homes, fearing violence among feuding groups, and took refuge at an army camp at Roangchhari. Local media say that there has been no previous record of the two groups confronting each other, and are unclear what could have caused the gun attack. The police believe that the suspects were members of the newly-formed outfit called Kuki Chin Front (KNF)—a break-away faction of the United People's Democratic Front (UPDF). The UPDF is a regional political party based in the Chittagong Hill Tracts of Bangladesh. KNF was formed in 1998 and claims to seek a fully autonomous Hill Tracts through peaceful and democratic means. Security officials claim that the KNF is an armed group mostly dominated by the Bom ethnic community. They have reportedly formed an alliance with an Islamist militant group in the hills. The KNF claims it represents six of the 16 ethnic minority groups of Chittagong Hill Tracts. They want a separate state to be formed with several sub-districts of two of the three hill districts. The security agencies have launched a manhunt to track down and arrest the KNF chief, Nathan Bome. Meanwhile, authorities are maintaining heightened security in the affected areas. In the event of further violence, they may enact movement-restrictive measures, such as imposing a curfew in the region, officials added. Police officer Abdul Mannan said that they recovered eight bodies from the scene, and brought them to the district on Friday for autopsy and other legal formalities, reports PTI news agency. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Eight killed in deadly ethnic clashes in Bangladesh, police on toes fearing more violence

The Indian Navy is closely monitoring a Chinese survey vessel, Hai Yang Shi You 760, which is conducting an oil and gas exploration within Bangladesh's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in the Bay of Bengal. The Chinese-owned seismic survey vessel entered the Indian Ocean region through the Malacca Strait on the night of December 29 last year and is undertaking oil and gas exploration in Bangladesh's EEZ since January. The exploration will complete in May 2023.

Sources told Wion that, "There have been no instances of the ship undertaking any type of research activity within the Indian EEZ &amp; the Chinese vessel is being continuously monitored by the Indian Navy."

Last August, a Chinese ship Yuan Wang 5 docked in Sri Lanka's Hambantota port irking New Delhi. Sri Lanka has since then been working on a standard operating procedure to make sure such incidents are not repeated.

As China's presence in the Indian Ocean continues to increase, the Indian Navy has intensified&nbsp;monitoring activities. The Chinese vessels have been found engaging in Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing in the region, and China's only overseas navy base is in Djibouti.

As things stand right now, with increased Chinese presence in the Indian ocean, the Indian Navy is expected to significantly step up its maritime presence and surveillance. Indian Navy’s Information Fusion Centre-Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR) based in Gurugram also keeps an eye on the movements in the Indian ocean and is involved in early mobilisation of resources in case of any crisis. IFC-IOR was inaugurated in 2018, with a focus on India and like-minded countries sharing real-time developments in the maritime domain. 
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The Indian Navy is closely monitoring a Chinese survey vessel, Hai Yang Shi You 760, which is conducting an oil and gas exploration within Bangladesh's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in the Bay of Bengal.

The Indian Navy is closely monitoring a Chinese survey vessel, Hai Yang Shi You 760, which is conducting an oil and gas exploration within Bangladesh's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in the Bay of Bengal. The Chinese-owned seismic survey vessel entered the Indian Ocean region through the Malacca Strait on the night of December 29 last year and is undertaking oil and gas exploration in Bangladesh's EEZ since January. The exploration will complete in May 2023. Sources told Wion that, "There have been no instances of the ship undertaking any type of research activity within the Indian EEZ & the Chinese vessel is being continuously monitored by the Indian Navy." Last August, a Chinese ship Yuan Wang 5 docked in Sri Lanka's Hambantota port irking New Delhi. Sri Lanka has since then been working on a standard operating procedure to make sure such incidents are not repeated. As China's presence in the Indian Ocean continues to increase, the Indian Navy has intensified monitoring activities. The Chinese vessels have been found engaging in Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) fishing in the region, and China's only overseas navy base is in Djibouti. As things stand right now, with increased Chinese presence in the Indian ocean, the Indian Navy is expected to significantly step up its maritime presence and surveillance. Indian Navy’s Information Fusion Centre-Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR) based in Gurugram also keeps an eye on the movements in the Indian ocean and is involved in early mobilisation of resources in case of any crisis. IFC-IOR was inaugurated in 2018, with a focus on India and like-minded countries sharing real-time developments in the maritime domain. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Indian Navy monitors Chinese vessel carrying out oil and gas exploration near Bangladesh

A journalist from a leading newspaper in Bangladesh was charged on Wednesday (March 29) for producing false news after a story on high food prices went viral. According to a report by the news agency AFP, the journalist Shamsuzzaman Shams has been charged under the draconian Digital Security Act.

A journalist from a leading newspaper in Bangladesh was charged on Wednesday (March 29) for producing false news after a story on high food prices went viral. According to a report by the news agency AFP, the journalist Shamsuzzaman Shams has been charged under the draconian Digital Security Act. Shams's newspaper Prothom Alo said that he was picked up from his residence in Savar town at around 4:00 am (2200 GMT) by the police. Citing a copy of the case file, AFP reported that Shams was charged with smearing the image of the government with false news, and for raising questions about the achievements of Bangladesh. Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan confirmed that Shams was questioned by the police for a false story published during the weekend. Khan said a case has been filed against him, adding he would be released from custody but could be arrested again over the charges. The story in Prothom Alo was published last Sunday (March 26) and included quotes from ordinary people talking about their lives on the occasion of Bangladesh's Independence Day. "What is the use of this freedom if we can't afford rice," one labourer was quoted as saying. AFP reported on Wednesday that food prices have soared in Bangladesh since the middle of 2022 following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The currency taka has fallen sharply against the US dollar. 280 journalists charged under Digital Security Act: Think tank A local think tank said that nearly 3,000 people, including 280 journalists, have been charged under the Digital Security Act since it was enacted in 2018. This data has stoked concerns under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Bangladesh is becoming increasingly authoritarian, the news agency further reported. Reporters Without Borders in its 2022 World Press Freedom Index, ranked Bangladesh 162 among 180 countries. In recent months, the dwindling number of independent journalists in Bangladesh has come under increasing attacks by the government. In February, authorities shut down the lone opposition mouthpiece by saying it violated the country's press laws. At least 10 journalists were beaten up by police while covering a disputed election of Supreme Court lawyers in Dhaka. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Bangladesh: Journalist charged under draconian law for story on high food prices

Bangladesh had sought loans from global agencies, including the International Monetary Fund, prompted by its dwindling foreign exchange reserves caused by rising import bills. How much money did India gave to build this cross-border energy pipeline. Watch this report

India-Bangladesh friendship pipeline, explained | Inside South Asia

The Bhutanese government announced on Thursday that Bangladesh will allow Bhutan access to three of its ports to facilitate trade with other nations. This move is intended to lessen Bhutan's reliance on India as a transit country.

Bangladesh to allow Bhutan access to its ports for trade

Japan will be focusing on the development of Matarbari Port in Bangladesh as part of Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's new ‘Free and Open Indo-Pacific’ plan. It will be part of Tokyo's larger infrastructure development efforts in the Bay of Bengal and Northeast India with a focus on "multilayer connectivity" as laid out in the plan.

The deep seaport, located in Cox's Bazar district, is being developed with the assistance of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and is expected to reduce pressure on Chittagong port while catering to the future needs of Bangladesh and India's Northeast.

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In his speech during his visit to Delhi earlier this month, Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida stated, "Viewing Bangladesh and other areas to the south as a single economic zone, we will promote the Bay of Bengal-Northeast India industrial value chain concept in cooperation with India and Bangladesh to foster the growth of the entire region."

Japan plans to hold conferences involving the governments of the Northeastern Region of India and Bangladesh as well as the private sector to promote economic growth and attract Japanese companies' interest in the region. Tokyo's efforts also include the development of roads in Assam, Mizoram, and Tripura, which will connect to Japanese-assisted projects in Bangladesh.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/countdown-begins-for-isros-largest-lvm3-rocket-launch-575613">Countdown begins for ISRO's largest LVM3 rocket launch</a>

The development of an industrial value chain connecting the Bay of Bengal and the North-Eastern region of India is expected to bring significant economic benefits to the region and beyond. As the leading country in the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI), Japan has been working closely with India to support the development of the landlocked Northeastern region through the Japan-India Act East Forum.

The act east forum was established in 2017 with the aim for the development of the Northeastern region of India and promoting connectivity within this region and between this region and Southeast Asia. The forum reflects the synergy between India’s Act East Policy and Japan’s vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific.

Japan's PM Kishida during his speech that laid out his vision of a ‘Free and Open Indo-Pacific’ said, "Northeast India, which is surrounded by land, still has unexploited economic potential."

WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-on-a-diplomatic-blitz-as-ukraine-war-rages-peace-plan-too-vague-to-make-a-difference-wion-575604">China on a diplomatic blitz as Ukraine war rages | Peace plan too vague to make a difference? | WION</a>

By promoting private investment and enhancing connectivity infrastructure, Japan aims to create a comprehensive concept for regional development and economic growth.

With Dhaka, Tokyo has been working to support the development of the Matarbari deep-water port and improve connectivity in the Bay of Bengal region through the Bay of Bengal Industrial Growth Belt (BIG-B) initiative. Japan has launched a Joint Study Group on the possibility of an Economic Partnership Agreement with Bangladesh to further enhance economic cooperation.

This is even as Bangladesh is all set to graduate from being classified as a least developed country to a developing country. 
 
(With inputs from agencies) 
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Japan will be focusing on the development of Matarbari Port in Bangladesh as part of Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's new ‘Free and Open Indo-Pacific’ plan. It will be part of Tokyo's larger infrastructure development efforts in the Bay of Bengal and Northeast India with a focus on "multilayer connectivity" as laid out in the plan.

Japan will be focusing on the development of Matarbari Port in Bangladesh as part of Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's new ‘Free and Open Indo-Pacific’ plan. It will be part of Tokyo's larger infrastructure development efforts in the Bay of Bengal and Northeast India with a focus on "multilayer connectivity" as laid out in the plan. The deep seaport, located in Cox's Bazar district, is being developed with the assistance of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and is expected to reduce pressure on Chittagong port while catering to the future needs of Bangladesh and India's Northeast. Also Read | Russia to skip Earth Hour 2023, designates WWF a foreign agent In his speech during his visit to Delhi earlier this month, Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida stated, "Viewing Bangladesh and other areas to the south as a single economic zone, we will promote the Bay of Bengal-Northeast India industrial value chain concept in cooperation with India and Bangladesh to foster the growth of the entire region." Japan plans to hold conferences involving the governments of the Northeastern Region of India and Bangladesh as well as the private sector to promote economic growth and attract Japanese companies' interest in the region. Tokyo's efforts also include the development of roads in Assam, Mizoram, and Tripura, which will connect to Japanese-assisted projects in Bangladesh. Also Read | Countdown begins for ISRO's largest LVM3 rocket launch The development of an industrial value chain connecting the Bay of Bengal and the North-Eastern region of India is expected to bring significant economic benefits to the region and beyond. As the leading country in the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI), Japan has been working closely with India to support the development of the landlocked Northeastern region through the Japan-India Act East Forum. The act east forum was established in 2017 with the aim for the development of the Northeastern region of India and promoting connectivity within this region and between this region and Southeast Asia. The forum reflects the synergy between India’s Act East Policy and Japan’s vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific. Japan's PM Kishida during his speech that laid out his vision of a ‘Free and Open Indo-Pacific’ said, "Northeast India, which is surrounded by land, still has unexploited economic potential." WATCH | China on a diplomatic blitz as Ukraine war rages | Peace plan too vague to make a difference? | WION By promoting private investment and enhancing connectivity infrastructure, Japan aims to create a comprehensive concept for regional development and economic growth. With Dhaka, Tokyo has been working to support the development of the Matarbari deep-water port and improve connectivity in the Bay of Bengal region through the Bay of Bengal Industrial Growth Belt (BIG-B) initiative. Japan has launched a Joint Study Group on the possibility of an Economic Partnership Agreement with Bangladesh to further enhance economic cooperation. This is even as Bangladesh is all set to graduate from being classified as a least developed country to a developing country. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Japan's ‘Free and Open Indo-Pacific’ plan focuses on Bangladesh’s Matarbari port for regional economic growth

Bangladesh has now operationalised its first submarine base at Bakua district at Cox's Bazar. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina inaugurated the submarine base BNS Sheikh Hasina. While describing the opinion, a proud chapter in the history of the Bangladeshi Navy.

Bangladesh commissions first submarine base, increases its naval presence

BAN vs IRE- 3rd ODI Live: Bangladesh and Ireland’s third and final ODI match will kick off on Wednesday, March 22. The match will take place at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium in Sylhet, Bangladesh at 2:00 pm IST. The hosts currently have a 1-0 lead in the ODI series and in the previous ODI, the rain played spoiled the match. Bangladesh scored a humongous 349/6 on the board, on the back of Mushfir Raim’s quickfire and blistering knock of 100* in just 60 balls.&nbsp;

Najmul Hossain Shanto and Litton Das were too impressed with their batting performances by scoring 73 and 70 runs respectively. Ireland would be hoping for a strong comeback with this match. Bangladesh on the other hand would be looking to win the final ODI and thereby win the series by 2-0. In the first match, Towhid scored 92 runs in just 85 balls and in the 2nd ODI, Hridoy scored 49 runs in 34 balls before being sent back to the pavilion by Mark Adair. These two players can be the top pick for this third ODI match as well.&nbsp;

<h2>BAN vs IRE 3rd ODI live: Predicted Playing XI</h2>

Bangladesh: Tamim Iqbal (C), Towhid Hridoy, Nazmul Hossain Shanto, Shakib Al Hasan, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Mushfiqur Rahim, Liton Das, Taskin Ahmed, Ebadot Hossain, Mustafizur Rahman, Nasum Ahmed

Ireland:&nbsp;Paul Stirling, Andrew Balbirnie (C), Harry Tector, Gareth Delany, George Dockrell, G Hume, Fionn Hand, Lorcan Tucker, Stephen Doheny, Andy McBrine, Mark Adair

Here are all the live-streaming details of the upcoming ODI match:

<h2>When is the 3rd ODI match between Bangladesh and Ireland?- Date</h2>

The 3rd ODI match between Bangladesh and Ireland is on Wednesday, March 22.

<h2>Where is the 3rd ODI match between Bangladesh and Ireland?- Venue</h2>

The 3rd ODI match between Bangladesh and Ireland will be played at the Sylhet International Stadium in Sylhet, Bangladesh.&nbsp;

<h2>Where to watch the 3rd ODI match between Bangladesh vs Ireland live on television in India?</h2>

The 3rd ODI match between Bangladesh vs Ireland will not be telecasted live on television in India.

<h2>Where to watch the live streaming of the 3rd ODI match between Bangladesh vs Ireland in India?</h2>

The live streaming of the 3rd ODI match between Bangladesh and Ireland will be done on the FanCode application and website in India.

 
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BAN vs IRE- 3rd ODI Live: Bangladesh and Ireland’s third and final ODI match will kick off on Wednesday, March 22. The match will take place at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium in Sylhet, Bangladesh at 2:00 pm IST.

BAN vs IRE- 3rd ODI Live: Bangladesh and Ireland’s third and final ODI match will kick off on Wednesday, March 22. The match will take place at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium in Sylhet, Bangladesh at 2:00 pm IST. The hosts currently have a 1-0 lead in the ODI series and in the previous ODI, the rain played spoiled the match. Bangladesh scored a humongous 349/6 on the board, on the back of Mushfir Raim’s quickfire and blistering knock of 100* in just 60 balls. Najmul Hossain Shanto and Litton Das were too impressed with their batting performances by scoring 73 and 70 runs respectively. Ireland would be hoping for a strong comeback with this match. Bangladesh on the other hand would be looking to win the final ODI and thereby win the series by 2-0. In the first match, Towhid scored 92 runs in just 85 balls and in the 2nd ODI, Hridoy scored 49 runs in 34 balls before being sent back to the pavilion by Mark Adair. These two players can be the top pick for this third ODI match as well. BAN vs IRE 3rd ODI live: Predicted Playing XI Bangladesh: Tamim Iqbal (C), Towhid Hridoy, Nazmul Hossain Shanto, Shakib Al Hasan, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Mushfiqur Rahim, Liton Das, Taskin Ahmed, Ebadot Hossain, Mustafizur Rahman, Nasum Ahmed Ireland: Paul Stirling, Andrew Balbirnie (C), Harry Tector, Gareth Delany, George Dockrell, G Hume, Fionn Hand, Lorcan Tucker, Stephen Doheny, Andy McBrine, Mark Adair Here are all the live-streaming details of the upcoming ODI match: When is the 3rd ODI match between Bangladesh and Ireland?- Date The 3rd ODI match between Bangladesh and Ireland is on Wednesday, March 22. Where is the 3rd ODI match between Bangladesh and Ireland?- Venue The 3rd ODI match between Bangladesh and Ireland will be played at the Sylhet International Stadium in Sylhet, Bangladesh. Where to watch the 3rd ODI match between Bangladesh vs Ireland live on television in India? The 3rd ODI match between Bangladesh vs Ireland will not be telecasted live on television in India. Where to watch the live streaming of the 3rd ODI match between Bangladesh vs Ireland in India? The live streaming of the 3rd ODI match between Bangladesh and Ireland will be done on the FanCode application and website in India. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

BAN vs IRE 3rd ODI Live Streaming: When & where to watch Bangladesh vs Ireland 3rd ODI match on mobile, laptop

At least 19&nbsp;people were killed and 25&nbsp;injured after a speeding bus skidded off the road and fell into a ditch in Bangladesh at 8 am (0200 GMT) on Sunday.

The police said that they expect the death toll to increase as many of the injured were in critical condition.

According to initial reports, the accident happened after the driver lost control and drove the Dhaka-bound bus into the railing of a recently built major expressway in Madaripur and as a result, it tumbled into a 30-foot-deep&nbsp;ditch.

“The accident is believed to have been caused due to reckless driving and mechanical failure of the bus,” bdnews24, a news portal quoted Madaripur Police Superintendent Md Masud Alam as saying.

According to media reports, the bus departed from Khulna's Fultala bus counter at 4 am and was headed to the Shibbari Royal Hotel intersection before leaving for Dhaka.

Three units of fire service are carrying out rescue work, Lima Khanam, duty officer of the Fire Service and Civil Defence Headquarters who is carrying rescue efforts, said.

The officials are yet to identify the dead and the injured.

Md Sabuj Khan, an employee&nbsp;of the Shonadanga bus counter, told The Daily Star newspaper that the Emad Paribahan bus left for Dhaka with more than 43 passengers.

Madaripur Deputy Commissioner Dr Rahima Khaton told Dhaka Tribune newspaper that a probe will be launched to figure out why the accident took place.

Road accidents are common in Bangladesh due to old and badly maintained vehicles and roads, as well as poorly trained drivers.

A highway accident monitor said a record 9,951 people were killed in road accidents in Bangladesh last year.

(With inputs from agencies)

 
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At least 19 people were killed and 25 injured after a speeding bus skidded off the road and fell into a ditch in Bangladesh at 8 am (0200 GMT) on Sunday. The police said that they expect the death toll to increase as many of the injured were in critical condition.

At least 19 people were killed and 25 injured after a speeding bus skidded off the road and fell into a ditch in Bangladesh at 8 am (0200 GMT) on Sunday. The police said that they expect the death toll to increase as many of the injured were in critical condition. According to initial reports, the accident happened after the driver lost control and drove the Dhaka-bound bus into the railing of a recently built major expressway in Madaripur and as a result, it tumbled into a 30-foot-deep ditch. “The accident is believed to have been caused due to reckless driving and mechanical failure of the bus,” bdnews24, a news portal quoted Madaripur Police Superintendent Md Masud Alam as saying. According to media reports, the bus departed from Khulna's Fultala bus counter at 4 am and was headed to the Shibbari Royal Hotel intersection before leaving for Dhaka. Three units of fire service are carrying out rescue work, Lima Khanam, duty officer of the Fire Service and Civil Defence Headquarters who is carrying rescue efforts, said. The officials are yet to identify the dead and the injured. Md Sabuj Khan, an employee of the Shonadanga bus counter, told The Daily Star newspaper that the Emad Paribahan bus left for Dhaka with more than 43 passengers. Madaripur Deputy Commissioner Dr Rahima Khaton told Dhaka Tribune newspaper that a probe will be launched to figure out why the accident took place. Road accidents are common in Bangladesh due to old and badly maintained vehicles and roads, as well as poorly trained drivers. A highway accident monitor said a record 9,951 people were killed in road accidents in Bangladesh last year. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Bangladesh: 19 killed, 25 injured after bus skids off road and falls into 30-foot ditch

+ India's soft power at the Oscars + What's next for Imran Khan? + B'desh panel: Fire at Rohingya camp, a sabotage + Solar fence along India-Bhutan border mitigates human-elephant conflict

Inside South Asia: India's soft power at Oscars; What's next for Imran Khan?

In&nbsp;the latest, the US law department is looking into the Chinese company that controls TikTok's monitoring of US residents, including numerous journalists who cover the tech sector.&nbsp;In other news, former US president, Donald Trump has posted on Facebook for the first time after being reinstated. Separately, India and Bangladesh are all set to unveil a new energy pipeline today (March 18), adding a fresh layer to their bilateral relations.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-justice-department-fbi-investigates-tiktok-over-allegations-of-spying-573167">US Justice Department, FBI investigates TikTok over allegations of spying</a>

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TikTok, the video-sharing application owned by Chinese company ByteDance, is being investigated by the Department of Justice and FBI over the allegations of its employees spying on journalists, said a law enforcement official on Friday as per media reports.

Justice Department prosecutors are conducting the investigation in the Eastern District of Virginia and in Washington along with the FBI, said the officials.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/youtube-reinstates-donald-trumps-account-after-two-year-suspension-573171">'I'M BACK': Trump writes first post on his reinstated Facebook, YouTube account</a>

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United States former president Donald Trump on Friday uploaded his first post on his Facebook and YouTube accounts&nbsp;which were reinstated after being banned for more than two years over the US Capitol insurrection.

"I'M BACK," Trump wrote, while sharing a 12-second video clip in which he appeared to be giving his victory speech after winning the elections in 2016. In the video, he was seen exclaiming, "Sorry to keep you waiting - complicated business."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/code-for-recommending-tweets-will-be-public-says-elon-musk-573189">Code used for recommending tweets will be public, says Elon Musk</a>

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Twitter owner Elon Musk on Friday announced that the social media platform will soon make the long-secret algorithm public for recommending tweets.

The code through which recommendations for posts are made to users will become "open source" by the end of March, said Musk in a tweet.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/new-paradigm-in-india-bangladesh-friendship-pm-modi-sheikh-hasina-to-inaugurate-joint-energy-pipeline-573193">New paradigm in India-Bangladesh friendship: PM Modi, Sheikh Hasina to inaugurate joint energy pipeline</a>

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The first energy pipeline between India and Bangladesh will be opened on Saturday (March 18)&nbsp;via video conference between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bangladeshi counterpart, Sheikh Hasina.&nbsp;

This pipeline, which is expected to cost Rs 377 crore, will be the first cross-border pipeline between the two nations. The sum of the costs includes the Rs 285 crore spent on paving the section on the Bangladeshi side, as reported by PTI.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Democrats accuse Trump of violating gift law, says 'he failed to report foreign gifts'

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In the latest, the US law department is looking into the Chinese company that controls TikTok's monitoring of US residents, including numerous journalists who cover the tech sector.

In the latest, the US law department is looking into the Chinese company that controls TikTok's monitoring of US residents, including numerous journalists who cover the tech sector. In other news, former US president, Donald Trump has posted on Facebook for the first time after being reinstated. Separately, India and Bangladesh are all set to unveil a new energy pipeline today (March 18), adding a fresh layer to their bilateral relations. Click on the headlines to read more. US Justice Department, FBI investigates TikTok over allegations of spying TikTok, the video-sharing application owned by Chinese company ByteDance, is being investigated by the Department of Justice and FBI over the allegations of its employees spying on journalists, said a law enforcement official on Friday as per media reports. Justice Department prosecutors are conducting the investigation in the Eastern District of Virginia and in Washington along with the FBI, said the officials. 'I'M BACK': Trump writes first post on his reinstated Facebook, YouTube account United States former president Donald Trump on Friday uploaded his first post on his Facebook and YouTube accounts which were reinstated after being banned for more than two years over the US Capitol insurrection. "I'M BACK," Trump wrote, while sharing a 12-second video clip in which he appeared to be giving his victory speech after winning the elections in 2016. In the video, he was seen exclaiming, "Sorry to keep you waiting - complicated business." Code used for recommending tweets will be public, says Elon Musk Twitter owner Elon Musk on Friday announced that the social media platform will soon make the long-secret algorithm public for recommending tweets. The code through which recommendations for posts are made to users will become "open source" by the end of March, said Musk in a tweet. New paradigm in India-Bangladesh friendship: PM Modi, Sheikh Hasina to inaugurate joint energy pipeline The first energy pipeline between India and Bangladesh will be opened on Saturday (March 18) via video conference between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bangladeshi counterpart, Sheikh Hasina. This pipeline, which is expected to cost Rs 377 crore, will be the first cross-border pipeline between the two nations. The sum of the costs includes the Rs 285 crore spent on paving the section on the Bangladeshi side, as reported by PTI. WATCH | Democrats accuse Trump of violating gift law, says 'he failed to report foreign gifts'

Morning news brief: US probes TikTok over spying allegations, Trump posts on reinstated FB account, & more

The first energy pipeline between India and Bangladesh will be opened on Saturday (March 18)&nbsp;by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bangladeshi counterpart, Sheikh Hasina via video conference.&nbsp;

This pipeline, which is expected to cost Rs 377 crore, will be the first cross-border pipeline between the two nations. The sum of the costs includes the Rs 285 crore spent on paving the section on the Bangladeshi side, reported PTI.&nbsp;

“Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Prime Minister of Bangladesh&nbsp;Sheikh Hasina will inaugurate the India-Bangladesh friendship pipeline on March 18 at 1700 hours (IST) via video-conference,” the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement on Friday.

“This is the first cross-border energy pipeline between India and Bangladesh, built at an estimated cost of INR 377 crore (INR 3.77 billion), of which the Bangladesh portion of the pipeline built at a cost of approximately Rs 285 crore (INR 2.85 billion), has been borne by the Government of India under grant assistance,” it said in a statement.

According to the MEA, the pipeline has the ability to move 1 million MMTPA of high-speed diesel. It would initially provide high-speed diesel to seven districts in northern Bangladesh.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/united-states-of-kailasa-indian-godmans-fictional-country-cons-30-us-cities-with-sister-city-scam-573222">United States of Kailasa’: Fugitive godman’s fictional country cons 30 US cities, inks ‘sister city’ pact</a>

“The operation of India-Bangladesh Friendship Pipeline will put in place a sustainable, reliable, cost-effective and environment-friendly mode of transporting HSD from India to&nbsp;Bangladesh and will further enhance cooperation in energy security between the two countries,” the MEA said.

This most recent endeavour is in keeping with India's Neighbourhood First Policy, which has been a cornerstone of its foreign policy during this time.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;Bangladesh Panel: Fire at Rohingya camp, a sabotage | Inside South Asia

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Premier Sheikh Hasina visited India in September as part of a state visit and spoke with PM Modi on a one-on-one basis. The strong bilateral connections, founded on long-standing historical and brotherly ties and a commitment to democracy and pluralism, were commended by both leaders for their great state.&nbsp;

In terms of funds disbursed during the previous financial year, MEA reports that India overtook China as Bangladesh's leading partner in development cooperation. India has provided Bangladesh with concessional loans of approximately USD 10 billion, including through three of its largest bilateral lines of credit.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

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The first energy pipeline between India and Bangladesh will be opened on Saturday (March 18) by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bangladeshi counterpart, Sheikh Hasina via video conference.

The first energy pipeline between India and Bangladesh will be opened on Saturday (March 18) by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bangladeshi counterpart, Sheikh Hasina via video conference. This pipeline, which is expected to cost Rs 377 crore, will be the first cross-border pipeline between the two nations. The sum of the costs includes the Rs 285 crore spent on paving the section on the Bangladeshi side, reported PTI. “Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Prime Minister of Bangladesh Sheikh Hasina will inaugurate the India-Bangladesh friendship pipeline on March 18 at 1700 hours (IST) via video-conference,” the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement on Friday. “This is the first cross-border energy pipeline between India and Bangladesh, built at an estimated cost of INR 377 crore (INR 3.77 billion), of which the Bangladesh portion of the pipeline built at a cost of approximately Rs 285 crore (INR 2.85 billion), has been borne by the Government of India under grant assistance,” it said in a statement. According to the MEA, the pipeline has the ability to move 1 million MMTPA of high-speed diesel. It would initially provide high-speed diesel to seven districts in northern Bangladesh. ALSO READ | United States of Kailasa’: Fugitive godman’s fictional country cons 30 US cities, inks ‘sister city’ pact “The operation of India-Bangladesh Friendship Pipeline will put in place a sustainable, reliable, cost-effective and environment-friendly mode of transporting HSD from India to Bangladesh and will further enhance cooperation in energy security between the two countries,” the MEA said. This most recent endeavour is in keeping with India's Neighbourhood First Policy, which has been a cornerstone of its foreign policy during this time. ALSO WATCH | Bangladesh Panel: Fire at Rohingya camp, a sabotage | Inside South Asia Premier Sheikh Hasina visited India in September as part of a state visit and spoke with PM Modi on a one-on-one basis. The strong bilateral connections, founded on long-standing historical and brotherly ties and a commitment to democracy and pluralism, were commended by both leaders for their great state. In terms of funds disbursed during the previous financial year, MEA reports that India overtook China as Bangladesh's leading partner in development cooperation. India has provided Bangladesh with concessional loans of approximately USD 10 billion, including through three of its largest bilateral lines of credit. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

New paradigm in India-Bangladesh ties: PM Modi, Sheikh Hasina to inaugurate cross-border energy pipeline

10 days after a deadly fire in a Rohingya refugee camp, a Bangladesh probe report suggests the blaze was a 'planned and purposeful act of sabotage'. Investigators say the fire broke out in several places at the same time, proving it was a planned act.

Bangladesh Panel: Fire at Rohingya camp, a sabotage | Inside South Asia

Bangladesh beat world champions England by four wickets in the second T20I in Mirpur and took a 2-0 unassailable lead in the three-match series. First T20I's hero Najmul Hossain Shanto led the home team's charge in a chase of 118 runs and top scored with an unbeaten 46 off 47 balls.

Apart from Shanto, Player-of-the-Match Mehidy Hasan Miraz also contributed 20 runs off 16 balls alongside his 4/12 in four overs. Earlier, England were asked to bat first after losing the toss and had a horrible start as they lost Dawid Malan for 16. Phil Salt and Moeen Ali then stitched a 34-run partnership for the second wicket but three wickets for seven runs left England reeling four down for 57 runs at the end of nine overs.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/he-got-decent-batting-track-says-aussie-keeper-alex-carey-on-virat-kohlis-century-in-ahmedabad-test-571202">'He got decent batting track,' says Aussie keeper Alex Carey on Virat Kohli's century in Ahmedabad Test</a>

Ben Duckett, who top scored for England with 28 off 28, tried to hold one end for a bit but kept losing wickets at the other end. In the next eight overs after the ninth, the tourists could manage only 43 runs while losing three more wickets and Mehidy took all of them.

The death overs' charge never came as England folded for a paltry 117 runs on the last ball of the innings. Apart from Mehidy, Shakib Al Hasan, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman and Hasan Mahmud took one wicket each.

Chasing 118, Bangladesh's start was also rocked by the pacers they lost two wickets in the powerplay, one each to Sam Curran and Jofra Archer. Shanto, however, stood tall and two partnerships - one of 29 runs with Towhid Hridoy (17) and 41 runs with Mehidy- ensured the home team stayed on course.

Two quick wickets for five runs, including of Shakib, threatened to make the chase excitement but Shanto's innings ensured that Bangladesh would chase the target with seven balls to spare and no further loss of wicket. Jorfra Archer took 3/13 in his four overs for England.

The third and final T20I of the series will be played on Tuesday, March 14.

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Bangladesh beat world champions England by four wickets in the second T20I in Mirpur and took a 2-0 unassailable lead in the three-match series. First T20I's hero Najmul Hossain Shanto led the home team's charge in a chase of 118 runs and top scored with an unbeaten 46 off 47 balls.

Bangladesh beat world champions England by four wickets in the second T20I in Mirpur and took a 2-0 unassailable lead in the three-match series. First T20I's hero Najmul Hossain Shanto led the home team's charge in a chase of 118 runs and top scored with an unbeaten 46 off 47 balls. Apart from Shanto, Player-of-the-Match Mehidy Hasan Miraz also contributed 20 runs off 16 balls alongside his 4/12 in four overs. Earlier, England were asked to bat first after losing the toss and had a horrible start as they lost Dawid Malan for 16. Phil Salt and Moeen Ali then stitched a 34-run partnership for the second wicket but three wickets for seven runs left England reeling four down for 57 runs at the end of nine overs. Also Read: 'He got decent batting track,' says Aussie keeper Alex Carey on Virat Kohli's century in Ahmedabad Test Ben Duckett, who top scored for England with 28 off 28, tried to hold one end for a bit but kept losing wickets at the other end. In the next eight overs after the ninth, the tourists could manage only 43 runs while losing three more wickets and Mehidy took all of them. The death overs' charge never came as England folded for a paltry 117 runs on the last ball of the innings. Apart from Mehidy, Shakib Al Hasan, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman and Hasan Mahmud took one wicket each. Chasing 118, Bangladesh's start was also rocked by the pacers they lost two wickets in the powerplay, one each to Sam Curran and Jofra Archer. Shanto, however, stood tall and two partnerships - one of 29 runs with Towhid Hridoy (17) and 41 runs with Mehidy- ensured the home team stayed on course. Two quick wickets for five runs, including of Shakib, threatened to make the chase excitement but Shanto's innings ensured that Bangladesh would chase the target with seven balls to spare and no further loss of wicket. Jorfra Archer took 3/13 in his four overs for England. The third and final T20I of the series will be played on Tuesday, March 14. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Bangladesh stun world champion England in second T20I, take unassailable 2-0 lead in series

At least 18 were killed and more than a hundred injured in an explosion in a seven-storey building in Gulistan, a major hub for wholesale goods in the bustling Bangladeshi capital.

Bangladesh: Deadly explosion hits commercial building in Dhaka

An explosion&nbsp;in the Bangladesh&nbsp;capital Dhaka's Gulistan area on Tuesday claimed the lives of 17 people, while over a hundred people are reported to be injured.

Among the injured are the passengers of a local bus which was standing right next to the building where the blast was reported.

ALSO WATCH - 17 killed, over 100 injured as explosion rocks Bangladesh's capital

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Several pedestrians were injured too.&nbsp;

Due to a heavy toll of injured persons, Dhaka Medical College is reportedly struggling to cope up with the pressure of the incoming victims.

More nurses and doctors have been sent to Dhaka Medical College to treat patients.

Officials were also reported to be requesting locals to come forward to donate blood due to the sudden need for new blood units that emerged due to the massive blood loss of the victims of the explosion.

<h2>Dhaka blast:&nbsp;What caused the explosion?</h2>

The nature of the blast, whether spontaneous or a pre-planned terror attack, is not clear yet. The local residents, however, suspected&nbsp;that the chemicals illegally stored inside the building, mostly used as an office and business complex, might have sparked the blast.

"At first, I thought it was an earthquake. The entire Siddik Bazar area was shaken by the blast," eyewitness Safayet Hossain, a local shopkeeper, told The Daily Star newspaper.

"I saw 20-25 people lying in the road in front of a damaged building. They were seriously injured and bleeding. They were crying out for help. Some people were running around in panic," he said.

He added that the locals were carrying the injured in vans and rickshaws to the hospital.

Alamgir, who was close to the blast site, said, "After the loud noise, people quickly came out of the building. There was panic on everyone's faces. The glass of the building's windows shattered and fell onto the street. Many pedestrians on the street were injured."

(With inputs from agencies)

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An explosion in the Bangladesh capital Dhaka's Gulistan area on Tuesday claimed the lives of 17 people, while over a hundred people are reported to be injured. Among the injured are the passengers of a local bus which was standing right next to the building where the blast was reported.

An explosion in the Bangladesh capital Dhaka's Gulistan area on Tuesday claimed the lives of 17 people, while over a hundred people are reported to be injured. Among the injured are the passengers of a local bus which was standing right next to the building where the blast was reported. ALSO WATCH - 17 killed, over 100 injured as explosion rocks Bangladesh's capital × Several pedestrians were injured too. Due to a heavy toll of injured persons, Dhaka Medical College is reportedly struggling to cope up with the pressure of the incoming victims. More nurses and doctors have been sent to Dhaka Medical College to treat patients. Officials were also reported to be requesting locals to come forward to donate blood due to the sudden need for new blood units that emerged due to the massive blood loss of the victims of the explosion. Dhaka blast: What caused the explosion? The nature of the blast, whether spontaneous or a pre-planned terror attack, is not clear yet. The local residents, however, suspected that the chemicals illegally stored inside the building, mostly used as an office and business complex, might have sparked the blast. "At first, I thought it was an earthquake. The entire Siddik Bazar area was shaken by the blast," eyewitness Safayet Hossain, a local shopkeeper, told The Daily Star newspaper. "I saw 20-25 people lying in the road in front of a damaged building. They were seriously injured and bleeding. They were crying out for help. Some people were running around in panic," he said. He added that the locals were carrying the injured in vans and rickshaws to the hospital. Alamgir, who was close to the blast site, said, "After the loud noise, people quickly came out of the building. There was panic on everyone's faces. The glass of the building's windows shattered and fell onto the street. Many pedestrians on the street were injured." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Bangladesh: At least 17 killed, over 100 injured after explosion rocks Dhaka's Gulistan area

At least 16 people killed and over 100 others injured on Tuesday in an explosion at a seven-storey building in Bangladesh's capital. The cause of the explosion could not be known immediately.

Breaking News: 16 killed, over 100 injured as explosion rocks Bangladesh's capital

Hundreds of Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh's Cox's Bazaar area have been rendered homeless after a massive blaze nearly wiped out one of their cramped living camps.

Massive fire at Rohingya camp in Cox's Bazar

A massive fire was reported at a cramped refugee camp for Rohingyas in Bangladesh's Cox’s Bazar district on Sunday (March 5), leaving thousands homeless. The fire is under control, a police official told the news agency Reuters. Earlier, the UNHCR in Bangladesh tweeted, "Rohingya refugee volunteers are responding to a fire in Camp 11. UNHCR and partners are providing support. More information to follow."

No casualties have been reported at the Balukhali camp till now.&nbsp;

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Over one million Rohingya refugees fled to Bangladesh from Myanmar over several decades. These included 740,000 refugees who crossed the border in August 2017, when the Myanmar military launched a brutal crackdown. In 2022, the United States said that the oppression of Rohingyas in Myanmar amounted to genocide following American authorities confirming accounts of mass atrocities against civilians by the military in a systematic campaign against them.&nbsp;

The fire in Cox's Bazar comes a day after at least five people were killed and 25 others injured in an explosion followed by a blaze at an oxygen plant outside Chittagong. Speaking to the news agency AFP on Saturday, a police official said the blast rocked the oxygen unit of the Sheema steel re-rolling mill in the industrial town of Sitakunda at around 4:30 pm (1030 GMT), trapping "many workers" inside the plant.&nbsp;

Witnesses, meanwhile, said the explosion was so loud that it shook all houses in the area. The government has ordered a probe into the explosion.&nbsp; 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

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A massive fire was reported at a cramped refugee camp for Rohingyas in Bangladesh's Cox’s Bazar district on Sunday (March 5), leaving thousands homeless. The fire is under control, a police official told the news agency Reuters.

A massive fire was reported at a cramped refugee camp for Rohingyas in Bangladesh's Cox’s Bazar district on Sunday (March 5), leaving thousands homeless. The fire is under control, a police official told the news agency Reuters. Earlier, the UNHCR in Bangladesh tweeted, "Rohingya refugee volunteers are responding to a fire in Camp 11. UNHCR and partners are providing support. More information to follow." No casualties have been reported at the Balukhali camp till now. Rohingya refugee volunteers are responding to a fire in Camp 11. UNHCR and partners are providing support. More information to follow. pic.twitter.com/9qSf9xunaP — UNHCR in Bangladesh (@UNHCR_BGD) March 5, 2023 × Over one million Rohingya refugees fled to Bangladesh from Myanmar over several decades. These included 740,000 refugees who crossed the border in August 2017, when the Myanmar military launched a brutal crackdown. In 2022, the United States said that the oppression of Rohingyas in Myanmar amounted to genocide following American authorities confirming accounts of mass atrocities against civilians by the military in a systematic campaign against them. The fire in Cox's Bazar comes a day after at least five people were killed and 25 others injured in an explosion followed by a blaze at an oxygen plant outside Chittagong. Speaking to the news agency AFP on Saturday, a police official said the blast rocked the oxygen unit of the Sheema steel re-rolling mill in the industrial town of Sitakunda at around 4:30 pm (1030 GMT), trapping "many workers" inside the plant. Witnesses, meanwhile, said the explosion was so loud that it shook all houses in the area. The government has ordered a probe into the explosion. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Bangladesh: Massive fire in Rohingya refugee camp in Cox's Bazar

'We are very proud of India', says Bangladesh Foreign minister. The Principal Diplomatic Correspondent of WION spoke with Bangladesh Foreign Minister Abul Kalam Abdul Momem, who is in India for the G20 foreign ministers meet.

Bangladesh FM Momen appreciates India, says 'India is taking the leadership of South'

A day after Bangladesh Cricket Board President Nazmul Hasan suggested that the national team was suffering due to 'grouping', ODI Captain Tamim Iqbal has stepped out to clear the air.

A day after Bangladesh Cricket Board President Nazmul Hasan suggested that the national team was suffering due to 'grouping', ODI Captain Tamim Iqbal has stepped out to clear the air. Iqbal insisted there was no rift and that his relationship with all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan was 'normal'. "Our team environment has been good for a number of years. A happy dressing room allows one to achieve the type of results that you are seeing," Iqbal told the reporters ahead of the ODI series against England. The 33-year-old added that whatever relationship the two shared out of the field did not spill when both were wearing the Bangladesh jersey. "The important thing is when Shakib and I put on the Bangladesh jersey, we are giving our best. And if we are helping each other when we are leading the teams, nothing else matters." "I can assure you that I always get his help as an ODI captain, and I am always there if needs any suggestions in the Test team. When we bat together, or when we are celebrating his wicket, it's absolutely normal," he added. Reporter asks Shakib Al Hasan to reveal chat details with umpires in India tie, all-rounder reacts - WATCH Iqbal was forced to issue a clarification after Hasan, in an interview with Cricbuzz claimed that the environment in the dressing room was not "healthy". "The biggest problem for Bangladesh cricket at the moment is this grouping, and that is the reality. I don't have a problem with anything else," Hasan told the website. "I am only scared about this grouping and I only came to know about it in recent times. Even in the World Cup, what I have seen and heard despite not staying in their hotel... I cannot believe how it is possible. We have to put an end to it if we want to see a good future because one thing everyone needs to understand is that there is no scope for grouping." For a long time, it has been said in hushed tones in cricketing circles that Iqbal and Shakib do not share a cordial relationship. They have been teammates since the mid-2000s after bursting onto the scene, Currently, Iqbal captains the ODI side while Shakib has the charge of the Test and T20I teams. Bangladesh will play a three-match ODI series against England starting next week, before ending the tour with a three-match T20I series. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Tamim Iqbal denies rift with Shakib, a day after BCB chief opened can of worms

On January 1, new textbooks were rolled out by the Bangladesh government for millions of schoolchildren between the age of 11 and 13 featuring a segment on transgenders.

The textbook contains images of transgenders in respectable jobs, including a beautician, a development worker and an elected mayor. The book narrates a fictional story of a child who transitions, takes a female name and goes to live with a transgender community.

The government recognised transgenders as a third gender in 2013, but they remain marginalised in a country where sexual activity between people of the same sex is illegal. Many transgenders live in poverty and have no opportunity for a proper education, much less a job. Many are forced to beg or engage in sex work to survive.

The creators of the book hope it will help nurture acceptance.

Muhammad Moshiuzzaman, a member of the National Curriculum and Textbook Board, said, “We have piloted it in very small areas, and we got a very positive result, response from our students, because it was a completely unknown matter to them. It is new knowledge for them and they accepted it very well.”

“We came to know about them by learning from the book, we think we should help them with their progress," said Fatiah Alam, 12, a student at Gomail High school on the outskirts of the capital Dhaka, one of the schools that uses the new textbook.

According to officials, there are about 10,000 'hijras' (transgenders) in Bangladesh but rights groups say the figure could be as high as 1.5 million in the country of 170 million people.

The textbook has not been welcomed by everyone. A large crowd of conservative Muslims angered by the inclusion of hijras recently held a protest at Dhaka’s main mosque calling for the textbook to be recalled.

Nevertheless, the transgender community and their supporters are hopeful that the textbooks will spread awareness and in turn help improve their status in society.

"If our story catches people's attention and they keep our suffering in mind, that will be good for us. Those who learn more about us will hopefully understand and then work towards our development in the future," transgender community leader Jonak told Reuters at her office in Dhaka.

(With inputs from agencies)

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On January 1, new textbooks were rolled out by the Bangladesh government for millions of schoolchildren between the age of 11 and 13 featuring a segment on transgenders.

On January 1, new textbooks were rolled out by the Bangladesh government for millions of schoolchildren between the age of 11 and 13 featuring a segment on transgenders. The textbook contains images of transgenders in respectable jobs, including a beautician, a development worker and an elected mayor. The book narrates a fictional story of a child who transitions, takes a female name and goes to live with a transgender community. The government recognised transgenders as a third gender in 2013, but they remain marginalised in a country where sexual activity between people of the same sex is illegal. Many transgenders live in poverty and have no opportunity for a proper education, much less a job. Many are forced to beg or engage in sex work to survive. The creators of the book hope it will help nurture acceptance. Muhammad Moshiuzzaman, a member of the National Curriculum and Textbook Board, said, “We have piloted it in very small areas, and we got a very positive result, response from our students, because it was a completely unknown matter to them. It is new knowledge for them and they accepted it very well.” “We came to know about them by learning from the book, we think we should help them with their progress," said Fatiah Alam, 12, a student at Gomail High school on the outskirts of the capital Dhaka, one of the schools that uses the new textbook. According to officials, there are about 10,000 'hijras' (transgenders) in Bangladesh but rights groups say the figure could be as high as 1.5 million in the country of 170 million people. The textbook has not been welcomed by everyone. A large crowd of conservative Muslims angered by the inclusion of hijras recently held a protest at Dhaka’s main mosque calling for the textbook to be recalled. Nevertheless, the transgender community and their supporters are hopeful that the textbooks will spread awareness and in turn help improve their status in society. "If our story catches people's attention and they keep our suffering in mind, that will be good for us. Those who learn more about us will hopefully understand and then work towards our development in the future," transgender community leader Jonak told Reuters at her office in Dhaka. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

New school textbooks in Bangladesh feature transgender people

Bangladesh government led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina shut down the only newspaper of the main opposition party, on Monday (February 20). This comes after a government suspension order was upheld by a watchdog, reported AFP. The newspaper in question is the Dainik Dinkal, a Bengali-language broadsheet, employing hundreds of journalists and press workers and has been an important voice for the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) for more than three decades now. The unions and journalists also staged protests over the shutdown, on Monday, in the capital city, Dhaka.&nbsp;

In a statement, two Dhaka-based journalist unions noted that the decision was a “reflection of the repression of opposition voices”, as per AFP. The closure of Dainik Dinkal was also met with small protests held by unions and journalists, on Monday, in the capital city. The authorities in the Dhaka district ordered the shutdown on December 26, but the publication was allowed to continue operations after submitting an appeal to the Press Council headed by a top high court judge.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/mohammad-shahabuddin-chuppu-poised-to-become-the-next-president-of-bangladesh-561180">Mohammad Shahabuddin Chuppu poised to become the next president of Bangladesh</a>

“The council rejected our appeal yesterday (Sunday), upholding the district magistrate's order to stop our publication,” said the Dainik Dinkal managing editor, Shamsur Rahman Shimul Biswas, to AFP. Additionally, a copy of the order procured by the news agency said that the printing permit of the newspaper was revoked for violating the country’s printing and publication laws.

The council said that the paper’s publisher and acting chief of BNP, Tarique Rahman was a convicted criminal, living in another country and left without handing his job over to another person. However, Biwas told AFP that Rahman submitted his resignation as well as appointed a new publisher but officials have refused to acknowledge these changes and said, “This shutdown is all part of the government crackdown on dissenting voices and freedom of speech”. &nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/is-bangladesh-blocking-all-indian-media-channels-heres-the-truth-417315">Is Bangladesh blocking all Indian media channels? Here's the truth</a>

Reportedly, the publication is said to have been covering stories that the mainstream newspapers, allegedly run by pro-government businessmen rarely did. This has led to frequent arrests of BNP activists and the party has claimed thousands of fake cases against their supporters. The closure also comes a month after the incumbent PM’s government ordered the shutdown of nearly 200 which it has accused of publishing “anti-state news” citing intelligence reports.&nbsp;

Notably, campaigners and foreign governments including the United States have previously raised concerns about media freedom in the South Asian nation under PM Hasina who has reportedly taken efforts to stifle criticism. Hasina’s government in the past few years has repeatedly ordered the shutdown of several websites, including ahead of the national elections in December 2018.&nbsp; 
 
 
&nbsp;

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Bangladesh government led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina shut down the only newspaper of the main opposition party, on Monday (February 20). This comes after a government suspension order was upheld by a watchdog, reported AFP.

Bangladesh government led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina shut down the only newspaper of the main opposition party, on Monday (February 20). This comes after a government suspension order was upheld by a watchdog, reported AFP. The newspaper in question is the Dainik Dinkal, a Bengali-language broadsheet, employing hundreds of journalists and press workers and has been an important voice for the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) for more than three decades now. The unions and journalists also staged protests over the shutdown, on Monday, in the capital city, Dhaka. In a statement, two Dhaka-based journalist unions noted that the decision was a “reflection of the repression of opposition voices”, as per AFP. The closure of Dainik Dinkal was also met with small protests held by unions and journalists, on Monday, in the capital city. The authorities in the Dhaka district ordered the shutdown on December 26, but the publication was allowed to continue operations after submitting an appeal to the Press Council headed by a top high court judge. ALSO READ | Mohammad Shahabuddin Chuppu poised to become the next president of Bangladesh “The council rejected our appeal yesterday (Sunday), upholding the district magistrate's order to stop our publication,” said the Dainik Dinkal managing editor, Shamsur Rahman Shimul Biswas, to AFP. Additionally, a copy of the order procured by the news agency said that the printing permit of the newspaper was revoked for violating the country’s printing and publication laws. The council said that the paper’s publisher and acting chief of BNP, Tarique Rahman was a convicted criminal, living in another country and left without handing his job over to another person. However, Biwas told AFP that Rahman submitted his resignation as well as appointed a new publisher but officials have refused to acknowledge these changes and said, “This shutdown is all part of the government crackdown on dissenting voices and freedom of speech”. ALSO READ | Is Bangladesh blocking all Indian media channels? Here's the truth Reportedly, the publication is said to have been covering stories that the mainstream newspapers, allegedly run by pro-government businessmen rarely did. This has led to frequent arrests of BNP activists and the party has claimed thousands of fake cases against their supporters. The closure also comes a month after the incumbent PM’s government ordered the shutdown of nearly 200 which it has accused of publishing “anti-state news” citing intelligence reports. Notably, campaigners and foreign governments including the United States have previously raised concerns about media freedom in the South Asian nation under PM Hasina who has reportedly taken efforts to stifle criticism. Hasina’s government in the past few years has repeatedly ordered the shutdown of several websites, including ahead of the national elections in December 2018. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Bangladesh government shuts down only newspaper of the main opposition party, sparks protests

In a shocking but not altogether surprising move, fourteen Hindu temples in Thakurgaon in Bangladesh were vandalised on February 5, in a series of pre-meditated attacks. Nine idols in Sindurpindi and four in Collegepara area of Paria Union and fourteen idols in a temple in Sahbajpur Nathpara area of Charol Union were also desecrated.

Unfortunately, police have not been as active as they should have been. The Hindu community in Bangladesh, which is always in minority, is distressed on repeated assaults on their religion and deities by Islamic fanatics. According to them, in the latest incident, many idols were not only destroyed but were found inside the pond&nbsp;along the temple locations. Local leaders say that such communal violence targeting Hindu idols in this particular region is unprecedented and undermines interfaith harmony.

Meanwhile, Hindu social and cultural groups have angrily reacted over this incident calling for a fair and impartial investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice. Leading politicians assess that in view of the upcoming elections, likely within this year, chances of such attacks&nbsp;in order to whip up communal frenzy have spiked. Clearly, this is the handiwork of communally inclined fanatical elements who thrive only on the politics of religion.&nbsp;

In the meantime,&nbsp;politicking for the next Bangladesh election is steadily entering into a feverish pitch and the opposition Bangladesh National Party (BNP) has intensified its meetings and rallies. They are in a mood for provocation so that the law and order agencies unleash a crackdown on them or spark communal violence to discredit the present regime so as to deprive them of the votes they are ordinarily banking upon. &nbsp;

Economic issues are highlighted time and again and the opposition in their rhetoric are raising apprehensions about a Sri Lanka type economic meltdown so as to confuse the countrywide electorate. On its part, the ruling Awami League (AL) has started highlighting its achievements in the preceding five years outlining the development projects, construction of Padma Bridge, and effective control over the crime &amp; law and order situation. &nbsp;

AL has also projected in its progress report, various successes attained on its external policies maintaining harmonious&nbsp;relations with many countries including the ones in the neighbourhood. &nbsp;AL also claims, while assuring the people, that 2024 elections will be peaceful, inclusive and competitive. However, critics of AL feel that while development work&nbsp;in Bangladesh has&nbsp;shown stellar results and the average income and life expectancy has&nbsp;increased, development alone can not win popularity or people’s confidence. According to them, people want further freedom of speech, freedom of thought and freedom of media.

AL leaders are hopeful that over the past 14 years, they have taken the country along the development highway, that people will spontaneously vote for them and bring them to power in the next election. Surely, they recall, there were&nbsp;significant developments in Sheikh Hasina's first term too. The allowances for poor and distressed people were initiated in that term. They had managed the floods well too. Despite the World Bank's opposition, the government had provided plenty of subsidies to agriculture and people had reaped the benefits. But even after so much achievement and success, the Awami League failed dismally in the 2001 elections.

On the whole, this time elections are bound to be tough according to Dr Syed Mudassar Ali, a well-known Bangladesh academic and an election analyst. He recommends that the onus now is on the people of Bangladesh who should collectively join hands together to consolidate the developmental gains. In other words, he means that much will not help if the people look up only to Prime Minister and ruling party leader Sheikh Hasina and instead, they need to comprehend the directions given by her and convert roadmap into votes. Corruption is the other issue which is likely to dominate the electoral politics ahead of the elections. Opposition is certain to exploit this issue as this menace has seeped in deeply into the Bangladesh system of administration and it looks an uphill task to extricate it from the body politic. 
&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; 
All said and done, &nbsp;the Jihadi elements in Bangladesh are looking for an opportune movement to capitalise the communal situation so as to vitiate the peaceful atmosphere, divide the society, and sow seeds of discord to blame Hasina for her alleged pro-India and pro-minority policies. &nbsp;In this regard, the seculars, the progressive civil right groups and the intelligentsia must play a pivotal role in keeping the communal elements in check ensuring the deserving party is victorious to defeat the regressive forces for a strong and secular Bangladesh maintaining warm relations with India and other countries.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

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In a shocking but not altogether surprising move, fourteen Hindu temples in Thakurgaon in Bangladesh were vandalised on February 5, in a series of pre-meditated attacks.

In a shocking but not altogether surprising move, fourteen Hindu temples in Thakurgaon in Bangladesh were vandalised on February 5, in a series of pre-meditated attacks. Nine idols in Sindurpindi and four in Collegepara area of Paria Union and fourteen idols in a temple in Sahbajpur Nathpara area of Charol Union were also desecrated. Unfortunately, police have not been as active as they should have been. The Hindu community in Bangladesh, which is always in minority, is distressed on repeated assaults on their religion and deities by Islamic fanatics. According to them, in the latest incident, many idols were not only destroyed but were found inside the pond along the temple locations. Local leaders say that such communal violence targeting Hindu idols in this particular region is unprecedented and undermines interfaith harmony. Meanwhile, Hindu social and cultural groups have angrily reacted over this incident calling for a fair and impartial investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice. Leading politicians assess that in view of the upcoming elections, likely within this year, chances of such attacks in order to whip up communal frenzy have spiked. Clearly, this is the handiwork of communally inclined fanatical elements who thrive only on the politics of religion. In the meantime, politicking for the next Bangladesh election is steadily entering into a feverish pitch and the opposition Bangladesh National Party (BNP) has intensified its meetings and rallies. They are in a mood for provocation so that the law and order agencies unleash a crackdown on them or spark communal violence to discredit the present regime so as to deprive them of the votes they are ordinarily banking upon. Economic issues are highlighted time and again and the opposition in their rhetoric are raising apprehensions about a Sri Lanka type economic meltdown so as to confuse the countrywide electorate. On its part, the ruling Awami League (AL) has started highlighting its achievements in the preceding five years outlining the development projects, construction of Padma Bridge, and effective control over the crime & law and order situation. AL has also projected in its progress report, various successes attained on its external policies maintaining harmonious relations with many countries including the ones in the neighbourhood. AL also claims, while assuring the people, that 2024 elections will be peaceful, inclusive and competitive. However, critics of AL feel that while development work in Bangladesh has shown stellar results and the average income and life expectancy has increased, development alone can not win popularity or people’s confidence. According to them, people want further freedom of speech, freedom of thought and freedom of media. AL leaders are hopeful that over the past 14 years, they have taken the country along the development highway, that people will spontaneously vote for them and bring them to power in the next election. Surely, they recall, there were significant developments in Sheikh Hasina's first term too. The allowances for poor and distressed people were initiated in that term. They had managed the floods well too. Despite the World Bank's opposition, the government had provided plenty of subsidies to agriculture and people had reaped the benefits. But even after so much achievement and success, the Awami League failed dismally in the 2001 elections. On the whole, this time elections are bound to be tough according to Dr Syed Mudassar Ali, a well-known Bangladesh academic and an election analyst. He recommends that the onus now is on the people of Bangladesh who should collectively join hands together to consolidate the developmental gains. In other words, he means that much will not help if the people look up only to Prime Minister and ruling party leader Sheikh Hasina and instead, they need to comprehend the directions given by her and convert roadmap into votes. Corruption is the other issue which is likely to dominate the electoral politics ahead of the elections. Opposition is certain to exploit this issue as this menace has seeped in deeply into the Bangladesh system of administration and it looks an uphill task to extricate it from the body politic. All said and done, the Jihadi elements in Bangladesh are looking for an opportune movement to capitalise the communal situation so as to vitiate the peaceful atmosphere, divide the society, and sow seeds of discord to blame Hasina for her alleged pro-India and pro-minority policies. In this regard, the seculars, the progressive civil right groups and the intelligentsia must play a pivotal role in keeping the communal elements in check ensuring the deserving party is victorious to defeat the regressive forces for a strong and secular Bangladesh maintaining warm relations with India and other countries. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Bangladesh elections are likely to be tough for parties

Mohammad Shahabuddin Chuppu, a former judge and freedom fighter, was elected as the 22nd President of Bangladesh. &nbsp;The 74-year-old was elected unopposed. He was declared winner by default as there was no rival candidate.&nbsp;Chief Election Commissioner Kazi Habibul Awal made the announcement on Monday after scrutinising the nomination papers of Chuppu, a member of the Awami League party. &nbsp;

Chuppu will succeed Mohammad Abdul Hamid, one of the longest-serving Presidents of Bangladesh.&nbsp;

Hamiid’s term will end on April 23, and according to the Constitution, he cannot hold a third term.&nbsp;

On Monday, Hamid greeted the president-elect over the phone and wished him success.&nbsp;Chuppu was a district and sessions judge, and after his retirement, he served as one of the commissioners of the independent Anti-Corruption Commission.&nbsp;

He then took a political plunge and became a member of the Awami League Advisory Council, which comprises senior party leaders and technocrats.&nbsp;

<h2>Mohd Shahabuddin Chuppu set to become Bangladesh's new President</h2>

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Chuppu will have to relinquish the party post to become the titular head of the State.&nbsp;

The 74-year-old was born in the northwestern Pabna district. He was a leader of Awami League’s student and youth wings in the late 1960s and early 1970s. &nbsp; &nbsp;

He also participated in the 1971 Liberation War and was imprisoned for waging a protest after the August 15, 1975 assassination of Bangladesh’s founder Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman —the father of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina — in a military coup along with most of his family members.&nbsp;

In 1982, he was inducted into the country’s judicial service. &nbsp; He served as the coordinator of the Bangabandhu murder trial when Awami League returned to power in the 1996 elections.&nbsp;

His wife Rebeka Sultana is the former joint secretary to the government.&nbsp;

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Mohammad Shahabuddin Chuppu, a former judge and freedom fighter, was elected as the 22nd President of Bangladesh. The 74-year-old was elected unopposed. He was declared winner by default as there was no rival candidate.

Mohammad Shahabuddin Chuppu, a former judge and freedom fighter, was elected as the 22nd President of Bangladesh. The 74-year-old was elected unopposed. He was declared winner by default as there was no rival candidate. Chief Election Commissioner Kazi Habibul Awal made the announcement on Monday after scrutinising the nomination papers of Chuppu, a member of the Awami League party. Chuppu will succeed Mohammad Abdul Hamid, one of the longest-serving Presidents of Bangladesh. Hamiid’s term will end on April 23, and according to the Constitution, he cannot hold a third term. On Monday, Hamid greeted the president-elect over the phone and wished him success. Chuppu was a district and sessions judge, and after his retirement, he served as one of the commissioners of the independent Anti-Corruption Commission. He then took a political plunge and became a member of the Awami League Advisory Council, which comprises senior party leaders and technocrats. Mohd Shahabuddin Chuppu set to become Bangladesh's new President Chuppu will have to relinquish the party post to become the titular head of the State. The 74-year-old was born in the northwestern Pabna district. He was a leader of Awami League’s student and youth wings in the late 1960s and early 1970s. He also participated in the 1971 Liberation War and was imprisoned for waging a protest after the August 15, 1975 assassination of Bangladesh’s founder Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman —the father of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina — in a military coup along with most of his family members. In 1982, he was inducted into the country’s judicial service. He served as the coordinator of the Bangabandhu murder trial when Awami League returned to power in the 1996 elections. His wife Rebeka Sultana is the former joint secretary to the government. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Mohammad Chuppu elected 22nd President of Bangladesh 

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