As Donald Trump took over the administration in the United States, he has made a series of changes. In his new move, the US has ordered an immediate cease or suspension of any work in Bangladesh under contracts, work orders, grants, cooperative agreements, or other assistance or procurement instruments.
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) said in a letter that the partners shall not resume work under their awards until they receive a notification in writing from the contracting/agreement officer.&nbsp;
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-secretary-of-state-marco-rubio-donald-trump-freezes-foreign-aid-military-funding-for-israel-egypt-8651682" rel="dofollow"> 'Manufactured chaos': US freezes nearly all foreign aid including for Ukraine; military funding for Israel, Egypt excempted</a>
"Partners shall take all reasonable steps to minimize the incurrence of costs allocable to their awards," the letter read.&nbsp;
The USAID cited Donald Trump in its letter, saying, "This letter is directing all USAID/Bangladesh implementing partners to immediately cease or suspend any work under your USAID/Bangladesh contract, work order, grant, cooperative agreement, or other assistance or acquisition instrument."
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US halts aid to Yunus Regime-led Bangladesh, notifies Dhaka. <a href="https://t.co/T59KxcXPWP">pic.twitter.com/T59KxcXPWP</a>
&mdash; Kanchan Gupta 🇮🇳 (@KanchanGupta) <a href="https://twitter.com/KanchanGupta/status/1883429723356958967?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 26, 2025</a>
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Following this decision, bankrupt Bangladesh, which is already dealing with a huge economic crisis, will now battle with even more challenges.&nbsp;
Notably, just hours after Trump was sworn in as US President on Jan 20, he ordered a 90-day pause on US foreign development assistance pending a review of efficiencies and consistency with his foreign policy. However, how his order will turn out was not immediately known.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bangladeshi-americans-urge-trump-to-intervene-amid-attacks-against-minorities-8577523" rel="dofollow">Bangladeshi Americans urge Trump to intervene amid attacks against minorities</a>
On Saturday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio ordered a pause on nearly all foreign aid programmes, including possibly for Ukraine, but excluding military funding for Israel and Egypt, according to an internal memo circulated to US officials and embassies abroad.&nbsp;
As the world&rsquo;s largest donor of international aid, the US allocated $68 billion to foreign development efforts in 2023, according to official data.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/bangladesh/bangladesh-forcing-importers-to-source-goods-from-pakistan-amidst-tensions-with-india-report-786194" rel="dofollow">Bangladesh 'forcing' importers to source goods from Pakistan amidst tensions with India: Report</a>
Moreover, the US is the leading contributor of humanitarian assistance in response to the Rohingya crisis and has provided nearly USD 2.4 billion since the violence began in August 2017.&nbsp;
America has also assisted Bangladesh by providing USD 490 million as obligations and another USD 550 million as disbursement in 2023 alone via all its agencies.
(With inputs from agencies)

World: Following this decision, bankrupt Bangladesh, which is already dealing with a huge economic crisis, will now battle with even more challenges. 

As Donald Trump took over the administration in the United States, he has made a series of changes. In his new move, the US has ordered an immediate cease or suspension of any work in Bangladesh under contracts, work orders, grants, cooperative agreements, or other assistance or procurement instruments. The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) said in a letter that the partners shall not resume work under their awards until they receive a notification in writing from the contracting/agreement officer. Also read: 'Manufactured chaos': US freezes nearly all foreign aid including for Ukraine; military funding for Israel, Egypt excempted "Partners shall take all reasonable steps to minimize the incurrence of costs allocable to their awards," the letter read. The USAID cited Donald Trump in its letter, saying, "This letter is directing all USAID/Bangladesh implementing partners to immediately cease or suspend any work under your USAID/Bangladesh contract, work order, grant, cooperative agreement, or other assistance or acquisition instrument." US halts aid to Yunus Regime-led Bangladesh, notifies Dhaka. pic.twitter.com/T59KxcXPWP — Kanchan Gupta 🇮🇳 (@KanchanGupta) January 26, 2025 Following this decision, bankrupt Bangladesh, which is already dealing with a huge economic crisis, will now battle with even more challenges. Notably, just hours after Trump was sworn in as US President on Jan 20, he ordered a 90-day pause on US foreign development assistance pending a review of efficiencies and consistency with his foreign policy. However, how his order will turn out was not immediately known. Also read: Bangladeshi Americans urge Trump to intervene amid attacks against minorities On Saturday, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio ordered a pause on nearly all foreign aid programmes, including possibly for Ukraine, but excluding military funding for Israel and Egypt, according to an internal memo circulated to US officials and embassies abroad. As the world’s largest donor of international aid, the US allocated $68 billion to foreign development efforts in 2023, according to official data. Also read: Bangladesh 'forcing' importers to source goods from Pakistan amidst tensions with India: Report Moreover, the US is the leading contributor of humanitarian assistance in response to the Rohingya crisis and has provided nearly USD 2.4 billion since the violence began in August 2017. America has also assisted Bangladesh by providing USD 490 million as obligations and another USD 550 million as disbursement in 2023 alone via all its agencies. (With inputs from agencies)

US halts funding to Bangladesh under USAID after Trump's 90-day pause on all foreign aid

Bangladesh's deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina&rsquo;s Awami League would not be allowed to participate in elections, a key adviser of Muhammad Yunus's interim government said on Saturday (Jan 25).
"The elections will be contested among pro-Bangladesh groups only,&rdquo; said Mahfuz Alam, a top leader of the Anti-Discrimination Movement, which spearheaded the mass uprising that toppled Hasina&rsquo;s Awami League regime and forced her to flee the country on August 5 last year.
Addressing a street rally at central Chandpur district, Mr. Alam said only former prime minister Khaleda Zia&rsquo;s Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), Jamaat-e-Islam and other &ldquo;pro-Bangladesh&rdquo; groups would carry on their politics in the country. He added that either of these &ldquo;will establish future governance through a fair electoral process&rdquo;.
"But Awami League&rsquo;s rehabilitation will not be allowed in this country,&rdquo; said Alam, a de facto minister without portfolio in Chief Adviser Yunus&rsquo;s administration.
Mr. Alam stated that no election would take place until "minimum reforms" were implemented and institutions, allegedly destroyed by the "fascist Hasina government," were restructured.
Initially appointed by Mr. Yunus as a special assistant in his government, Mr. Alam later served as an adviser in his interim cabinet. At a function on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly last year, Mr. Yunus introduced Mr. Alam as the &ldquo;main brain&rdquo; behind the &ldquo;meticulously&rdquo; designed student-led movement that toppled the past regime.
The Awami League has been virtually out of the open political landscape since August 5, 2024, with most of its leaders and Ms. Hasina&rsquo;s cabinet members either in jail on murder and other criminal charges or on the run at home and abroad.
Earlier, the BNP said it was against banning any political party, visibly weighing its support for archrival Awami League&rsquo;s existence in the political field.
It demanded elections in the quickest possible time after minimal reforms, calling it a continued process.
BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir recently said the reform agenda undertaken by the interim government could take 10 years and an unelected government must not continue for a longer period.
Amid speculations about the formation of a youth-led new political party by the student leaders, BNP said the interim government would lose its credibility if figures of the government formed a party staying in power.
Meanwhile, Local Government and Youth and Sports Adviser Asif Mahmud Sajeeb Bhuiyan, another leader of the Anti-Discrimination Movement, in a Facebook post on Saturday, said "There will be efforts or debates about who is more advanced in doing people's welfare&rdquo;.
Information Affairs adviser Nahid Islam, another student leader said if required the advisers of the government would resign from their posts to form the party and contest the future election.
Last month, Mr. Yunus said the next general election in the country could take place by the end of 2025 or the first half of 2026. He had, however, said the timing of the election would largely depend upon the political consensus and the extent of the reforms that must be carried out before it.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The interim government led by Muhammad Yunus has barred Sheikh Hasina's Awami League from participating in the upcoming elections, signaling a shift in Bangladesh politics.

Bangladesh's deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina’s Awami League would not be allowed to participate in elections, a key adviser of Muhammad Yunus's interim government said on Saturday (Jan 25). "The elections will be contested among pro-Bangladesh groups only,” said Mahfuz Alam, a top leader of the Anti-Discrimination Movement, which spearheaded the mass uprising that toppled Hasina’s Awami League regime and forced her to flee the country on August 5 last year. Addressing a street rally at central Chandpur district, Mr. Alam said only former prime minister Khaleda Zia’s Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), Jamaat-e-Islam and other “pro-Bangladesh” groups would carry on their politics in the country. He added that either of these “will establish future governance through a fair electoral process”. "But Awami League’s rehabilitation will not be allowed in this country,” said Alam, a de facto minister without portfolio in Chief Adviser Yunus’s administration. Mr. Alam stated that no election would take place until "minimum reforms" were implemented and institutions, allegedly destroyed by the "fascist Hasina government," were restructured. Initially appointed by Mr. Yunus as a special assistant in his government, Mr. Alam later served as an adviser in his interim cabinet. At a function on the sidelines of the U.N. General Assembly last year, Mr. Yunus introduced Mr. Alam as the “main brain” behind the “meticulously” designed student-led movement that toppled the past regime. The Awami League has been virtually out of the open political landscape since August 5, 2024, with most of its leaders and Ms. Hasina’s cabinet members either in jail on murder and other criminal charges or on the run at home and abroad. Earlier, the BNP said it was against banning any political party, visibly weighing its support for archrival Awami League’s existence in the political field. It demanded elections in the quickest possible time after minimal reforms, calling it a continued process. BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir recently said the reform agenda undertaken by the interim government could take 10 years and an unelected government must not continue for a longer period. Amid speculations about the formation of a youth-led new political party by the student leaders, BNP said the interim government would lose its credibility if figures of the government formed a party staying in power. Meanwhile, Local Government and Youth and Sports Adviser Asif Mahmud Sajeeb Bhuiyan, another leader of the Anti-Discrimination Movement, in a Facebook post on Saturday, said "There will be efforts or debates about who is more advanced in doing people's welfare”. Information Affairs adviser Nahid Islam, another student leader said if required the advisers of the government would resign from their posts to form the party and contest the future election. Last month, Mr. Yunus said the next general election in the country could take place by the end of 2025 or the first half of 2026. He had, however, said the timing of the election would largely depend upon the political consensus and the extent of the reforms that must be carried out before it. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Won’t allow Awami League to contest Bangladesh polls: Yunus’ adviser

After 16 years behind bars, 126 BDR personnel involved in the 2009 Pilkhana massacre have been released from Kashimpur Jail, marking a significant moment in Bangladesh's ongoing legal and political history.

Pilkhana Massacre: Dhaka court acquits 126 BDR personnel of murder charges

According to the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS), the number of people seeking employment in the country of 170 million has hit 2.66 million.

Economist Yunus leads Bangladesh to economic collapse

Bangladesh is facing mounting economic challenges as both public and private investments remain stagnant. Watch this report for more details!

Bangladesh needs urgent investments to avoid major crisis

Bangladesh risks crisis as investment plummets

Tension erupted on the India-Bangladesh border near a BSF border outpost on Saturday after an altercation between farmers from both countries escalated into a brief clash.

India, Bangladesh farmers clash along border, BSF intervenes

Former Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina, has alleged that there was a conspiracy to kill her and her younger sister, Sheikh Rehana, the moment she was ousted from power. Watch this report for more details!

Ex-Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina alleges conspiracy to kill her and sister

- Border fencing and demarcation- tensions soar between India and Bangladesh at their border areas

- 26 million children are out of school in Pakistan. A look at the severe crisis in education in the county

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All this and much more on Inside South Asia

Bangladesh objects to India's fencing

Temperatures have risen between India and Bangladesh again, this time over India laying down fencing along sections of India's border with Bangladesh. Bangladesh says fencing violates the spirit of friendship. India has raised concerns over smuggling and infiltration. Inside South Asia analyses the issue.

India-Bangladesh border row

Bangladesh, which is still experiencing the tremors of its ousted PM Sheikh Hasina's departure, is planning to bring bold changes in its constitution that include the removal of the concepts of secularism, socialism, and nationalism. A Constitution Reform Commission submitted the report on Wednesday (Jan 15) having the proposal to the interim supremo Muhammad Yunus.&nbsp;
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The commission was formed by Yunus after the removal of Hasina's administration. It further suggested introducing a bicameral parliament (a form of legislation having two different assemblies) for the nation along with limiting a prime minister's tenure to only two terms. The proposed setup will have a lower house named the National Assembly and an upper house named the Senate. They will have 105 and 400 seats respectively.
Secularism, socialism, and nationalism are three principles among the four termed &ldquo;fundamental principles of state policy&rdquo; in Bagladeh's constitution. The fourth one, democracy, will stay the same.&nbsp;
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&ldquo;We are proposing five state principles &mdash; equality, human dignity, social justice, pluralism, and democracy, for reflection of the great ideals of the 1971 Liberation War and the people&rsquo;s aspiration during the 2024 mass upsurge,&rdquo; commission chairman Ali Riaz said in a video statement, news agency PTI reported.
The commission said that both the proposed houses should serve four-year terms and not five years as practised at present. It added that the lower house should be based on majority representation while the upper house should be on proportional representation. It justified the proposal, saying the absence of an institutional power balance and the concentration of authority in Hasina's administration were the reasons behind the &ldquo;autocratic authoritarianism" in Bangladesh.&nbsp;
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Riaz said in his statement that the introduction of a referendum system for amending the constitution is also in the proposal. Currently, the parliament has the power to amend the constitution, given that it has a two-thirds majority.&nbsp;
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(With inputs from agencies)

South Asia | Secularism, socialism, and nationalism are three principles among the four termed “fundamental principles of state policy” in Bagladeh's constitution. 

Bangladesh, which is still experiencing the tremors of its ousted PM Sheikh Hasina's departure, is planning to bring bold changes in its constitution that include the removal of the concepts of secularism, socialism, and nationalism. A Constitution Reform Commission submitted the report on Wednesday (Jan 15) having the proposal to the interim supremo Muhammad Yunus. Also read | In a first, Moon is now threatened heritage site: World Monuments Fund explains why The commission was formed by Yunus after the removal of Hasina's administration. It further suggested introducing a bicameral parliament (a form of legislation having two different assemblies) for the nation along with limiting a prime minister's tenure to only two terms. The proposed setup will have a lower house named the National Assembly and an upper house named the Senate. They will have 105 and 400 seats respectively. Secularism, socialism, and nationalism are three principles among the four termed “fundamental principles of state policy” in Bagladeh's constitution. The fourth one, democracy, will stay the same. Also read | ‘Hilarious,’ Internet cracks up as Pakistani doctor complains about ‘foul smell’ in China “We are proposing five state principles — equality, human dignity, social justice, pluralism, and democracy, for reflection of the great ideals of the 1971 Liberation War and the people’s aspiration during the 2024 mass upsurge,” commission chairman Ali Riaz said in a video statement, news agency PTI reported. The commission said that both the proposed houses should serve four-year terms and not five years as practised at present. It added that the lower house should be based on majority representation while the upper house should be on proportional representation. It justified the proposal, saying the absence of an institutional power balance and the concentration of authority in Hasina's administration were the reasons behind the “autocratic authoritarianism" in Bangladesh. Also read | Platforms offering adult content soon to make ID verification mandatory across UK Riaz said in his statement that the introduction of a referendum system for amending the constitution is also in the proposal. Currently, the parliament has the power to amend the constitution, given that it has a two-thirds majority. Also read | Who is the Indian man on FBI's top 10 most wanted list with reward of up to $250,000? (With inputs from agencies)

Removal of secularism, limiting PM's tenure: What's in the proposed report by Bangladesh Commission?

Bangladesh's Constitution Reform Commission has submitted its report to interim government Chief Muhammad Yunas, proposing the removal of the state principles of secularism, socialism, and nationalism. The three principles are among the four enshrined as fundamental principles of state policy in the country's constitution. Under the new proposals, only democracy remains unchanged.

Bangladesh commission report proposes dropping 'secularism' and 'socialism' from constitution

In another sign of the warming up of ties between Pakistan and Bangladesh, top army officials from both sides met on Tuesday (Jan 14) at the Joint Staff Headquarters (JSHQ) in Rawalpindi. Watch in for more details!

Pakistan, Bangladesh vow to enhance defence ties

Pakistan and Bangladesh pledge to strengthen defence ties

Pakistan and Bangladesh Strengthen Defence Ties Amid Regional Challenges | WION | World News

Pakistan-Bangladesh Vow To Enhance Defence Ties | WION | World News

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party wants the national election by the middle of this year, followed by local government polls afterwards. The party believes that local polls before the parliamentary election will be a delaying tactic. Watch in for more details!

When will Bangladesh general election be held?

India summoned the top Bangladeshi diplomat earlier on Monday as border row escalated between the South Asian neighbours. Tensions have been reported at the India-Bangladesh border over fencing issues. Watch this report for more details!

India summons Bangladesh envoy amid border fencing row

India summons top Bangladeshi diplomat over border fencing row

Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi has said that the situation on India's northern border is sensitive but stable. In a press conference on Monday, General Dwivedi said that there is no animosity with Bangladesh at a military level, stressing that Bangladesh is strategically important to India.

'Bangladesh strategically important to India': Indian Army chief

In a significant move, the interim government of Bangladesh has eased visa policy restrictions for Pakistani citizens, reflecting the improving bilateral relations between the two nations. Watch in for more detai

Bangladesh Moves Closer To Pakistan, Eases Visa Process | WION | World News

Bangladesh&rsquo;s foreign secretary held a meeting with Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma in Dhaka on Sunday (Jan 12) and expressed his &ldquo;deep concerns&rdquo; over recent tensions along the border. State-run news agency BSS earlier reported that Verma had been &ldquo;summoned&rdquo; by Foreign Secretary Md. Jashim Uddin; however, that term was not used in the official press release issued by the foreign ministry.
<h2>Issues raised by Bangladesh&rsquo;s foreign secretary</h2>
The agenda of the meeting, which began at 3:00 pm local time and lasted 45 minutes, was to discuss recent border tensions, especially between the border security forces of respective nations.
"We have an understanding with regard to fencing the border for security. BSF and BGB (Border Security Force and Border Guard Bangladesh) have been in communication in this regard,&rdquo; said Verma shortly after holding the meeting.
<h2>Border tensions</h2>
Earlier, Bangladesh accused India of violating bilateral agreements citing the construction of fences at five locations along the Indo-Bangladesh border by the BSF.
Calling such construction activities unauthorised, Md. Jashim Uddin stated that this has &ldquo;caused tensions and disturbances along the border.&rdquo;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-west-bengal-cm-accuses-border-security-force-of-fuelling-destabilisation-8585609">India: West Bengal CM accuses BSF of helping infiltrators to fuel destabilisation</a>
The secretary added that the BSF and the BGB will hold DG-level talks in the coming days, and he hoped the matter will be resolved then. There are allegations that India is undertaking &ldquo;unauthorised&rdquo; construction of fences in these areas: Chapainawabganj, Naogaon, Lalmonirhat, and the Tin Bigha Corridor.
The foreign secretary is also believed to have expressed his displeasure over the recent killing of a Bangladeshi citizen by the BSF.
He "strongly resented these acts of killing and called for urgent action by the Indian authorities to stop recurrence of such incidents and conduct enquiries into all these border killings and take actions against those responsible," a statement issued by Bangladesh&rsquo;s foreign ministry said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/indias-border-forces-thwart-infiltration-bid-by-bangladeshis-rohingyas-8613516">India's border forces thwart infiltration bid by Bangladeshis, Rohingyas</a>
The press release added that it was also "a matter of grave concern that despite repeated firm commitments from the Indian authorities to pursue a non-lethal strategy and to stop killings, such incidents of killing have been continuing.&rdquo;
Earlier, Bangladesh Home Affairs Adviser Lt Gen (retd.) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury claimed that the Border Guard Bangladesh and locals had forced the BSF to halt the construction work.
Alam said that of the total 4,156-kilometre-long border, fencing has already been done along 3,271 kilometres. Only 885 kilometres remain to be fenced, which has already drawn criticism from the new interim government in Bangladesh.
The new administration has alleged that the previous government of deposed PM Sheikh Hasina allowed India to enjoy unequal opportunities.
(With inputs from agencies)

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

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

Bangladesh foreign secretary meets Indian envoy amid border tensions

The Border Security Force (BSF) claims to have thwarted a major infiltration attempt by Bangladeshis and Rohingyas in the districts of North 24-Parganas and Nadia in West Bengal on Saturday.
Troops of the BSF, South Bengal Frontier, claim that they drove back 20 Bangladeshis and two Rohingyas after they entered through an unfenced portion of the Indo-Bangladesh Border (IBB) in North 24-Parganas. Four Bangladeshis were allegedly driven back from Nadia.
"When they were questioned, the Bangladeshis and Rohingyas claimed that they were on their way to Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad to work as labourers and housekeeping staff. Our troops were successful in driving them back across the IBB. Such attempts are taking place despite flag meetings with Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) on the issue. Attempts to smuggle drugs and cattle were also thwarted along the IBB by the BSF during the day," said N K Pandey, DIG and spokesperson, BSF, South Bengal Frontier.
On Saturday, BSF troops also seized three kilogrammes of Ganja, 2,900 strips of Quinine Sulphate tablets, 700 ampoules of Quinine Dihydrochloride and 1,200 ampoules of Artemether. In addition to this, 11 cattle heads were freed from the clutches of smugglers, the DIG said.
"On Saturday, information was received of a possible attempt to smuggle drugs across a riverine section of the border. All boat nakas were on alert. Late in the evening, jawans of C S Khali Border Outpost spotted a man moving across the embankment of the river on the Indian side. A jawan moved forward and challenged him. The man fled, taking advantage of the dense foliage and fog. A boat naka had also arrived by then. A search led to the seizure of two packets of narcotics that the smuggler had dropped," Pandey said.
According to him, troops of the 119 Battalion BSF posted at the Mahadipur, Gopalnagar, Sabdalpur, and Nawada BOPs in the Malda district seized 565 bottles of Phensedyl from their respective areas of responsibility. Troops of the 88 Battalion BSF rescued eight cattle heads in the jurisdiction of the Pannapur BOP, while personnel of the 115 Battalion prevented three cattle heads from being smuggled across the Indo-Bangladesh Border (IBB).
The seized items have been handed over to concerned agencies for processing while the bovines have been sent to the Dhyan Foundation Gaushala after e-tagging, he said, adding that the BSF is taking strict measures to stop smuggling along the IBB and is alert to foil any infiltration attempt.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

South Asia | India News | Bangladesh: Troops of the BSF, South Bengal Frontier, claim that they drove back 20 Bangladeshis and two Rohingyas after they entered through an unfenced portion

The Border Security Force (BSF) claims to have thwarted a major infiltration attempt by Bangladeshis and Rohingyas in the districts of North 24-Parganas and Nadia in West Bengal on Saturday. Troops of the BSF, South Bengal Frontier, claim that they drove back 20 Bangladeshis and two Rohingyas after they entered through an unfenced portion of the Indo-Bangladesh Border (IBB) in North 24-Parganas. Four Bangladeshis were allegedly driven back from Nadia. "When they were questioned, the Bangladeshis and Rohingyas claimed that they were on their way to Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad to work as labourers and housekeeping staff. Our troops were successful in driving them back across the IBB. Such attempts are taking place despite flag meetings with Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) on the issue. Attempts to smuggle drugs and cattle were also thwarted along the IBB by the BSF during the day," said N K Pandey, DIG and spokesperson, BSF, South Bengal Frontier. On Saturday, BSF troops also seized three kilogrammes of Ganja, 2,900 strips of Quinine Sulphate tablets, 700 ampoules of Quinine Dihydrochloride and 1,200 ampoules of Artemether. In addition to this, 11 cattle heads were freed from the clutches of smugglers, the DIG said. "On Saturday, information was received of a possible attempt to smuggle drugs across a riverine section of the border. All boat nakas were on alert. Late in the evening, jawans of C S Khali Border Outpost spotted a man moving across the embankment of the river on the Indian side. A jawan moved forward and challenged him. The man fled, taking advantage of the dense foliage and fog. A boat naka had also arrived by then. A search led to the seizure of two packets of narcotics that the smuggler had dropped," Pandey said. According to him, troops of the 119 Battalion BSF posted at the Mahadipur, Gopalnagar, Sabdalpur, and Nawada BOPs in the Malda district seized 565 bottles of Phensedyl from their respective areas of responsibility. Troops of the 88 Battalion BSF rescued eight cattle heads in the jurisdiction of the Pannapur BOP, while personnel of the 115 Battalion prevented three cattle heads from being smuggled across the Indo-Bangladesh Border (IBB). The seized items have been handed over to concerned agencies for processing while the bovines have been sent to the Dhyan Foundation Gaushala after e-tagging, he said, adding that the BSF is taking strict measures to stop smuggling along the IBB and is alert to foil any infiltration attempt. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India's border forces thwart infiltration bid by Bangladeshis, Rohingyas

Bangladesh's foreign ministry held talks with Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma over border tensions on Sunday. Watch this report for more details!

Indian envoy holds talks with Bangladesh foreign secretary in Dhaka

Indian high commissioner meets Bangladesh foreign secretary in Dhaka

Bangladesh's foreign ministry summoned Indian High Commissioner Pranay Verma over border tensions on Sunday. In recent months, the relations between both neighbours have not been through the best of their times.

Bangladesh summons Indian high commissioner amid escalating border tensions

The Bangladeshi government has streamlined the visa process for Pakistani nationals to enhance trade and economic ties between the two countries. Watch this report for more details!

Bangladesh eases visa process for Pakistanis to strengthen ties

Bangladesh’s garment industry, which accounts for 80% of the country’s exports, faced a severe crisis during the political revolution last year. Protests led by garment workers played a pivotal role in toppling the government of Sheikh Hasina, forcing her into exile.

Bangladesh’s garment industry rebounds amid worker struggles

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

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

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

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

Bangladesh's interim government on Sunday cancelled a planned training programme for 50 judges and judicial officers in India, scrapping a previous notification.
The notification has been cancelled, a law ministry spokesman said without elaborating.
The Daily Star newspaper, however, reported the cancellation came in compliance with a directive from Bangladesh's Supreme Court.
The cancellation order came a day after the state-run Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha reported that 50 lower judiciary judges would undergo a one-day training programme from February 10 at the National Judicial Academy and the State Judicial Academy in Madhya Pradesh.
The trainee judges selected under the programme were district and sessions judge or its equivalent officers, additional district and sessions judge, joint district judge, senior assistant judge and assistant judge.
The Indian government was supposed to bear all the expenses for the training programmes.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-and-bangladesh-exchange-185-fishermen-in-mutual-repatriation-effort-8594122" rel="dofollow">India and Bangladesh exchange 185 fishermen in mutual repatriation effort</a>
India and Bangladesh have witnessed strained ties since the deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina fled to New Delhi on August 5 last year following a massive student-led protest that toppled her Awami League's 16-year regime.
There have been a series of attacks on Hindu community members and their places of worship after the interim government headed by Muhammad Yunus came to power on August 8.
New Delhi has already raised concern with Dhaka, especially after a Hindu monk was arrested in a sedition case and put in jail after he was denied bail last month.
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India and Bangladesh have witnessed strained ties since the deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina fled to New Delhi on August 5 last year following a massive student-led protest that toppled her Awami League's 16-year regime.

Bangladesh's interim government on Sunday cancelled a planned training programme for 50 judges and judicial officers in India, scrapping a previous notification. The notification has been cancelled, a law ministry spokesman said without elaborating. The Daily Star newspaper, however, reported the cancellation came in compliance with a directive from Bangladesh's Supreme Court. The cancellation order came a day after the state-run Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha reported that 50 lower judiciary judges would undergo a one-day training programme from February 10 at the National Judicial Academy and the State Judicial Academy in Madhya Pradesh. The trainee judges selected under the programme were district and sessions judge or its equivalent officers, additional district and sessions judge, joint district judge, senior assistant judge and assistant judge. The Indian government was supposed to bear all the expenses for the training programmes. Also read: India and Bangladesh exchange 185 fishermen in mutual repatriation effort India and Bangladesh have witnessed strained ties since the deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina fled to New Delhi on August 5 last year following a massive student-led protest that toppled her Awami League's 16-year regime. There have been a series of attacks on Hindu community members and their places of worship after the interim government headed by Muhammad Yunus came to power on August 8. New Delhi has already raised concern with Dhaka, especially after a Hindu monk was arrested in a sedition case and put in jail after he was denied bail last month. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Bangladesh cancels scheduled judges' training in India amid strained ties

ANI: In a mutual exchange of fishermen coordinated between the Indian Coast Guard and the Bangladesh Coast Guard, ICG Ship Varad and Amrit Kaur successfully repatriated 95 fishermen along with four Indian fishing boats while handing over 90 Bangladeshi fishermen, including 12 rescued from sunken fishing boat &ldquo;Kaushik&rdquo; on Sunday, as per an official statement.
The Indian fishermen are being handed over to West Bengal State Fisheries authorities at South 24 Parganas post repatriation from Bangladesh.
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In recent months, several Indian fishermen have been arrested by Bangladesh authorities when they happened to inadvertently cross the International Maritime Boundary Line and entered Bangladesh waters. Several Bangladesh fishermen have also been apprehended by Indian authorities in similar circumstances, the official statement noted.
According to the official statement, by ensuring safe arrival of the fishermen back home and uniting them with their families, yet another cradle of Indian Coast Guard mandated charter reaffirms its resolve &ldquo;Vayam Rakshamah&rdquo;.
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In a press release on Thursday, the Ministry of External Affairs said, &ldquo;In recent months, several Indian fishermen have been arrested by Bangladesh authorities when they happened to inadvertently cross the International Maritime Boundary Line and entered Bangladesh waters. Several Bangladesh fishermen have also been apprehended by Indian authorities in similar circumstances. The Government of India attaches the highest importance to the safety, security and welfare of Indian fishermen. To this end, it has worked assiduously to secure the release of our fishermen from Bangladesh custody.&rdquo;
The details were also shared on X by the Indian Coast Guard.
During the weekly press briefing of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-dismisses-reports-of-new-delhi-link-to-a-failed-plot-to-impeach-maldivian-president-mohamed-muizzu-8589147">Ministry of External Affairs</a> on Friday, the MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal had acknowledge&nbsp;the reciprocal repatriation of Indian and Bangladeshi fishermen.
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According to the MEA, the exchange has been worked upon keeping in mind the humanitarian and livelihood concerns of fishing communities from both sides.
Speaking on the fishermen exchange, Randhir Jaiswal said, &ldquo;On the fishermen issue, this exchange is going to happen on 5th (January). 95 from their side, Indian fishermen, and 90 from our side (Bangladeshi fishermen). These fishermen had gone astray as it happens in waters where you know you don&rsquo;t have proper marking, or sometimes people can just lose their way so that is what has happened.&rdquo;
Disclaimer: This story has been published from an ANI feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

India news: The Indian fishermen are being handed over to West Bengal State Fisheries authorities at South 24 Parganas post repatriation from Bangladesh.

ANI: In a mutual exchange of fishermen coordinated between the Indian Coast Guard and the Bangladesh Coast Guard, ICG Ship Varad and Amrit Kaur successfully repatriated 95 fishermen along with four Indian fishing boats while handing over 90 Bangladeshi fishermen, including 12 rescued from sunken fishing boat “Kaushik” on Sunday, as per an official statement. The Indian fishermen are being handed over to West Bengal State Fisheries authorities at South 24 Parganas post repatriation from Bangladesh. Also read: Indian Coast Guard helicopter crashes during landing in Gujarat, three dead In recent months, several Indian fishermen have been arrested by Bangladesh authorities when they happened to inadvertently cross the International Maritime Boundary Line and entered Bangladesh waters. Several Bangladesh fishermen have also been apprehended by Indian authorities in similar circumstances, the official statement noted. According to the official statement, by ensuring safe arrival of the fishermen back home and uniting them with their families, yet another cradle of Indian Coast Guard mandated charter reaffirms its resolve “Vayam Rakshamah”. Also read: India: Starlink devices allegedly smuggled into Manipur amid internet ban In a press release on Thursday, the Ministry of External Affairs said, “In recent months, several Indian fishermen have been arrested by Bangladesh authorities when they happened to inadvertently cross the International Maritime Boundary Line and entered Bangladesh waters. Several Bangladesh fishermen have also been apprehended by Indian authorities in similar circumstances. The Government of India attaches the highest importance to the safety, security and welfare of Indian fishermen. To this end, it has worked assiduously to secure the release of our fishermen from Bangladesh custody.” The details were also shared on X by the Indian Coast Guard. During the weekly press briefing of the Ministry of External Affairs on Friday, the MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal had acknowledge the reciprocal repatriation of Indian and Bangladeshi fishermen. Also read: SpaDeX: Why ISRO chose January 7th for docking experiment? According to the MEA, the exchange has been worked upon keeping in mind the humanitarian and livelihood concerns of fishing communities from both sides. Speaking on the fishermen exchange, Randhir Jaiswal said, “On the fishermen issue, this exchange is going to happen on 5th (January). 95 from their side, Indian fishermen, and 90 from our side (Bangladeshi fishermen). These fishermen had gone astray as it happens in waters where you know you don’t have proper marking, or sometimes people can just lose their way so that is what has happened.” Disclaimer: This story has been published from an ANI feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India and Bangladesh exchange 185 fishermen in mutual repatriation effort

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