In a development that is raising serious concerns amid human rights groups, Bangladesh have started transferring thousands of Rohingya refugees to a low-lying island prone to cyclone and floods.

WION Dispatch: Bangladesh transferring Rohingya refugees to island prone to cyclone and floods

Bangladesh began transferring several hundred Rohingya refugees on Thursday to what the UN and rights groups worry is a dangerous low-lying island prone to cyclones and floods.

Almost a million Rohingya -- most of whom fled a military offensive in neighbouring Myanmar in 2017 -- live in a vast network of squalid camps in south-east Bangladesh.

With many of them refusing to return without guarantees for their safety and rights, and with violent drug gangs and extremists active on the sites, the Bangladeshi government has grown increasingly impatient to clear out the camps.

On Thursday at least 10 buses left the camps in the Cox's Bazar region, headed for the port city of Chittagong, police said.

"Ten buses carrying some 400 have left for the island," local police chief Ahmed Sunjur Morshed told AFP.

From Chittagong the refugees were due to be taken by military landing craft to the island of Bhashan Char on Friday, officials said.

Earlier the officials told AFP they planned to move around 2,500 people to the low-lying silt island in a first phase.

Scores of other buses were standing by at the camps in the Cox's Bazar region, an AFP reporter at the scene said.

But it was unclear if more people would board the buses, with rights groups alleging that some of the refugees had been coerced into volunteering to be transferred.

Bhashan Char, measuring 13,000 acres (52 square kilometres), is one of several silty strips to have surfaced in the area in recent decades.

The Bangladesh Navy has built shelters there for at least 100,000 Rohingya refugees as well as a nine-foot (three-metre) embankment to prevent flooding.

But locals say high tides flooded the island as recently as a few years ago and that cyclones, a regular occurence in the region, can cause storm surges of four or five metres.

The United Nations office in Bangladesh issued a terse statement on Thursday saying it was "not involved" in the relocation process and had been given "limited information".

It said the UN had not been allowed to independently assess the "safety, feasibility and sustainability" of the island as a place to live.

It said the refugees "must be able to make a free and informed decision about relocating" and that, once there, they should have access to education and health care -- and be able to leave if they wish.

Bangladesh began transferring several hundred Rohingya refugees on Thursday to what the UN and rights groups worry is a dangerous low-lying island prone to cyclones and floods.

Bangladesh began transferring several hundred Rohingya refugees on Thursday to what the UN and rights groups worry is a dangerous low-lying island prone to cyclones and floods. Almost a million Rohingya -- most of whom fled a military offensive in neighbouring Myanmar in 2017 -- live in a vast network of squalid camps in south-east Bangladesh. With many of them refusing to return without guarantees for their safety and rights, and with violent drug gangs and extremists active on the sites, the Bangladeshi government has grown increasingly impatient to clear out the camps. On Thursday at least 10 buses left the camps in the Cox's Bazar region, headed for the port city of Chittagong, police said. "Ten buses carrying some 400 have left for the island," local police chief Ahmed Sunjur Morshed told AFP. From Chittagong the refugees were due to be taken by military landing craft to the island of Bhashan Char on Friday, officials said. Earlier the officials told AFP they planned to move around 2,500 people to the low-lying silt island in a first phase. Scores of other buses were standing by at the camps in the Cox's Bazar region, an AFP reporter at the scene said. But it was unclear if more people would board the buses, with rights groups alleging that some of the refugees had been coerced into volunteering to be transferred. Bhashan Char, measuring 13,000 acres (52 square kilometres), is one of several silty strips to have surfaced in the area in recent decades. The Bangladesh Navy has built shelters there for at least 100,000 Rohingya refugees as well as a nine-foot (three-metre) embankment to prevent flooding. But locals say high tides flooded the island as recently as a few years ago and that cyclones, a regular occurence in the region, can cause storm surges of four or five metres. The United Nations office in Bangladesh issued a terse statement on Thursday saying it was "not involved" in the relocation process and had been given "limited information". It said the UN had not been allowed to independently assess the "safety, feasibility and sustainability" of the island as a place to live. It said the refugees "must be able to make a free and informed decision about relocating" and that, once there, they should have access to education and health care -- and be able to leave if they wish.

Bangladesh begins transfer of Rohingya to controversial island

The inside story of the Chinese Defence minister 10-hour stay in Nepal and postponement/cancellation of Bangladesh visit. And salvation in Pakistan!

When the Chinese Defence Minister Wei Fenghe arrived in Nepal with around two dozen delegates, top Nepali sources say he had several things on his mind and plate but most of which could not be savoured!

China wanted to have a bilateral with the Nepal Defence minister who happens to be the PM KPS Oli. This was declined under the protocol.

What he eventually got was a courtesy call.

Next China proposed a meeting with Dy PM (the Defence minister before Oli took charge from him) Ishwor Pokharel, that too was declined.

Finally, Wei had to settle with the bilateral with the Nepali Army Chief PC Thapa. Under international protocols considered to be a step-down.

Sources confirm that the Chinese embassy in Nepal had planned a lunch in which all the former Foreign Ministers and Defence Ministers of Nepal were to be invited. But after reservation expressed by the Nepal government, this too was stalled.

There were no meetings granted with any political parties or top leaders as well. It is learnt that meetings were being organised with former PMs like Prachanda, Madhav Nepal and Jhalanath Khanal and two former Dy PMs Bamdev Gautam, Narayan Kazi Shreshtha. This too was shelved.

In the 10 hours stay what Wei eventually managed was two courtesy calls with the PM and President of Nepal and the bilateral with Army chief Thapa.

It is understood that China realising all this and pre-empting the cold shoulder that it was expected to receive and came out with a press statement on the eve of sudden Nepal visit which mentioned courtesy calls and meeting with Army chief.

<img alt="Ministry of Defence (Nepal)" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0bfff29e-f0a1-46cc-92bf-5b465171df29" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Nepal%20defence%20minitry.JPG" />

The story was the same when it came to Bangladesh. China Defence minister planned to visit Bangladesh but had to postpone it.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BREAKING?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BREAKING</a> 
 
Chinese Defense Minister is coming to Bangladesh on a surprise visit tomorrow. 
He will meet Bangladeshi high level defense officers and other respective authorities for strengthening the bilateral defense relations with Bangladesh. <a href="https://t.co/76zZnMyai1">pic.twitter.com/76zZnMyai1</a>
— Defense Technology of Bangladesh-DTB (@DefenseDtb) <a href="https://twitter.com/DefenseDtb/status/1333049668557651970?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

There was no official reason cited by any side but the reason projected was that the Bangladesh FM, his Dy and FS were Covid infected- a reason which analysts are unable to digest!

And then suddenly Wei and team made their appearance in all-weather ally Pakistan.

The inside story of the Chinese Defence minister 10-hour stay in Nepal and postponement/cancellation of Bangladesh visit. And salvation in Pakistan! When the Chinese Defence Minister Wei Fenghe arrived in Nepal with around two dozen delegates, top Nepali sources say he had several things on his mind and plate but most of which could not be savoured!

The inside story of the Chinese Defence minister 10-hour stay in Nepal and postponement/cancellation of Bangladesh visit. And salvation in Pakistan! When the Chinese Defence Minister Wei Fenghe arrived in Nepal with around two dozen delegates, top Nepali sources say he had several things on his mind and plate but most of which could not be savoured! China wanted to have a bilateral with the Nepal Defence minister who happens to be the PM KPS Oli. This was declined under the protocol. What he eventually got was a courtesy call. Next China proposed a meeting with Dy PM (the Defence minister before Oli took charge from him) Ishwor Pokharel, that too was declined. Finally, Wei had to settle with the bilateral with the Nepali Army Chief PC Thapa. Under international protocols considered to be a step-down. Sources confirm that the Chinese embassy in Nepal had planned a lunch in which all the former Foreign Ministers and Defence Ministers of Nepal were to be invited. But after reservation expressed by the Nepal government, this too was stalled. There were no meetings granted with any political parties or top leaders as well. It is learnt that meetings were being organised with former PMs like Prachanda, Madhav Nepal and Jhalanath Khanal and two former Dy PMs Bamdev Gautam, Narayan Kazi Shreshtha. This too was shelved. In the 10 hours stay what Wei eventually managed was two courtesy calls with the PM and President of Nepal and the bilateral with Army chief Thapa. It is understood that China realising all this and pre-empting the cold shoulder that it was expected to receive and came out with a press statement on the eve of sudden Nepal visit which mentioned courtesy calls and meeting with Army chief. The story was the same when it came to Bangladesh. China Defence minister planned to visit Bangladesh but had to postpone it. #BREAKING Chinese Defense Minister is coming to Bangladesh on a surprise visit tomorrow. He will meet Bangladeshi high level defense officers and other respective authorities for strengthening the bilateral defense relations with Bangladesh. pic.twitter.com/76zZnMyai1 — Defense Technology of Bangladesh-DTB (@DefenseDtb) November 29, 2020 × There was no official reason cited by any side but the reason projected was that the Bangladesh FM, his Dy and FS were Covid infected- a reason which analysts are unable to digest! And then suddenly Wei and team made their appearance in all-weather ally Pakistan.

Chinese defence minister 'snubbed' by Nepal and Bangladesh

There has been a noticeable increase in the religious extremism in Bangladesh. This trend saw a rise in the aftermath of the Charlie Hebdo related killings in France in the last couple of months when wide stage protests rocked Bangladesh. Such a development was adequately covered in these columns as soon as they unfolded.

Amid this spurt in the activities of the zealots, a new controversy has erupted which is just a pretext to air bigotry thoughts of the Islamic radicals in Bangladesh. Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s centenary year (2021) is being planned in a big way all across Bangladesh. Prevailing COVID pandemic has also not dampened the spirits of the celebrations. Yet, a controversy sparked off relates to a sculpture of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman creation of which is being most vehemently opposed by these fanatics. They want its immediate removal. 
 
Those opposed say this is against the tenets of Islam as the religion according to them doesn’t allow bust or statues. Seculars, on the other hand, put forward a counter-argument that sculpture is a piece of art and is found in many Muslim countries. Only those of regressive thinking are criticising and trying to usurp the progressive space through medieval and irrational thinking.

Meanwhile, the most disturbing happening is the activities of Hefazat-e-Islam which claims to be close to Sheikh Hasina and the ruling establishment but its actions in the recent months have been of very violent and belligerent nature. The decade-old all Muslim organisation has its bastion in the port city of Chittagong, running many madrasas and of late, it’s defiant and perverse aggressive posturing has come to the fore after the killings in France. It’s leader, Junaid Babunagari has been spewing venom and vitiating the communal scene by his hate and provocative rhetoric.

More disturbingly, Hefazat-i-Islam joining hands with ultra-intolerant outfits like Jamaat-e-Islami and Khilafat Majlish has been worrisome to the government. This is because Jamaat is backed by Pakistan and it stands de franchised by the establishment. Jamaat is well known for being anti-India, anti-Hindu minority and was a collaborator with Pakistani occupation forces in 1970-71. It is trying to piggy ride Hefazat-e-Islam and wants to stay afloat to oppose the forward-thinking forces. Pakistan intelligence agencies must be happy with Hefazat-e-Islam and other like-minded forces attempts to capitalise on the rising wave of Islamic fundamentalism.

In the meantime, continuing with its glaring pro fanaticism agenda, Hefazat-e-Islam Chief, Babunagari has given a four-point demands/ultimatum to the government which include (1) Closure of all activities of the International Society of Krishna Consciousness (ISCKON) all across Bangladesh (2) Banning of Ahmediya activities and declaring it as un-Islamic in Bangladesh (3) Expulsion of the French Ambassador from Bangladesh and (4) Closure of French Embassy in Dhaka &amp; passing a resolution in the BD parliament condemning the anti-Islam happenings in France.

Bangladesh watchers, in the meantime, believe that Hefazat-e-Islam is likely to increase its list of demands as the government doesn’t seem to be acting tough. Hefazat-e-Islam is also feeling emboldened on the sculpture issue because in 2017 its strong-arm tactics had succeeded even the government was forced to remove a statue of a lady from the precincts of the Supreme Court stating it to be against the Islamic ideals. Under the circumstances, Hefazat-e-Islam and other Islamic ultras have given a call for pulling down of all statutes and sculptures in Bangladesh. TV channels and social media have generated animated debates on the issue. There have been feeble attempts by some ministers including Awami League General Secretary, Obaidul Qader to rein in the communal forces but results are yet to show up on the ground.

Defenders of Hasina, however, believe that Hefazat-e-Islam has no support from her or her ruling party but they are cautious in any blistering criticism of this Islamic body saying that though Hasina remains an ardent adherent of Islam, she believes in the modernisation of the religion and backs a scientific temper for the religion. Such reckonings don’t seem to convince the minority population or the seculars in Bangladesh who want Hefazat-e-Islam to be put on a tight leash lest it assumes perilous proportions.&nbsp;

(Writer is a retired IPS officer, a security analyst and Bangladesh watcher. Views expressed are personal) 
 
(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)

There has been a noticeable increase in the religious extremism in Bangladesh. This trend saw a rise in the aftermath of the Charlie Hebdo related killings in France in the last couple of months when wide stage protests rocked Bangladesh.

There has been a noticeable increase in the religious extremism in Bangladesh. This trend saw a rise in the aftermath of the Charlie Hebdo related killings in France in the last couple of months when wide stage protests rocked Bangladesh. Such a development was adequately covered in these columns as soon as they unfolded. Amid this spurt in the activities of the zealots, a new controversy has erupted which is just a pretext to air bigotry thoughts of the Islamic radicals in Bangladesh. Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s centenary year (2021) is being planned in a big way all across Bangladesh. Prevailing COVID pandemic has also not dampened the spirits of the celebrations. Yet, a controversy sparked off relates to a sculpture of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman creation of which is being most vehemently opposed by these fanatics. They want its immediate removal. Those opposed say this is against the tenets of Islam as the religion according to them doesn’t allow bust or statues. Seculars, on the other hand, put forward a counter-argument that sculpture is a piece of art and is found in many Muslim countries. Only those of regressive thinking are criticising and trying to usurp the progressive space through medieval and irrational thinking. Meanwhile, the most disturbing happening is the activities of Hefazat-e-Islam which claims to be close to Sheikh Hasina and the ruling establishment but its actions in the recent months have been of very violent and belligerent nature. The decade-old all Muslim organisation has its bastion in the port city of Chittagong, running many madrasas and of late, it’s defiant and perverse aggressive posturing has come to the fore after the killings in France. It’s leader, Junaid Babunagari has been spewing venom and vitiating the communal scene by his hate and provocative rhetoric. More disturbingly, Hefazat-i-Islam joining hands with ultra-intolerant outfits like Jamaat-e-Islami and Khilafat Majlish has been worrisome to the government. This is because Jamaat is backed by Pakistan and it stands de franchised by the establishment. Jamaat is well known for being anti-India, anti-Hindu minority and was a collaborator with Pakistani occupation forces in 1970-71. It is trying to piggy ride Hefazat-e-Islam and wants to stay afloat to oppose the forward-thinking forces. Pakistan intelligence agencies must be happy with Hefazat-e-Islam and other like-minded forces attempts to capitalise on the rising wave of Islamic fundamentalism. In the meantime, continuing with its glaring pro fanaticism agenda, Hefazat-e-Islam Chief, Babunagari has given a four-point demands/ultimatum to the government which include (1) Closure of all activities of the International Society of Krishna Consciousness (ISCKON) all across Bangladesh (2) Banning of Ahmediya activities and declaring it as un-Islamic in Bangladesh (3) Expulsion of the French Ambassador from Bangladesh and (4) Closure of French Embassy in Dhaka & passing a resolution in the BD parliament condemning the anti-Islam happenings in France. Bangladesh watchers, in the meantime, believe that Hefazat-e-Islam is likely to increase its list of demands as the government doesn’t seem to be acting tough. Hefazat-e-Islam is also feeling emboldened on the sculpture issue because in 2017 its strong-arm tactics had succeeded even the government was forced to remove a statue of a lady from the precincts of the Supreme Court stating it to be against the Islamic ideals. Under the circumstances, Hefazat-e-Islam and other Islamic ultras have given a call for pulling down of all statutes and sculptures in Bangladesh. TV channels and social media have generated animated debates on the issue. There have been feeble attempts by some ministers including Awami League General Secretary, Obaidul Qader to rein in the communal forces but results are yet to show up on the ground. Defenders of Hasina, however, believe that Hefazat-e-Islam has no support from her or her ruling party but they are cautious in any blistering criticism of this Islamic body saying that though Hasina remains an ardent adherent of Islam, she believes in the modernisation of the religion and backs a scientific temper for the religion. Such reckonings don’t seem to convince the minority population or the seculars in Bangladesh who want Hefazat-e-Islam to be put on a tight leash lest it assumes perilous proportions. (Writer is a retired IPS officer, a security analyst and Bangladesh watcher. Views expressed are personal) (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)

Is Islamic radicalism on the rise in Bangladesh?

Bangladesh has many underutilised maritime projects. There is a long list of stalled maritime projects. Recently Bangladesh also rejected India's offer to develop gas pipeline. Watch this report

WION Dispatch: Bangladesh unable to utilise its vast marine resources

Bangladesh reported 1,788 new COVID-19 cases and 29 deaths of the disease on Sunday, bringing the tally to 462,407 and the death toll at 6,609, the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) said.

The official data showed that 13,737 samples were tested in the last 24 hours across Bangladesh.

The total number of recovered patients in the country stood at 378,172 including 2,287 new recoveries on Sunday, said the DGHS.

According to the official data, the COVID-19 fatality rate in Bangladesh is now 1.43 percent and the current recovery rate is 81.78 percent.Bangladesh recorded the highest daily new cases of 4,019 on July 2 and the highest number of deaths of 64 on June 30.

Bangladesh reported 1,788 new COVID-19 cases and 29 deaths of the disease on Sunday, bringing the tally to 462,407 and the death toll at 6,609, the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) said.

Bangladesh reported 1,788 new COVID-19 cases and 29 deaths of the disease on Sunday, bringing the tally to 462,407 and the death toll at 6,609, the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) said. The official data showed that 13,737 samples were tested in the last 24 hours across Bangladesh. The total number of recovered patients in the country stood at 378,172 including 2,287 new recoveries on Sunday, said the DGHS. According to the official data, the COVID-19 fatality rate in Bangladesh is now 1.43 percent and the current recovery rate is 81.78 percent.Bangladesh recorded the highest daily new cases of 4,019 on July 2 and the highest number of deaths of 64 on June 30.

Bangladesh's COVID-19 cases rise to 462,407, death toll reaches 6,609

Bangladesh is accelerating efforts to bring human traffickers to justice, the law minister said on Tuesday, after a special court set up to clear a backlog of cases secured its first conviction.

Bangladesh had&nbsp;established seven tribunals nationwide in March to deal with thousands of trafficking cases,&nbsp;some of which have been pending for years, and improve its low conviction rate.

In the first verdict delivered by the tribunal in Dhaka, a woman was found guilty last week of kidnapping her neighbour's baby and selling the girl to a trafficking syndicate. Sathi Akter, 27, was jailed for 10 years and fined 20,000 taka ($230).

"By establishing these anti-trafficking tribunals, we have let people know of our intention, that this is one of our priority issues ... we have expedited the cases," Law Minister Anisul Huq told the Thomson Reuters Foundation by telephone.

"We want to quickly dispose them and set an example to the world," he added. "The trial of the first case and judgement shows our eagerness to deal with these problems quickly."

At least 4,000 cases are pending investigation or prosecution under a 2012 law that criminalised trafficking, government data shows. The conviction rate under the law stands at 1.7%, found the annual U.S. flagship report on trafficking.

This is due to the absence of specialist anti-trafficking courts until this year, and a lack of guidance on evidence collection for police in cross-border cases, activists said.

The Dhaka tribunal's public prosecutor, who represented the trafficked child's mother Golapy Akter, said the case was heard in six working days - marking a relatively quick turnaround.

Sazzadul Haque said Akter's determination to secure justice rather than accept an out-of-court settlement and the testimony of several witnesses were key factors behind the conviction.

"It's true that there are trafficking cases which are difficult to win," Haque said. "In this case, both of those aspects were on our side."

Bangladesh has ramped up anti-trafficking efforts in recent years amid concerns about its large migrant workforce overseas and under growing pressure on the issue from the United States.

In what police called the "strongest operation" against human traffickers in recent times, at least 50 people were arrested in Dhaka in June after 24 Bangladeshi migrants had been abducted and killed in Libya the previous month. [L8N2DW2AB]

The nation is one of the world's top exporters of labour and depends on money sent home from about 700,000 people who go abroad to work each year. Yet high recruitment fees charged by unofficial brokers fuels abuses and trafficking, activists say.

Anti-trafficking activists hailed the tribunal's quick handling of the case and its verdict, but said more work needed to be done to clear the country's backlog of trafficking cases.

"Coordination between the police and the prosecution team is the key to efficient trials," said Mohammad Tariqul Islam, country director for anti-trafficking charity Justice and Care.

Bangladesh is accelerating efforts to bring human traffickers to justice, the law minister said on Tuesday, after a special court set up to clear a backlog of cases secured its first conviction.

Bangladesh is accelerating efforts to bring human traffickers to justice, the law minister said on Tuesday, after a special court set up to clear a backlog of cases secured its first conviction. Bangladesh had established seven tribunals nationwide in March to deal with thousands of trafficking cases, some of which have been pending for years, and improve its low conviction rate. In the first verdict delivered by the tribunal in Dhaka, a woman was found guilty last week of kidnapping her neighbour's baby and selling the girl to a trafficking syndicate. Sathi Akter, 27, was jailed for 10 years and fined 20,000 taka ($230). "By establishing these anti-trafficking tribunals, we have let people know of our intention, that this is one of our priority issues ... we have expedited the cases," Law Minister Anisul Huq told the Thomson Reuters Foundation by telephone. "We want to quickly dispose them and set an example to the world," he added. "The trial of the first case and judgement shows our eagerness to deal with these problems quickly." At least 4,000 cases are pending investigation or prosecution under a 2012 law that criminalised trafficking, government data shows. The conviction rate under the law stands at 1.7%, found the annual U.S. flagship report on trafficking. This is due to the absence of specialist anti-trafficking courts until this year, and a lack of guidance on evidence collection for police in cross-border cases, activists said. The Dhaka tribunal's public prosecutor, who represented the trafficked child's mother Golapy Akter, said the case was heard in six working days - marking a relatively quick turnaround. Sazzadul Haque said Akter's determination to secure justice rather than accept an out-of-court settlement and the testimony of several witnesses were key factors behind the conviction. "It's true that there are trafficking cases which are difficult to win," Haque said. "In this case, both of those aspects were on our side." Bangladesh has ramped up anti-trafficking efforts in recent years amid concerns about its large migrant workforce overseas and under growing pressure on the issue from the United States. In what police called the "strongest operation" against human traffickers in recent times, at least 50 people were arrested in Dhaka in June after 24 Bangladeshi migrants had been abducted and killed in Libya the previous month. [L8N2DW2AB] The nation is one of the world's top exporters of labour and depends on money sent home from about 700,000 people who go abroad to work each year. Yet high recruitment fees charged by unofficial brokers fuels abuses and trafficking, activists say. Anti-trafficking activists hailed the tribunal's quick handling of the case and its verdict, but said more work needed to be done to clear the country's backlog of trafficking cases. "Coordination between the police and the prosecution team is the key to efficient trials," said Mohammad Tariqul Islam, country director for anti-trafficking charity Justice and Care.

Bangladesh vows to speed up efforts to convict human traffickers

Bangladeshi cricketer Shakib al Hasan issues public apology after receives death threats for inaugurating a Kali Puja in Kolkata. Hardliners say Hasan has insulted Muslim sentiments. Isn't sports independent of religion?

Gravitas: Shakib al Hasan receives death threats

Bangladesh’s star all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan has been forced to make a public apology after he received Islamist threats for attending a Hindu ceremony in neighbouring India.

WION Dispatch: All-rounder cricketer Shakib al-Hasan forced to apologise after islamist threats

Transgender people will soon be able to inherit property from their families, Bangladesh's law minister said Sunday, the latest effort to give the minority group more rights in the conservative Muslim-majority nation.

While the country of 168 million people is officially secular, property legislation still follows religious laws, with transgender people mostly barred from inheriting estates when parents die.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina told a cabinet meeting this week that new inheritance laws for the group, known as hijra -- an umbrella term referring to someone who is born male but does not refer to themselves as a man or woman -- were being drafted.

"We're trying to frame a legislation in accordance with the Islamic sharia law and our constitution which will ensure the property rights for a transgender family member," Law Minister Anisul Huq told AFP.

The bill has yet to be proposed in parliament but is expected to comfortably pass the legislative body.

Bangladesh has allowed transgender people, who number around 1.5 million, to identify as a separate gender since 2013.&nbsp;

Last year they were allowed to register to vote as a third gender. Earlier this month, the South Asian country opened its first Islamic school for transgender Muslims.

But the LGBTQI community still faces widespread discrimination, with a colonial-era law in place that punishes gay sex by prison terms, though enforcement is rare.

Rights activists welcomed the move but were sceptical about whether the law would be enforceable with many families still rejecting their transgender offspring.

"As an activist, I am happy the issue is getting focus. But it's not just a matter of legislation, rather it requires a change in the entire society," said Ananya Banik, 40, who heads transgender rights group SadaKalo.

Banik said she came out as transgender when she was 16.&nbsp;

"I had to leave my family because of the pressure they received from other families when I was growing up. And I'm not alone, there are hundreds of thousands of members in our community who had to leave their families behind," Banik, who prefers to be called she, added.

She said many transgenders leave their homes at a young age, often driven away from family members, and could face violence if they return to claim their inheritances.

Rights groups also fear a backlash from religious hardliners.

In 2015 Islamist extremists hacked to death a leading gay activist and editor of an LGBTQI magazine, while other prominent homosexuals have since fled the country. 
&nbsp;

Transgender people will soon be able to inherit property from their families, Bangladesh's law minister said Sunday, the latest effort to give the minority group more rights in the conservative Muslim-majority nation.

Transgender people will soon be able to inherit property from their families, Bangladesh's law minister said Sunday, the latest effort to give the minority group more rights in the conservative Muslim-majority nation. While the country of 168 million people is officially secular, property legislation still follows religious laws, with transgender people mostly barred from inheriting estates when parents die. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina told a cabinet meeting this week that new inheritance laws for the group, known as hijra -- an umbrella term referring to someone who is born male but does not refer to themselves as a man or woman -- were being drafted. "We're trying to frame a legislation in accordance with the Islamic sharia law and our constitution which will ensure the property rights for a transgender family member," Law Minister Anisul Huq told AFP. The bill has yet to be proposed in parliament but is expected to comfortably pass the legislative body. Bangladesh has allowed transgender people, who number around 1.5 million, to identify as a separate gender since 2013. Last year they were allowed to register to vote as a third gender. Earlier this month, the South Asian country opened its first Islamic school for transgender Muslims. But the LGBTQI community still faces widespread discrimination, with a colonial-era law in place that punishes gay sex by prison terms, though enforcement is rare. Rights activists welcomed the move but were sceptical about whether the law would be enforceable with many families still rejecting their transgender offspring. "As an activist, I am happy the issue is getting focus. But it's not just a matter of legislation, rather it requires a change in the entire society," said Ananya Banik, 40, who heads transgender rights group SadaKalo. Banik said she came out as transgender when she was 16. "I had to leave my family because of the pressure they received from other families when I was growing up. And I'm not alone, there are hundreds of thousands of members in our community who had to leave their families behind," Banik, who prefers to be called she, added. She said many transgenders leave their homes at a young age, often driven away from family members, and could face violence if they return to claim their inheritances. Rights groups also fear a backlash from religious hardliners. In 2015 Islamist extremists hacked to death a leading gay activist and editor of an LGBTQI magazine, while other prominent homosexuals have since fled the country.

Transgender people to gain inheritance rights in Bangladesh

Bangladeshi teen Sadat Rahman has been awarded the International Children’s Peace Prize for his work to stop cyberbullying of teens.

Bangladeshi teen wins International Children’s Peace Prize for combating cyberbullying

Bangladesh has signed a crucial deal with the Serum Institute of India to acquire 30 million doses of a potential vaccine being developed by AstraZeneca for COVID-19.

COVID-19 vaccine: Bangladesh signs deal with Serum Institute of India

The Border Security Force (BSF) has apprehended thirteen Bangladeshi nationals in the border points of West Bengal's north 24 Parganas district while trying to crossover to India on Sunday.

All 13 were nabbed by the border guards in separate incidents on Friday.

While five Bangladeshis were apprehended at Bithari border outpost, six nationals of the neighbouring country were nabbed near Hakimpur border outpost, the statement said.

In the third incident, two Bangladeshi nationals were apprehended at Tarali border outpost, the statement said.

Earlier in the month of October, the Border Security Force (BSF) had handed over eight Bangladeshi nationals to Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) as a “goodwill gesture as well as symbolising existing cordial relations between the two countries and border guarding forces.”

(With inputs from agencies)

The Border Security Force (BSF) has apprehended thirteen Bangladeshi nationals in the border points of West Bengal's north 24 Parganas district while trying to crossover to India on Sunday.

The Border Security Force (BSF) has apprehended thirteen Bangladeshi nationals in the border points of West Bengal's north 24 Parganas district while trying to crossover to India on Sunday. All 13 were nabbed by the border guards in separate incidents on Friday. While five Bangladeshis were apprehended at Bithari border outpost, six nationals of the neighbouring country were nabbed near Hakimpur border outpost, the statement said. In the third incident, two Bangladeshi nationals were apprehended at Tarali border outpost, the statement said. Earlier in the month of October, the Border Security Force (BSF) had handed over eight Bangladeshi nationals to Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) as a “goodwill gesture as well as symbolising existing cordial relations between the two countries and border guarding forces.” (With inputs from agencies)

13 Bangladeshis apprehended while crossing over to India: BSF

A religious charity has opened the first school in Bangladesh for hijras, a transgender community whose members face widespread discrimination in the mostly conservative Muslim society and often live in abject poverty.

Ostracised by their families, hijras are often banished from their homes at a young age. With no formal education, many are forced into begging and sex work.

"People who are transgender are also human beings, they too have a right to education, to live a dignified life," said Abdur Rahman Azad, one of clerics who transformed the top floor of a three-storey building into the madrasa, an Islamic religious school.

The students will learn to read the Quran and the basic principles of Islam, but will also be taught Bengali, English, maths and receive some vocational training.

"We have a plan to open schools for them across the country so that no one is deprived of education. We are starting with just over 100 students, who will learn Islamic and vocational subjects. We wish to turn them into human resources."

The government estimates there are about 10,000 hijras in Bangladesh but rights groups say the figure could be as high as 1.5 million in the country of more than 160 million people.

Despite a landmark government's decision in 2013 to recognise hijras as a third gender, they remain marginalised in a country where same-sex sexual activity is illegal.

"I'm so thrilled. This school is a beacon of hope," said Sona Solani, 30, a student at the school.

"We're always looked down upon. We are not accepted anywhere, not even in our own house," she told Reuters, her voice choked with emotion.

"I want to show the society that we can stand as equals and prove that we're not limited to begging, that our lives are much bigger than that."

A religious charity has opened the first school in Bangladesh for hijras, a transgender community whose members face widespread discrimination in the mostly conservative Muslim society and often live in abject poverty.

A religious charity has opened the first school in Bangladesh for hijras, a transgender community whose members face widespread discrimination in the mostly conservative Muslim society and often live in abject poverty. Ostracised by their families, hijras are often banished from their homes at a young age. With no formal education, many are forced into begging and sex work. "People who are transgender are also human beings, they too have a right to education, to live a dignified life," said Abdur Rahman Azad, one of clerics who transformed the top floor of a three-storey building into the madrasa, an Islamic religious school. The students will learn to read the Quran and the basic principles of Islam, but will also be taught Bengali, English, maths and receive some vocational training. "We have a plan to open schools for them across the country so that no one is deprived of education. We are starting with just over 100 students, who will learn Islamic and vocational subjects. We wish to turn them into human resources." The government estimates there are about 10,000 hijras in Bangladesh but rights groups say the figure could be as high as 1.5 million in the country of more than 160 million people. Despite a landmark government's decision in 2013 to recognise hijras as a third gender, they remain marginalised in a country where same-sex sexual activity is illegal. "I'm so thrilled. This school is a beacon of hope," said Sona Solani, 30, a student at the school. "We're always looked down upon. We are not accepted anywhere, not even in our own house," she told Reuters, her voice choked with emotion. "I want to show the society that we can stand as equals and prove that we're not limited to begging, that our lives are much bigger than that."

'Beacon of hope': Bangladesh opens first school for transgender students

India's prestigious National Defense College has opened its door for 5 news countries--Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Philippines, Indonesia and Maldives and will be giving addition seats to 3 countries in the neighbourhood--Nepal, Myanmar, Bangladesh. The famed institute, from which India's Crème de la crème has passed has only 100 seats currently--75 for Indian nationals, 25 to foreign nationals.

India's Defence Secretary Dr Ajay Kumar announcing the development said, "We will be able to offer more seats to friendly foreign countries from where demand is huge. &nbsp;Necessary infrastructure in this regard is being created. "

From 2021 onwards, 10 more seats will be added, followed by 10 more in 2022 taking the number of seats at NDC to 120 by that year. The first NDC course was held in 1960 with 21 participants and this year marks the diamond jubilee of the institute.

The prominent alumni of NDC were Present King of Bhutan His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, former President of Bangladesh Lt Gen Hussain Muhammad Ershad, former head of state Lt Gen Frederick William Kwasi Akuffo and even one Governor-General of Australia. Other than this, 74 service chiefs of foreign defence forces have been pass out of the institute.

When it comes to domestically--2 governors of the country, 2 election commissioners, &nbsp;30 chiefs of Indian armed forces, 20 Indian envoys, 5 foreign secretaries, 4 defence secretaries and the present CDS Bipin Rawat and National Security Advisor have been alumni of NDC.

India's prestigious National Defense College has opened its door for 5 news countries--Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Philippines, Indonesia and Maldives and will be giving addition seats to 3 countries in the neighbourhood--Nepal, Myanmar, Bangladesh.

India's prestigious National Defense College has opened its door for 5 news countries--Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Philippines, Indonesia and Maldives and will be giving addition seats to 3 countries in the neighbourhood--Nepal, Myanmar, Bangladesh. The famed institute, from which India's Crème de la crème has passed has only 100 seats currently--75 for Indian nationals, 25 to foreign nationals. India's Defence Secretary Dr Ajay Kumar announcing the development said, "We will be able to offer more seats to friendly foreign countries from where demand is huge. Necessary infrastructure in this regard is being created. " From 2021 onwards, 10 more seats will be added, followed by 10 more in 2022 taking the number of seats at NDC to 120 by that year. The first NDC course was held in 1960 with 21 participants and this year marks the diamond jubilee of the institute. The prominent alumni of NDC were Present King of Bhutan His Majesty Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, former President of Bangladesh Lt Gen Hussain Muhammad Ershad, former head of state Lt Gen Frederick William Kwasi Akuffo and even one Governor-General of Australia. Other than this, 74 service chiefs of foreign defence forces have been pass out of the institute. When it comes to domestically--2 governors of the country, 2 election commissioners, 30 chiefs of Indian armed forces, 20 Indian envoys, 5 foreign secretaries, 4 defence secretaries and the present CDS Bipin Rawat and National Security Advisor have been alumni of NDC.

National Defence College opens doors for 5 countries; Nepal, Myanmar and Bangladesh get more seats

The anti-France protests by Muslim groups across the world continue. Today, at least 50,000 protesters took to the streets against the French President in Bangladesh. France says the threat of an attack on its missions abroad is 'very strong'. Palki Sharma Upadhyay has more.

Gravitas: Bangladesh: At least 50,000 protest against Emmanuel Macron

In Bangladesh, a mob attacked the homes of 10 Hindu families. In Pakistan, a teacher beheaded an effigy of Emmanuel Macron in front of students in a Madrasa. Have Islamic leaders triggered a new crisis with their criticism of the French President? Palki Sharma Upadhyay has more.

Gravitas: Angry mob burns Hindu homes in Bangladesh

As Myanmar gears up for its National Election on November 8, there is one subject that cannot be ignored- it's treatment of the Rohingya people. Over the decades, over 1.1 million Rohingya Muslims have fled Myanmar to seek refuge in Bangladesh. The government of Bangladesh plans to relocate 100,000 people from Cox's Bazar (the world's largest refugee camp) to the remote #BhashanChar island. What is their relocation plan? What are the challenges? WION correspondent Lakmina Jesmin Soma brings you this ground report from Bangladesh on WION Wideangle.

WION Wideangle: Rohingya crisis: A ground report from Bangladesh

In Bangladesh, at least 50,000 people staged a protest against French President Emmanuel Macron over how he dealt with the publication of Prophet Muhammad’s caricature.

Earlier, Macron had claimed that Islam was “in crisis” all over the world. Muslims around the world claim that Macron’s defence of the cartoon’s publication is insulting to the prophet, prompting global backlash.&nbsp;

Many countries around the world have also moved on to boycotting French products. The rally began in Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh at a mosque. Before they could reach the French embassy, they were stopped by the security forces.

Also read: F<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/france-honours-slain-teacher-as-school-resumes-339792" hreflang="en">rance honours slain teacher as school resumes</a>

According to the police, at least 50,000 people participated in the protests, calling for a blanket boycott of French goods. According to the organisers, more than 100,000 people took part in the protests. According to Al Jazeera, the protesters were chanting “No defamation of the Prophet Muhammad” and also burned an effigy of the French president.

Last month, a French teacher Samuel patty was murder for showing his class a cartoon of the Prophet Muhammad. Macron had added that it would never renounce the laws that permit blasphemous caricatures in the country.

Tens of thousands of Muslims protested in Bangladesh after French President Emmanuel Macron vowed to stand firm to guard French values following knife attack in the city of Nice. The protesters marched through streets of Dhaka and called fora boycott on French products. The crowd carried banners calling Macron "the world's biggest terrorist.

"Macron is leading Islamophobia," said demonstrator Akramul Haq. "He doesn't know the power of Islam. The Muslim world will not let this go in vain. We'll rise and stand in solidarity against him.""

French products are already being boycotted in some countries in the Middle East.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/war-on-france-prime-minister-jean-castex-calls-radical-political-islamism-countrys-enemy-339715" hreflang="en">'War on France': Prime Minister Jean Castex calls radical political Islamism country's enemy</a>

France raised its security alert to the highest level on Thursday after a knife-wielding man shouting "Allahu Akbar" (God is Greatest) beheaded an elderly woman in a church in Nice and killed two more people before being shot and taken away by police.

"We will not give any ground," Macron said outside the church in the French Riviera city of Nice, promising to deploy thousands more soldiers to guard sites such as places of worship and schools.

France had been attacked "over our values, for our taste for freedom, for the ability on our soil to have freedom of belief", he added.

In Bangladesh, at least 50,000 people staged a protest against French President Emmanuel Macron over how he dealt with the publication of Prophet Muhammad’s caricature.

In Bangladesh, at least 50,000 people staged a protest against French President Emmanuel Macron over how he dealt with the publication of Prophet Muhammad’s caricature. Earlier, Macron had claimed that Islam was “in crisis” all over the world. Muslims around the world claim that Macron’s defence of the cartoon’s publication is insulting to the prophet, prompting global backlash. Many countries around the world have also moved on to boycotting French products. The rally began in Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh at a mosque. Before they could reach the French embassy, they were stopped by the security forces. Also read: France honours slain teacher as school resumes According to the police, at least 50,000 people participated in the protests, calling for a blanket boycott of French goods. According to the organisers, more than 100,000 people took part in the protests. According to Al Jazeera, the protesters were chanting “No defamation of the Prophet Muhammad” and also burned an effigy of the French president. Last month, a French teacher Samuel patty was murder for showing his class a cartoon of the Prophet Muhammad. Macron had added that it would never renounce the laws that permit blasphemous caricatures in the country. Tens of thousands of Muslims protested in Bangladesh after French President Emmanuel Macron vowed to stand firm to guard French values following knife attack in the city of Nice. The protesters marched through streets of Dhaka and called fora boycott on French products. The crowd carried banners calling Macron "the world's biggest terrorist. "Macron is leading Islamophobia," said demonstrator Akramul Haq. "He doesn't know the power of Islam. The Muslim world will not let this go in vain. We'll rise and stand in solidarity against him."" French products are already being boycotted in some countries in the Middle East. Also read: 'War on France': Prime Minister Jean Castex calls radical political Islamism country's enemy France raised its security alert to the highest level on Thursday after a knife-wielding man shouting "Allahu Akbar" (God is Greatest) beheaded an elderly woman in a church in Nice and killed two more people before being shot and taken away by police. "We will not give any ground," Macron said outside the church in the French Riviera city of Nice, promising to deploy thousands more soldiers to guard sites such as places of worship and schools. France had been attacked "over our values, for our taste for freedom, for the ability on our soil to have freedom of belief", he added.

Bangladesh: 50,000 people participate in anti-France rally

In a shocking display of intolerance and bigotry, a group of radical Islamists attacked over 10 Hindu families on Sunday at Korbanpur village under Muradnagar Upazila in the Comilla district of Bangladesh.

Bangladesh: Muslim mob attacks, burn homes of hindus over a FB post

Several Hindu households were vandalised and torched in Comilla, a city in Bangladesh, after a man reportedly showed support for France defending Prophet Mohammed cartoons on Facebook.

The incident took place at the Korbanpur village under Muradnagar upazila of Comilla on Sunday afternoon, according to the Dhaka Tribune.

The office of the local Union Parishad Chairman Bankumar Shiv and the house of accused, Shankar Debnath, were set on fire.

Pictures and videos of the attack went viral on social media within moments.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Thread 
Here's the video,Muslim fanatics destroying Hindu houses, over just fb react given in boycott France post by Muslim. 2 Hindu arrested in blasphemy act. No action on this though it lasted for 5 hours.Dear fellow hindus We never asked for money,we asked for support from u . <a href="https://t.co/JTPBGnrdSM">pic.twitter.com/JTPBGnrdSM</a>
— joy chakraborty (@imrjoy) <a href="https://twitter.com/imrjoy/status/1323115749364310017?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Several Hindu households were vandalised and torched in Comilla, a city in Bangladesh, after a man reportedly showed support for France defending Prophet Mohammed cartoons on Facebook.

Several Hindu households were vandalised and torched in Comilla, a city in Bangladesh, after a man reportedly showed support for France defending Prophet Mohammed cartoons on Facebook. The incident took place at the Korbanpur village under Muradnagar upazila of Comilla on Sunday afternoon, according to the Dhaka Tribune. The office of the local Union Parishad Chairman Bankumar Shiv and the house of accused, Shankar Debnath, were set on fire. Pictures and videos of the attack went viral on social media within moments. Thread Here's the video,Muslim fanatics destroying Hindu houses, over just fb react given in boycott France post by Muslim. 2 Hindu arrested in blasphemy act. No action on this though it lasted for 5 hours.Dear fellow hindus We never asked for money,we asked for support from u . pic.twitter.com/JTPBGnrdSM — joy chakraborty (@imrjoy) November 2, 2020 ×

Hindu households vandalised in Bangladesh

Over 1.1 million Rohingya refugees are stranded in Bangladesh. The government plans to relocate 100,000 people from Cox's Bazar (the world's largest refugee camp) to the remote #BhashanChar island. What is their relocation plan? What are the challenges? Watch a ground report from Bangladesh on WION Wideangle.

WION Wideangle: Rohingya Crisis | A ground report from Bangladesh

Hundreds of people in a Bangladesh town on Thursday lynched a man who had allegedly desecrated the Quran.

Two men were accused of stepping on the Muslim holy book in the main mosque of the town of Burimari, near the frontier with India. One was beaten to death, and the second man escaped with injuries.

Police took the two men into protective custody in a municipal office after the allegations were made by worshippers at the Burimari Jame Masjid mosque.

They said more 1,000 people stormed the council office and police fired 17 live shotgun rounds in a bid to calm the crowd but could not stop them seizing the 35-year-old man. The victim was beaten to death before the crowd torched the office and burned the body in the street.

The incident came amid mounting anger in the Muslim majority country over comments about Islam made by France's President Emmanuel Macron.&nbsp;

Hundreds of people in a Bangladesh town on Thursday lynched a man who had allegedly desecrated the Quran. Two men were accused of stepping on the Muslim holy book in the main mosque of the town of Burimari, near the frontier with India.

Hundreds of people in a Bangladesh town on Thursday lynched a man who had allegedly desecrated the Quran. Two men were accused of stepping on the Muslim holy book in the main mosque of the town of Burimari, near the frontier with India. One was beaten to death, and the second man escaped with injuries. Police took the two men into protective custody in a municipal office after the allegations were made by worshippers at the Burimari Jame Masjid mosque. They said more 1,000 people stormed the council office and police fired 17 live shotgun rounds in a bid to calm the crowd but could not stop them seizing the 35-year-old man. The victim was beaten to death before the crowd torched the office and burned the body in the street. The incident came amid mounting anger in the Muslim majority country over comments about Islam made by France's President Emmanuel Macron.

Man lynched for desecration of Quran in Bangladesh

Tens of thousands of Muslims protested in Bangladesh after French President Emmanuel Macron vowed to stand firm to guard French values following knife attack in the city of Nice. The protesters marched through streets of Dhaka and called fora boycott on French products. The crowd carried banners calling Macron "the world's biggest terrorist.

"Macron is leading Islamophobia," said demonstrator Akramul Haq. "He doesn't know the power of Islam. The Muslim world will not let this go in vain. We'll rise and stand in solidarity against him.""

French products are already being boycotted in some countries in the Middle East/ West Asia.

France raised its security alert to the highest level on Thursday after a knife-wielding man shouting "Allahu Akbar" (God is Greatest) beheaded an elderly woman in a church in Nice and killed two more people before being shot and taken away by police.

"We will not give any ground," Macron said outside the church in the French Riviera city of Nice, promising to deploy thousands more soldiers to guard sites such as places of worship and schools.

France had been attacked "over our values, for our taste for freedom, for the ability on our soil to have freedom of belief", he added.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-stood-with-france-four-times-in-last-two-days-339024">India stood with France four times in last two days</a>

The violence has come at a time of growing Muslim anger over France's defence of the right to publish cartoons depicting the Prophet Mohammad, and protesters have denounced France in street rallies in several Muslim-majority countries.

French investigators said the man suspected of carrying out the Nice attack was a Tunisian born in 1999 who had arrived in Europe on Sept. 20 on Lampedusa, an Italian island off Tunisia that is a main landing point for migrants from Africa.

France gets support across the globe

Several countries have stood beside France on the issue.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/france-president-emmanuel-macron-states-islam-as-a-religion-in-crisis-339033/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

"It is just the most callous and cowardly and vicious act of barbarism by terrorists and should be condemned in the strongest possible way," said Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison.

Morrison had expressed his support to Macron, he told media on Friday. "We share values. We stand for the same things."

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared his support to France as well.

&nbsp;I strongly condemn the recent terrorist attacks in France, including today's heinous attack in Nice inside a church. Our deepest and heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and the people of France. India stands with France in the fight against terrorism," he tweeted on Thursday.

On Thursday, former Malaysian PM Mahathir Mohamad made bizarre assertions in a long series of tweets. One of his tweets said that Muslims had right to be angry and "kill millions of French people". The tweet was removed by Twitter saying that it violated its guidelines.

(With Reuters inputs)

Tens of thousands of Muslims protested in Bangladesh after French President Emmanuel Macron vowed to stand firm to guard French values following knife attack in the city of Nice.

Tens of thousands of Muslims protested in Bangladesh after French President Emmanuel Macron vowed to stand firm to guard French values following knife attack in the city of Nice. The protesters marched through streets of Dhaka and called fora boycott on French products. The crowd carried banners calling Macron "the world's biggest terrorist. "Macron is leading Islamophobia," said demonstrator Akramul Haq. "He doesn't know the power of Islam. The Muslim world will not let this go in vain. We'll rise and stand in solidarity against him."" French products are already being boycotted in some countries in the Middle East/ West Asia. France raised its security alert to the highest level on Thursday after a knife-wielding man shouting "Allahu Akbar" (God is Greatest) beheaded an elderly woman in a church in Nice and killed two more people before being shot and taken away by police. "We will not give any ground," Macron said outside the church in the French Riviera city of Nice, promising to deploy thousands more soldiers to guard sites such as places of worship and schools. France had been attacked "over our values, for our taste for freedom, for the ability on our soil to have freedom of belief", he added. Also Read | India stood with France four times in last two days The violence has come at a time of growing Muslim anger over France's defence of the right to publish cartoons depicting the Prophet Mohammad, and protesters have denounced France in street rallies in several Muslim-majority countries. French investigators said the man suspected of carrying out the Nice attack was a Tunisian born in 1999 who had arrived in Europe on Sept. 20 on Lampedusa, an Italian island off Tunisia that is a main landing point for migrants from Africa. France gets support across the globe Several countries have stood beside France on the issue. × "It is just the most callous and cowardly and vicious act of barbarism by terrorists and should be condemned in the strongest possible way," said Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison. Morrison had expressed his support to Macron, he told media on Friday. "We share values. We stand for the same things." Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared his support to France as well. I strongly condemn the recent terrorist attacks in France, including today's heinous attack in Nice inside a church. Our deepest and heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and the people of France. India stands with France in the fight against terrorism," he tweeted on Thursday. On Thursday, former Malaysian PM Mahathir Mohamad made bizarre assertions in a long series of tweets. One of his tweets said that Muslims had right to be angry and "kill millions of French people". The tweet was removed by Twitter saying that it violated its guidelines. (With Reuters inputs)

Bangladesh: Huge crowd holds protest against France President Emmanuel Macron

India has increased its engagement with Myanmar and Bangladesh on Covid-19 vaccine with in-person and virtual high-level meetings with officials of the two countries.&nbsp;

Earlier this month an Indian delegation visited Bangladesh from 17th to 19th October with Ministry of External Affairs saying that both sides had "fruitful discussions" on the "current stage of vaccine development in India and modalities of clinical trials in Bangladesh".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-vaccine-production-delivery-capacity-to-help-all-humanity-in-fighting-covid-19-mea-338838">India's vaccine production, delivery capacity to help all humanity in fighting COVID-19: MEA</a>

With Myanmar, a virtual interaction happened with key stakeholders from both sides present in the meeting. The MEA said, "As the situation with respect to vaccine development evolves, the sides will discuss and decide on modalities of cooperation."

Remember India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla had visited both the countries and cooperation amidst the Covid-19 crisis and Covid-19 vaccine was the key focus of the meet. During his Myanmar visit earlier this month along with Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane, India gifted 3000 vials of Anti Covid Remdesivir to State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi as a "symbol" of India‘s commitment to helping Myanmar mitigate the impact of the pandemic.

Remember at the United Nations General Assembly, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced India’s vaccine production and delivery capacity will be used to "help all humanity" in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic.

While India has sent medicines like HCQ, paracetamol to more than 150 countries, it is also been organising training to build capacity. In fact, for the neighbourhood, India has organised two training modules in which about 90 health experts and scientists have participated.

India has increased its engagement with Myanmar and Bangladesh on Covid-19 vaccine with in-person and virtual high-level meetings with officials of the two countries.

India has increased its engagement with Myanmar and Bangladesh on Covid-19 vaccine with in-person and virtual high-level meetings with officials of the two countries. Earlier this month an Indian delegation visited Bangladesh from 17th to 19th October with Ministry of External Affairs saying that both sides had "fruitful discussions" on the "current stage of vaccine development in India and modalities of clinical trials in Bangladesh". Also read | India's vaccine production, delivery capacity to help all humanity in fighting COVID-19: MEA With Myanmar, a virtual interaction happened with key stakeholders from both sides present in the meeting. The MEA said, "As the situation with respect to vaccine development evolves, the sides will discuss and decide on modalities of cooperation." Remember India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla had visited both the countries and cooperation amidst the Covid-19 crisis and Covid-19 vaccine was the key focus of the meet. During his Myanmar visit earlier this month along with Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane, India gifted 3000 vials of Anti Covid Remdesivir to State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi as a "symbol" of India‘s commitment to helping Myanmar mitigate the impact of the pandemic. Remember at the United Nations General Assembly, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced India’s vaccine production and delivery capacity will be used to "help all humanity" in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic. While India has sent medicines like HCQ, paracetamol to more than 150 countries, it is also been organising training to build capacity. In fact, for the neighbourhood, India has organised two training modules in which about 90 health experts and scientists have participated.

India increases engagement with Myanmar, Bangladesh on Covid-19 vaccine

Sexual violence against women in the South Asian country of Bangladesh is on a dangerously increase, despite a recent rule passed by the local government under which the assaulters are charged with the death penalty.

As per a report published by Ain-o-Salish Kendra (ASK), a local human rights organisation, 975 women rape cases were reported between January to September, including 208 gang rapes — out of which&nbsp;630 rape cases happened between April and August.

However, experts and activists believe this data revealed in the study is simply a third of the actual figure which has not been reported yet by any organisation or authorities. These revealing statements have come after a draft was approved of the&nbsp;Prevention of Women and Children Repression Act 2000, as per which all assaulters, when proven guilty, are charged with the death penalty.

The experts and activists, however, feel this will have little or no impact on the rising cases due to the flawed justice system of the country. "Unless the [Bangladeshi] authorities fix the flawed criminal justice system, address loopholes in laws and procedures, and improve the rule of law situation, merely imposing harsher punishment will unlikely have any impact on the ground," Amnesty International's South Asia Researcher, Sultan Mohammed Zakaria, told the ABC.
<img alt="Sexual violence in Bangladesh increases despite death penalty; #EndRapeInBangladesh trnds" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="24890388-6496-4345-bdea-2c4609246fcc" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Sexual%20violence%20in%20Bangladesh.jpg" />
"There is little to no support services available to the victims of violence against women. Even the legal support is scanty."

Zakaria also alleged that criminals are provided with unofficial&nbsp;protection in the country. Some activists have also claimed that many time the victims are scared to come forward and report the crime due to the fear of muscle power. Some victims are also silenced due to the family pressure of societal standing.

Another issue that has been raised is the legal definition of 'rape' in government records.&nbsp;"Currently, the legal definition of rape (under Prevention of Women and Children Oppression Act 2000) is narrow and only covers penile penetration to women without informed and wilful consent.

"The law does not cover rape of men, transgender [people], marital rape, and penetration by objects or hands," he said.

According to another study by&nbsp;One Stop Crisis Centre, 3.56 per cent of reported cases actually got a court judgement and as little as&nbsp;0.37 per cent of cases ended with convictions between 2001 and 2020.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
URGENT: RAPE CRISIS IN BANGLADESH 
 
Protestors have gathered over the last several days in Bangladesh after a series of horrific and brutal gang rapes and attacks. We must stand with the protestors in Bangladesh who are fighting for justice and reform. 
 
Here's how you can help... <a href="https://t.co/PpHXt7qEFu">pic.twitter.com/PpHXt7qEFu</a>
— Nabela Noor (@Nabela) <a href="https://twitter.com/Nabela/status/1314630207333109763?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 9, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Social media influencers from Bangladesh and various activists have now started&nbsp;#EndRapeInBangladesh on Twitter to gain international attention on the important issue which is affecting the majority of the women in Bangladesh

Sexual violence against women in the South Asian country of Bangladesh is on a dangerously increase, despite a recent rule passed by the local government under which the assaulters are charged with the death penalty.

Sexual violence against women in the South Asian country of Bangladesh is on a dangerously increase, despite a recent rule passed by the local government under which the assaulters are charged with the death penalty. As per a report published by Ain-o-Salish Kendra (ASK), a local human rights organisation, 975 women rape cases were reported between January to September, including 208 gang rapes — out of which 630 rape cases happened between April and August. However, experts and activists believe this data revealed in the study is simply a third of the actual figure which has not been reported yet by any organisation or authorities. These revealing statements have come after a draft was approved of the Prevention of Women and Children Repression Act 2000, as per which all assaulters, when proven guilty, are charged with the death penalty. The experts and activists, however, feel this will have little or no impact on the rising cases due to the flawed justice system of the country. "Unless the [Bangladeshi] authorities fix the flawed criminal justice system, address loopholes in laws and procedures, and improve the rule of law situation, merely imposing harsher punishment will unlikely have any impact on the ground," Amnesty International's South Asia Researcher, Sultan Mohammed Zakaria, told the ABC. "There is little to no support services available to the victims of violence against women. Even the legal support is scanty." Zakaria also alleged that criminals are provided with unofficial protection in the country. Some activists have also claimed that many time the victims are scared to come forward and report the crime due to the fear of muscle power. Some victims are also silenced due to the family pressure of societal standing. Another issue that has been raised is the legal definition of 'rape' in government records. "Currently, the legal definition of rape (under Prevention of Women and Children Oppression Act 2000) is narrow and only covers penile penetration to women without informed and wilful consent. "The law does not cover rape of men, transgender [people], marital rape, and penetration by objects or hands," he said. According to another study by One Stop Crisis Centre, 3.56 per cent of reported cases actually got a court judgement and as little as 0.37 per cent of cases ended with convictions between 2001 and 2020. URGENT: RAPE CRISIS IN BANGLADESH Protestors have gathered over the last several days in Bangladesh after a series of horrific and brutal gang rapes and attacks. We must stand with the protestors in Bangladesh who are fighting for justice and reform. Here's how you can help... pic.twitter.com/PpHXt7qEFu — Nabela Noor (@Nabela) October 9, 2020 × Social media influencers from Bangladesh and various activists have now started #EndRapeInBangladesh on Twitter to gain international attention on the important issue which is affecting the majority of the women in Bangladesh

Sexual violence in Bangladesh increases despite death penalty; #EndRapeInBangladesh trends

Spike in gender-based crimes in Bangladesh, most young women never used helpline

The coronavirus outbreak is a global crisis. It is a major health challenge for Bangladesh too but, it is also an opportunity. A chance for Bangladesh to wean businesses away from China and bring them home. In fact, foreign businesses based in China want to move out. They are looking at India and Bangladesh as their new home.&nbsp;

In an attempt to lure companies seeking to move their manufacturing base from China, Bangladesh is looking at simplifying its foreign direct investment (FDI) policy as well as the corporate taxation system.

According to reports, the Bangladesh government has already formed a committee to make the necessary recommendations for a simplified FDI policy and taxation system.

The coronavirus outbreak has exposed how lopsided the global supply chains really are. Companies want to reduce their dependence on China now and India and Bangladesh are emerging as a viable option.

Despite the negative impact of deadly coronavirus all over the world, Bangladesh is maintaining a positive economic growth rate when compared to other economies.

Bangladesh’s GDP will increase by 3.8% in 2020-21, according to projections from the International Monetary Fund.

Bangladesh has been doing remarkably steadily and quite well in terms of macroeconomic performance. It did not have any balance of payment shocks in the last 20-30 years.

(With inputs from agencies)

The coronavirus outbreak is a global crisis. It is a major health challenge for Bangladesh too but, it is also an opportunity. A chance for Bangladesh to wean businesses away from China and bring them home.

The coronavirus outbreak is a global crisis. It is a major health challenge for Bangladesh too but, it is also an opportunity. A chance for Bangladesh to wean businesses away from China and bring them home. In fact, foreign businesses based in China want to move out. They are looking at India and Bangladesh as their new home. In an attempt to lure companies seeking to move their manufacturing base from China, Bangladesh is looking at simplifying its foreign direct investment (FDI) policy as well as the corporate taxation system. According to reports, the Bangladesh government has already formed a committee to make the necessary recommendations for a simplified FDI policy and taxation system. The coronavirus outbreak has exposed how lopsided the global supply chains really are. Companies want to reduce their dependence on China now and India and Bangladesh are emerging as a viable option. Despite the negative impact of deadly coronavirus all over the world, Bangladesh is maintaining a positive economic growth rate when compared to other economies. Bangladesh’s GDP will increase by 3.8% in 2020-21, according to projections from the International Monetary Fund. Bangladesh has been doing remarkably steadily and quite well in terms of macroeconomic performance. It did not have any balance of payment shocks in the last 20-30 years. (With inputs from agencies)

China’s loss may become Bangladesh’s gain: Dhaka to simplify FDI policy to lure global manufacturers

Anandaloy is a community centre in Bangladesh designed by Anna Heringer, who has won the second edition of the prestigious Obel Award.

South Asia Diary: Bangladesh's rammed Earth community centre

Bangladeshi Muslims gathered to protest against the publications of a cartoon of Prophet Mohammad in France and call for the boycott of French products on Monday (October 26).

Bangladeshis protest cartoon of Prophet Mohammad and Macron's comments

UNHCR is urging the world to come out in support of the Rohingya Muslims. Currently seeking Refugee aid in Bangladesh, a crucial donor meeting is going to happen.

WION Dispatch: The world's largest humanitarian crisis, Crucial international meeting on Rohingya

bangladesh-0

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

bangladesh 0