Authorities here have said that thousands of Rohingya living in the refugee camps in southern coastal regions of Bangladesh will be relocated to an island in the Bay of Bengal that is prone to flooding.

The country`s refugee commissioner refused to divulge when the Rohingyas would be moved, but a senior Navy officer involved in building facilities on the island said the relocation could start by December, with some 500 refugees sent daily, Al Jazeera reported.

Some 740,000 Rohingyas fled Myanmar in August 2017 in the face of a military crackdown, joining 200,000 refugees already in makeshift tent settlements at Cox`s Bazar.

Dhaka has long wanted to move 100,000 refugees to the islet, saying it would take pressure off the overcrowded border camps where almost a million Rohingya are currently residing.

Bangladesh had been planning since last year to relocate the refugees to the desolate flood-prone site, which is an hour by boat from the mainland.

Rights groups have warned that the island, which emerged from the sea only about two decades ago, might not be able to withstand violent storms during the annual monsoon season.

Residents from nearby Hatiya Island told Human Rights Watch the island was not habitable."Part of the island is eroded by the monsoon every year," a man was quoted as saying.

"In that time, we never dare go to that island, so how will thousands of Rohingya live there?" he added further.

In the past half-century, powerful cyclones have killed hundreds of thousands of people in the Meghna River estuary where the island is located.

Rohingya leaders would be taken to Bhashan Char to view the facilities and living conditions soon, the commissioner said.

The official also said that a nine-foot (three-metre) high embankment has been built on the island to ensure the safety of the refugees from tidal surges during cyclones, along with a warehouse to store months worth of rations.

Bangladesh and Myanmar signed a repatriation deal two years ago, but virtually no refugees have returned to date, with UN investigators describing conditions in Myanmar as "unsafe, unsustainable and impossible".&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Authorities here have said that thousands of Rohingya living in the refugee camps in southern coastal regions of Bangladesh will be relocated to an island in the Bay of Bengal that is prone to flooding.

Authorities here have said that thousands of Rohingya living in the refugee camps in southern coastal regions of Bangladesh will be relocated to an island in the Bay of Bengal that is prone to flooding. The country`s refugee commissioner refused to divulge when the Rohingyas would be moved, but a senior Navy officer involved in building facilities on the island said the relocation could start by December, with some 500 refugees sent daily, Al Jazeera reported. Some 740,000 Rohingyas fled Myanmar in August 2017 in the face of a military crackdown, joining 200,000 refugees already in makeshift tent settlements at Cox`s Bazar. Dhaka has long wanted to move 100,000 refugees to the islet, saying it would take pressure off the overcrowded border camps where almost a million Rohingya are currently residing. Bangladesh had been planning since last year to relocate the refugees to the desolate flood-prone site, which is an hour by boat from the mainland. Rights groups have warned that the island, which emerged from the sea only about two decades ago, might not be able to withstand violent storms during the annual monsoon season. Residents from nearby Hatiya Island told Human Rights Watch the island was not habitable."Part of the island is eroded by the monsoon every year," a man was quoted as saying. "In that time, we never dare go to that island, so how will thousands of Rohingya live there?" he added further. In the past half-century, powerful cyclones have killed hundreds of thousands of people in the Meghna River estuary where the island is located. Rohingya leaders would be taken to Bhashan Char to view the facilities and living conditions soon, the commissioner said. The official also said that a nine-foot (three-metre) high embankment has been built on the island to ensure the safety of the refugees from tidal surges during cyclones, along with a warehouse to store months worth of rations. Bangladesh and Myanmar signed a repatriation deal two years ago, but virtually no refugees have returned to date, with UN investigators describing conditions in Myanmar as "unsafe, unsustainable and impossible".

Rohingya refugees to relocate to flood-prone island next month

The road passing by Chittagong's Shah Amanat International Airport, the second-largest international airport in Bangladesh, will be renamed after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. 
 
Chittagong City Corporation Mayor AJM Nasiruddin on Sunday announced that the airport road will be named after the Prime Minister, according to reports by Dhaka Tribune. 
 
The decision was unanimously adopted at the 51st general meeting of the 5th elected Parishad of Chittagong City Corporation (CCC) held at Theatre Institute Hall in the city earlier in the day. 
 
In his brief speech, Nasiruddin added that the present government under the dynamic leadership of Bangabandhu's daughter Prime Minister Hasina allocated about (Bangladeshi Taka) Tk1 lakh crore for different development projects of the port city, including the construction of the Karnaphuli tunnel and the project for the mitigation of waterlogging. 
 
He further said that the airport road from cement crossing to airport point will be turned into four lanes.

The road passing by Chittagong's Shah Amanat International Airport, the second-largest international airport in Bangladesh, will be renamed after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

The road passing by Chittagong's Shah Amanat International Airport, the second-largest international airport in Bangladesh, will be renamed after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Chittagong City Corporation Mayor AJM Nasiruddin on Sunday announced that the airport road will be named after the Prime Minister, according to reports by Dhaka Tribune. The decision was unanimously adopted at the 51st general meeting of the 5th elected Parishad of Chittagong City Corporation (CCC) held at Theatre Institute Hall in the city earlier in the day. In his brief speech, Nasiruddin added that the present government under the dynamic leadership of Bangabandhu's daughter Prime Minister Hasina allocated about (Bangladeshi Taka) Tk1 lakh crore for different development projects of the port city, including the construction of the Karnaphuli tunnel and the project for the mitigation of waterlogging. He further said that the airport road from cement crossing to airport point will be turned into four lanes.

Road in Bangladeshi city to be named after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina

Thousands protested against police across Bangladesh on Monday, a day after at least <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/four-killed-and-50-injured-as-police-fire-on-bangladesh-protesters-over-facebook-post-257087">four people died when officers fired on a crowd</a> in one of the country's deadliest religious riots to date.

Some 20,000 Muslims called for the execution of a young Hindu man on Bhola island Sunday for writing Facebook messages that allegedly defamed the Prophet Mohammed, with police saying they opened fire after rocks were thrown at officers.

Four people died and nearly 50 were injured, with at least seven in a critical condition in hospital.

Mob attacks over online posts perceived to be blasphemous have emerged as a major headache for security forces in Bangladesh, where Muslims make up some 90 percent of the country's 168 million people.

The deaths sparked a new round of protests late Sunday and on Monday as thousands of Muslims across several cities shouted slogans and called for the officers involved to be put on trial.

"This is not acceptable. Police have illegally and unconstitutionally opened fire on the protesters," 22-year-old madrasa student Mahmudul Hasan told AFP at a rally in the capital Dhaka.

"It is an extrajudicial killing. We seek justice."

The Hindu man whose Facebook account hosted the original messages and is from Bhola, was charged with inciting religious tension.

But Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina called for calm Sunday and said the man's Facebook account was hacked by a Muslim person and used to "spread lies".

Thousands of protesters who took part in the Bhola protest were being investigated, local police chief Enamul Haque told AFP, adding a police officer was also "fighting for his life" after he was shot by demonstrators.

No arrests have yet been made, he added.

This is not the first time alleged Facebook posts have sparked large-scale religious violence in the impoverished South Asian country. &nbsp;

In 2016, angry Muslims attacked Hindu temples in an eastern town over a Facebook post that allegedly mocked one of Islam's holiest sites.

And in 2012, Muslim mobs torched Buddhist monasteries, houses and shops in the coastal Cox's Bazar district after a photo of the koran that was considered defamatory was put online by a young Buddhist.

Thousands protested against police across Bangladesh on Monday, a day after at least four people died when officers fired on a crowd in one of the country's deadliest religious riots to date.

Thousands protested against police across Bangladesh on Monday, a day after at least four people died when officers fired on a crowd in one of the country's deadliest religious riots to date. Some 20,000 Muslims called for the execution of a young Hindu man on Bhola island Sunday for writing Facebook messages that allegedly defamed the Prophet Mohammed, with police saying they opened fire after rocks were thrown at officers. Four people died and nearly 50 were injured, with at least seven in a critical condition in hospital. Mob attacks over online posts perceived to be blasphemous have emerged as a major headache for security forces in Bangladesh, where Muslims make up some 90 percent of the country's 168 million people. The deaths sparked a new round of protests late Sunday and on Monday as thousands of Muslims across several cities shouted slogans and called for the officers involved to be put on trial. "This is not acceptable. Police have illegally and unconstitutionally opened fire on the protesters," 22-year-old madrasa student Mahmudul Hasan told AFP at a rally in the capital Dhaka. "It is an extrajudicial killing. We seek justice." The Hindu man whose Facebook account hosted the original messages and is from Bhola, was charged with inciting religious tension. But Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina called for calm Sunday and said the man's Facebook account was hacked by a Muslim person and used to "spread lies". Thousands of protesters who took part in the Bhola protest were being investigated, local police chief Enamul Haque told AFP, adding a police officer was also "fighting for his life" after he was shot by demonstrators. No arrests have yet been made, he added. This is not the first time alleged Facebook posts have sparked large-scale religious violence in the impoverished South Asian country. In 2016, angry Muslims attacked Hindu temples in an eastern town over a Facebook post that allegedly mocked one of Islam's holiest sites. And in 2012, Muslim mobs torched Buddhist monasteries, houses and shops in the coastal Cox's Bazar district after a photo of the koran that was considered defamatory was put online by a young Buddhist.

Thousands protest against Bangladesh police after deadly shootings

At least four people were killed and nearly 50 injured Sunday after police fired on thousands of Bangladeshi Muslims protesting a Facebook post by a Hindu who allegedly defamed the Prophet Mohammed, officials said.

Mob attacks over Facebook posts perceived to be blasphemous have emerged as a major headache for security forces in Bangladesh, where Muslims make up some 90 per cent of the country's 168 million people.

Some 20,000 Muslims demonstrated at a prayer ground in Borhanuddin town on the country's largest island of Bhola to call for the execution of the young Hindu man, who was arrested Saturday over charges of inciting religious tension.

Police said they opened fire in self-defence after some of the crowd threw rocks at their officers.

"At least four people were killed and up to 50 people were injured," police inspector Salahuddin Mia told AFP.

He said extra police and border guards were being deployed in the town.

The death toll is expected to rise, with Bhola Sadar Hospital duty doctor Tayebur Rahman telling AFP at least seven of the 43 people taken to hospital were fighting for their lives.

"We have sent the critically injured people to the regional hospital in Barisal (city). Their conditions are not stable," he said.

In 2016, angry Muslims attacked Hindu temples in an eastern town over a Facebook post was put up allegedly mocking one of Islam's holiest sites.

In 2012, Muslim mobs torched Buddhist monasteries, houses and shops in the coastal Cox's Bazar district following a Buddhist youth's alleged defamatory photo post of the Koran.

Bangladesh has also experienced a number of attacks on people from religious minorities, secular bloggers, publishers, writers and foreigners, many claimed by Islamist militants.

At least four people were killed and nearly 50 injured Sunday after police fired on thousands of Bangladeshi Muslims protesting a Facebook post by a Hindu who allegedly defamed the Prophet Mohammed, officials said.

At least four people were killed and nearly 50 injured Sunday after police fired on thousands of Bangladeshi Muslims protesting a Facebook post by a Hindu who allegedly defamed the Prophet Mohammed, officials said. Mob attacks over Facebook posts perceived to be blasphemous have emerged as a major headache for security forces in Bangladesh, where Muslims make up some 90 per cent of the country's 168 million people. Some 20,000 Muslims demonstrated at a prayer ground in Borhanuddin town on the country's largest island of Bhola to call for the execution of the young Hindu man, who was arrested Saturday over charges of inciting religious tension. Police said they opened fire in self-defence after some of the crowd threw rocks at their officers. "At least four people were killed and up to 50 people were injured," police inspector Salahuddin Mia told AFP. He said extra police and border guards were being deployed in the town. The death toll is expected to rise, with Bhola Sadar Hospital duty doctor Tayebur Rahman telling AFP at least seven of the 43 people taken to hospital were fighting for their lives. "We have sent the critically injured people to the regional hospital in Barisal (city). Their conditions are not stable," he said. In 2016, angry Muslims attacked Hindu temples in an eastern town over a Facebook post was put up allegedly mocking one of Islam's holiest sites. In 2012, Muslim mobs torched Buddhist monasteries, houses and shops in the coastal Cox's Bazar district following a Buddhist youth's alleged defamatory photo post of the Koran. Bangladesh has also experienced a number of attacks on people from religious minorities, secular bloggers, publishers, writers and foreigners, many claimed by Islamist militants.

Four killed and 50 injured as police fire on Bangladesh protesters over Facebook post

Thousands of Rohingya living in Bangladesh refugee camps have agreed to move to an island in the Bay of Bengal, officials said Sunday, despite fears the site is prone to flooding.

Dhaka has long wanted to move 100,000 refugees to the muddy silt islet, saying it would take the pressure off the overcrowded border camps where almost a million Rohingya live.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/600000-rohingyas-in-myanmar-still-at-serious-risk-of-genocide-united-nations-249971">Some 740,000 Rohingya fled Myanmar in August 2017</a> in the face of a military crackdown, joining 200,000 refugees already in makeshift tent settlements at Cox's Bazar.

Bangladesh's refugee commissioner, Mahbub Alam, said officials overseeing the relocation would be posted to Bhashan Char island in the next few days.

"Approximately 6,000-7,000 refugees have already expressed their willingness to be relocated to Bhashan Char," Alam told AFP from Cox's Bazar, adding that "the number is rising".

He did not say when the refugees would be moved, but a senior Navy officer involved in building facilities on the island said it could start by December, with some 500 refugees sent daily.

Bangladesh had been planning since last year to relocate Rohingya to the desolate flood-prone site, which is an hour by boat from the mainland.

Rights groups have warned the island, which emerged from the sea only about two decades ago, might not be able to withstand violent storms during the annual monsoon season.&nbsp;

In the past half a century, powerful cyclones have killed hundreds of thousands of people in the Meghna river estuary where the island is located.

Rohingya leaders would be taken to Bhashan Char to view the facilities and living conditions, Alam said.

Safety facilities built on the island include a three-metre-high&nbsp;embankment along its perimeter to&nbsp;keep out tidal surges during cyclones, and a warehouse to store months-worth of rations, he added.

Rohingya father-of-four Nur Hossain, 50, said he and his family agreed to relocate to Bhashan Char after they were shown video footage of the shelters.

"I have agreed to go. The camp here (at Leda) is very overcrowded. There are food and housing problems," the 50-year-old told AFP.

There was no immediate comment from the UN, although Bangladeshi officials said they expect a delegation would visit the island in the next few weeks.&nbsp;

Thousands of Rohingya living in Bangladesh refugee camps have agreed to move to an island in the Bay of Bengal, officials said Sunday, despite fears the site is prone to flooding.

Thousands of Rohingya living in Bangladesh refugee camps have agreed to move to an island in the Bay of Bengal, officials said Sunday, despite fears the site is prone to flooding. Dhaka has long wanted to move 100,000 refugees to the muddy silt islet, saying it would take the pressure off the overcrowded border camps where almost a million Rohingya live. Some 740,000 Rohingya fled Myanmar in August 2017 in the face of a military crackdown, joining 200,000 refugees already in makeshift tent settlements at Cox's Bazar. Bangladesh's refugee commissioner, Mahbub Alam, said officials overseeing the relocation would be posted to Bhashan Char island in the next few days. "Approximately 6,000-7,000 refugees have already expressed their willingness to be relocated to Bhashan Char," Alam told AFP from Cox's Bazar, adding that "the number is rising". He did not say when the refugees would be moved, but a senior Navy officer involved in building facilities on the island said it could start by December, with some 500 refugees sent daily. Bangladesh had been planning since last year to relocate Rohingya to the desolate flood-prone site, which is an hour by boat from the mainland. Rights groups have warned the island, which emerged from the sea only about two decades ago, might not be able to withstand violent storms during the annual monsoon season. In the past half a century, powerful cyclones have killed hundreds of thousands of people in the Meghna river estuary where the island is located. Rohingya leaders would be taken to Bhashan Char to view the facilities and living conditions, Alam said. Safety facilities built on the island include a three-metre-high embankment along its perimeter to keep out tidal surges during cyclones, and a warehouse to store months-worth of rations, he added. Rohingya father-of-four Nur Hossain, 50, said he and his family agreed to relocate to Bhashan Char after they were shown video footage of the shelters. "I have agreed to go. The camp here (at Leda) is very overcrowded. There are food and housing problems," the 50-year-old told AFP. There was no immediate comment from the UN, although Bangladeshi officials said they expect a delegation would visit the island in the next few weeks.

Rohingya refugees agree to move to Bangladesh island: Official

Bangladesh Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal has termed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bangladesh-border-guards-shoot-kill-indian-soldier-official-256586">the firing incident on border in which a BSF soldier was killed by the BGB as 'unfortunate'</a> and said this should not affect the cordial relationship between the two countries. 
 
"This was an unfortunate event, which should not affect the cordial relationship between Bangladesh and India," Dhaka Tribune quoted him as saying on Friday. 
Border Guards of Bangladesh (BGB) had on Thursday opened fire on a Border Security Force (BSF) party, killing one constable and injuring another when the party was trying to trace an Indian fisherman along the India-Bangladesh border in West Bengal. 
 
"We are set to identify the conflicting issues between the two forces, and design peaceful solution to restore the friendly bonding between them," said the Bangladeshi Home Minister. 
 
Head Constable Vijay Bhan Singh of the BSF died after he received bullet injuries on his head. Another constable-cum-boatman received bullet injuries on his right hand. 
According to the BSF, three Indian fishermen had gone for fishing in the river Padma in the border area on Thursday morning. 
 
"Two fishermen returned and approached the BSF post at Kakmarichar and said that the BGB apprehended them all. They, however, released two of them in order to call BSF post-commander for a flag meeting," BSF had said. 
 
"Around 10:30 am, the Post Commander along with five troopers in the BSF boat, approached the BGB patrol in the water channel of River Padma near the boundary. During the flag meeting, the BGB patrol did not release the Indian fisherman and also tried to cordon (gherao) the BSF troops," added the BSF. 
 
Sensing the situation worsening, the BSF party immediately returned following which the BGB troops opened fire on them. 
 
BGB, however, claimed they "fired in self-defence" during a flag meeting along the India-Bangladesh border in West Bengal's Murshidabad. 
 
"It should be noted that four out of the four BSF members were wearing uniforms and the rest were wearing half pants-gauze. Also, it is important to note that the BSF team had weapons," the BGB had said in a statement. 
 
The Bangladeshi Border Guards had said that it told the BSF if they want to take the prisoners back, they would be given a formal return with the flag meeting. 
 
"BGB patrol team informed them that you too came to Bangladesh illegally. So you too will be handed over through official flag meeting," it added. 
 
The BGB further said, "The BSF members were then forced to flee. When the BGB stopped them, the BSF members started firing. Speedboats continued to enter India. The BGB then fired in self-defence. Later, it was reported that one BSF member was killed."

Bangladesh Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal has termed the firing incident on border in which a BSF soldier was killed by the BGB as 'unfortunate' and said this should not affect the cordial relationship between the two countries.

Bangladesh Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal has termed the firing incident on border in which a BSF soldier was killed by the BGB as 'unfortunate' and said this should not affect the cordial relationship between the two countries. "This was an unfortunate event, which should not affect the cordial relationship between Bangladesh and India," Dhaka Tribune quoted him as saying on Friday. Border Guards of Bangladesh (BGB) had on Thursday opened fire on a Border Security Force (BSF) party, killing one constable and injuring another when the party was trying to trace an Indian fisherman along the India-Bangladesh border in West Bengal. "We are set to identify the conflicting issues between the two forces, and design peaceful solution to restore the friendly bonding between them," said the Bangladeshi Home Minister. Head Constable Vijay Bhan Singh of the BSF died after he received bullet injuries on his head. Another constable-cum-boatman received bullet injuries on his right hand. According to the BSF, three Indian fishermen had gone for fishing in the river Padma in the border area on Thursday morning. "Two fishermen returned and approached the BSF post at Kakmarichar and said that the BGB apprehended them all. They, however, released two of them in order to call BSF post-commander for a flag meeting," BSF had said. "Around 10:30 am, the Post Commander along with five troopers in the BSF boat, approached the BGB patrol in the water channel of River Padma near the boundary. During the flag meeting, the BGB patrol did not release the Indian fisherman and also tried to cordon (gherao) the BSF troops," added the BSF. Sensing the situation worsening, the BSF party immediately returned following which the BGB troops opened fire on them. BGB, however, claimed they "fired in self-defence" during a flag meeting along the India-Bangladesh border in West Bengal's Murshidabad. "It should be noted that four out of the four BSF members were wearing uniforms and the rest were wearing half pants-gauze. Also, it is important to note that the BSF team had weapons," the BGB had said in a statement. The Bangladeshi Border Guards had said that it told the BSF if they want to take the prisoners back, they would be given a formal return with the flag meeting. "BGB patrol team informed them that you too came to Bangladesh illegally. So you too will be handed over through official flag meeting," it added. The BGB further said, "The BSF members were then forced to flee. When the BGB stopped them, the BSF members started firing. Speedboats continued to enter India. The BGB then fired in self-defence. Later, it was reported that one BSF member was killed."

Bangladesh Home Minister calls cross-border firing incident 'unfortunate', says it should not affect relationship with India

An Indian paramilitary guard was killed and another critically wounded after they were fired upon by Bangladeshi troops at a border river on Thursday, Indian security forces said, the first deadly frontier clash between the nations in years.

The incident in&nbsp;West Bengal took place after Bangladesh detained three Indian fishermen for allegedly sailing into their waters searching for Hilsa, a popular fish in regional cuisine.

Two of the fishermen were released or escaped and informed&nbsp;border guards of their detention.

Six Indian guards then took a boat to an island on the Padma River to secure the release of the third fisherman from their Bangladeshi counterparts,&nbsp;Border Security Force (BSF) said.

The BSF said a "border guard was killed and another critically injured in firing by Bangladeshi border troops along the riverine border".

But in a statement late Thursday, Bangladesh said Indian troops fired first after they "forcibly tried to take the detained fisherman" and their border personnel resisted them.

The Indian soldiers "got angry and opened fire and they drove their speedboat back to India by firing all the way. Then the (Border Guard Bangladesh) patrol team fired back in self-defence," the BGB said.

The Indian border force named the slain maritime officer as Head Constable Vijay Bhan Singh. The second guard was taken to hospital, where he was fighting for his life.

Bangladesh said officials from both sides met after the incident and agreed to investigate the encounter and hold future talks.

Illegal fishing is not uncommon in the Sunderbans, a UNESCO world heritage site which straddles the border of India and Bangladesh and is famous for its mangrove forest.

Thousands of people fish in the area around the year. Fishermen detained on both sides are usually released after talks between border officials.

Border relations between India and Bangladesh have been good, and this is the first fatal incident in recent times.

Earlier, in August 2005, guards on both sides exchanged fire over repairs on the Mahananda river, in West Bengal, with no casualties.

An Indian paramilitary guard was killed and another critically wounded after they were fired upon by Bangladeshi troops at a border river on Thursday, Indian security forces said, the first deadly frontier clash between the nations in years.

An Indian paramilitary guard was killed and another critically wounded after they were fired upon by Bangladeshi troops at a border river on Thursday, Indian security forces said, the first deadly frontier clash between the nations in years. The incident in West Bengal took place after Bangladesh detained three Indian fishermen for allegedly sailing into their waters searching for Hilsa, a popular fish in regional cuisine. Two of the fishermen were released or escaped and informed border guards of their detention. Six Indian guards then took a boat to an island on the Padma River to secure the release of the third fisherman from their Bangladeshi counterparts, Border Security Force (BSF) said. The BSF said a "border guard was killed and another critically injured in firing by Bangladeshi border troops along the riverine border". But in a statement late Thursday, Bangladesh said Indian troops fired first after they "forcibly tried to take the detained fisherman" and their border personnel resisted them. The Indian soldiers "got angry and opened fire and they drove their speedboat back to India by firing all the way. Then the (Border Guard Bangladesh) patrol team fired back in self-defence," the BGB said. The Indian border force named the slain maritime officer as Head Constable Vijay Bhan Singh. The second guard was taken to hospital, where he was fighting for his life. Bangladesh said officials from both sides met after the incident and agreed to investigate the encounter and hold future talks. Illegal fishing is not uncommon in the Sunderbans, a UNESCO world heritage site which straddles the border of India and Bangladesh and is famous for its mangrove forest. Thousands of people fish in the area around the year. Fishermen detained on both sides are usually released after talks between border officials. Border relations between India and Bangladesh have been good, and this is the first fatal incident in recent times. Earlier, in August 2005, guards on both sides exchanged fire over repairs on the Mahananda river, in West Bengal, with no casualties.

Bangladesh Border Guards shoot, kill Indian soldier: Official

A transgender candidate has been elected as councillor for a rural Bangladeshi town, the first in the ultra-conservative Muslim-majority nation where laws still discriminate against sexual minorities.

Pinki&nbsp;Khatun&nbsp;was elected as vice-chair of a town council in the country's west on Monday after beating her nearest rival by more than 4,000 votes, local police chief Mahbubul Alam said.

"I am very delighted. I campaigned door-to-door and people have responded positively,"&nbsp;the garment shop owner told AFP.

"I did not face any discrimination or hate campaigns."

Bangladesh has allowed transgenders, known as hijra,&nbsp;an umbrella term referring to someone who is born male but does not refer to themselves as a man or woman, to identify as a separate gender since 2013.&nbsp;

This year, they were allowed to register to vote identifying as this gender.

The 37-year-old councillor is a youth wing official of the ruling Awami League and campaigned as an independent candidate in the 200,000-population town of Kotchandpur after the party did not back anyone.

"My aim is to work for the betterment of women and protect their rights," said the councillor, who previously identified as a woman.

"I'll work for hijras so they can live honourably in society."

The government says there are some 10,000 hijras in Bangladesh but independent estimates say they could number up to 500,000, with many hiding their identity to avoid discrimination.

Bangladesh still has a British colonial-era&nbsp;law where anyone who engages in gay sex faces life in prison, although the legislation is rarely used.

The LGBT community also faces social discrimination.

Transgender rights activist Anonnya Banik said the election of the country's first transgender politician was a "big achievement".

"It will create a positive impact on society and inspire other trans-people. I think it reflects a change in Bangladesh people's attitude towards trans-people," Banik told AFP.&nbsp;

A transgender candidate has been elected as councillor for a rural Bangladeshi town, the first in the ultra-conservative Muslim-majority nation where laws still discriminate against sexual minorities.

A transgender candidate has been elected as councillor for a rural Bangladeshi town, the first in the ultra-conservative Muslim-majority nation where laws still discriminate against sexual minorities. Pinki Khatun was elected as vice-chair of a town council in the country's west on Monday after beating her nearest rival by more than 4,000 votes, local police chief Mahbubul Alam said. "I am very delighted. I campaigned door-to-door and people have responded positively," the garment shop owner told AFP. "I did not face any discrimination or hate campaigns." Bangladesh has allowed transgenders, known as hijra, an umbrella term referring to someone who is born male but does not refer to themselves as a man or woman, to identify as a separate gender since 2013. This year, they were allowed to register to vote identifying as this gender. The 37-year-old councillor is a youth wing official of the ruling Awami League and campaigned as an independent candidate in the 200,000-population town of Kotchandpur after the party did not back anyone. "My aim is to work for the betterment of women and protect their rights," said the councillor, who previously identified as a woman. "I'll work for hijras so they can live honourably in society." The government says there are some 10,000 hijras in Bangladesh but independent estimates say they could number up to 500,000, with many hiding their identity to avoid discrimination. Bangladesh still has a British colonial-era law where anyone who engages in gay sex faces life in prison, although the legislation is rarely used. The LGBT community also faces social discrimination. Transgender rights activist Anonnya Banik said the election of the country's first transgender politician was a "big achievement". "It will create a positive impact on society and inspire other trans-people. I think it reflects a change in Bangladesh people's attitude towards trans-people," Banik told AFP.

First transgender councillor elected in Bangladesh

Bangladesh's already congested capital Dhaka was further disrupted Monday as thousands of Uber drivers went on strike in the city of 20 million, demanding a cut in the commission they pay to the global ridesharing giant.

Uber, which has helped to shake up local transportation worldwide and whose shares went public this year, has seen a backlash in many countries against its business practices from regulators and drivers alike.

Two driver unions called a 24-hour strike to protest against the 25 per cent cut they give Uber, as well as other restrictions in the mobile-based ridesharing app, union leader Kaiyum Ahmed Shuvo told AFP.

Another leader, Belal Ahmed, said out of the 12,000 Uber drivers active in Dhaka at least 7,000 had joined the strike, due to end early Tuesday morning.

Among several demands, the drivers want Uber to cut its commission to 12 per cent and also remove the daily 12-hour limit on their working hours.

"We called the strike because Uber has not paid any heed to our demands. If they don't meet our demands we will announce a new set of actions very soon," Shuvo said.

As part of their protest, scores of drivers formed a human chain on a busy Dhaka road.

The strike wrought havoc in Dhaka as tens of thousands of middle-class people depend on ridesharing to commute to work.

Uber, the world's largest ridesharing company, launched operations in the South Asian nation in 2016, and some 100,000 drivers have since signed up.

Bangladesh transport authorities initially banned the app -- terming it an "illegal taxi service" -- but later parliament passed laws allowing over half a dozen local and international ridesharing firms to operate in the country of 168 million.

Uber Bangladesh apologized for the "disruption" caused by what it said was "due to a small group of individuals".

"We have processes in place for our driver-partners to address concerns," Uber said.

Apart from Uber, homegrown motorbike ridesharing service Pathao is hugely popular among Dhaka commuters as it has already racked up 200,000 registered drivers and 100,000 transactions per day.

Bangladesh's already congested capital Dhaka was further disrupted Monday as thousands of Uber drivers went on strike in the city of 20 million, demanding a cut in the commission they pay to the global ridesharing giant.

Bangladesh's already congested capital Dhaka was further disrupted Monday as thousands of Uber drivers went on strike in the city of 20 million, demanding a cut in the commission they pay to the global ridesharing giant. Uber, which has helped to shake up local transportation worldwide and whose shares went public this year, has seen a backlash in many countries against its business practices from regulators and drivers alike. Two driver unions called a 24-hour strike to protest against the 25 per cent cut they give Uber, as well as other restrictions in the mobile-based ridesharing app, union leader Kaiyum Ahmed Shuvo told AFP. Another leader, Belal Ahmed, said out of the 12,000 Uber drivers active in Dhaka at least 7,000 had joined the strike, due to end early Tuesday morning. Among several demands, the drivers want Uber to cut its commission to 12 per cent and also remove the daily 12-hour limit on their working hours. "We called the strike because Uber has not paid any heed to our demands. If they don't meet our demands we will announce a new set of actions very soon," Shuvo said. As part of their protest, scores of drivers formed a human chain on a busy Dhaka road. The strike wrought havoc in Dhaka as tens of thousands of middle-class people depend on ridesharing to commute to work. Uber, the world's largest ridesharing company, launched operations in the South Asian nation in 2016, and some 100,000 drivers have since signed up. Bangladesh transport authorities initially banned the app -- terming it an "illegal taxi service" -- but later parliament passed laws allowing over half a dozen local and international ridesharing firms to operate in the country of 168 million. Uber Bangladesh apologized for the "disruption" caused by what it said was "due to a small group of individuals". "We have processes in place for our driver-partners to address concerns," Uber said. Apart from Uber, homegrown motorbike ridesharing service Pathao is hugely popular among Dhaka commuters as it has already racked up 200,000 registered drivers and 100,000 transactions per day.

Bangladesh Uber drivers strike for commission cut

Bangladeshi terror organisation Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen (JuM) is increasing their area of operations in India and has expanded into the country in Bihar, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Kerala under the guise of migrants from Bangladesh, according to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) Director-General YC Modi.

Modi was speaking at the two-day NIA's national conference of chiefs of Anti-Terrorism Squad and Special Task Force (STF) that began here on Monday.

"NIA has noticed that Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB) has increased its activities in Bihar, Maharashtra, Kerala and Karnataka among others in the name of Bangladeshis. The NIA has also identified 125 suspicious names of JNB workers and shared them with other agencies," Modi said.

National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval, Minister of State (MoS) Home Affairs, G Kishan Reddy presided over the conference. Former IB Special Director and present Nagaland Governor RN Ravi was also present at the meeting.

Praising the work done by NIA, YC Modi said, "In a very short period the NIA has done excellent work on terror funding, Naxalism, North-East insurgency to registered cases and our success ratio is more than 90 per cent."I feel very proud that NIA and state police have very cordial relation due to which we were able to foil terrorist plans a number of times," Modi added.

The NIA DG, however, also raised concerns about the increased activity of some groups in states. Inspector-General (IG) NIA, Alok Mittal added that many top separatist leaders and chiefs of outlawed organisations had been found guilty of facilitating terror funding, which was being sent from across the border, leading to their arrest.

"In the main case of terror funding in Jammu and Kashmir, chiefs of proscribed organizations and top separatist leaders have been arrested and charge-sheeted. None have got bail so far. They were being funded from Pakistan High Commission, through remittances and hawala transfers," Mittal said.

He added that efforts were being made from Pakistan to revive terrorism in Punjab and the people arrested in targeted killing cases have been found to be linked with the Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF).

"There have been continuous efforts from across the border to revive terror activities in Punjab. Out of 16 arrested for targeted killings in eight cases, the Khalistan Liberation Force was found to be involved. Funds from UK, Italy, France and Australia were sent for this," he said.

"We have registered fresh case based on anti-India activities of Sikhs for Justice, they are running a campaign on social media and trying to radicalize Sikh youth. 5 arrested in UP`s Shamli last year admitted they were radicalized through 'Referendum 2020'&nbsp;propaganda," Mittal added.

National Investigation Agency (NIA) is a premier Investigation agency of the Country. NIA is dedicated to creating deterrence for existing and potential terrorist groups and individuals.

Bangladeshi terror organisation Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen (JuM) is increasing their area of operations in India and has expanded into the country in Bihar, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Kerala under the guise of migrants from Bangladesh, according to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) Director-General YC Modi.

Bangladeshi terror organisation Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen (JuM) is increasing their area of operations in India and has expanded into the country in Bihar, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Kerala under the guise of migrants from Bangladesh, according to the National Investigation Agency (NIA) Director-General YC Modi. Modi was speaking at the two-day NIA's national conference of chiefs of Anti-Terrorism Squad and Special Task Force (STF) that began here on Monday. "NIA has noticed that Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB) has increased its activities in Bihar, Maharashtra, Kerala and Karnataka among others in the name of Bangladeshis. The NIA has also identified 125 suspicious names of JNB workers and shared them with other agencies," Modi said. National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval, Minister of State (MoS) Home Affairs, G Kishan Reddy presided over the conference. Former IB Special Director and present Nagaland Governor RN Ravi was also present at the meeting. Praising the work done by NIA, YC Modi said, "In a very short period the NIA has done excellent work on terror funding, Naxalism, North-East insurgency to registered cases and our success ratio is more than 90 per cent."I feel very proud that NIA and state police have very cordial relation due to which we were able to foil terrorist plans a number of times," Modi added. The NIA DG, however, also raised concerns about the increased activity of some groups in states. Inspector-General (IG) NIA, Alok Mittal added that many top separatist leaders and chiefs of outlawed organisations had been found guilty of facilitating terror funding, which was being sent from across the border, leading to their arrest. "In the main case of terror funding in Jammu and Kashmir, chiefs of proscribed organizations and top separatist leaders have been arrested and charge-sheeted. None have got bail so far. They were being funded from Pakistan High Commission, through remittances and hawala transfers," Mittal said. He added that efforts were being made from Pakistan to revive terrorism in Punjab and the people arrested in targeted killing cases have been found to be linked with the Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF). "There have been continuous efforts from across the border to revive terror activities in Punjab. Out of 16 arrested for targeted killings in eight cases, the Khalistan Liberation Force was found to be involved. Funds from UK, Italy, France and Australia were sent for this," he said. "We have registered fresh case based on anti-India activities of Sikhs for Justice, they are running a campaign on social media and trying to radicalize Sikh youth. 5 arrested in UP`s Shamli last year admitted they were radicalized through 'Referendum 2020' propaganda," Mittal added. National Investigation Agency (NIA) is a premier Investigation agency of the Country. NIA is dedicated to creating deterrence for existing and potential terrorist groups and individuals.

Terror group Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen expanding into India under guise of Bangladeshi migrants: NIA Director

Students in Bangladesh staged a fourth day of protests on Thursday over the killing of an undergraduate as authorities blocked an internet page that detailed alleged torture by activists of the country's ruling party.

Hundreds of students defied a heavy monsoon storm to stage a rally on the Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) to demand justice for Abrar Fahad.

Fahad was beaten to death on Sunday, sparking a wave of anger in the South Asian nation's universities.

Police carried out two more arrests on Thursday, taking the total detained over the killing to 15 -- including 11 from the Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL), the student branch of the ruling Awami League.

The 21-year-old Fahad was allegedly beaten with a cricket bat and other blunt objects for six hours after he put up a Facebook post criticising Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

Hasina vowed Wednesday that the killers would get the "highest punishment".

Internet providers blocked a webpage launched by a BUET professor that highlighted complaints, including torture, made by students against members of the ruling party's student wing.

An official from an internet service provider said the page had been blocked "following orders" from the government's Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission.

The BTRC, which has in the past had blocked dozens of news portals and websites critical of the government, made no immediate comment.

The Dhaka Tribune newspaper said the webpage contained 177 complaints, with at least 72 posted after Fahad's killing. Most of the complaints were against the BCL.

Mostofa Akbar, a professor at the university, said the webpage, part of a university internet site, was taken down late Wednesday.

"These complaints were submitted to the BUET student welfare director three months ago," he told AFP.

Sweden-based Bangladesh rights activist Tasneem Khalil said the blocked webpage "confirmed in graphic detail how such torture has been a routine element in the daily lives of hundreds of BUET students."

He said the database "was posing a serious challenge to the government narrative that the killing of Abrar Fahad was just a stray incident", Khalil said.

Students in Bangladesh staged a fourth day of protests on Thursday over the killing of an undergraduate as authorities blocked an internet page that detailed alleged torture by activists of the country's ruling party.

Students in Bangladesh staged a fourth day of protests on Thursday over the killing of an undergraduate as authorities blocked an internet page that detailed alleged torture by activists of the country's ruling party. Hundreds of students defied a heavy monsoon storm to stage a rally on the Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) to demand justice for Abrar Fahad. Fahad was beaten to death on Sunday, sparking a wave of anger in the South Asian nation's universities. Police carried out two more arrests on Thursday, taking the total detained over the killing to 15 -- including 11 from the Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL), the student branch of the ruling Awami League. The 21-year-old Fahad was allegedly beaten with a cricket bat and other blunt objects for six hours after he put up a Facebook post criticising Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Hasina vowed Wednesday that the killers would get the "highest punishment". Internet providers blocked a webpage launched by a BUET professor that highlighted complaints, including torture, made by students against members of the ruling party's student wing. An official from an internet service provider said the page had been blocked "following orders" from the government's Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission. The BTRC, which has in the past had blocked dozens of news portals and websites critical of the government, made no immediate comment. The Dhaka Tribune newspaper said the webpage contained 177 complaints, with at least 72 posted after Fahad's killing. Most of the complaints were against the BCL. Mostofa Akbar, a professor at the university, said the webpage, part of a university internet site, was taken down late Wednesday. "These complaints were submitted to the BUET student welfare director three months ago," he told AFP. Sweden-based Bangladesh rights activist Tasneem Khalil said the blocked webpage "confirmed in graphic detail how such torture has been a routine element in the daily lives of hundreds of BUET students." He said the database "was posing a serious challenge to the government narrative that the killing of Abrar Fahad was just a stray incident", Khalil said.

Bangladesh students continue protests after death of undergraduate Abrar Fahad

Bangladeshi economist and Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus has been issued with an arrest warrant after failing to appear at a hearing over the sacking of workers at a company he heads, officials said Thursday.

A judge at a court in Dhaka issued the order Wednesday as sacked workers from Grameen Communications (GC) lodged a complaint saying they were fired because they set up a trade union, court clerk M. Nuruzzaman told AFP.&nbsp;

Yunus, who is chairman of GC, did not attend the hearing as he was abroad. The chief executive officer and a senior manager at the company appeared at the court and secured bail, Nuruzzaman said.

"He (Yunus) left Bangladesh before receiving any summons for appearing before the court. As soon as he returns, an appropriate legal step shall be taken," Yunus's lawyer Kazi Ershadul Alam told AFP.

The 79-year-old former economics professor who founded the pioneering poverty-busting microlender Grameen Bank, has been at odds with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina since 2007 when he made a brief foray into the country's highly polarised politics.

In 2011, he was sacked as the head of Grameen Bank, in a move widely believed to have been orchestrated by Hasina. He challenged his sacking in the highest court, but lost.

Yunus set up the Bank, which co-won the Nobel with him in 2006, in 1983 to make collateral-free microloans to millions of rural entrepreneurs. The bank is now run by managers appointed by Hasina.&nbsp;

Hasina has accused him of "sucking blood" from the poor amid allegations the bank charges interest rates of more than 20 per cent and suggested he was responsible for the World Bank pulling a $1.2 billion loan for a mega-bridge project.

Bangladeshi economist and Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus has been issued with an arrest warrant after failing to appear at a hearing over the sacking of workers at a company he heads, officials said Thursday.

Bangladeshi economist and Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus has been issued with an arrest warrant after failing to appear at a hearing over the sacking of workers at a company he heads, officials said Thursday. A judge at a court in Dhaka issued the order Wednesday as sacked workers from Grameen Communications (GC) lodged a complaint saying they were fired because they set up a trade union, court clerk M. Nuruzzaman told AFP. Yunus, who is chairman of GC, did not attend the hearing as he was abroad. The chief executive officer and a senior manager at the company appeared at the court and secured bail, Nuruzzaman said. "He (Yunus) left Bangladesh before receiving any summons for appearing before the court. As soon as he returns, an appropriate legal step shall be taken," Yunus's lawyer Kazi Ershadul Alam told AFP. The 79-year-old former economics professor who founded the pioneering poverty-busting microlender Grameen Bank, has been at odds with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina since 2007 when he made a brief foray into the country's highly polarised politics. In 2011, he was sacked as the head of Grameen Bank, in a move widely believed to have been orchestrated by Hasina. He challenged his sacking in the highest court, but lost. Yunus set up the Bank, which co-won the Nobel with him in 2006, in 1983 to make collateral-free microloans to millions of rural entrepreneurs. The bank is now run by managers appointed by Hasina. Hasina has accused him of "sucking blood" from the poor amid allegations the bank charges interest rates of more than 20 per cent and suggested he was responsible for the World Bank pulling a $1.2 billion loan for a mega-bridge project.

Bangladesh issues arrest warrant for Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus over sacking of workers

Bangladesh has come down by two places to rank at the 105th position out of 141 countries surveyed for the 2019 annual global competitiveness index.

A Bangladesh based think tank, the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD) put out the report on behalf of the World Economic Forum (WEF) at a press meet in the capital city on Wednesday, Xinhua reported. Annual global competitiveness is a yearly assessment of the drivers of productivity and long-term economic growth.

Last year, Dhaka was ranked 103rd in the competitiveness index put together by the Geneva-based WEF.

Out of 141 economies of the world, Singapore ranked top in 2019 after it took over the first-place from United States who topped the 2018 list.

Bangladesh's economic competitiveness has come down in 10 out of 12 pillars, the WEF's report said.

The 12 pillars of assessment include institution, infrastructure, ICT adoption, macroeconomic stability, health, skills, product market, labour market, financial system, market size, business dynamism and innovation capability.

Bangladesh has come down by two places to rank at the 105th position out of 141 countries surveyed for the 2019 annual global competitiveness index. A Bangladesh based think tank, the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD) put out the report on behalf of the World Economic Forum (WEF) at a press meet in the capital city on Wednesday, Xinhua reported.

Bangladesh has come down by two places to rank at the 105th position out of 141 countries surveyed for the 2019 annual global competitiveness index. A Bangladesh based think tank, the Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD) put out the report on behalf of the World Economic Forum (WEF) at a press meet in the capital city on Wednesday, Xinhua reported. Annual global competitiveness is a yearly assessment of the drivers of productivity and long-term economic growth. Last year, Dhaka was ranked 103rd in the competitiveness index put together by the Geneva-based WEF. Out of 141 economies of the world, Singapore ranked top in 2019 after it took over the first-place from United States who topped the 2018 list. Bangladesh's economic competitiveness has come down in 10 out of 12 pillars, the WEF's report said. The 12 pillars of assessment include institution, infrastructure, ICT adoption, macroeconomic stability, health, skills, product market, labour market, financial system, market size, business dynamism and innovation capability.

Bangladesh slips by two positions, ranks 105th in global competitiveness ranking

Goods from India's northeast can now be transported through Bangladeshi territory providing a major boost to connectivity and cutting down the cost and time of travel.&nbsp;

Under the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) signed between Bangladesh and India during PM Sheikh Hasina's India visit, Dhaka has allowed a couple of its major ports - the Chattogram and Mongla Ports - for the movement of goods to and from India through its territory.

Calling the development an outcome of PM Modi's "successful foreign policy", Union Minister of State Shipping (Independent charge) Mansukh Mandaviya said, "shorter distance and coastal shipping benefits will make northeast states' products competitive in the market."

The agreement allows the use of Bangladeshi waterways, rail, road and other means of transport. Eight routes have been provided under the agreement and will connect landlocked Tripura, Assam and Meghalaya.&nbsp;

These routes are Chattogram/Mongla Port to Agartala in Tripura via Akhura in Bangladesh; Chattogram/Mongla Port to Dawki in Meghalaya via Tamabil in Bangladesh; Chattogram/Mongla Port to Sutarkandi (Assam) via Sheola in Bangladesh and Chattogram/Mongla Port to Srimantpur in Tripura via Bibirbazar in Bangladesh.

Assam, Meghalaya and Tripura will be directly connected to the sea via Chattogram and Mongla ports and by consequence other Indian ports. 
&nbsp; 
Distance between Kolkata and Agartala by road is 2,000 kilometres, this will reduce to just 810 kilometres since the port of Chattogram is 600 kilometres and the port is 201 kilometres away from Agartala. The second busiest port of Bangladesh, Mongla port is even closer to Kolkata.

Goods from India's northeast can now be transported through Bangladeshi territory providing a major boost to connectivity and cutting down the cost and time of travel.

Goods from India's northeast can now be transported through Bangladeshi territory providing a major boost to connectivity and cutting down the cost and time of travel. Under the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) signed between Bangladesh and India during PM Sheikh Hasina's India visit, Dhaka has allowed a couple of its major ports - the Chattogram and Mongla Ports - for the movement of goods to and from India through its territory. Calling the development an outcome of PM Modi's "successful foreign policy", Union Minister of State Shipping (Independent charge) Mansukh Mandaviya said, "shorter distance and coastal shipping benefits will make northeast states' products competitive in the market." The agreement allows the use of Bangladeshi waterways, rail, road and other means of transport. Eight routes have been provided under the agreement and will connect landlocked Tripura, Assam and Meghalaya. These routes are Chattogram/Mongla Port to Agartala in Tripura via Akhura in Bangladesh; Chattogram/Mongla Port to Dawki in Meghalaya via Tamabil in Bangladesh; Chattogram/Mongla Port to Sutarkandi (Assam) via Sheola in Bangladesh and Chattogram/Mongla Port to Srimantpur in Tripura via Bibirbazar in Bangladesh. Assam, Meghalaya and Tripura will be directly connected to the sea via Chattogram and Mongla ports and by consequence other Indian ports. Distance between Kolkata and Agartala by road is 2,000 kilometres, this will reduce to just 810 kilometres since the port of Chattogram is 600 kilometres and the port is 201 kilometres away from Agartala. The second busiest port of Bangladesh, Mongla port is even closer to Kolkata.

Bangladesh allows India to use its territory for movement of goods

Students in Bangladesh staged protests and blocked major roads Monday after an undergraduate was beaten to death, allegedly by ruling party activists, for criticising the government over a water-sharing deal with India.

Protests broke out at several universities in Dhaka and the northern city of Rajshahi following the killing of Abrar Fahad of the&nbsp;Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology.

Students chanted slogans demanding "justice" and blocked major roads in the two cities. Teachers joined some of the protests.

Dhaka deputy police commissioner Munstasirul Islam told AFP that Fahad was beaten to death and that ruling party activists were in custody for questioning.

His body was found in his university dorm and media quoted other residents as saying that members of the student wing of the ruling Awami League had interrogated and beaten him.

Ashikul Islam Bitu, a vice-president of Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL), told NTV that Fahad had been questioned over alleged links to an Islamist party's youth group.

After examining CCTV footage, police detained nine men from the same dorm, at least five of whom were BCL activists, local police chief Sohrab Hossain said.

He added that the victim's father has filed a murder case.

Fahad put up a post on Facebook that went viral hours before his death. In it, he criticised the government for signing an accord that allowed India to take water from a river that lies on the boundary the two countries share.

The BCL has earned notoriety in recent years after some of its members were accused of killing, violence and extortion.

Last year its members allegedly used violence to suppress a major anti-government student protest.&nbsp;

Those protests were sparked by anger over road safety after a student was killed by a speeding bus.&nbsp;

Last month the BCL president and general secretary were sacked over allegations they tried to extort money from the head of a state-run university.

Students in Bangladesh staged protests and blocked major roads Monday after an undergraduate was beaten to death, allegedly by ruling party activists, for criticising the government over a water-sharing deal with India.

Students in Bangladesh staged protests and blocked major roads Monday after an undergraduate was beaten to death, allegedly by ruling party activists, for criticising the government over a water-sharing deal with India. Protests broke out at several universities in Dhaka and the northern city of Rajshahi following the killing of Abrar Fahad of the Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology. Students chanted slogans demanding "justice" and blocked major roads in the two cities. Teachers joined some of the protests. Dhaka deputy police commissioner Munstasirul Islam told AFP that Fahad was beaten to death and that ruling party activists were in custody for questioning. His body was found in his university dorm and media quoted other residents as saying that members of the student wing of the ruling Awami League had interrogated and beaten him. Ashikul Islam Bitu, a vice-president of Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL), told NTV that Fahad had been questioned over alleged links to an Islamist party's youth group. After examining CCTV footage, police detained nine men from the same dorm, at least five of whom were BCL activists, local police chief Sohrab Hossain said. He added that the victim's father has filed a murder case. Fahad put up a post on Facebook that went viral hours before his death. In it, he criticised the government for signing an accord that allowed India to take water from a river that lies on the boundary the two countries share. The BCL has earned notoriety in recent years after some of its members were accused of killing, violence and extortion. Last year its members allegedly used violence to suppress a major anti-government student protest. Those protests were sparked by anger over road safety after a student was killed by a speeding bus. Last month the BCL president and general secretary were sacked over allegations they tried to extort money from the head of a state-run university.

Bangladesh student killing sparks university protests

Bangladesh has allowed the use of its Chattogram and Mongla Ports for movement of goods to and from India through its territory. 
This comes after a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) was signed and exchanged by India and Bangladesh in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina on October 5. 
 
"During the official visit of Sheikh Hasina, Prime Minister of People's Republic of Bangladesh to India, a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) wherein Bangladesh allowed the use of its Chattogram and Mongla Ports for movement of goods to and from India through its territory was signed and exchanged by India and Bangladesh before the Prime Ministers of India and Bangladesh on October 5, 2019," an official release said. 
 
"The SOP on use of Chattogram and Mongla ports has been finalised after the two countries signed an MoU on June 6, 2015, and an Agreement on October 25, 2018," it said. 
 
The agreement and SOP permit the movement of goods in Bangladesh through waterways, rail, road or multi-modal transport. 
 
Eight routes are provided under the Agreement which would enable access of North East Region (NER) via Bangladesh. 
 
The routes identified comprise Chattogram/Mongla Port to Agartala (Tripura) via Akhura, Chattogram/Mongla Port to Dawki (Meghalaya) via Tamabil, Chattogram/Mongla Port to Sutarkandi (Assam) via Sheola and Chattogram/Mongla Port to Srimantpur (Tripura) via Bibirbazar and vice versa. 
 
Union Minister of State Shipping Mansukh Mandaviya said that the decision will pave way for the development of the North East region. 
 
"On October 5, an SOP was exchanged between Indian and Bangladesh. It will open gates for development of North East. We would use Mangla and Chatogram ports for connectivity of North East. Logistics cost will decrease. Cargo used to reach North East by rail and road. Now, cargo will go there by inland waterways and sea route from any part of the country," Mandaviya told ANI. 
 
After the SOP, three landlocked states of India viz&nbsp;Assam, Meghalaya and Tripura will get access to open sea trade routes from Chattogram and Mongla ports via Indian ports. 
 
Tripura will be connected to Chattogram Port through the Maitree Setu on Feni river at Sabroom in South Tripura and Ramgarh in Bangladesh. While Agartala is 135 kilometres from Sabroom, Chattogram port is 75 kilometres from Sabroom. 
 
"Cargo transportation through IBP waterway route from Kolkata/ Haldia to North East is limited to 2000 ton vessels. Now, larger ships carrying cargo destined for North East can call at Chattogram and Mongla ports thereby increasing trade volumes and reducing logistic costs," an official release said. 
On shipping and maritime affairs, India and Bangladesh have had very close cooperation in the last few years. 
 
"Under the Protocol on Inland Water Transit and Trade, in addition to the five Ports of Call (POC), Dhubri (India) and Pangaon (Bangladesh) have been added and both countries have agreed to add for more POCs in each country," read the release. 
 
"Dredging has commenced under an MOU signed by the two countries on the development of fairway in selected stretches of Bangladesh waterways with Government of India bearing 80 per cent of the project expenditure and the balance by Government of Bangladesh. Cruise services have also commenced between the two countries promoting people to people contact after an MOU and SOP were signed," it said.

Bangladesh has allowed the use of its Chattogram and Mongla Ports for movement of goods to and from India through its territory. This comes after a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) was signed and exchanged by India and Bangladesh in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina on October 5.

Bangladesh has allowed the use of its Chattogram and Mongla Ports for movement of goods to and from India through its territory. This comes after a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) was signed and exchanged by India and Bangladesh in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina on October 5. "During the official visit of Sheikh Hasina, Prime Minister of People's Republic of Bangladesh to India, a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) wherein Bangladesh allowed the use of its Chattogram and Mongla Ports for movement of goods to and from India through its territory was signed and exchanged by India and Bangladesh before the Prime Ministers of India and Bangladesh on October 5, 2019," an official release said. "The SOP on use of Chattogram and Mongla ports has been finalised after the two countries signed an MoU on June 6, 2015, and an Agreement on October 25, 2018," it said. The agreement and SOP permit the movement of goods in Bangladesh through waterways, rail, road or multi-modal transport. Eight routes are provided under the Agreement which would enable access of North East Region (NER) via Bangladesh. The routes identified comprise Chattogram/Mongla Port to Agartala (Tripura) via Akhura, Chattogram/Mongla Port to Dawki (Meghalaya) via Tamabil, Chattogram/Mongla Port to Sutarkandi (Assam) via Sheola and Chattogram/Mongla Port to Srimantpur (Tripura) via Bibirbazar and vice versa. Union Minister of State Shipping Mansukh Mandaviya said that the decision will pave way for the development of the North East region. "On October 5, an SOP was exchanged between Indian and Bangladesh. It will open gates for development of North East. We would use Mangla and Chatogram ports for connectivity of North East. Logistics cost will decrease. Cargo used to reach North East by rail and road. Now, cargo will go there by inland waterways and sea route from any part of the country," Mandaviya told ANI. After the SOP, three landlocked states of India viz Assam, Meghalaya and Tripura will get access to open sea trade routes from Chattogram and Mongla ports via Indian ports. Tripura will be connected to Chattogram Port through the Maitree Setu on Feni river at Sabroom in South Tripura and Ramgarh in Bangladesh. While Agartala is 135 kilometres from Sabroom, Chattogram port is 75 kilometres from Sabroom. "Cargo transportation through IBP waterway route from Kolkata/ Haldia to North East is limited to 2000 ton vessels. Now, larger ships carrying cargo destined for North East can call at Chattogram and Mongla ports thereby increasing trade volumes and reducing logistic costs," an official release said. On shipping and maritime affairs, India and Bangladesh have had very close cooperation in the last few years. "Under the Protocol on Inland Water Transit and Trade, in addition to the five Ports of Call (POC), Dhubri (India) and Pangaon (Bangladesh) have been added and both countries have agreed to add for more POCs in each country," read the release. "Dredging has commenced under an MOU signed by the two countries on the development of fairway in selected stretches of Bangladesh waterways with Government of India bearing 80 per cent of the project expenditure and the balance by Government of Bangladesh. Cruise services have also commenced between the two countries promoting people to people contact after an MOU and SOP were signed," it said.

Bangladesh allows use of Chattogram, Mongla ports for movement of goods to and from India

WION Exclusively speaks to Shahidul Haque, Foreign Secretary of Bangladesh over Indo-Bangladesh relations.

WION Exclusively speaks to Shahidul Haque, Foreign Secretary of Bangladesh

Following a meeting with Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra called her a great inspiration.

Priyanka said that Prime Minister Hasina has the trait of fighting for her belief with bravery and perseverance.

"An overdue hug from Sheikh Hasina Ji whom I have been waiting to meet again for a long time. Her strength in overcoming deep personal loss and hardship and fighting for what she believed in with bravery and perseverance is, and always will be a great inspiration for me."

Earlier in the day, Hasina met Congress president Sonia Gandhi along with other leaders of the party.

During the meeting, party sources told ANI that the Congress leaders discussed ways to further strengthen bilateral ties between the two countries.

Prime Minister Hasina is on a four-day visit to India. She is the longest-serving Prime Minister of Bangladesh and returned to power for a second term in 2009 when the Congress-led UPA government was in power.&nbsp;

Manmohan Singh had then visited Bangladesh as Prime Minister in 2011.

Sheikh Hasina conducted a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Following a meeting with Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra called her a great inspiration. Priyanka said that Prime Minister Hasina has the trait of fighting for her belief with bravery and perseverance.

Following a meeting with Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra called her a great inspiration. Priyanka said that Prime Minister Hasina has the trait of fighting for her belief with bravery and perseverance. "An overdue hug from Sheikh Hasina Ji whom I have been waiting to meet again for a long time. Her strength in overcoming deep personal loss and hardship and fighting for what she believed in with bravery and perseverance is, and always will be a great inspiration for me." Earlier in the day, Hasina met Congress president Sonia Gandhi along with other leaders of the party. During the meeting, party sources told ANI that the Congress leaders discussed ways to further strengthen bilateral ties between the two countries. Prime Minister Hasina is on a four-day visit to India. She is the longest-serving Prime Minister of Bangladesh and returned to power for a second term in 2009 when the Congress-led UPA government was in power. Manmohan Singh had then visited Bangladesh as Prime Minister in 2011. Sheikh Hasina conducted a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday.

Priyanka Gandhi calls Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina an 'inspiration'

Bangladesh PM, Sheikh Hasina on 4-day visit to India to boost ties. Its Hasina's first visit after Bangladesh polls.

Bangladesh PM on 4 day visit to India

Bangladeshi foreign secretary Shahidul Haque has said that the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam is an internal issue and they have got assurances from New Delhi. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Haque also spoke on Bangladesh PM Hasina's India visit and SAARC. Edited excerpts:&nbsp;

WION: What are the key outcomes of Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina's India visit?

 
Shahidul Haque: I think there has been progress on many fronts and we have charted a new course for the next year. As you know PM Modi is likely to visit Bangladesh next year. There is very solid progress in every possible front -- business, trade, water.

WION: Are you worried about NRC in Assam?

Shahidul Haque: we are not worried but certainly, we are keeping a close eye on the development and as I have told you, Indian authorities have assured us, its an internal matter an will remain so. As a friendly country, we like to believe that.

WION: Was SAARC discussed when both PM Modi and PM Hasina held discussions?

Shahidul Haque: Regional cooperation issue came up in the discussion. Both PMs agreed that regional cooperation is essential because [South Asia] has the least regional cooperation globally. In that context, the discussion [about regional bodies] came up but certainly, there is more focus on Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC).

Bangladeshi foreign secretary Shahidul Haque has said that the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam is an internal issue and they have got assurances from New Delhi.

Bangladeshi foreign secretary Shahidul Haque has said that the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam is an internal issue and they have got assurances from New Delhi. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Haque also spoke on Bangladesh PM Hasina's India visit and SAARC. Edited excerpts: WION: What are the key outcomes of Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina's India visit? Shahidul Haque: I think there has been progress on many fronts and we have charted a new course for the next year. As you know PM Modi is likely to visit Bangladesh next year. There is very solid progress in every possible front -- business, trade, water. WION: Are you worried about NRC in Assam? Shahidul Haque: we are not worried but certainly, we are keeping a close eye on the development and as I have told you, Indian authorities have assured us, its an internal matter an will remain so. As a friendly country, we like to believe that. WION: Was SAARC discussed when both PM Modi and PM Hasina held discussions? Shahidul Haque: Regional cooperation issue came up in the discussion. Both PMs agreed that regional cooperation is essential because [South Asia] has the least regional cooperation globally. In that context, the discussion [about regional bodies] came up but certainly, there is more focus on Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC).

National Register of Citizens is an internal issue, got assurances from New Delhi: Bangladesh 

In a bid to increase Bangladesh's maritime domain and keep an eye on the shared Indo-Bangla coast, the Indian government to build a coastal surveillance system in the country. This will be the second surveillance system New Delhi will be building in the neighbourhood after the one Maldives.&nbsp;

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who is on a state visit to India, met her Indian counterpart Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday in New Delhi. The&nbsp;duo also inaugurated three projects in energy, skill and social areas through remote control on the occasion.&nbsp;

They also inaugurated e-plaque for Bangladesh-India professional skill development institute at the Institute of Diploma Engineers Bangladesh, Khulna and Vivekananda Bhavan at Ram Krishna mission in Dhaka.

Contentious issues including Teesta were taken up for discussion during the meeting of the two&nbsp;leaders.&nbsp;

Hasina sought to highlight the implementation" of Teesta waters sharing agreement, to which PM Modi said his government was working with all stakeholders in India for the conclusion of the Agreement soonest possible.

Modi also appreciated "Bangladesh’s generosity in sheltering and providing humanitarian assistance" to Rohingya Refugees displaced from Myanmar.&nbsp;

NRC in Assam was raised by the Bangladeshi side with an Indian government source saying "matter did come and we pointed out that it was the ongoing process and we have to wait for the outcome. Its court-mandated and court directed."

To boost people to people ties and connectivity, Bangladesh has decided to remove restrictions on products being traded through Akhaura-Agartala port. Frequency of Maitree Express has been increased from four to five times per week and that of Bandhan Express from one to two per week. Both sides have agreed on the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) on the use of Chattogram and Mongla Ports for movement of goods from India's northeast to rest to India over Bangladeshi territory.&nbsp;

PM Modi likely to visit Bangladesh in March, 2020.&nbsp;

In a bid to increase Bangladesh's maritime domain and keep an eye on the shared Indo-Bangla coast, the Indian government to build a coastal surveillance system in the country.

In a bid to increase Bangladesh's maritime domain and keep an eye on the shared Indo-Bangla coast, the Indian government to build a coastal surveillance system in the country. This will be the second surveillance system New Delhi will be building in the neighbourhood after the one Maldives. Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who is on a state visit to India, met her Indian counterpart Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday in New Delhi. The duo also inaugurated three projects in energy, skill and social areas through remote control on the occasion. They also inaugurated e-plaque for Bangladesh-India professional skill development institute at the Institute of Diploma Engineers Bangladesh, Khulna and Vivekananda Bhavan at Ram Krishna mission in Dhaka. Contentious issues including Teesta were taken up for discussion during the meeting of the two leaders. Hasina sought to highlight the implementation" of Teesta waters sharing agreement, to which PM Modi said his government was working with all stakeholders in India for the conclusion of the Agreement soonest possible. Modi also appreciated "Bangladesh’s generosity in sheltering and providing humanitarian assistance" to Rohingya Refugees displaced from Myanmar. NRC in Assam was raised by the Bangladeshi side with an Indian government source saying "matter did come and we pointed out that it was the ongoing process and we have to wait for the outcome. Its court-mandated and court directed." To boost people to people ties and connectivity, Bangladesh has decided to remove restrictions on products being traded through Akhaura-Agartala port. Frequency of Maitree Express has been increased from four to five times per week and that of Bandhan Express from one to two per week. Both sides have agreed on the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) on the use of Chattogram and Mongla Ports for movement of goods from India's northeast to rest to India over Bangladeshi territory. PM Modi likely to visit Bangladesh in March, 2020.

India to build coastal surveillance system in Bangladesh 

Tripura Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb on Thursday met Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and discussed a range of issues including a direct flight between Agartala and Dhaka.

"Delighted to attend the Dinner with Hon`ble PM of Bangladesh Sheikh Hasina ji hosted by High commissioner of Bangladesh at New Delhi tonight," Deb tweeted.

The Chief Minister said he had a "fruitful interaction" with Hasina regarding various issues related to Indo-Bangladesh relations.

"Since Tripura is surrounded by Bangladesh various bilateral issues related to Tripura and Bangladesh was also discussed. Most importantly after my request Madam Hasina also shown interest for an international flight from Dhaka to Agartala," he said.

Sources said that Bangladesh Prime Minister has given mutual consent after Deb put his demand to start a direct flight between Dhaka and Agartala.

He said Hasina and Prime Minister Narendra Modi shares a good bond and making friendly relation of both the countries including economic development.

Sources said that the Chief Minister urged the Bangladesh Prime Minister regarding BBIN services.

To this, Hasina informed Deb that they are going positive in this regard.

An agreement in this regard is likely to be announced soon. Sources said that Bangladesh is also ready to declare with GOI Sonamura Waterways as International Protocol rout.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Tripura Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb on Thursday met Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and discussed a range of issues including a direct flight between Agartala and Dhaka.

Tripura Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb on Thursday met Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and discussed a range of issues including a direct flight between Agartala and Dhaka. "Delighted to attend the Dinner with Hon`ble PM of Bangladesh Sheikh Hasina ji hosted by High commissioner of Bangladesh at New Delhi tonight," Deb tweeted. The Chief Minister said he had a "fruitful interaction" with Hasina regarding various issues related to Indo-Bangladesh relations. "Since Tripura is surrounded by Bangladesh various bilateral issues related to Tripura and Bangladesh was also discussed. Most importantly after my request Madam Hasina also shown interest for an international flight from Dhaka to Agartala," he said. Sources said that Bangladesh Prime Minister has given mutual consent after Deb put his demand to start a direct flight between Dhaka and Agartala. He said Hasina and Prime Minister Narendra Modi shares a good bond and making friendly relation of both the countries including economic development. Sources said that the Chief Minister urged the Bangladesh Prime Minister regarding BBIN services. To this, Hasina informed Deb that they are going positive in this regard. An agreement in this regard is likely to be announced soon. Sources said that Bangladesh is also ready to declare with GOI Sonamura Waterways as International Protocol rout.

Tripura CM meets Hasina, discusses range of issues including direct flight between Dhaka, Agartala

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tripura-cm-meets-hasina-discusses-range-of-issues-including-direct-flight-between-dhaka-agartala-253599">Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina</a> on Friday inaugurated India-Bangladesh Business Forum at New Delhi and stated that together, both countries will take the bilateral ties to "new heights".&nbsp;

This is Hasina's first visit to India after Bangladeshi, Indian general polls.&nbsp;

PM Hasina is currently on a four-day visit to India. On Saturday the Bangladeshi PM is scheduled to hold talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. &nbsp;

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Thursday urged Indian investors to step up their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sheikh-hasina-calls-for-more-indian-investments-in-bangladesh-253608">investment in Bangladesh</a>, saying her country "knows how to transform challenges into opportunities."

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Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina at India-Bangladesh Business Forum, in Delhi: We (India&amp;Bangladesh) are confident that in the coming years, we will further lift our relation to new heights. I extend my sincere thanks to the Indian govt for making this opportunity for interaction. <a href="https://t.co/L10pt20lly">pic.twitter.com/L10pt20lly</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1180016733324578817?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 4, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"It is the time for global investors, particularly Indian entrepreneurs, to invest in Bangladesh in areas like education, engineering, and artificial intelligence," the prime minister said at an interactive session of the World Economic Forum.

She added, "We do face challenges like any other country but we know how to transform challenges into opportunities."

Hasina arrived earlier on Thursday on a four-day visit to India at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with an aim to further intensify bilateral relations between the two countries.

She is scheduled to participate as the chief guest at the India Economic Summit organised by the World Economic Forum (WEF) on October 3 and 4.

During the visit, the Bangladesh Prime Minister will call on President Ram Nath Kovind and hold bilateral discussions with Modi on October 5.

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Friday inaugurated India-Bangladesh Business Forum at New Delhi and stated that together, both countries will take the bilateral ties to "new heights".

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Friday inaugurated India-Bangladesh Business Forum at New Delhi and stated that together, both countries will take the bilateral ties to "new heights". This is Hasina's first visit to India after Bangladeshi, Indian general polls. PM Hasina is currently on a four-day visit to India. On Saturday the Bangladeshi PM is scheduled to hold talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Thursday urged Indian investors to step up their investment in Bangladesh, saying her country "knows how to transform challenges into opportunities." Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina at India-Bangladesh Business Forum, in Delhi: We (India&Bangladesh) are confident that in the coming years, we will further lift our relation to new heights. I extend my sincere thanks to the Indian govt for making this opportunity for interaction. pic.twitter.com/L10pt20lly — ANI (@ANI) October 4, 2019 × "It is the time for global investors, particularly Indian entrepreneurs, to invest in Bangladesh in areas like education, engineering, and artificial intelligence," the prime minister said at an interactive session of the World Economic Forum. She added, "We do face challenges like any other country but we know how to transform challenges into opportunities." Hasina arrived earlier on Thursday on a four-day visit to India at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with an aim to further intensify bilateral relations between the two countries. She is scheduled to participate as the chief guest at the India Economic Summit organised by the World Economic Forum (WEF) on October 3 and 4. During the visit, the Bangladesh Prime Minister will call on President Ram Nath Kovind and hold bilateral discussions with Modi on October 5. (With inputs from ANI)

Our ties will reach new heights: Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina in Delhi

The Bangladesh military said Thursday it has ordered an investigation after a Rohingya family in a refugee camp accused army troops of raping a 12-year-old girl.

The inquiry comes as around a million Rohingya in vast camps in Bangladesh face increasing hostility two years after fleeing a military offensive in Myanmar.

Mohammad Osman, an elder brother of the alleged victim, said three soldiers entered their shanty at the Nayapara Rohingya camp on Sunday evening and sexually assaulted his sister.

"She was raped as one of them tightly held her mouth," he told AFP by phone, referring to the border district where the refugee camps are located.

A spokesman of the Bangladesh Armed Forces, Lieutenant Colonel Abdullah ibn Zaid, said they were investigating.

"We have formed a probe committee to investigate the incident and find out the facts. If (they are) found guilty, exemplary punishment will be given," ibn Zaid told AFP.

Doctor Shaheen Abdur Rahman said the girl was examined at the central hospital in Cox's Bazar but he refused to comment on the findings due to court restrictions.

A spokesman of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees said they were also investigating the incident.

"We are aware of the reports. In such cases, individuals are entitled to medical, physical and psychological support, as well as access to due process," UNHCR spokesman Joseph Tripura said in a statement to AFP.

Tensions

Tensions have risen in recent weeks with an increasingly frustrated Bangladeshi government enacting several measures making life harder for the refugees.

These include blocking mobile internet, confiscating SIM cards and mobile phones and filing hundreds of cases for illegally obtaining citizenship cards.

UN experts have expressed "serious concerns" about the restrictions.

Last week Bangladesh's home minister said that barbed-wire fencing, guard towers and cameras would be erected around the Rohingya camps, sparking criticism from rights groups.

Checkpoints set up on the main highways leading to the camps have stopped Rohingya and sent them back to the settlements when they try to travel to other parts of Bangladesh.

Hundreds of Rohingya found elsewhere in the South Asian nation have also been detained and returned to the camps.

Authorities say the internet ban was sparked by security fears after the Rohingya were blamed for the murder of a local politician and drug smuggling.

More than a dozen Rohingya -- most accused of involvement in the murder of the politician -- have been shot dead by security forces in recent weeks. &nbsp;

Officials also said on Thursday that 45 Rohingya have been charged with infiltration after they were detained illegally working in a ship-breaking yard.

Rights activists said this could be the first time Rohingya have been charged with infiltration -- an offence that carries five years in jail.

The Bangladesh military said Thursday it has ordered an investigation after a Rohingya family in a refugee camp accused army troops of raping a 12-year-old girl.

The Bangladesh military said Thursday it has ordered an investigation after a Rohingya family in a refugee camp accused army troops of raping a 12-year-old girl. The inquiry comes as around a million Rohingya in vast camps in Bangladesh face increasing hostility two years after fleeing a military offensive in Myanmar. Mohammad Osman, an elder brother of the alleged victim, said three soldiers entered their shanty at the Nayapara Rohingya camp on Sunday evening and sexually assaulted his sister. "She was raped as one of them tightly held her mouth," he told AFP by phone, referring to the border district where the refugee camps are located. A spokesman of the Bangladesh Armed Forces, Lieutenant Colonel Abdullah ibn Zaid, said they were investigating. "We have formed a probe committee to investigate the incident and find out the facts. If (they are) found guilty, exemplary punishment will be given," ibn Zaid told AFP. Doctor Shaheen Abdur Rahman said the girl was examined at the central hospital in Cox's Bazar but he refused to comment on the findings due to court restrictions. A spokesman of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees said they were also investigating the incident. "We are aware of the reports. In such cases, individuals are entitled to medical, physical and psychological support, as well as access to due process," UNHCR spokesman Joseph Tripura said in a statement to AFP. Tensions Tensions have risen in recent weeks with an increasingly frustrated Bangladeshi government enacting several measures making life harder for the refugees. These include blocking mobile internet, confiscating SIM cards and mobile phones and filing hundreds of cases for illegally obtaining citizenship cards. UN experts have expressed "serious concerns" about the restrictions. Last week Bangladesh's home minister said that barbed-wire fencing, guard towers and cameras would be erected around the Rohingya camps, sparking criticism from rights groups. Checkpoints set up on the main highways leading to the camps have stopped Rohingya and sent them back to the settlements when they try to travel to other parts of Bangladesh. Hundreds of Rohingya found elsewhere in the South Asian nation have also been detained and returned to the camps. Authorities say the internet ban was sparked by security fears after the Rohingya were blamed for the murder of a local politician and drug smuggling. More than a dozen Rohingya -- most accused of involvement in the murder of the politician -- have been shot dead by security forces in recent weeks. Officials also said on Thursday that 45 Rohingya have been charged with infiltration after they were detained illegally working in a ship-breaking yard. Rights activists said this could be the first time Rohingya have been charged with infiltration -- an offence that carries five years in jail.

Bangladesh troops accused of raping Rohingya girl

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Thursday urged Indian investors to step up their investment in Bangladesh, saying her country "knows how to transform challenges into opportunities."

"It is the time for global investors, particularly Indian entrepreneurs, to invest in Bangladesh in areas like education, engineering, and artificial intelligence," the prime minister said at an interactive session of the World Economic Forum.

She added, "We do face challenges like any other country but we know how to transform challenges into opportunities."

The prime minister told the crowd gathered at the session that this year Bangladesh's economy noted a record high-growth of 8.13 per cent.

"We are close to achieving double-digit growth," she said while assuring further that agriculture is no longer subsistence farming.

"We are second in jute, fourth largest in rice production and mangoes, and fifth in inland fisheries."

Hasina arrived earlier on Thursday on a four-day visit to India at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with an aim to further intensify bilateral relations between the two countries.

She is scheduled to participate as the chief guest at the India Economic Summit organised by the World Economic Forum (WEF) on October 3 and 4.

During the visit, the Bangladesh Prime Minister will call on President Ram Nath Kovind and hold bilateral discussions with Modi on October 5.

This will be Hasina's first visit to India since the completion of the elections in Bangladesh and India, a press statement from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said.

"Apart from a number of agreements that are to be exchanged between the sides during the visit, the two Prime Ministers will also jointly inaugurate three bilateral projects via video link," the statement said.

On September 27, Hasina and Modi had met on the sidelines of the 73rd session of the UN General Assembly in New York where the two leaders reiterated their zero-tolerance approach against terrorism and violent extremism and noted that strong ties in the security sector had built trust and mutual confidence between the two countries.

During Hasina's visit to India, both countries are expected to review the Rohingya and Teesta river water sharing issues, apart from inking agreements in various sectors.

"Prime Minister Hasina and her Indian counterpart Narendra Modi may definitely discuss different issues, including the Teesta as well as Rohingyas," The Dhaka Tribune quoted Bangladesh High Commissioner to India, Syed Muazzem Ali, as saying.

On the sidelines of the India Economic Forum meet, the two countries are likely to sign a number of MoUs in different areas, including connectivity, culture, technical cooperation and trade and investment, Muazzem said.

"It is so far confirmed that seven to eight MoUs are to be signed, mostly on connectivity, cultural and technical cooperation, and trade and investment after the bilateral meeting of the two prime ministers on October 5," he said.

However, the High Commissioner also stated that the number of MoUs could be as high as 10. Muazzem further remarked that the Bangladesh Prime Minister would also seek more investments from major Indian investors.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Thursday urged Indian investors to step up their investment in Bangladesh, saying her country "knows how to transform challenges into opportunities.

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Thursday urged Indian investors to step up their investment in Bangladesh, saying her country "knows how to transform challenges into opportunities." "It is the time for global investors, particularly Indian entrepreneurs, to invest in Bangladesh in areas like education, engineering, and artificial intelligence," the prime minister said at an interactive session of the World Economic Forum. She added, "We do face challenges like any other country but we know how to transform challenges into opportunities." The prime minister told the crowd gathered at the session that this year Bangladesh's economy noted a record high-growth of 8.13 per cent. "We are close to achieving double-digit growth," she said while assuring further that agriculture is no longer subsistence farming. "We are second in jute, fourth largest in rice production and mangoes, and fifth in inland fisheries." Hasina arrived earlier on Thursday on a four-day visit to India at the invitation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with an aim to further intensify bilateral relations between the two countries. She is scheduled to participate as the chief guest at the India Economic Summit organised by the World Economic Forum (WEF) on October 3 and 4. During the visit, the Bangladesh Prime Minister will call on President Ram Nath Kovind and hold bilateral discussions with Modi on October 5. This will be Hasina's first visit to India since the completion of the elections in Bangladesh and India, a press statement from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said. "Apart from a number of agreements that are to be exchanged between the sides during the visit, the two Prime Ministers will also jointly inaugurate three bilateral projects via video link," the statement said. On September 27, Hasina and Modi had met on the sidelines of the 73rd session of the UN General Assembly in New York where the two leaders reiterated their zero-tolerance approach against terrorism and violent extremism and noted that strong ties in the security sector had built trust and mutual confidence between the two countries. During Hasina's visit to India, both countries are expected to review the Rohingya and Teesta river water sharing issues, apart from inking agreements in various sectors. "Prime Minister Hasina and her Indian counterpart Narendra Modi may definitely discuss different issues, including the Teesta as well as Rohingyas," The Dhaka Tribune quoted Bangladesh High Commissioner to India, Syed Muazzem Ali, as saying. On the sidelines of the India Economic Forum meet, the two countries are likely to sign a number of MoUs in different areas, including connectivity, culture, technical cooperation and trade and investment, Muazzem said. "It is so far confirmed that seven to eight MoUs are to be signed, mostly on connectivity, cultural and technical cooperation, and trade and investment after the bilateral meeting of the two prime ministers on October 5," he said. However, the High Commissioner also stated that the number of MoUs could be as high as 10. Muazzem further remarked that the Bangladesh Prime Minister would also seek more investments from major Indian investors.

Sheikh Hasina calls for more Indian investments in Bangladesh

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Friday inaugurated India=Bangladesh Business Forum at New Delhi and stated that together, both countries will take the bilateral ties to "new heights". Watch this videos to know more.

India, Bangladesh ties will reach new heights: Sheikh Hasina

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's Visit To India Has Been A Much-Anticipated Political Event. Here's What To Expect Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's visit to India is a much-anticipated political event. This is Hasina's first visit to New Delhi after assuming office for a third consecutive time. What's on the agenda? @Palkisu summarises.

Gravitas: Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina In India: What's On The Agenda

More than 400 Bangladeshis have been murdered in South Africa over the past four years because of business and personal disputes within the community, government officials said Tuesday.

A wave of deadly attacks on foreign workers in South Africa in recent weeks has cast a spotlight on the country's record.

The Bangladesh embassy in Pretoria said none of the South Asian country's nationals were involved in that violence.

Instead, the Bangladesh ambassador revealed most of the deaths were over business and money disputes, extra-marital affairs, and other personal arguments.

The embassy said the bodies of 88 Bangladeshi migrants had already been repatriated this year, and 452 since January 2015.

"Approximately 95 per cent of those who died here were murdered, mostly shot dead in their shops," an embassy official said.

Ambassador Shabbir Ahmad Chowdhury said the number killed could be far higher, as many families do not report the deaths.

"Many are buried here. It is therefore uncertain to tell the exact number of dead," he told AFP.

Chowdhury said most Bangladeshis "hire local hitmen" who carry out killings to settle disputes.

"Quite a lot of Bangladeshis have been shot dead, but we don't report them, let alone seek justice, because many of us live here illegally," Abdul Awal Tansen, a top Bangladeshi community leader in Johannesburg, told AFP.

Bangladeshis started migrating to South Africa in the early 2000s and today an estimated 300,000 live there -- many illegally -- making them one of the largest Bengali diaspora.

Bangladesh media has reported how young men pay traffickers up to $12,000 to get to South Africa.

Thousands own grocery shops across the African nation.

Scores of Bangladeshi-owned shops were attacked in the recent anti-immigrant violence, community leaders said.

"They often see us as their competitors. We are not taking their jobs yet they attack us with guns," one Bangladeshi migrant, Khalil Mia, told AFP.

The high commissioner said the embassy has urged South African authorities to take action against illegal migration and crime.

"They should be more strict on these issues," he said.

A foreign ministry official in Dhaka said despite the murders, a growing number of young Bangladeshis still try to get to South Africa illegally.

"It is hard to stop the surge of fortune seekers," he said on condition of anonymity.

More than 400 Bangladeshis have been murdered in South Africa over the past four years because of business and personal disputes within the community, government officials said Tuesday.

More than 400 Bangladeshis have been murdered in South Africa over the past four years because of business and personal disputes within the community, government officials said Tuesday. A wave of deadly attacks on foreign workers in South Africa in recent weeks has cast a spotlight on the country's record. The Bangladesh embassy in Pretoria said none of the South Asian country's nationals were involved in that violence. Instead, the Bangladesh ambassador revealed most of the deaths were over business and money disputes, extra-marital affairs, and other personal arguments. The embassy said the bodies of 88 Bangladeshi migrants had already been repatriated this year, and 452 since January 2015. "Approximately 95 per cent of those who died here were murdered, mostly shot dead in their shops," an embassy official said. Ambassador Shabbir Ahmad Chowdhury said the number killed could be far higher, as many families do not report the deaths. "Many are buried here. It is therefore uncertain to tell the exact number of dead," he told AFP. Chowdhury said most Bangladeshis "hire local hitmen" who carry out killings to settle disputes. "Quite a lot of Bangladeshis have been shot dead, but we don't report them, let alone seek justice, because many of us live here illegally," Abdul Awal Tansen, a top Bangladeshi community leader in Johannesburg, told AFP. Bangladeshis started migrating to South Africa in the early 2000s and today an estimated 300,000 live there -- many illegally -- making them one of the largest Bengali diaspora. Bangladesh media has reported how young men pay traffickers up to $12,000 to get to South Africa. Thousands own grocery shops across the African nation. Scores of Bangladeshi-owned shops were attacked in the recent anti-immigrant violence, community leaders said. "They often see us as their competitors. We are not taking their jobs yet they attack us with guns," one Bangladeshi migrant, Khalil Mia, told AFP. The high commissioner said the embassy has urged South African authorities to take action against illegal migration and crime. "They should be more strict on these issues," he said. A foreign ministry official in Dhaka said despite the murders, a growing number of young Bangladeshis still try to get to South Africa illegally. "It is hard to stop the surge of fortune seekers," he said on condition of anonymity.

More than 400 Bangladeshis murdered in South Africa in four years

Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will be visiting India from October 3rd to 6th, making it her first visit to India after her massive election victory last year.&nbsp;

October 5 will be the main day of engagement and Hasina will be the main speaker at the World Economic Forum's 33rd India Economic Summit in Delhi.

The visit comes a week after PM Modi met Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in New York on the sidelines of United Nations General Assembly.&nbsp;

A Ministry of External Affairs release said, "The two leaders reviewed the excellent state of bilateral relations and cooperation, and agreed to maintain the momentum to take the India-Bangladesh relationship to new heights".

Both the leaders "reiterated their zero-tolerance approach to terrorism and violent extremism" and "agreed that a strong partnership in security had built trust and confidence between the two countries".

Sheikh Hasina also participated in the special commemorative event organised by India to mark the 150th anniversary of the birth of Mahatma Gandhi at the United Nations last Tuesday.

There have been a number of high-level engagements between the two countries. PM Modi visited the country in 2015, which was followed by PM Hasina's India visit in 2016 for BRICS-BIMSTEC Summit in 2016 and a state visit in 2017. PM Hasina again visited in India in 2018 for the joint inauguration of Bangladesh Bhaban at Santiniketan University. During her visit, she was awarded a Doctor of Literature (D.Lit) degree by Kazi Nazrul University, Asansol. 
&nbsp; 
PM Modi was one of the first global leaders to congratulate PM Hasina for her election victory on December 30, 2018. Last month, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar visited the country and met the top leadership.

Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will be visiting India from October 3rd to 6th, making it her first visit to India after her massive election victory last year.

Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will be visiting India from October 3rd to 6th, making it her first visit to India after her massive election victory last year. October 5 will be the main day of engagement and Hasina will be the main speaker at the World Economic Forum's 33rd India Economic Summit in Delhi. The visit comes a week after PM Modi met Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in New York on the sidelines of United Nations General Assembly. A Ministry of External Affairs release said, "The two leaders reviewed the excellent state of bilateral relations and cooperation, and agreed to maintain the momentum to take the India-Bangladesh relationship to new heights". Both the leaders "reiterated their zero-tolerance approach to terrorism and violent extremism" and "agreed that a strong partnership in security had built trust and confidence between the two countries". Sheikh Hasina also participated in the special commemorative event organised by India to mark the 150th anniversary of the birth of Mahatma Gandhi at the United Nations last Tuesday. There have been a number of high-level engagements between the two countries. PM Modi visited the country in 2015, which was followed by PM Hasina's India visit in 2016 for BRICS-BIMSTEC Summit in 2016 and a state visit in 2017. PM Hasina again visited in India in 2018 for the joint inauguration of Bangladesh Bhaban at Santiniketan University. During her visit, she was awarded a Doctor of Literature (D.Lit) degree by Kazi Nazrul University, Asansol. PM Modi was one of the first global leaders to congratulate PM Hasina for her election victory on December 30, 2018. Last month, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar visited the country and met the top leadership.

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to visit India in October

Ride-sharing motorbike services are surging in popularity in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/india-bangladesh-reiterate-zero-tolerance-approach-against-terrorism-252550">Bangladeshi capital of Dhaka</a>, where nightmare traffic often means that walking is faster than travelling by car or bus.

Congestion in Dhaka, one of the world's most crowded cities with a population of 20 million, eats up 3.2 million working hours per day, according to a 2017 World Bank study. Average traffic speeds have dropped to 7km per hour from 21km/h over the last decade, only slightly faster than the average walking speed.

The debut of app-based ride-sharing services in May 2015 has helped to alleviate this problem. These days, service providers like Uber Technologies Inc, Pathao, Shohoz and OBHAI transport hundreds of thousands of people every day on motorcycles, navigating narrow alleys and congested traffic lanes.

"Sharing a bike ride saves me a lot of time, I can reach anywhere on time," said Khadija Khan, a private-sector employee who often hitches a bike ride.

The ride-sharing industry <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-to-fence-rohingya-camps-in-further-crackdown-252243">in Bangladesh</a> is worth an estimated 22 billion taka ($260 million) and accounts for about 23 per cent of the transport sector in the country, according to a 2018 study by the Policy Research Institute of Bangladesh (PRI).

Local motorcycle ride-sharing service Pathao now has over five million users and more than 200,000 registered drivers, according to its chief executive, Hassan M. Elius.

"A trip which previously used to take two hours with uncomfortable rides on rickshaws and buses now only takes 40 minutes," Elius said. "That not only saves time but also increases productivity."

The advent of motorbike sharing apps is not only providing relief to commuters used to wasting hours in gridlocked traffic,&nbsp;it is also creating employment opportunities for thousands.

"For a young man like me from a low-income family, it is a big source of income," said student Lokman Hossain, who owns a motorbike.

However, unskilled bike drivers and reckless driving are often cited as one of the main reasons for a recent spike in traffic accidents in Bangladesh. More than 4,000 people die in road accidents each year, one of the world's highest rates.

Massive student protests sparked by the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/two-rohingya-killed-in-gun-battle-with-bangladesh-border-guards-252365">death</a>&nbsp;of two teenagers mowed down by a speeding bus in the capital last July led to street battles and the use of tear gas and rubber bullets by police.

The following month, the country's cabinet approved raising the maximum jail sentence for rash driving deaths to five years from three.

Ride-sharing motorbike services are surging in popularity in the Bangladeshi capital of Dhaka, where nightmare traffic often means that walking is faster than travelling by car or bus.

Ride-sharing motorbike services are surging in popularity in the Bangladeshi capital of Dhaka, where nightmare traffic often means that walking is faster than travelling by car or bus. Congestion in Dhaka, one of the world's most crowded cities with a population of 20 million, eats up 3.2 million working hours per day, according to a 2017 World Bank study. Average traffic speeds have dropped to 7km per hour from 21km/h over the last decade, only slightly faster than the average walking speed. The debut of app-based ride-sharing services in May 2015 has helped to alleviate this problem. These days, service providers like Uber Technologies Inc, Pathao, Shohoz and OBHAI transport hundreds of thousands of people every day on motorcycles, navigating narrow alleys and congested traffic lanes. "Sharing a bike ride saves me a lot of time, I can reach anywhere on time," said Khadija Khan, a private-sector employee who often hitches a bike ride. The ride-sharing industry in Bangladesh is worth an estimated 22 billion taka ($260 million) and accounts for about 23 per cent of the transport sector in the country, according to a 2018 study by the Policy Research Institute of Bangladesh (PRI). Local motorcycle ride-sharing service Pathao now has over five million users and more than 200,000 registered drivers, according to its chief executive, Hassan M. Elius. "A trip which previously used to take two hours with uncomfortable rides on rickshaws and buses now only takes 40 minutes," Elius said. "That not only saves time but also increases productivity." The advent of motorbike sharing apps is not only providing relief to commuters used to wasting hours in gridlocked traffic, it is also creating employment opportunities for thousands. "For a young man like me from a low-income family, it is a big source of income," said student Lokman Hossain, who owns a motorbike. However, unskilled bike drivers and reckless driving are often cited as one of the main reasons for a recent spike in traffic accidents in Bangladesh. More than 4,000 people die in road accidents each year, one of the world's highest rates. Massive student protests sparked by the death of two teenagers mowed down by a speeding bus in the capital last July led to street battles and the use of tear gas and rubber bullets by police. The following month, the country's cabinet approved raising the maximum jail sentence for rash driving deaths to five years from three.

Motorbike ridesharing services surge in popularity in Dhaka

India and Bangladesh on Friday reiterated their zero-tolerance approach against terrorism and violent extremism and noted that strong ties in the security sector had built trust and mutual confidence between the two countries.

The commitment to act tough on terror was made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina during their bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly.

"The leaders reiterated their zero-tolerance approach to terrorism and violent extremism, and agreed that a strong partnership in security had built trust and mutual confidence between the two countries," a press statement by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said.

Hasina extended an invitation to Modi to visit Bangladesh, which was accepted by the Prime Minister.

"Bangladesh Prime Minister extended an invitation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit Bangladesh and suggested that it could be undertaken also in connection with the birth centenary of Bangabandhu, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. The invitation was accepted by Prime Minister Modi," the statement said.

Watch: The contrasting tales of two prime ministers

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Earlier, MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted, "Concluding the #UNGA week by meeting a close neighbour. PM @narendramodi had an excellent meeting with Bangladeshi PM #SheikhHasina. The leaders took stock of the rapidly expanding multifaceted bilateral relationship."

Modi has now departed for India, capping off a hectic week-long visit in the US where he held back-to-back meetings with world leaders, including his counterparts from Italy, Greece and Iran to name a few.

He also met US President Donald Trump twice during his visit, jointly addressing the mega 'Howdy Modi' event with the former business mogul on Sunday and holding a bilateral meet on Tuesday.

The Prime Minister was also honoured with the Global Gatekeeper Award by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation for his contributions to the cleanliness drive and efforts to improve access to sanitation in India through Swachh Bharat Abhiyan.

Modi also gave his maiden address at the 74th session of the UNGA on Friday after coming to power for a second five-year term. He also participated in several multilateral meetings and addressed the UN Climate Action Summit on Monday, where he reaffirmed India's support to the fight against climate change. (ANI)

India and Bangladesh on Friday reiterated their zero-tolerance approach against terrorism and violent extremism and noted that strong ties in the security sector had built trust and mutual confidence between the two countries.

India and Bangladesh on Friday reiterated their zero-tolerance approach against terrorism and violent extremism and noted that strong ties in the security sector had built trust and mutual confidence between the two countries. The commitment to act tough on terror was made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina during their bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. "The leaders reiterated their zero-tolerance approach to terrorism and violent extremism, and agreed that a strong partnership in security had built trust and mutual confidence between the two countries," a press statement by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said. Hasina extended an invitation to Modi to visit Bangladesh, which was accepted by the Prime Minister. "Bangladesh Prime Minister extended an invitation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit Bangladesh and suggested that it could be undertaken also in connection with the birth centenary of Bangabandhu, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. The invitation was accepted by Prime Minister Modi," the statement said. Watch: The contrasting tales of two prime ministers × Earlier, MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted, "Concluding the #UNGA week by meeting a close neighbour. PM @narendramodi had an excellent meeting with Bangladeshi PM #SheikhHasina. The leaders took stock of the rapidly expanding multifaceted bilateral relationship." Modi has now departed for India, capping off a hectic week-long visit in the US where he held back-to-back meetings with world leaders, including his counterparts from Italy, Greece and Iran to name a few. He also met US President Donald Trump twice during his visit, jointly addressing the mega 'Howdy Modi' event with the former business mogul on Sunday and holding a bilateral meet on Tuesday. The Prime Minister was also honoured with the Global Gatekeeper Award by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation for his contributions to the cleanliness drive and efforts to improve access to sanitation in India through Swachh Bharat Abhiyan. Modi also gave his maiden address at the 74th session of the UNGA on Friday after coming to power for a second five-year term. He also participated in several multilateral meetings and addressed the UN Climate Action Summit on Monday, where he reaffirmed India's support to the fight against climate change. (ANI)

India, Bangladesh reiterate zero-tolerance approach against terrorism

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