Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, Bangladesh’s main opposition leader, was charged with murder on Sunday (Oct 29) and sent to jail, amidst concerns over a crackdown on dissent by the ruling Sheikh Hasina government ahead of the general elections.

Along with Alamgir, at least 154 members of his Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) were accused of murdering a police officer during the anti-government protests.

"At least 164 Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) including Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir were accused of murdering the police officer," police officer Salahuddin Mia told AFP news agency on Sunday.

Among the arrested are the senior echelons of the BNP leadership, who potentially face the death penalty if they are found guilty.

Earlier, he was brought before the Dhaka Chief Metropolitan Magistrate's court, during which an investigating officer requested he be kept in jail for the sake of investigation, while his lawyer applied for bail.

<h2>Alamgir denied bail</h2>

After hearing both sides, Dhaka Metropolitan Magistrate Shafi Uddin turned down the bail plea and granted the police's request.

The development comes hours after Alamgir was detained for interrogation for Saturday’s violence

Dhaka police commissioner Habibur Rahman had earlier said Alamgir had been "detained for interrogation" for &nbsp;Saturday's violence in which a police officer and a protester were killed, and at least 26 police ambulances were torched or damaged.

Police on Saturday said the officer had been hacked to death and accused BNP activists of the killing.

<h2>Anti-Hasina protests&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bangladesh-oppn-leader-arrested-from-dhaka-home-ahead-of-elections-652505">Bangladesh opposition leader arrested from Dhaka home after clashes at BNP rally</a>

The anti-government protests have been going on for the past few weeks after Prime Minister Hasina put the party’s ailing leader and two-time former premier Khaleda Zia under house arrest and refused to give her permission to leave Bangladesh on medical grounds.

Zia was arrested and jailed, and her son went into exile in Britain, following corruption charges.

Also read |&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nawaz-sharif-gets-major-relief-from-court-army-dominated-nab-in-corruption-cases-651600">Nawaz Sharif gets major relief from court, army-dominated NAB in corruption cases</a>

Since then, Alamgir, 75, the BNP's secretary-general, has been leading the party in Zia’s absence.

The BNP and its allies have been calling for Hasina's resignation. They want power to be transferred to a non-partisan&nbsp;caretaker government to oversee upcoming&nbsp;general elections.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, Bangladesh’s main opposition leader, was charged with murder on Sunday (Oct 29) and sent to jail, amidst concerns over a crackdown on dissent by the ruling Sheikh Hasina government ahead of the general elections.

Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, Bangladesh’s main opposition leader, was charged with murder on Sunday (Oct 29) and sent to jail, amidst concerns over a crackdown on dissent by the ruling Sheikh Hasina government ahead of the general elections. Along with Alamgir, at least 154 members of his Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) were accused of murdering a police officer during the anti-government protests. "At least 164 Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) including Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir were accused of murdering the police officer," police officer Salahuddin Mia told AFP news agency on Sunday. Among the arrested are the senior echelons of the BNP leadership, who potentially face the death penalty if they are found guilty. Earlier, he was brought before the Dhaka Chief Metropolitan Magistrate's court, during which an investigating officer requested he be kept in jail for the sake of investigation, while his lawyer applied for bail. Alamgir denied bail After hearing both sides, Dhaka Metropolitan Magistrate Shafi Uddin turned down the bail plea and granted the police's request. The development comes hours after Alamgir was detained for interrogation for Saturday’s violence Dhaka police commissioner Habibur Rahman had earlier said Alamgir had been "detained for interrogation" for Saturday's violence in which a police officer and a protester were killed, and at least 26 police ambulances were torched or damaged. Police on Saturday said the officer had been hacked to death and accused BNP activists of the killing. Anti-Hasina protests Also read | Bangladesh opposition leader arrested from Dhaka home after clashes at BNP rally The anti-government protests have been going on for the past few weeks after Prime Minister Hasina put the party’s ailing leader and two-time former premier Khaleda Zia under house arrest and refused to give her permission to leave Bangladesh on medical grounds. Zia was arrested and jailed, and her son went into exile in Britain, following corruption charges. Also read | Nawaz Sharif gets major relief from court, army-dominated NAB in corruption cases Since then, Alamgir, 75, the BNP's secretary-general, has been leading the party in Zia’s absence. The BNP and its allies have been calling for Hasina's resignation. They want power to be transferred to a non-partisan caretaker government to oversee upcoming general elections. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Bangladesh’s main opposition leader Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir charged with murder

One police officer died and a dozen others were injured after supporters of the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) clashed with police during an anti-government rally in the capital city of Dhaka, the news agency Associated Press reported on Saturday (Oct 28).

One police officer died and a dozen others were injured after supporters of the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) clashed with police during an anti-government rally in the capital city of Dhaka, the news agency Associated Press reported on Saturday (Oct 28). The rally was held to demand the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the transfer of power to a non-partisan caretaker government to oversee next year's general elections. Citing local media and witnesses, the Associated Press report said that the violence broke out at Dhaka's Kakrail area when BNP activists led by former PM Khaleda Zia allegedly attacked a bus carrying the ruling Awami League’s members to a separate rally a few blocks away. Also read: Zia must go to prison first before leaving for life-saving treatment abroad, says PM Hasina Speaking to the news agency, Dhaka police spokesperson Faruk Hossain said that violence continued in at least 10 spots in the city, where security forces confronted opposition activists who attacked them, vandalised and torched vehicles. BNP accuses security forces of ruining 'peaceful rally' BNP's Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir accused security forces of ruining a "peaceful rally" and announced general strikes across Bangladesh on Sunday. Speaking to the Associated Press, BNP spokesperson Zahiruddin Swapan said that security forces attacked party activists mercilessly. Earlier, Prime Minister Hasina's party - the Awami League - warned that any attempt to trigger violence would be met with force. Addressing a huge rally in Chattogram's district Anwara, Hasina said that the BNP was attempting to derail her government's development agenda. “Today BNP (Zia’s party) wants to oust the government. They are giving various types of threats to launch a movement ... No threat will work,” Hasina said after she inaugurated a Chinese-built underwater tunnel. The opposition is leaving no stone unturned to dethrone Hasina as Bangladesh's 12th national election is expected to be held in January next year. Earlier, BNP's Secretary General Alamgir said that the party would continue to push for the resignation of Hasina’s administration and the installation of a caretaker government. “We don’t trust this government. They must go first to hold a free and fair election. Otherwise, they would rig the election,” he said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Bangladesh: One cop dead, dozens injured after oppn activists clash with police during anti-govt rally

Sheikh Hasina, the Prime Minister of Bangladesh, visited Durga Puja pandals to woo Hindus ahead of polls.

Sheikh Hasina visits Durga Puja pandals to woo Hindus ahead of polls

The Bangladesh government has barred to the opposition leader and former two-time premier Khaleda Zia from leaving abroad for medical treatment.

Zia, who is under house arrest after being released from prison, has been hospitalised since early August with advanced liver cirrhosis, breathing difficulties, and diabetes. In 2008, she was jailed for 17 years on graft charges.

She also reportedly suffers from a heart condition, rheumatoid arthritis, and knee problems, her doctor has said, according to AFP news agency.

The move was criticised by the Zia-led Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), terming it as an act of "political vengeance".

But Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina justified her actions, asserting that she must serve her prison sentence before she&nbsp;gets permission to leave the country.

<h2>'Can't interfere in court affairs'</h2>

"She must go back to prison first if she wants to go abroad for treatment,” Hasina told VOA Bangla news outlet on Sunday (Oct 1) when asked about Zia.

"If they [BNP] want to take her [Khaleda Zia] abroad, they must go to court and apply for it. She can go if the court permits," Hasina said.

<h2>Gravitas: Ailing Bangladesh opposition leader barred from travelling abroad for treatment</h2>

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The PM asserted that her government won’t interfere in the affairs of the court, and added that if Zia wants to go abroad, she must plead to the court.

"We have no scope to interfere in the court's activities. All I have been able to do as the prime minister is suspend her sentence on humanitarian grounds and allow her to stay at home.

"She [Khaleda Zia] arranged the treatment herself. She is being treated at the most expensive hospital in Bangladesh," the prime minister added.

<h2>Oppn protests against govt&nbsp;</h2>

The South Asian country will go to polls in January 2024, where Hasina will be seeking her fifth term as the prime minister.

The move to bar Zia from leaving the country has reinforced concerns over the political climate in the country where the Hasina-led government has held power for more than four decades.

Last week, thousands of BNP supporters protested against the government's actions towards Zia.

The BNP and its allies have staged a series of protests since last year demanding Hasina step down and allow a caretaker government to oversee the elections.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The Bangladesh government has barred to the opposition leader and former two-time premier Khaleda Zia from leaving abroad for medical treatment. Zia, who is under house arrest after being released from prison, has been hospitalised since early August with advanced liver cirrhosis, breathing difficulties, and diabetes.

The Bangladesh government has barred to the opposition leader and former two-time premier Khaleda Zia from leaving abroad for medical treatment. Zia, who is under house arrest after being released from prison, has been hospitalised since early August with advanced liver cirrhosis, breathing difficulties, and diabetes. In 2008, she was jailed for 17 years on graft charges. She also reportedly suffers from a heart condition, rheumatoid arthritis, and knee problems, her doctor has said, according to AFP news agency. The move was criticised by the Zia-led Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), terming it as an act of "political vengeance". But Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina justified her actions, asserting that she must serve her prison sentence before she gets permission to leave the country. 'Can't interfere in court affairs' "She must go back to prison first if she wants to go abroad for treatment,” Hasina told VOA Bangla news outlet on Sunday (Oct 1) when asked about Zia. "If they [BNP] want to take her [Khaleda Zia] abroad, they must go to court and apply for it. She can go if the court permits," Hasina said. Gravitas: Ailing Bangladesh opposition leader barred from travelling abroad for treatment The PM asserted that her government won’t interfere in the affairs of the court, and added that if Zia wants to go abroad, she must plead to the court. "We have no scope to interfere in the court's activities. All I have been able to do as the prime minister is suspend her sentence on humanitarian grounds and allow her to stay at home. "She [Khaleda Zia] arranged the treatment herself. She is being treated at the most expensive hospital in Bangladesh," the prime minister added. Oppn protests against govt The South Asian country will go to polls in January 2024, where Hasina will be seeking her fifth term as the prime minister. The move to bar Zia from leaving the country has reinforced concerns over the political climate in the country where the Hasina-led government has held power for more than four decades. Last week, thousands of BNP supporters protested against the government's actions towards Zia. The BNP and its allies have staged a series of protests since last year demanding Hasina step down and allow a caretaker government to oversee the elections. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Zia must go to prison first before leaving for life-saving treatment abroad, says PM Hasina

Bangladesh has blocked ailing key opposition leader Khaleda Zia from travelling abroad for medical treatment. Why is this happening? Has Sheikh Hasina become paranoid? How is the opposition reacting? Molly Gambhir tells you.

Gravitas: Ailing Bangladesh opposition leader barred from travelling abroad for treatment

The Bangladesh government has given permission to traders to export nearly 4,000 metric tonnes of Hilsa, a&nbsp;very popular and sought-after food fish among&nbsp;Bengalis,&nbsp;to India ahead of West Bengal's biggest festival, Durga Puja, an official statement read on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Bangladesh Commerce Ministry gave its nod to 79 business organisations to export 3,950 metric tonnes of Hilsas to India. The exporters would be able to export 50 metric tonnes of Hilsas each.

This order will remain valid till October 30, according to the official release by the Sheikh Hasina administration.

Hilsa, the national fish of Bangladesh, is one of the country's export items that come with the Geographical Indication (GI) tag.

In 2020, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee urged Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, during the latter's visit to Kolkata, to consider lifting the ban on the export of Hilsas to India.

However, Hasina said for her country to lift the curbs on the export of Hilsa, which tops the cravings of the fish-loving Bengalis, India should first ensure a fair share of water from the Teesta river of North Bengal to the neighbouring country.

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The Bangladesh government has given permission to traders to export nearly 4,000 metric tonnes of Hilsa, a very popular and sought-after food fish among Bengalis, to India ahead of West Bengal's biggest festival, Durga Puja, an official statement read on Wednesday.

The Bangladesh government has given permission to traders to export nearly 4,000 metric tonnes of Hilsa, a very popular and sought-after food fish among Bengalis, to India ahead of West Bengal's biggest festival, Durga Puja, an official statement read on Wednesday. Bangladesh Commerce Ministry gave its nod to 79 business organisations to export 3,950 metric tonnes of Hilsas to India. The exporters would be able to export 50 metric tonnes of Hilsas each. This order will remain valid till October 30, according to the official release by the Sheikh Hasina administration. Hilsa, the national fish of Bangladesh, is one of the country's export items that come with the Geographical Indication (GI) tag. In 2020, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee urged Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, during the latter's visit to Kolkata, to consider lifting the ban on the export of Hilsas to India. However, Hasina said for her country to lift the curbs on the export of Hilsa, which tops the cravings of the fish-loving Bengalis, India should first ensure a fair share of water from the Teesta river of North Bengal to the neighbouring country. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ahead of Durga Puja, Bangladesh govt allows export of 4,000 metric tonnes of Hilsa fish to India

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Friday (September 8), held a bilateral meeting with Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina ahead of the G20 Summit.&nbsp;

PM Hasina arrived in Delhi on Friday where she was received by Darshana Jardosh, Minister of State in the Ministry of Textiles and Ministry of Railways at the Delhi Airport, and accorded a warm welcome.

Taking to microblogging platform X, PM Modi wrote that he had a fruitful discussion with his Bangladeshi counterpart and that their talks covered areas like connectivity, commercial linkage and more.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | G 20 in India | Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina hold a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the G20 Summit, in Delhi <a href="https://t.co/Dpe2B0jfJ9">pic.twitter.com/Dpe2B0jfJ9</a>
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&nbsp;

"Had productive deliberations with PM Sheikh Hasina. The progress in India-Bangladesh relations in the last 9 years has been very gladdening. Our talks covered areas like connectivity, commercial linkage and more," he wrote on X.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rishi-sunak-feels-special-as-he-jokes-about-being-referred-to-as-son-in-law-of-india-633758">Rishi Sunak feels 'special' as he jokes about being referred to as 'son-in-law of India'</a>

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Had productive deliberations with PM Sheikh Hasina. The progress in India-Bangladesh relations in the last 9 years has been very gladdening. Our talks covered areas like connectivity, commercial linkage and more. <a href="https://t.co/IIuAK0GkoQ">pic.twitter.com/IIuAK0GkoQ</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1700139926816198984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2023</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, PM Modi also held a bilateral meeting with his Mauritius counterpart Pravind Jugnauth, who arrived in New Delhi on Thursday.&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

“Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth and I had a very good meeting. This is a special year for India-Mauritius relations as we mark 75 years of diplomatic ties between our nations. We discussed cooperation in sectors like infrastructure, FinTech, culture and more. Also reiterated India’s commitment to furthering the voice of the Global South,” PM Modi said following his meeting with the Mauritius Prime Minister.

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PM <a href="https://twitter.com/KumarJugnauth?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KumarJugnauth</a> and I had a very good meeting. This is a special year for India-Mauritius relations as we mark 75 years of diplomatic ties between our nations. We discussed cooperation in sectors like infrastructure, FinTech, culture and more. Also reiterated India's commitment… <a href="https://t.co/L6BDSpIAIV">pic.twitter.com/L6BDSpIAIV</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1700139100806758787?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 8, 2023</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

The Indian prime minister, earlier said that these meetings would give an opportunity to review India's bilateral ties with these nations and further strengthen developmental cooperation.

"It is my firm belief that the New Delhi G20 Summit will chart a new path in human-centric and inclusive development," the prime minister posted on X, adding, "I look forward to productive discussions with world leaders over the next two days."

"I will also be holding bilateral meetings with several leaders and Heads of Delegation to further deepen the bonds of friendship and cooperation," Modi said.

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Friday (September 8), held a bilateral meeting with Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina ahead of the G20 Summit. PM Hasina arrived in Delhi on Friday where she was received by Darshana Jardosh, Minister of State in the Ministry of Textiles and Ministry of Railways at the Delhi Airport, and accorded a warm welcome.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Friday (September 8), held a bilateral meeting with Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina ahead of the G20 Summit. PM Hasina arrived in Delhi on Friday where she was received by Darshana Jardosh, Minister of State in the Ministry of Textiles and Ministry of Railways at the Delhi Airport, and accorded a warm welcome. Taking to microblogging platform X, PM Modi wrote that he had a fruitful discussion with his Bangladeshi counterpart and that their talks covered areas like connectivity, commercial linkage and more. #WATCH | G 20 in India | Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina hold a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the G20 Summit, in Delhi pic.twitter.com/Dpe2B0jfJ9 — ANI (@ANI) September 8, 2023 × "Had productive deliberations with PM Sheikh Hasina. The progress in India-Bangladesh relations in the last 9 years has been very gladdening. Our talks covered areas like connectivity, commercial linkage and more," he wrote on X. Also read: Rishi Sunak feels 'special' as he jokes about being referred to as 'son-in-law of India' Had productive deliberations with PM Sheikh Hasina. The progress in India-Bangladesh relations in the last 9 years has been very gladdening. Our talks covered areas like connectivity, commercial linkage and more. pic.twitter.com/IIuAK0GkoQ — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 8, 2023 × Earlier in the day, PM Modi also held a bilateral meeting with his Mauritius counterpart Pravind Jugnauth, who arrived in New Delhi on Thursday. #WATCH | G 20 in India | Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Mauritius PM Pravind Kumar Jugnauth hold a bilateral meeting, in Delhi pic.twitter.com/P59ttdu9mK — ANI (@ANI) September 8, 2023 × “Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth and I had a very good meeting. This is a special year for India-Mauritius relations as we mark 75 years of diplomatic ties between our nations. We discussed cooperation in sectors like infrastructure, FinTech, culture and more. Also reiterated India’s commitment to furthering the voice of the Global South,” PM Modi said following his meeting with the Mauritius Prime Minister. PM @KumarJugnauth and I had a very good meeting. This is a special year for India-Mauritius relations as we mark 75 years of diplomatic ties between our nations. We discussed cooperation in sectors like infrastructure, FinTech, culture and more. Also reiterated India's commitment… pic.twitter.com/L6BDSpIAIV — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 8, 2023 × The Indian prime minister, earlier said that these meetings would give an opportunity to review India's bilateral ties with these nations and further strengthen developmental cooperation. "It is my firm belief that the New Delhi G20 Summit will chart a new path in human-centric and inclusive development," the prime minister posted on X, adding, "I look forward to productive discussions with world leaders over the next two days." "I will also be holding bilateral meetings with several leaders and Heads of Delegation to further deepen the bonds of friendship and cooperation," Modi said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

PM Modi holds bilateral talks with Mauritian counterpart Pravind Jugnauth, Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina

Multiple bilateral are set up for India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the G20 summit. A day ahead of the summit one such bilateral is set to take place between Prime Minister Modi and his Bangladeshi counterpart Sheikh Hasina.

Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina arrives in Delhi; Energy & food security to be key issues

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

Sheikh Hasina: Some countries interfering in our elections, trying to topple govt

More than 170 global leaders and Nobel laureates, including former US President Barack Obama and former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, have penned an open letter urging Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to suspend legal proceedings against Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus.&nbsp;

Yunus, who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006 for his work, pioneering microcredit to aid impoverished individuals, has allegedly faced "continuous judicial harassment" at the hands of Hasina's administration.

<h2>What the leaders said</h2>

In the letter dated Tuesday (August 29th), the leaders said: "One of the threats to human rights that concerns us in the present context is the case of Nobel Peace Prize laureate Prof. Muhammad Yunus. We are alarmed that he has recently been targeted by what we believe to be continuous judicial harassment."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/from-2800-to-4000-president-of-cash-strapped-pakistan-demands-massive-hike-in-monthly-salary-630580">From $2800 to $4000: President of cash-strapped Pakistan demands massive hike in monthly salary</a>

They asserted their confidence that "any thorough review of the anti-corruption and labour law cases against him will result in his acquittal".

Global figures have also called for the upcoming elections in Bangladesh —&nbsp;expected in early January — to be credible. The opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party had earlier expressed concerns about potential election rigging and demanded that Hasina step down to allow a caretaker government to oversee the voting, a demand Hasina has rejected.

<h2>Bangladesh's government responds</h2>

Responding to the open letter, Bangladesh Prime Minister Hasina said that she would welcome international experts and lawyers to assess the legal proceedings and examine documents related to the charges against Yunus.&nbsp;

She suggested that this would reveal additional information related to the case.

"If they send the experts and lawyers, many more things will get revealed, which remain untouched. Many such things will come out."

<h2>Charges against the Nobel laureate</h2>

Yunus founded Grameen Bank in 1983, an institution that provides small loans to entrepreneurs who typically do not qualify for traditional bank loans.&nbsp;

The bank's success in alleviating poverty as per news agency AP served as a model for micro-financing initiatives globally.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-to-settle-hundreds-of-millions-in-power-bills-ahead-of-national-elections-620485">Bangladesh to settle hundreds of millions in power bills ahead of national elections</a>

However, in 2008, after coming to power, Hasina's administration launched investigations into Yunus' activities.

As per AP, Hasina "became enraged" when in 2007, during a period of military-backed rule, Yunus announced plans to form a political party.&nbsp;

Hasina, who was in prison at the time, referred to Yunus as a "bloodsucker" and accused him of using force to recover loans.

Yunus faced multiple charges, including allegedly receiving money without government permission, violation of labour laws, and embezzlement of funds from Grameen Telecom, a company he created. Defence lawyers as per AP have described some of the cases as harassment and vowed to contest the allegations.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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More than 170 global leaders and Nobel laureates, including former US President Barack Obama and former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, have penned an open letter urging Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to suspend legal proceedings against Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus.

More than 170 global leaders and Nobel laureates, including former US President Barack Obama and former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, have penned an open letter urging Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to suspend legal proceedings against Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus. Yunus, who was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2006 for his work, pioneering microcredit to aid impoverished individuals, has allegedly faced "continuous judicial harassment" at the hands of Hasina's administration. What the leaders said In the letter dated Tuesday (August 29th), the leaders said: "One of the threats to human rights that concerns us in the present context is the case of Nobel Peace Prize laureate Prof. Muhammad Yunus. We are alarmed that he has recently been targeted by what we believe to be continuous judicial harassment." Also read | From $2800 to $4000: President of cash-strapped Pakistan demands massive hike in monthly salary They asserted their confidence that "any thorough review of the anti-corruption and labour law cases against him will result in his acquittal". Global figures have also called for the upcoming elections in Bangladesh — expected in early January — to be credible. The opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party had earlier expressed concerns about potential election rigging and demanded that Hasina step down to allow a caretaker government to oversee the voting, a demand Hasina has rejected. Bangladesh's government responds Responding to the open letter, Bangladesh Prime Minister Hasina said that she would welcome international experts and lawyers to assess the legal proceedings and examine documents related to the charges against Yunus. She suggested that this would reveal additional information related to the case. "If they send the experts and lawyers, many more things will get revealed, which remain untouched. Many such things will come out." Charges against the Nobel laureate Yunus founded Grameen Bank in 1983, an institution that provides small loans to entrepreneurs who typically do not qualify for traditional bank loans. The bank's success in alleviating poverty as per news agency AP served as a model for micro-financing initiatives globally. Also read | Bangladesh to settle hundreds of millions in power bills ahead of national elections However, in 2008, after coming to power, Hasina's administration launched investigations into Yunus' activities. As per AP, Hasina "became enraged" when in 2007, during a period of military-backed rule, Yunus announced plans to form a political party. Hasina, who was in prison at the time, referred to Yunus as a "bloodsucker" and accused him of using force to recover loans. Yunus faced multiple charges, including allegedly receiving money without government permission, violation of labour laws, and embezzlement of funds from Grameen Telecom, a company he created. Defence lawyers as per AP have described some of the cases as harassment and vowed to contest the allegations. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Obama & other global leaders rally for Muhammad Yunus, pen open letter to Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina

Chinese President Xi Jinping told Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina that China will always stay beside Bangladesh and will support&nbsp;it in joining BRICS. According to a report by The Daily Star on Thursday (August 25), Jinping gave assurance to Hasina on the sidelines of the 15th BRICS summit in Johannesburg. He also gave Hasina assurances of supporting Bangladesh in the Rohingya crisis, making Bangladesh a developed, prosperous Sonar Bangla and taking initiatives to quicken the signing of the Preferential Free Trade Agreement, as per the report.

Addressing press on Wednesday, Bangladesh's Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen said both Xi and Hasina invited each other to visit their respective countries, and they agreed to this.

Regarding the Rohingya issue, the report said that Xi wants to resolve it through the tripartite engagement of China, Bangladesh and Myanmar and, assured Beijing would always support Dhaka to this end.

Xi also expressed China's eagerness to help Bangladesh in the development of energy, renewable energy and infrastructure.&nbsp;

Bangladesh PM Hasina, meanwhile, sought Xi's help in the quick implementation of some Chinese-funded projects which are now stuck in a fund crisis. The Chinese president assured that he would look into the matter.

Hasina pointed out that the trade gap between Bangladesh and China will be reduced if some Chinese investments come to Bangladesh.

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Chinese President Xi Jinping told Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina that China will always stay beside Bangladesh and will support it in joining BRICS. According to a report by The Daily Star on Thursday (August 25), Jinping gave assurance to Hasina on the sidelines of the 15th BRICS summit in Johannesburg.

Chinese President Xi Jinping told Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina that China will always stay beside Bangladesh and will support it in joining BRICS. According to a report by The Daily Star on Thursday (August 25), Jinping gave assurance to Hasina on the sidelines of the 15th BRICS summit in Johannesburg. He also gave Hasina assurances of supporting Bangladesh in the Rohingya crisis, making Bangladesh a developed, prosperous Sonar Bangla and taking initiatives to quicken the signing of the Preferential Free Trade Agreement, as per the report. Addressing press on Wednesday, Bangladesh's Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen said both Xi and Hasina invited each other to visit their respective countries, and they agreed to this. Regarding the Rohingya issue, the report said that Xi wants to resolve it through the tripartite engagement of China, Bangladesh and Myanmar and, assured Beijing would always support Dhaka to this end. Xi also expressed China's eagerness to help Bangladesh in the development of energy, renewable energy and infrastructure. Bangladesh PM Hasina, meanwhile, sought Xi's help in the quick implementation of some Chinese-funded projects which are now stuck in a fund crisis. The Chinese president assured that he would look into the matter. Hasina pointed out that the trade gap between Bangladesh and China will be reduced if some Chinese investments come to Bangladesh. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

China to support Bangladesh in joining BRICS, expedite signing of preferential free trade agreement

Bangladesh is in turmoil. Tens of thousands of people are on the streets. Opposition is organising large-scale protests. The protesters are demanding PM Sheikh Hasina’s resignation.

Why are people in Bangladesh calling for PM Sheikh Hasina’s resignation?

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's decision to inaugurate 50 new model mosques and Islamic cultural centres across the country is raising eyebrows.

Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina inaugurates model mosques across the country

The political climate in Bangladesh is pretty tense the police are firing rubber bullets and tear gas to disperse crowds.

Bangladesh Nationalist Party, allies stage protest across nation

Sheikh Hasina and Khaled Zia's party at war: Ahead of polls

Fresh clashes broke out in Dhaka as the activists from the main opposition party Bangladesh Nationalist Party demanded the resignation of the ruling government. The incident reported one death and 50 injuries this is as per the local media reports. As of now the supporters of the BNP clashed with the ruling party student Wing that is Bangladesh Chatra League in the capital city of Dhaka.

Bangladesh Nationalist Party demands government resignation

The capital city of Dhaka witnessed massive protests by the opposition parties who demanded prime minister Sheikh Hasina's resignation to ensure free and fair elections in January next year. The protestors headed by Bangladesh Nationalist Party saw the largest turnouts in recent times with thousands of supporters hitting the streets.

Thousands of supporters rally in Dhaka as opposition demands Hasina's resignation

In Muslim-majority Bangladesh, transgender people are commonly known as hijra, a derogatory term. Considered a harbinger of bad omen they are despised in families as well as in society. Life has not been fair to them forcing them to become street beggars. The social rejection has led them to live in ghettos where many of them go to bed without a proper meal. This miserable living condition of the country’s third-sex population has started changing thanks to some humanitarian steps undertaken by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government.

Consider the gift a group of 15 transgender people received ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr, the largest religious festival the Muslims in Bangladesh celebrated in the last week of April. The transgender inhabitants at the remote northern village were overjoyed after receiving houses given free under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s Ashrayan project. The project has been launched to provide government-built houses to homeless and landless people. For the first time, transgender people were included in the widely admired scheme.

“We used to live in the same flat in an extremely cramped condition with little privacy,” said Sumi Khan, a member of the 15-strong group. Their struggle to rent a house became almost impossible due to reservations entertained by rural folk about transgenders, as in most predominantly Muslim countries. This Eid, she said, heralded a new dawn in their lives, thanks to the first-of-its-kind housing scheme rolled out by the Prime Minister that seeks to ensure no one in her country remains homeless and landless.

“Now we can live a decent life owing to the residential scheme organised by the prime minister”, said an elated Sumi, adding “This priceless gift will change the course of our lives and ensure economic empowerment.” According to the population census published in July, Bangladesh has a little more than 12,000 transgender people among the national population of 170 million.

As society is still heavily prejudiced against the transgender community, most children born with this gender identity are driven out of their families and left with the only option of living in their own community, surviving mostly on the alms given by the people, according to rights activists. But with the inclusion of Sumi and her community under this comprehensive housing scheme, these decades-old dogmas are taking a hit.

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/eight-killed-in-deadly-ethnic-clashes-in-bangladesh-police-on-toes-fearing-more-violence-580350">Eight killed in deadly ethnic clashes in Bangladesh, police on toes fearing more violence</a> 
 
According to media reports, as of March this year, at least 140 transgender community people have been brought under the housing scheme across the country and they have now reportedly found new means of livelihood. Before this scheme, finding a permanent shelter was like chasing a distant dream for almost all of the beneficiaries, but now a glimmer of hope has dawned in their lives.

Official documents illustrating activities of the project shows a record number of 3.5 million lives that broke the cycle of poverty, thanks to allocation of houses among 7,00,000 families (or 3.5 million people) since the beginning of the project in 1997. Of the said number, over 5,00,000 families were endowed with a new home over the last three years, in sync with the announcement of the premier on the eve of the celebration of the birth centenary celebration of the country’s founding father Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.&nbsp;"No one will remain homeless," announced the premier marking the anniversary. 
 
And the cluster of beneficiaries evolved into an inclusive model given all fragmented segments including families affected by global warming in coastal belts, ethnic minorities, ultra-poor, beggars, elderly people, widows, women abandoned by their husbands, insolvent freedom fighters, climate victims, transgender, Dalit, ethnic groups, persons with disabilities found shelter, let alone new means of living also. &nbsp;

Another remarkable aspect of this unique scheme has been the joint ownership of houses for the male and female beneficiaries. Domestic violence, coupled with discriminatory inheritance law and draconian religious dogmas, entrenched deeply within the societal fabric, held back the economic empowerment of half of the population — women — for decades.

But finally the gulf of odds are withering, with the rolling out of the initiative, led by the Premier herself, entitling women with land rights. The visionary move has yielded real and measurable gains, already a manifestation of turning Sheikh Hasina's electoral pledge of ensuring equal rights for women.

"I have a specific plan and I will reveal it in time," announced the premier in 2009 on her plan about empowering women with entitlement rights to property. &nbsp;Now a decade down the line, she has lived up to the promises with her pledge. Among all 7,00,000 families who found a shelter for a lifetime, the provision of joint ownership — husband and wife — have already made a remarkable impact on the lives of women and their children under the initiative.

As joint ownership ends the dominance of husbands to call the shots in day-to-day affairs, this new entitlement heralds a new dawn on the lives of female beneficiaries as they have found freedom to get involved in income-generating activities too. Despite the fact that the female labour force participation in rural areas has increased significantly in Bangladesh thanks to women's growing involvement in the agriculture sector and urban-rural migration brought on by the global coronavirus pandemic, a World Bank report, years back found among rural households that own agricultural land, only 13% of women have sole or joint ownership of agricultural land, compared to 70% of men.

Now gone are the days when a woman often requires the use of land rights through her relationship to a man – usually a husband or a father – those rights are subject to the continuation of that relationship. “It’s time to say goodbye to these threats from husbands that change in relationship status can jeopardise women’s rights over property and other assets,, thank you Premier, your vision gave a new meaning to our life and for the posterity ” added one beneficiary.

Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

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In Muslim-majority Bangladesh, transgender people are commonly known as hijra, a derogatory term. Considered a harbinger of bad omen they are despised in families as well as in society.

In Muslim-majority Bangladesh, transgender people are commonly known as hijra, a derogatory term. Considered a harbinger of bad omen they are despised in families as well as in society. Life has not been fair to them forcing them to become street beggars. The social rejection has led them to live in ghettos where many of them go to bed without a proper meal. This miserable living condition of the country’s third-sex population has started changing thanks to some humanitarian steps undertaken by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government. Consider the gift a group of 15 transgender people received ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr, the largest religious festival the Muslims in Bangladesh celebrated in the last week of April. The transgender inhabitants at the remote northern village were overjoyed after receiving houses given free under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s Ashrayan project. The project has been launched to provide government-built houses to homeless and landless people. For the first time, transgender people were included in the widely admired scheme. “We used to live in the same flat in an extremely cramped condition with little privacy,” said Sumi Khan, a member of the 15-strong group. Their struggle to rent a house became almost impossible due to reservations entertained by rural folk about transgenders, as in most predominantly Muslim countries. This Eid, she said, heralded a new dawn in their lives, thanks to the first-of-its-kind housing scheme rolled out by the Prime Minister that seeks to ensure no one in her country remains homeless and landless. “Now we can live a decent life owing to the residential scheme organised by the prime minister”, said an elated Sumi, adding “This priceless gift will change the course of our lives and ensure economic empowerment.” According to the population census published in July, Bangladesh has a little more than 12,000 transgender people among the national population of 170 million. As society is still heavily prejudiced against the transgender community, most children born with this gender identity are driven out of their families and left with the only option of living in their own community, surviving mostly on the alms given by the people, according to rights activists. But with the inclusion of Sumi and her community under this comprehensive housing scheme, these decades-old dogmas are taking a hit. ALSO READ| Eight killed in deadly ethnic clashes in Bangladesh, police on toes fearing more violence According to media reports, as of March this year, at least 140 transgender community people have been brought under the housing scheme across the country and they have now reportedly found new means of livelihood. Before this scheme, finding a permanent shelter was like chasing a distant dream for almost all of the beneficiaries, but now a glimmer of hope has dawned in their lives. Official documents illustrating activities of the project shows a record number of 3.5 million lives that broke the cycle of poverty, thanks to allocation of houses among 7,00,000 families (or 3.5 million people) since the beginning of the project in 1997. Of the said number, over 5,00,000 families were endowed with a new home over the last three years, in sync with the announcement of the premier on the eve of the celebration of the birth centenary celebration of the country’s founding father Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. "No one will remain homeless," announced the premier marking the anniversary. And the cluster of beneficiaries evolved into an inclusive model given all fragmented segments including families affected by global warming in coastal belts, ethnic minorities, ultra-poor, beggars, elderly people, widows, women abandoned by their husbands, insolvent freedom fighters, climate victims, transgender, Dalit, ethnic groups, persons with disabilities found shelter, let alone new means of living also. Another remarkable aspect of this unique scheme has been the joint ownership of houses for the male and female beneficiaries. Domestic violence, coupled with discriminatory inheritance law and draconian religious dogmas, entrenched deeply within the societal fabric, held back the economic empowerment of half of the population — women — for decades. But finally the gulf of odds are withering, with the rolling out of the initiative, led by the Premier herself, entitling women with land rights. The visionary move has yielded real and measurable gains, already a manifestation of turning Sheikh Hasina's electoral pledge of ensuring equal rights for women. "I have a specific plan and I will reveal it in time," announced the premier in 2009 on her plan about empowering women with entitlement rights to property. Now a decade down the line, she has lived up to the promises with her pledge. Among all 7,00,000 families who found a shelter for a lifetime, the provision of joint ownership — husband and wife — have already made a remarkable impact on the lives of women and their children under the initiative. As joint ownership ends the dominance of husbands to call the shots in day-to-day affairs, this new entitlement heralds a new dawn on the lives of female beneficiaries as they have found freedom to get involved in income-generating activities too. Despite the fact that the female labour force participation in rural areas has increased significantly in Bangladesh thanks to women's growing involvement in the agriculture sector and urban-rural migration brought on by the global coronavirus pandemic, a World Bank report, years back found among rural households that own agricultural land, only 13% of women have sole or joint ownership of agricultural land, compared to 70% of men. Now gone are the days when a woman often requires the use of land rights through her relationship to a man – usually a husband or a father – those rights are subject to the continuation of that relationship. “It’s time to say goodbye to these threats from husbands that change in relationship status can jeopardise women’s rights over property and other assets,, thank you Premier, your vision gave a new meaning to our life and for the posterity ” added one beneficiary. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Bangladesh transgender community: On the road to equality and progress

As the United States announced a visa policy to promote democratic elections in Bangladesh, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said on Saturday (June 3) that there was no use worrying about visas and sanctions. Attending a programme of her Awami League party in Dhaka's&nbsp;Tejgaon area, Prime Minister Hasina said it did not matter at all if someone did not go to the US&nbsp;crossing the Atlantic Ocean on a 20-hour-plane journey.

"There are other oceans and other continents in the world. We will make friends with those continents crossing the other oceans. Our economy will be stronger and more developed and vibrant," Hasina said, according to a report by The Daily Star.&nbsp;

Hasina pointed out that Dhaka would not depend on others, adding, "It's no use worrying about who will not issue us visas or who will impose sanctions on us."

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bangladesh-promises-free-fair-elections-in-response-to-us-visa-curbs-596525">Bangladesh promises free, fair elections in response to US visa curbs</a>

The Prime Minister advised the US to look at the party (in Bangladesh) that rigged votes and played with the fate of the people- referring to the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). She mentioned that&nbsp;Canada declared BNP "a terrorist party."

"The USA did not issue a visa to Tarique Zia for terrorism and corruption," Hasina added, as per the report.&nbsp;

<h2>What is the visa policy?</h2>

Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina's remarks come days after the US announced a new visa policy&nbsp;to support Bangladesh’s goal of holding free, fair, and peaceful national elections.&nbsp;

In a statement on May 24, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said, "Under this policy, the United States will be able to restrict the issuance of visas for any Bangladeshi individual, believed to be responsible for, or complicit in, undermining the democratic election process in Bangladesh."

"This includes current and former Bangladeshi officials, members of pro-government and opposition political parties, and members of law enforcement, the judiciary, and security services," Blinken said.&nbsp;

The US Secretary of State added that&nbsp;holding free and fair elections is the responsibility of everyone—voters, political parties, the government, the security forces, civil society, and the media.

The above measure comes as the US has accused Bangladesh of political violence, election manipulation and human rights violations. And according to reports, Wahington in recent years has taken actions to pressurise PM Hasina’s government on human rights and warn it against rigging elections.

A day after the visa policy was announced, Bangladeshi authorities said that they would&nbsp;take steps to tackle and prevent unlawful practices or interference in elections.

"The government apparatus will take necessary measures to prevent and address any unlawful practices or interference...to compromise the smooth and participatory conduct of the elections," the Bangladesh foreign ministry said on May 25.

&nbsp;

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As the United States announced a visa policy to promote democratic elections in Bangladesh, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said on Saturday (June 3) that there was no use worrying about visas and sanctions.

As the United States announced a visa policy to promote democratic elections in Bangladesh, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said on Saturday (June 3) that there was no use worrying about visas and sanctions. Attending a programme of her Awami League party in Dhaka's Tejgaon area, Prime Minister Hasina said it did not matter at all if someone did not go to the US crossing the Atlantic Ocean on a 20-hour-plane journey. "There are other oceans and other continents in the world. We will make friends with those continents crossing the other oceans. Our economy will be stronger and more developed and vibrant," Hasina said, according to a report by The Daily Star. Hasina pointed out that Dhaka would not depend on others, adding, "It's no use worrying about who will not issue us visas or who will impose sanctions on us." ALSO READ | Bangladesh promises free, fair elections in response to US visa curbs The Prime Minister advised the US to look at the party (in Bangladesh) that rigged votes and played with the fate of the people- referring to the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). She mentioned that Canada declared BNP "a terrorist party." "The USA did not issue a visa to Tarique Zia for terrorism and corruption," Hasina added, as per the report. What is the visa policy? Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina's remarks come days after the US announced a new visa policy to support Bangladesh’s goal of holding free, fair, and peaceful national elections. In a statement on May 24, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said, "Under this policy, the United States will be able to restrict the issuance of visas for any Bangladeshi individual, believed to be responsible for, or complicit in, undermining the democratic election process in Bangladesh." "This includes current and former Bangladeshi officials, members of pro-government and opposition political parties, and members of law enforcement, the judiciary, and security services," Blinken said. The US Secretary of State added that holding free and fair elections is the responsibility of everyone—voters, political parties, the government, the security forces, civil society, and the media. The above measure comes as the US has accused Bangladesh of political violence, election manipulation and human rights violations. And according to reports, Wahington in recent years has taken actions to pressurise PM Hasina’s government on human rights and warn it against rigging elections. A day after the visa policy was announced, Bangladeshi authorities said that they would take steps to tackle and prevent unlawful practices or interference in elections. "The government apparatus will take necessary measures to prevent and address any unlawful practices or interference...to compromise the smooth and participatory conduct of the elections," the Bangladesh foreign ministry said on May 25. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Bangladesh PM reacts to US visa policy to promote democratic polls in her country: 'No use worrying...'

Officials in Bangladesh say they will take steps to tackle and prevent unlawful practices or interference in its elections. This comes after the US said it is adopting a new policy to restrict visas for Bangladeshis who undermine the democratic election process at home. The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said under the new policy the United States will restrict issuing visas for any Bangladeshi individual involved in undermining the democratic election process.

US restricts visas for Bangladeshi nationals, PM Sheikh Hasina accused of vote manipulation

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bangladesh elections are likely to be tough for parties

Bangladesh's opposition parties led by Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) staged multiple public meetings at several places across Bangladesh as they continued their combined efforts to press Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to step down and announce fresh elections at the earliest. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has announced countrywide rallies and processions for January 16 to protest against yet-to-be-implemented plan of Dhaka to hike power prices.

Speaking at one of the rallies in Dhaka, announced countrywide rallies and processions for January 16 to press the party’s 10-point demand and protest the government’s plan to hike power prices.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-opposition-mounts-huge-protest-in-dhaka-against-pm-sheikh-hasina-541823">Bangladesh: Opposition stages massive protest against PM Sheikh Hasina in Dhaka</a>

It was said that&nbsp;the programmes will be observed in all metropolitan cities, districts, towns, upazilas and municipality headquarters.

BNP secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said that Prime Minister Hasina led Awami League was clinging to power by using police and bureaucrats. In process, Alamgir claimed that government in Dhaka was snatching peoples voting rights in the past two general elections.

"The people want freedom from this authoritarian regime,"&nbsp;Alamgir said.

What is the BNP demanding?

The BNP is demanding Prime Minister Hasina’s resignation in favour of fresh elections under a caretaker government instead of ruling Awami League. The BNP claims that&nbsp;the polls to be rigged by Sheikh Hasina's administration. Bangladesh is scheduled to&nbsp;hold its next general election in 2024.

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-bangladesh-pm-sheikh-hasina-to-meet-top-leadership-water-management-and-security-on-agenda-513210">WION Dispatch | India: Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina to meet top leadership</a>

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The BNP boycotted the 2014 and 2018 elections, but under a special provision, it allowed several of its leaders to take part in the last elections. BNP alleged that the elections that put Sheikh Hasina in power in 2018 and before that were rigged.

At a separate rally in the capital, senior BNP leader Mirza Abbas demanded a non-party caretaker government to hold a credible election.

"The time to cling to power by force is over."

Political analysts said the BNP has rallied significant support but the party was rudderless after its chairperson 77-year-old Khaleda Zia was convicted of two graft charges.

A court in 2017 sentenced her to a 17-year jail term and she spent months in prison.

Zia, a three-time Prime Minister,&nbsp;however, was allowed to stay at her home in Dhaka under a special government provision since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic and debarred from joining any political activity.

Awami League won't fall: Sheikh Hasina

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Tuesday said that "the extreme rightist and leftist groups"&nbsp;were joining hands with the opposition BNP to try to oust her government.

"Now they (BNP) are saying they will wage a movement getting beside them the extreme leftists and rightists as companions," she told a party discussion, Press Trust of India reported.&nbsp;

"Let me tell you (BNP) one thing. The Awami League works for the people and their welfare. Don’t think it will fall if one shakes it. Things are not that easy."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Bangladesh's opposition parties led by Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) staged multiple public meetings at several places across Bangladesh as they continued their combined efforts to press Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to step down and announce fresh elections at the earliest.

Bangladesh's opposition parties led by Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) staged multiple public meetings at several places across Bangladesh as they continued their combined efforts to press Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to step down and announce fresh elections at the earliest. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has announced countrywide rallies and processions for January 16 to protest against yet-to-be-implemented plan of Dhaka to hike power prices. Speaking at one of the rallies in Dhaka, announced countrywide rallies and processions for January 16 to press the party’s 10-point demand and protest the government’s plan to hike power prices. ALSO READ | Bangladesh: Opposition stages massive protest against PM Sheikh Hasina in Dhaka It was said that the programmes will be observed in all metropolitan cities, districts, towns, upazilas and municipality headquarters. BNP secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said that Prime Minister Hasina led Awami League was clinging to power by using police and bureaucrats. In process, Alamgir claimed that government in Dhaka was snatching peoples voting rights in the past two general elections. "The people want freedom from this authoritarian regime," Alamgir said. What is the BNP demanding? The BNP is demanding Prime Minister Hasina’s resignation in favour of fresh elections under a caretaker government instead of ruling Awami League. The BNP claims that the polls to be rigged by Sheikh Hasina's administration. Bangladesh is scheduled to hold its next general election in 2024. WATCH | WION Dispatch | India: Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina to meet top leadership × The BNP boycotted the 2014 and 2018 elections, but under a special provision, it allowed several of its leaders to take part in the last elections. BNP alleged that the elections that put Sheikh Hasina in power in 2018 and before that were rigged. At a separate rally in the capital, senior BNP leader Mirza Abbas demanded a non-party caretaker government to hold a credible election. "The time to cling to power by force is over." Political analysts said the BNP has rallied significant support but the party was rudderless after its chairperson 77-year-old Khaleda Zia was convicted of two graft charges. A court in 2017 sentenced her to a 17-year jail term and she spent months in prison. Zia, a three-time Prime Minister, however, was allowed to stay at her home in Dhaka under a special government provision since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic and debarred from joining any political activity. Awami League won't fall: Sheikh Hasina Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Tuesday said that "the extreme rightist and leftist groups" were joining hands with the opposition BNP to try to oust her government. "Now they (BNP) are saying they will wage a movement getting beside them the extreme leftists and rightists as companions," she told a party discussion, Press Trust of India reported. "Let me tell you (BNP) one thing. The Awami League works for the people and their welfare. Don’t think it will fall if one shakes it. Things are not that easy." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Bangladesh: Opposition holds multiple protests, demands PM Sheikh Hasina's resignation

Bangladesh on Wednesday opened its first Metro rail&nbsp;line in the capital Dhaka, which is one of the world's most densely populated cities. The new elevated train network has been in development for nearly 10 years and is slated to grow to over a hundred stations with six lines crisscrossing the city by 2030.&nbsp;

The Metro project has been mostly funded by Japan. Inaugurating the service on Wednesday, Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said,&nbsp;"We have added another feather of pride to the crown of Bangladesh’s people today. Another feather added to the crown of the development of Bangladesh.”

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/stage-used-for-signing-surrender-of-pak-commander-during-bangladesh-1971-war-kept-in-museum-for-display-544115">Stage used for signing Pak surrender in 1971 Bangladesh liberation war on display in Dhaka museum</a>

Ambassador Kiminori Iwama, the newly appointed Japanese ambassador and Ichiguchi Tomohide, the chief representative of Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), were also present during Wednesday's inauguration, the Associated Press reported.

Prime Minister Hasina used the opening ceremony to commemorate six Japanese rail engineers working on the project who were killed during an attack on a Dhaka cafe by Islamic extremists in 2016.&nbsp;

Hasina said the government had promised to eradicate traffic jams from Dhaka and with the six Metro lines, the government would be able to do so.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH | Bangladesh: Rohingya&nbsp;refugees turn to birth control in crowded settlements, embrace family planning

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&nbsp;

On Wednesday, operations began on a section of the Metro line connecting a neighbourhood on Dhaka's periphery with the city centre. Once fully operational, the line is expected to carry 60,000 people each hour.&nbsp;

At present, daily commute&nbsp;along Dhaka's car-clogged roads is frustrating for residents and the Metro service will hopefully bring relief.&nbsp;

"We are counting on it. It will reduce public suffering," Mostafizur Rahman who spends nearly three hours riding a bus to work every morning, told news agency AFP on Wednesday.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

&nbsp;

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Bangladesh on Wednesday opened its first Metro rail line in the capital Dhaka, which is one of the world's most densely populated cities. The new elevated train network has been in development for nearly 10 years and is slated to grow to over a hundred stations with six lines crisscrossing the city by 2030.

Bangladesh on Wednesday opened its first Metro rail line in the capital Dhaka, which is one of the world's most densely populated cities. The new elevated train network has been in development for nearly 10 years and is slated to grow to over a hundred stations with six lines crisscrossing the city by 2030. The Metro project has been mostly funded by Japan. Inaugurating the service on Wednesday, Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina said, "We have added another feather of pride to the crown of Bangladesh’s people today. Another feather added to the crown of the development of Bangladesh.” ALSO READ | Stage used for signing Pak surrender in 1971 Bangladesh liberation war on display in Dhaka museum Ambassador Kiminori Iwama, the newly appointed Japanese ambassador and Ichiguchi Tomohide, the chief representative of Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), were also present during Wednesday's inauguration, the Associated Press reported. Prime Minister Hasina used the opening ceremony to commemorate six Japanese rail engineers working on the project who were killed during an attack on a Dhaka cafe by Islamic extremists in 2016. Hasina said the government had promised to eradicate traffic jams from Dhaka and with the six Metro lines, the government would be able to do so. ALSO WATCH | Bangladesh: Rohingya refugees turn to birth control in crowded settlements, embrace family planning × On Wednesday, operations began on a section of the Metro line connecting a neighbourhood on Dhaka's periphery with the city centre. Once fully operational, the line is expected to carry 60,000 people each hour. At present, daily commute along Dhaka's car-clogged roads is frustrating for residents and the Metro service will hopefully bring relief. "We are counting on it. It will reduce public suffering," Mostafizur Rahman who spends nearly three hours riding a bus to work every morning, told news agency AFP on Wednesday. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Bangladesh opens its first Metro rail line to decongest clogged streets of capital Dhaka

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has been re-elected as the party chief of Awami League (AL) for the 10th consecutive term on Saturday (December 24). Hasina has now become the longest-serving president of the ruling Awami League since 1981.&nbsp;

As Awami League prepares for the general elections in early 2024, the party has picked Obaidul Quader as general secretary at the 22nd national council, which was a closed-door session.&nbsp;

Local reports have mentioned that nearly 7,000 councillors from across Bangladesh joined the national council at an auditorium in central Dhaka. The meeting was followed by an open rally at adjacent Suhrawardy Udyan.&nbsp;

The Daily Star reported on Saturday that the prime minister earlier reached Suhrawardy Udyan around 10:20am (local time) and she inaugurated the council by hoisting the national flag and releasing a white pigeon and balloons.&nbsp;

News agency PTI cited party sources to report that Hasina's name was proposed by senior Awami League leader Amir Hossain Amu and the decision was accepted by everybody present at the meeting.&nbsp;

The report mentioned that during the conversation with the outlet, some of the party leaders said through this conference that they are expecting strong leadership.&nbsp;

They also said that with they need someone who will play a strong role for the party ahead of the next national election.&nbsp;

The 75-year-old will lead the party for the next three years—a term under the party constitution. Hasina (75) has remained the head of the party since 1981 when she returned home from India where she was living a self-exiled life since August 1975.&nbsp;

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Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has been re-elected as the party chief of Awami League (AL) for the 10th consecutive term on Saturday (December 24). Hasina has now become the longest-serving president of the ruling Awami League since 1981.

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has been re-elected as the party chief of Awami League (AL) for the 10th consecutive term on Saturday (December 24). Hasina has now become the longest-serving president of the ruling Awami League since 1981. As Awami League prepares for the general elections in early 2024, the party has picked Obaidul Quader as general secretary at the 22nd national council, which was a closed-door session. Local reports have mentioned that nearly 7,000 councillors from across Bangladesh joined the national council at an auditorium in central Dhaka. The meeting was followed by an open rally at adjacent Suhrawardy Udyan. The Daily Star reported on Saturday that the prime minister earlier reached Suhrawardy Udyan around 10:20am (local time) and she inaugurated the council by hoisting the national flag and releasing a white pigeon and balloons. News agency PTI cited party sources to report that Hasina's name was proposed by senior Awami League leader Amir Hossain Amu and the decision was accepted by everybody present at the meeting. The report mentioned that during the conversation with the outlet, some of the party leaders said through this conference that they are expecting strong leadership. They also said that with they need someone who will play a strong role for the party ahead of the next national election. The 75-year-old will lead the party for the next three years—a term under the party constitution. Hasina (75) has remained the head of the party since 1981 when she returned home from India where she was living a self-exiled life since August 1975. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Sheikh Hasina elected Awami League president for 10th consecutive term

The police in Bangladesh have arrested two main leaders of the Opposition party, the BNP arrests have come a day before the Opposition's planned rally in the capital city of Dhaka to call for Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's resignation. Dhaka is witnessing a violent crackdown of the Opposition.

Bangladesh: Two Opposition leaders arrested; arrests ahead of mega anti-govt rally

Two days after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of Bangladesh announced that the country will hold its next general elections in January 2024, Opposition's Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) mounted huge protest in the capital&nbsp;Dhaka's Golapbag.&nbsp; 
 
Protests sparked by power cuts and fuel price hikes have erupted across the country in recent months, demanding that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina step down in favour of fresh elections under a caretaker government.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bangladesh-to-go-to-polls-in-jan-2024-sheikh-hasina-seeks-fifth-term-541217">Bangladesh to go to polls in Jan 2024, announces Sheikh Hasina, seeking her fifth term</a>

Prior to the Dhaka rally on December 10, two top leaders of BNP were arrested along with 500 supporters for allegedly instigating violence ahead of the rally.&nbsp; 
 
Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, the general secretary of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), and Mirza Abbas, a former minister and member of the party’s top decision-making body, were taken from their homes at about 3am on Friday,&nbsp;Zahiruddin Swapan, head of the BNP’s media wing, told AFP.

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-is-bangladesh-heading-toward-a-sri-lanka-like-crisis-504986">Gravitas: Is Bangladesh heading toward a Sri Lanka-like crisis?</a>

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Tensions were&nbsp;high in the capital before the rally, which the&nbsp;BNP said would draw hundreds of thousands of supporters from all over the country. The turnout at the rally on Saturday was reported to be 'significant' by local media.&nbsp;

Police said they will not allow a demonstration in front of the party office, which they called a crime scene&nbsp;after saying they had found Molotov cocktails at the location.

What are BNP's demands?

The BNP, along with the majority of other political parties and civil societies, have&nbsp;urged the government to reinstate the three-month non-political caretaker government system in preparation for the December 2023 national election. The governing Awami League government led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, however, has rejected the demand, claiming that it would be contrary to the constitution.

Fifteen foreign embassies, including the U.S., issued a joint statement late on Tuesday calling for the country to allow free expression, peaceful assembly and fair elections, with the UN making a similar declaration a day later.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Two days after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of Bangladesh announced that the country will hold its next general elections in January 2024, Opposition's Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) mounted huge protest in the capital Dhaka's Golapbag.

Two days after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of Bangladesh announced that the country will hold its next general elections in January 2024, Opposition's Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) mounted huge protest in the capital Dhaka's Golapbag. Protests sparked by power cuts and fuel price hikes have erupted across the country in recent months, demanding that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina step down in favour of fresh elections under a caretaker government. ALSO READ | Bangladesh to go to polls in Jan 2024, announces Sheikh Hasina, seeking her fifth term Prior to the Dhaka rally on December 10, two top leaders of BNP were arrested along with 500 supporters for allegedly instigating violence ahead of the rally. Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, the general secretary of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), and Mirza Abbas, a former minister and member of the party’s top decision-making body, were taken from their homes at about 3am on Friday, Zahiruddin Swapan, head of the BNP’s media wing, told AFP. WATCH | Gravitas: Is Bangladesh heading toward a Sri Lanka-like crisis? × Tensions were high in the capital before the rally, which the BNP said would draw hundreds of thousands of supporters from all over the country. The turnout at the rally on Saturday was reported to be 'significant' by local media. Police said they will not allow a demonstration in front of the party office, which they called a crime scene after saying they had found Molotov cocktails at the location. What are BNP's demands? The BNP, along with the majority of other political parties and civil societies, have urged the government to reinstate the three-month non-political caretaker government system in preparation for the December 2023 national election. The governing Awami League government led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, however, has rejected the demand, claiming that it would be contrary to the constitution. Fifteen foreign embassies, including the U.S., issued a joint statement late on Tuesday calling for the country to allow free expression, peaceful assembly and fair elections, with the UN making a similar declaration a day later. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Bangladesh: Opposition stages massive protest against PM Sheikh Hasina in Dhaka

The police on Friday arrested two main opposition leaders of Bangladesh, a day before the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) had planned a rally to demand the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.&nbsp;

BNP general secretary Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir along with the former minister and member of the decision-making body of the party Mirza Abbas were arrested from their homes by the police at around 3 am on Friday, head of BNP's media wing Zahiruddin Swapan said.

"They were plainclothes policemen. Alamgir knew their identity. They told him he was being taken away on the order of the high command," said Swapan, adding that the party was unaware of their whereabouts.&nbsp;

Spokesman of Dhaka Metropolitan Police Faruq Ahmed said that the police arrested the two leaders over suspicion of obstructing the work of the government and instigating violence during clashes that took place on Wednesday.&nbsp;

ALSO READ| <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bangladesh-to-go-to-polls-in-jan-2024-sheikh-hasina-seeks-fifth-term-541217">Bangladesh to go to polls in Jan 2024, announces Sheikh Hasina, seeking her fifth term</a>

Tensions have escalated in the capital in the wake of BNP's planned rally on Saturday, which the party claimed would draw thousands of its supporters from across the country.

The police have stated that no demonstration would be allowed in front of the party office, which the former called a "crime scene" after Molotov cocktails were discovered by them at the location.

According to the local media, police have set up checkpoints on routes coming into the city to stop the activists of the opposition party, travelling from the rural heartlands, from joining the protest.

However, Alamgir, in a press conference, on Thursday had said that the party will go forward with the rally. BNP spokesperson Swapan said that "around 2,000" activists and supporters of the party have been arrested by the police to stop the rally.

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-plunged-in-darkness-following-grid-failure-leaving-millions-without-power-522427">Bangladesh plunged in darkness following grid failure leaving millions without power</a>

In recent months, multiple protests have erupted across the country over fuel price hikes and power cuts, further demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina so that fresh elections can be held under a caretaker government,&nbsp;

The arrests took place on Friday, two days after tear gas and rubber bullets were fired by security forces in Dhaka over thousands of supporters of BNP who were preparing for the rally to be held on December 10, which left scores wounded and one dead.&nbsp;

Concerns have been expressed by the United Nations, along with the western governments, over Bangladesh's current political climate.&nbsp;

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The police on Friday arrested two main opposition leaders of Bangladesh, a day before the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) had planned a rally to demand the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

The police on Friday arrested two main opposition leaders of Bangladesh, a day before the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) had planned a rally to demand the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. BNP general secretary Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir along with the former minister and member of the decision-making body of the party Mirza Abbas were arrested from their homes by the police at around 3 am on Friday, head of BNP's media wing Zahiruddin Swapan said. "They were plainclothes policemen. Alamgir knew their identity. They told him he was being taken away on the order of the high command," said Swapan, adding that the party was unaware of their whereabouts. Spokesman of Dhaka Metropolitan Police Faruq Ahmed said that the police arrested the two leaders over suspicion of obstructing the work of the government and instigating violence during clashes that took place on Wednesday. ALSO READ| Bangladesh to go to polls in Jan 2024, announces Sheikh Hasina, seeking her fifth term Tensions have escalated in the capital in the wake of BNP's planned rally on Saturday, which the party claimed would draw thousands of its supporters from across the country. The police have stated that no demonstration would be allowed in front of the party office, which the former called a "crime scene" after Molotov cocktails were discovered by them at the location. According to the local media, police have set up checkpoints on routes coming into the city to stop the activists of the opposition party, travelling from the rural heartlands, from joining the protest. However, Alamgir, in a press conference, on Thursday had said that the party will go forward with the rally. BNP spokesperson Swapan said that "around 2,000" activists and supporters of the party have been arrested by the police to stop the rally. ALSO READ| Bangladesh plunged in darkness following grid failure leaving millions without power In recent months, multiple protests have erupted across the country over fuel price hikes and power cuts, further demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina so that fresh elections can be held under a caretaker government, The arrests took place on Friday, two days after tear gas and rubber bullets were fired by security forces in Dhaka over thousands of supporters of BNP who were preparing for the rally to be held on December 10, which left scores wounded and one dead. Concerns have been expressed by the United Nations, along with the western governments, over Bangladesh's current political climate.

Police arrest top opposition leaders of Bangladesh, ahead of rally to demand PM's resignation

Bangladesh will hold its next general election in the first week of January in 2024, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the leader of Awami League, announced at a rally in Dhaka's Cox Bazar on Wednesday.&nbsp;Hasina called on the people to vote for Awami League to continue the developmental momentum of the South Asian nation located right above the Bay of Bengal.&nbsp;

"From 2009 to 2022, there is a democratic process in the country leading to unprecedented development in the country. Bangladesh has got recognition as a developing country," Hasina was quoted as saying by The Daily Star newspaper.&nbsp;

The 75-year-old&nbsp;hit out at former prime minister Khaleda Zia-led Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), alleging that the members of BNP were involved in money laundering.&nbsp;

She also mentioned that Khaleda Zia embezzled the money of an orphanage and for that reason, she had been convicted of corruption for 10 years.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-climate-tracker-around-10-million-without-power-in-bangladesh-528332">WION Climate Tracker: Around 10 million without power in Bangladesh</a>

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"And her son Tarique Rahman, known for siphoning off the country's money, had been convicted for seven years and fined Taka 20 crore." BNP has alleged that Sheikh Hasina is using state machinery to halt their ways to reach people in the run-up to elections. However, Hasina's party published visuals of the findings of explosives from BNP headquarters.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Police?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Police</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/journalists?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#journalists</a> were compelled to leave the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BNP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BNP</a> HQ mid-raid after coming across large numbers of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/explosives?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#explosives</a>, at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Nayapaltan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Nayapaltan</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Dhaka?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Dhaka</a>. 
It is thus clear that BNP had no intention of peaceful assembly on 10 December, but rather planned on violence. <a href="https://twitter.com/BDMOFA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BDMOFA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/sajeebwazed?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sajeebwazed</a> <a href="https://t.co/az3hnknx5o">pic.twitter.com/az3hnknx5o</a>
— Awami League (@albd1971) <a href="https://twitter.com/albd1971/status/1600522018935304192?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 7, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, the US&nbsp;warned its citizens in Bangladesh of the BNP’s planned Dec 10 rally in Dhaka, saying it is concerned about reports of intimidation and political violence ahead of the next general election.

"You should avoid demonstrations and exercise caution in the vicinity of any large gatherings. Review personal security plans; remain aware of your surroundings, including local events; and monitor local news stations for updates," the US embassy in Dhaka said.&nbsp;

Watching processes to free, fair polls: US envoy to Bangladesh

US envoy to Bangladesh, Peter Haas, said in an interview that Washington calls upon all political parties to respect the rule of law in the run-up to general elections.

"News reports of intimidation and political violence in Bangladesh are disturbing. Free and fair elections cannot take place in such an environment. We call on all parties to respect the rule of law and to refrain from violence, coercion, intimidation, or retribution. Moreover, for journalists to be able to cover the elections freely and fully, they must be protected from harassment and violence," Peter Haas, US ambassador to Bangladesh was quoted as saying by The Daily Star newspaper.&nbsp;

Jatiya Sangsad, the parliament of Bangladesh, consists of 350 seats including 50 seats reserved exclusively for women, a first in a Muslim-majority nation. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's Awami League-led Grand Alliance currently has 302 seats in parliament, followed by Hussain Ershad's Jatiya Party (26) and Khaleda Zia-led Bangladesh Nationalist Party (7).&nbsp;

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Bangladesh will hold its next general election in the first week of January in 2024, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the leader of Awami League, announced at a rally in Dhaka's Cox Bazar on Wednesday.

Bangladesh will hold its next general election in the first week of January in 2024, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the leader of Awami League, announced at a rally in Dhaka's Cox Bazar on Wednesday. Hasina called on the people to vote for Awami League to continue the developmental momentum of the South Asian nation located right above the Bay of Bengal. "From 2009 to 2022, there is a democratic process in the country leading to unprecedented development in the country. Bangladesh has got recognition as a developing country," Hasina was quoted as saying by The Daily Star newspaper. The 75-year-old hit out at former prime minister Khaleda Zia-led Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), alleging that the members of BNP were involved in money laundering. She also mentioned that Khaleda Zia embezzled the money of an orphanage and for that reason, she had been convicted of corruption for 10 years. WATCH | WION Climate Tracker: Around 10 million without power in Bangladesh × "And her son Tarique Rahman, known for siphoning off the country's money, had been convicted for seven years and fined Taka 20 crore." BNP has alleged that Sheikh Hasina is using state machinery to halt their ways to reach people in the run-up to elections. However, Hasina's party published visuals of the findings of explosives from BNP headquarters. #Police and #journalists were compelled to leave the #BNP HQ mid-raid after coming across large numbers of #explosives, at #Nayapaltan, #Dhaka. It is thus clear that BNP had no intention of peaceful assembly on 10 December, but rather planned on violence. @BDMOFA @sajeebwazed pic.twitter.com/az3hnknx5o — Awami League (@albd1971) December 7, 2022 × Meanwhile, the US warned its citizens in Bangladesh of the BNP’s planned Dec 10 rally in Dhaka, saying it is concerned about reports of intimidation and political violence ahead of the next general election. "You should avoid demonstrations and exercise caution in the vicinity of any large gatherings. Review personal security plans; remain aware of your surroundings, including local events; and monitor local news stations for updates," the US embassy in Dhaka said. Watching processes to free, fair polls: US envoy to Bangladesh US envoy to Bangladesh, Peter Haas, said in an interview that Washington calls upon all political parties to respect the rule of law in the run-up to general elections. "News reports of intimidation and political violence in Bangladesh are disturbing. Free and fair elections cannot take place in such an environment. We call on all parties to respect the rule of law and to refrain from violence, coercion, intimidation, or retribution. Moreover, for journalists to be able to cover the elections freely and fully, they must be protected from harassment and violence," Peter Haas, US ambassador to Bangladesh was quoted as saying by The Daily Star newspaper. Jatiya Sangsad, the parliament of Bangladesh, consists of 350 seats including 50 seats reserved exclusively for women, a first in a Muslim-majority nation. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's Awami League-led Grand Alliance currently has 302 seats in parliament, followed by Hussain Ershad's Jatiya Party (26) and Khaleda Zia-led Bangladesh Nationalist Party (7). WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Bangladesh to go to polls in Jan 2024, announces Sheikh Hasina, seeking her fifth term

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