Bangladesh Supreme Court Adopts Virtual Hearings and New Hours to Curb Energy Costs

 

DHAKA — The Supreme Court of Bangladesh has officially transitioned to a hybrid operational model, introducing virtual court sessions and revised office timings to support national energy-saving efforts.

The move is part of a wider government strategy to address the current global energy crisis by reducing electricity, gas, and fuel consumption by 30% across all public sectors.

Shift to Digital Justice

Under the new directives, the Supreme Court’s High Court and Appellate Divisions—including the Chamber Judge’s Court—will conduct all judicial proceedings via virtual platforms every Wednesday and Thursday.

These remote sessions are held in accordance with the Use of Information Technology by Court Act, 2020. To ensure transparency, the judiciary is publishing daily cause lists and digital meeting links directly on the Supreme Court’s official website, allowing legal professionals and litigants to join hearings remotely.

Revised Schedules and Fuel Cuts

To maximize daylight usage and reduce utility expenses, the court has adjusted its daily office hours:

• Appellate Division: Now operates from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

• High Court Division: Now operates from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Furthermore, the judiciary has mandated a strict 30% cut in fuel allocations for all official vehicles. These measures follow an 11-point austerity plan issued by the Cabinet Division earlier this year aimed at stabilizing the national economy.

Productivity Gains

Despite the shift to a virtual format, judicial efficiency remains high. On the first day of the new system, April 22, 2026, the court successfully managed a heavy caseload:

• The Appellate Division heard 95 matters and disposed of 21 cases.

• The High Court Division conducted 612 hearings, resulting in 156 disposals.

With a total of 177 cases resolved in a single day through digital presence, officials noted that the transition has not hindered the delivery of justice. According to Md. Shafiqul Islam, the Supreme Court’s Public Relations Officer, these protocols will remain in place until further notice as part of the country's ongoing commitment to resource conservation.

Munshi Firoz Al Mamun 4/22/2026 09:41:00 PM

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Bangladesh: Former Speaker Shirin Sharmin and Key Political Figures Detained

DHAKA — A sweeping law enforcement drive targeting prominent political figures has gathered pace in Bangladesh, with former Speaker Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury now officially shown arrested in a Lalbagh Police Station case linked to unrest, alongside multiple high-profile detentions across the capital.

Shirin Sharmin Detained After Weeks Out of Public View

Officials from the Dhaka Metropolitan Detective Branch (DB) confirmed that Shirin Sharmin was taken into custody early Tuesday from a residence in Dhanmondi, where she had reportedly been staying quietly. Investigators say she is facing several cases tied to violence during the mass uprising, including serious criminal allegations that remain under investigation.

Authorities are preparing to produce her before the court in connection with the Lalbagh case, as scrutiny over her alleged role during the unrest continues.

Tuku, Palak and BCL Leader Arrested in Dhaka Operation

In a separate operation, police detained Deputy Speaker Shamsul Haque Tuku, former ICT State Minister Zunaid Ahmed Palak, and Bangladesh Chhatra League leader Tanvir Hasan Saikat.

According to the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP), the three were arrested from the Nikunja residential area under Khilkhet Police Station limits following intelligence reports. Police said they had been in hiding and were wanted in connection with a case filed at Paltan Police Station.

Earlier High-Profile Arrests

A few days earlier, authorities also detained former Law Minister Anisul Huq and industrialist Salman F Rahman near Sadarghat while they were reportedly attempting to leave the city.

They were shown arrested in a murder case linked to the death of a vendor during clashes near Dhaka College on July 16, during a student-led protest movement.

Court Allows Extended Interrogation

On Wednesday, investigators presented Anisul Huq and Salman F Rahman before Dhaka’s Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Court, requesting remand for questioning. The court approved a 10-day remand for both, allowing further interrogation.

Investigation Ongoing

Law enforcement agencies say the investigation is ongoing, focusing on the alleged roles of political leaders and affiliated organization members in incidents of violence. More arrests and legal developments are expected as authorities continue their operations.

Munshi Firoz Al Mamun 4/07/2026 01:01:00 PM

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Unvaccinated Babies Flood Bangladesh Hospitals as Global Measles Surge Hits Home

A devastating measles outbreak is tearing through Bangladesh, exposing a critical "protection gap" that has left the country’s youngest citizens defenseless. 

New data from major medical centers reveals a heartbreaking trend: the majority of new victims are infants too young to have even qualified for their first scheduled vaccination.

At Rajshahi Medical College Hospital (RMCH), the pediatric unit has reached a breaking point. An emergency isolation ward, recently established to contain the spread, is already operating beyond capacity.

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The "Under-Nine-Month" Trap

Standard health protocols in Bangladesh schedule the first measles vaccine at nine months of age. However, the virus isn’t waiting.

• The 65% Statistic: Clinical data from RMCH indicates that 65% of hospitalized children are under nine months old.

• The 6-Month Peak: The highest concentration of infections is occurring in babies around the six-month mark.

• The Death Toll: At least 38 children have died nationwide this year, with 21 of those fatalities occurring in March alone.

"We are seeing a shift where the virus is hunting the most vulnerable," said a senior health official. "Because these infants haven't reached their vaccination date, they have zero internal defense against a virus this aggressive."

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A Systemic Collapse in Immunity

Experts point to a decade of declining vigilance as the root cause. While Bangladesh once boasted high immunization rates, the current crisis is fueled by:

1. Zero Campaigns: No nationwide measles-rubella catch-up campaigns have been conducted in eight years.

2. Resource Depletion: Reports indicate that central vaccine stores have faced significant depletions, and there is a critical shortage of field-level health workers to reach rural areas.

3. The Malnutrition Factor: Widespread malnutrition, particularly in districts like Chapainawabganj, is turning a manageable illness into a fatal one.

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Global Context: A Resurging Threat

The tragedy in Bangladesh is part of a larger, alarming global pattern. Following the disruption of routine healthcare during the COVID-19 pandemic, measles has staged a comeback across the globe:

Region	Current Status
Europe	Romania has declared a national epidemic; cases are rising in the UK and Austria.
Africa	Ethiopia and Nigeria face massive outbreaks among "zero-dose" (entirely unvaccinated) children.
The Americas	Localized outbreaks in the US and Canada are being linked to international travel and vaccine hesitancy.

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Urgent Medical Advice for Parents

Measles is highly contagious—one person can infect up to 18 others. Health authorities are urging parents to look for the "Three Cs": Cough, Coryza (runny nose), and Conjunctivitis (red eyes), followed by a high fever and the signature red rash.

Immediate Actions:

• Isolate: Keep symptomatic children away from others immediately.

• Vitamin A: High-dose Vitamin A is the gold standard for reducing measles mortality.

• Hydration: Aggressive fluid intake is vital to fight off secondary complications like pneumonia or encephalitis (brain swelling).

• No Aspirin: Never give aspirin to a child with a viral fever; use Paracetamol instead.

As the UN Security Council and international health bodies monitor the situation, the message from the wards in Rajshahi is clear: without an immediate, massive vaccination "mop-up" campaign, the death toll among the nation's infants will continue to climb.

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Munshi Firoz Al Mamun 3/31/2026 11:26:00 AM

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Bangladesh: GST Admission Tests for 20 Universities Begin Nationwide Today

The much-anticipated GST (General, Science, and Technology) cluster admission tests for the 2025–26 academic session have officially commenced today (Friday), marking a crucial step for thousands of university hopefuls across Bangladesh.

The examination process began with the Unit-C (Business Studies) test, held from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at designated centers nationwide. The centralized admission system, covering 20 public universities, continues to attract a large number of candidates each year.

Huge Turnout of Applicants

According to official data, a total of 284,480 students have applied for around 13,500 seats, making the competition highly intense. For today’s Unit-C exam alone, more than 25,000 candidates are taking part.

The overall unit-wise breakdown shows:

• Unit-A (Science): 166,162 applicants
• Unit-B (Humanities): 93,102 applicants
• Unit-C (Business Studies): 25,216 applicants

Authorities have also continued the opportunity for second-time applicants, allowing previous HSC candidates to sit for the exams alongside fresh examinees.

Exam System and Marking Rules

The GST admission tests are being conducted under a uniform MCQ format. Each exam carries 100 marks, with a minimum pass mark of 30.

A negative marking system is also in place, where 0.25 marks are deducted for each incorrect answer, adding an extra layer of challenge for candidates.

Only those who pass will be eligible to apply for subject allocation in participating universities, based on merit and institutional criteria.

Upcoming Exam Schedule

Candidates appearing in the remaining units should take note of the following dates:

• Unit-B (Humanities): April 3, 2026
• Unit-A (Science): April 10, 2026
• Architecture Practical (Drawing): April 10, 2026 (afternoon session)

Tight Security and Support Measures

To manage the large number of students and guardians, authorities have implemented strict security arrangements across exam centers. Law enforcement agencies, along with BNCC and Rover Scouts, are actively assisting in maintaining discipline.

Help desks, medical support, and waiting areas have also been arranged to ensure a smooth experience for candidates.

Participating Institutions

The GST cluster includes 20 universities, featuring well-known institutions such as Islamic University (Kushtia), Jessore University of Science and Technology, and Begum Rokeya University (Rangpur), along with several newer science and technology universities.

Results to Be Published Soon

Officials informed that results for each unit will be published shortly after the exams through the official GST admission portal, allowing successful candidates to proceed with subject choice and final admission steps.

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Munshi Firoz Al Mamun 3/27/2026 08:12:00 AM

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Bangladesh: Ex-Adviser Claims ‘Deep State’ Plot to Extend Interim Rule Until 2029

 NCP Spokesperson Asif Mahmud reveals a proposed "roadmap" to sideline major political parties through judicial delays.

DHAKA – In a revelation that has sent ripples through the political landscape, Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuiyan, a former adviser to the interim government, disclosed on Thursday that "powerful institutional forces"—often referred to as the Deep State—offered a deal to keep the interim administration in power until 2029.

Speaking at a discussion organized by the National Citizen Party (NCP) in the capital’s Banglamotor area, Mahmud claimed that these entities proposed the government complete the remainder of the ousted regime's term.

The "Judicial Strategy" to Sideline Rivals

According to Mahmud, the proposal came with a detailed roadmap designed to maintain the status quo by exploiting the legal vulnerabilities of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP).

"They suggested that because BNP leaders have existing convictions, they would be unable to contest elections. The plan was to use the judiciary to keep these cases 'lengthy'—stretching out court dates—to ensure they remained disqualified," Mahmud stated.

He specifically noted that even Tarique Rahman’s legal status was part of this calculated negotiation, intended to ensure his exclusion from any potential electoral process.

Rejecting the "Status Quo"

Mahmud emphasized that the interim government’s refusal to accept these terms was rooted in a commitment to democratic restoration. He argued that the administration chose to step down and facilitate elections rather than enter into a compromise with non-elected power brokers.

"We never wavered from our commitment to democracy. To ensure the election remained beyond question, we even took the step of resigning from our positions," he told the audience during the seminar titled "From Blood-Soaked Independence to Reform and Referendum."

A Warning to the Current Administration

The NCP spokesperson did not hold back in his critique of the current BNP-led government. He pointed out the irony of individuals who held key roles during the interim period now serving as ministers, suggesting this crossover has compromised the "level playing field."

Mahmud concluded with a stern warning to the ruling party, urging them not to violate the "July Mandate"—the core principles of the student-led uprising.

• Key Allegation: Deep State offered a 5-year extension to the interim government.

• The Condition: Facilitating certain institutional interests and neutralizing political opposition.

• The Outcome: The interim government rejected the deal to prioritize a transition to elected rule.

The event featured several prominent NCP leaders, including Sarwar Tushar and Tarikul Islam, who echoed the call for maintaining the integrity of the reforms won during the July uprising.

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Munshi Firoz Al Mamun 3/27/2026 01:52:00 AM

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Dozens Feared Dead as Bus with 40 Passengers Plunges into Padma River in Bangladesh

Dozens of people are feared dead after a commuter bus carrying around 40 passengers plunged into the Padma River while traveling towards Dhaka, triggering a major rescue operation and widespread concern.

According to initial reports, the accident occurred when the bus reportedly slipped into the river, possibly while boarding or disembarking from a ferry. The exact cause of the incident has not yet been officially confirmed, but authorities have launched an investigation to determine the circumstances behind the tragedy.

Rescue teams quickly arrived at the scene and began searching for survivors and victims. So far, the bodies of two passengers have been recovered, while a few individuals managed to swim to safety and reach the riverbank. However, many passengers remain missing, raising fears that the death toll could rise significantly.

Emergency responders, including local law enforcement, fire service personnel, and trained divers, are continuing intensive search operations in the river. Strong currents and challenging conditions are reportedly making the rescue efforts more difficult, slowing down the process of locating the missing passengers.

Witnesses described scenes of panic as the bus fell into the river, with some passengers attempting to escape through windows. 

Authorities are also working to identify the victims and contact their families as the rescue mission continues.

The incident has once again highlighted concerns over ferry safety, vehicle management, and enforcement of transport regulations on major river routes in Bangladesh. Experts have long warned about the risks associated with overcrowding, poor safety measures, and inadequate supervision in such areas.

Officials have assured that a full investigation will be conducted and that necessary steps will be taken to prevent similar accidents in the future.

Meanwhile, families of the passengers anxiously await updates as search and rescue efforts continue.
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Munshi Firoz Al Mamun 3/25/2026 10:26:00 PM

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Law Minister Asaduzzaman Calls for Public Support as Tarique Rahman’s BNP Govt Accelerates Development

Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Advocate Asaduzzaman has stressed the need for greater public participation to ensure sustainable development in Jhenaidah, saying progress depends on proper planning and cooperation from all sections of society.

He made the remarks on Sunday at a memorial program held at the Shailkupa Upazila Parishad auditorium, organised to honour the late teachers of Shailkupa Government College. 

Opening his speech with a firm message, the minister said, “We are not here to sell illusions of heaven,” while underscoring the principle of equality and highlighting the equal contributions of men and women to global progress.

Remembering Distinguished Educators

The programme also featured the unveiling of a commemorative publication dedicated to their legacy. The event was arranged by the Shailkupa Nagorik Committee (Shailkupa Citizens Committee).

The event was presided over by Advocate Md. Ismail Hossain. Tributes were paid to eminent educators including Professor Alim Uddin, Professor Farid Uddin, Professor Laxmikanta Das, Professor Mashab, Professor Sadar Uddin Sikdar and Professor Munshi Abdul Wadud. 

Speakers recalled their lifelong contributions to education and expressed optimism that their ideals would continue to guide future generations.

 

Local leaders and representatives of various social and voluntary organisations, including ATM Shahidul Islam Babu, Humayun Babar Firoz and Mizanur Rahman Bablu, also addressed the gathering. The program began with a one-minute silence in honour of the departed teachers.

  

Emphasis on Women’s Inclusion

The minister pointed out the absence of women in the committee and urged organisers to ensure their active participation in future initiatives. 

He noted that inclusive development is not possible without the meaningful involvement of women at every level.

Focus on Infrastructure and Education

Highlighting development priorities in the area, Asaduzzaman said efforts are underway to complete the long-pending Langalbandh bridge project in Shailkupa. 

He added that he plans to visit the site soon to expedite the decision-making process.

He also stressed the importance of strengthening the education sector, saying initiatives are being taken to improve learning environments in local institutions.

 

Progress on Election Commitments

Referring to electoral promises, the minister said the newly elected BNP government, led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, has already made notable progress in implementing key initiatives such as family card distribution, canal dredging programmes, and the waiver of agricultural loans up to Tk 10,000. 

He expressed confidence that the remaining pledges would be fulfilled ahead of the projected timeline.

Warning Against Misinformation

Concluding his speech, the minister issued a strong warning against misinformation, stating that no one would be allowed to mislead people with false assurances.

The programme ended on an emotional note, with participants paying heartfelt tribute to the late educators whose contributions continue to shape the region’s academic landscape.

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Munshi Firoz Al Mamun 3/24/2026 12:55:00 AM

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Prof ABM Obaidul Islam to Lead Dhaka University, Prof Mamun Ahmed Named UGC Chairman

 

Dhaka, March 16, 2026 — The government has announced new leadership for two key institutions in Bangladesh’s higher education sector. A B M Obaidul Islam has been appointed as the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Dhaka, while Mamun Ahmed will serve as the Chairman of the University Grants Commission of Bangladesh.

The decision was disclosed on Monday during a press briefing at the Ministry of Education by Education and Primary & Mass Education Minister A N M Ehsanul Haque Milon.

Professor Obaidul Islam currently holds the position of Vice-Chancellor at Bangladesh Open University. He is also a senior academic from the Physics Department at the University of Dhaka. With his new appointment, he will take charge of the country’s oldest and most prestigious public university.

Professor Mamun Ahmed, who is now serving as the Pro-Vice-Chancellor of Dhaka University, will take over as chairman of the University Grants Commission, the national authority responsible for supervising universities and maintaining academic standards across Bangladesh.

UGC Chairman Steps Down for Health Reasons

The leadership change at the UGC comes after its current chairman S M A Faiz submitted a request to be relieved of his duties due to health complications. In an application sent to the Secondary and Higher Education Division on March 16, he stated that he was no longer physically able to continue performing the responsibilities of the post.

Previous DU Vice-Chancellor Requested Resignation

The new appointment for Dhaka University follows a request by outgoing Vice-Chancellor Niaz Ahmed Khan to step down from the role. On February 22, he submitted an application to the President seeking to be released from his duties and to return to his earlier academic position as a Grade-1 professor in the Development Studies Department.

According to a statement issued by the university’s public relations office, Professor Niaz Ahmed Khan met the education minister prior to submitting his application. His decision followed remarks he made during a press conference earlier in February.

Professor Niaz Ahmed Khan had taken office as the vice-chancellor in late August 2024, following the political changes that occurred after the 2024 Bangladesh student-led uprising, which led to the fall of the Awami League government on August 5, 2024.

The latest appointments are expected to bring new leadership to Bangladesh’s university system at a time when reforms and modernization in higher education remain a national priority.

Munshi Firoz Al Mamun 3/16/2026 05:30:00 PM

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Bride and Groom Among 14 Killed in Tragic Highway Crash in Bangladesh

Bagerhat, Bangladesh: A devastating road accident on the Khulna–Mongla highway has left 14 people dead, including a newly married bride and groom, shortly after their wedding ceremony.

The fatal crash occurred on Thursday afternoon near Belai Bridge in Rampal upazila of Bagerhat, when a microbus carrying members of a wedding party collided head-on with a bus operated by the Bangladesh Navy.

Among the victims was Marzia Akter (Mitu), the newlywed bride, who had just begun the journey to her husband’s home after the wedding. She had married Ahadur Rahman Sabbir the night before. The couple’s wedding ceremony took place at the bride’s family home in Naksha village under Amadi Union of Koyra upazila in Khulna.

Following the ceremony on Wednesday night, several members of the groom’s family stayed at the bride’s residence. On Thursday, a group of relatives from both families left for Mongla, the groom’s hometown in Bagerhat, traveling together in a microbus. During the journey, the vehicle collided with the navy bus near Belai Bridge, resulting in a catastrophic accident.

Emergency responders initially transported several victims to Rampal Upazila Health Complex. Later, the injured and deceased were taken to Khulna Medical College Hospital, where doctors confirmed multiple fatalities. Ten bodies, including those of the bride and groom, were kept in the hospital morgue as relatives gathered in grief.

According to Jafar Ahmed, officer-in-charge of Katakhali Highway Police Station, the microbus was carrying 15 people including the driver. Fourteen passengers died, while one individual survived and is currently receiving treatment at Khulna Medical College Hospital.

Police said the passengers included 11 members of the groom’s family, three members of the bride’s family, and the driver. All those who died were occupants of the microbus.

The tragic incident has triggered widespread sorrow, with many people expressing condolences online after reports of the accident spread across social media.

Munshi Firoz Al Mamun 3/13/2026 10:33:00 AM

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Bangladesh: Jaimah Rahman Accepts Posthumous ‘Indomitable Woman’ Award for Khaleda Zia

Barrister Jaimah Rahman, granddaughter of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, received a posthumous award on behalf of the late leader, recognizing her lifelong contributions to women’s education and democratic development in Bangladesh.

The “Indomitable Woman” award was presented on International Women’s Day at Osmani Memorial Auditorium by President Mohammad Shahabuddin. The ceremony highlighted the achievements of women who have made significant impacts in various fields.

Other awardees included Nurun Nahar Akter for economic achievements, Mosammat Bobita Khatun for contributions to education and professional development, Nurbanu Kabir as a successful mother, Mosammat Shamla Begum for overcoming adversity, and Mosammat Afroza Yasmin for exceptional social development work. Each woman was recognized for her resilience, dedication, and influence.

Organized by the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs, the awards aim to promote women’s active participation in social, economic, and political life while celebrating inspiring stories of leadership, perseverance, and achievement across the country.

Munshi Firoz Al Mamun 3/09/2026 03:07:00 PM

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Main Suspect in Osman Hadi Murder Case Among Two Detained in India, Repatriation Process Underwa

Dhaka, March 9: Authorities have begun the process of bringing back two suspects from India in connection with the murder of political activist Sharif Osman Bin Hadi, widely known as Shaheed Osman Hadi. 

The two individuals—Faisal Karim Masud, the prime accused in the case, and his associate Alamgir Hossain—were reportedly detained in the Indian state of West Bengal.

According to intelligence sources, the two suspects were apprehended late Saturday night in the border town of Bongaon in West Bengal, which lies close to the Bangladesh frontier. The arrests were carried out by West Bengal Police based on intelligence information shared by Bangladesh’s security agencies.

Following their detention, a case was filed in India, and the suspects were produced before a local court. The court subsequently ordered that they be placed in police custody as investigations continue. Indian news agency ANI and local media outlets in West Bengal have also confirmed the arrests.

Security officials said the development came after recent high-level intelligence coordination between Bangladesh and India. During a recent visit to India, the newly appointed Director General of Bangladesh’s Directorate General of Forces Intelligence (DGFI) reportedly requested Indian authorities to locate and detain individuals linked to the Osman Hadi murder case and facilitate their return to Bangladesh.

Based on detailed intelligence inputs, Indian authorities launched an operation that led to the arrest of the two suspects. Indian officials have also reportedly assured Bangladesh that they will take action against individuals who conduct anti-Bangladesh activities while staying in India.

Investigators believe that after the killing, Faisal and Alamgir entered India through the Meghalaya border and had been moving between different locations there. 

Recently, they attempted to take shelter near the Bongaon border area, possibly with the intention of re-entering Bangladesh. Acting on intelligence provided by Bangladeshi agencies, West Bengal Police conducted a raid and detained them.

The murder took place on December 12 last year in Dhaka’s Paltan area. Osman Hadi was shot by two men riding a motorcycle while he was leaving Friday prayers and meeting supporters on Box Culvert Road. He was critically injured in the attack and later flown to Singapore for treatment.

Despite medical efforts, he died on December 18 at Singapore General Hospital.

Several suspects arrested earlier in the case have already given confessional statements before the court. Authorities in Bangladesh are now preparing the necessary legal procedures to bring Faisal Karim Masud and Alamgir Hossain back from India to face trial.

Munshi Firoz Al Mamun 3/09/2026 01:29:00 AM

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Bangladesh: NCP leader Asif Mahmud Discloses Tk 1.55 Million in Family Bank Deposits After BFIU Inquiry

 

National Citizen Party (NCP) spokesperson and former interim government adviser Asif Mahmud Sajib Bhuiyan has made public the details of his and his family members’ bank accounts, showing combined deposits of approximately Tk 1.55 million across nine accounts.

He revealed the information at a press briefing on Wednesday evening at the party’s temporary central office in Banglamotor, Dhaka, after the Bangladesh Financial Intelligence Unit (BFIU) sought banking information related to him.

Total Funds and Account Details

According to Asif, he holds two personal bank accounts containing a total of Tk 978,556. His father has five accounts, while his mother and wife each maintain one account. The combined balance in the family members’ accounts stands at Tk 569,478.

He explained that one of his accounts, a savings account with Sonali Bank, currently holds Tk 9,930. The second account was opened to receive his salary during his tenure in the interim government. 

Over 16 months, he received an average monthly salary and allowances of Tk 165,000, along with official travel allowances for five foreign visits.

He stated that the salary account recorded total credits of Tk 8,581,000 and total withdrawals of Tk 7,603,000. After expenses, the remaining balance, combined with the savings account, amounts to Tk 978,556.

Father’s Loan and Family Balances

Asif said his father, a teacher by profession, has five accounts with total deposits of Tk 547,711. However, his father had taken a service loan of Tk 1 million, of which Tk 639,746 remains unpaid. After adjusting the outstanding loan, his father effectively remains in debt by around Tk 82,035.

In addition, his mother’s bank account contains Tk 21,154, and his wife’s account holds Tk 613.

Previous Asset Statement

After the July mass uprising, an interim government led by Professor Muhammad Yunus was formed on August 8, 2024, with Asif serving as one of three student representatives in the advisory council. 

Before stepping down in December last year, he submitted a statement of assets to the Cabinet Division.

Government records released ahead of the 13th parliamentary election showed his declared assets totaled Tk 1,534,717 at that time. While other advisers disclosed both personal and spousal assets, Asif had only declared his own.

He told reporters that although he had already submitted his financial statement officially, he decided to publicly share the updated bank details to prevent what he described as attempts to “create unnecessary suspicion.”

Allegations of Selective Targeting

Asif alleged that the BFIU requested banking information for 56 individuals but that only his case was specifically highlighted in a journalists’ group. He claimed this selective focus indicated motives beyond routine scrutiny.

He further alleged that certain quarters, including individuals who were displeased during his time in office and the Awami League, which was removed from power during the mass uprising, were involved in spreading misinformation against him.

Political Context and Remarks

During the briefing, Asif also referenced former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, claiming that past media narratives had unfairly portrayed her in corruption allegations. He suggested that similar tactics were now being used against him.

He emphasized that he had maintained transparency and accountability while serving in government and pledged to continue upholding those principles in future political activities.

Other NCP leaders, including Monira Sharmin and Humayra Noor, were present at the press conference.

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Munshi Firoz Al Mamun 3/05/2026 03:12:00 AM

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Bangladesh: BFIU Requests Banking Information of NCP Leader Asif Mahmud

The Bangladesh Financial Intelligence Unit (BFIU) has formally asked banks to provide detailed account information related to Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain, spokesperson of the National Citizen Party (NCP) and a former adviser to the interim government.

Sources with knowledge of the matter said the financial intelligence agency sent letters to all scheduled banks on Monday, seeking comprehensive records of any accounts held in Asif’s name. The move reportedly follows a complaint submitted to the agency.

The BFIU, which functions under Bangladesh Bank as the country’s anti-money laundering authority, has instructed banks to respond within three working days. 

Financial institutions have been asked to submit account opening documents, detailed transaction statements and any other relevant records linked to his banking activities.

The development could not be independently confirmed immediately.

Asif Mahmud rose to prominence during the July uprising and later served as one of three student representatives appointed as advisers in the interim administration. 

During his tenure, he was in charge of the ministries of Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives, along with Youth and Sports.

In the lead-up to the 13th parliamentary election, Asif and fellow adviser Mahfuj Alam resigned from their posts on December 10 last year. Prior to that, NCP Convener and sitting lawmaker Nahid Islam had also stepped down from the interim government.

Asif currently holds the position of spokesperson for the National Citizen Party.

Munshi Firoz Al Mamun 3/04/2026 01:23:00 PM

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Bangladesh: BNP Finalizes Leadership Shortlist for Presidency and Speaker Ahead of March 12 Session

 

Two weeks into the tenure of the Tarique Rahman-led government, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has entered decisive talks to fill the nation's highest constitutional offices. 

With the 13th National Parliament set to convene on March 12, the party is focused on selecting veteran figures for the roles of President and Speaker.

The Presidential Debate: Seniority vs. Constitutional Continuity

Khandaker Mosharraf Hossain, a senior policymaker and former minister, has emerged as the leading candidate for the Presidency. While Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir was initially considered, the party is reportedly leaning toward Hossain’s extensive political experience.

Despite the internal consensus, a constitutional debate persists. Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul recently pointed out that the current President’s term has not yet expired. However, some party factions argue that a transition is necessary to align the head of state with the current political mandate.

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Top Contenders for Speaker of the House

The election for Speaker is a high priority for the upcoming session. The following individuals are currently under consideration:

• Osman Faruk: Former Education Minister with deep parliamentary roots.

• Major (Retd.) Hafiz Uddin Ahmad: Current Minister for Liberation War Affairs and a veteran six-time MP.

• Zainul Abedin: A senior Supreme Court lawyer valued for his constitutional expertise.

• Abdul Moyeen Khan: Also noted as a highly qualified potential candidate.

In a gesture of political inclusivity, Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed confirmed that the Deputy Speaker position has been offered to the main opposition, Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami.

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The Legal Path to Replacing a Sitting President

Under the current 13th Parliament, the BNP holds a two-thirds majority, providing them with the legislative power to replace the current President through three constitutional avenues:

Method	Legal Basis	Requirements
Impeachment	Article 52	Charges of "grave misconduct"; requires a notice signed by >50% of MPs and a final vote of two-thirds.
Removal for Incapacity	Article 53	Based on physical/mental inability; requires a Medical Board report and a two-thirds majority vote.
Resignation	Article 50(3)	A voluntary written resignation addressed to the Speaker.

The Road to March 12

According to parliamentary rules, the Speaker and Deputy Speaker must be elected during the first sitting. Written nominations must be submitted at least one hour before the session, followed by a division vote if contested. 

Given the BNP’s two-thirds majority, their nominees are expected to clear the vote comfortably once finalized by the party's high command.

Munshi Firoz Al Mamun 3/04/2026 12:53:00 PM

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