The University of Scholars has temporarily expelled two female students—Fatema Tahsin Oishi (Business Administration) and Faria Haque Tina (English)—over the murder of Jahidul Islam Parvez. The university stated that a preliminary investigation indicated their possible involvement. If the allegations are confirmed, their studentship will be permanently revoked and strict action taken. Parvez was reportedly laughing with friends when the two female students and four others accused them of making fun. An altercation followed, which allegedly led to his death.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi will visit China on Tuesday ahead of the third round of nuclear talks with the US. China, a signatory of the now-defunct 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, remains a key player in the dialogue. The talks, brokered by Oman, are set to continue Saturday between Araghchi and Trump’s former Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff.

Since 4 PM Monday, 32 students of Khulna University of Engineering & Technology (KUET) have been on a hunger strike demanding the resignation of Vice-Chancellor Dr. Muhammad Machud. They accuse the administration of failing to protect students from an attack by student political groups and outsiders on February 18. No arrests have been made, and the university suspended 37 students, including protesters.

During a meeting with EU Ambassador Charles Whiteley, Adviser Jahangir Alam requested the establishment of visa centers in Dhaka for EU countries that currently don’t issue visas from Bangladesh. The ambassador expressed the EU’s willingness to assist Bangladesh with skills development and training. He stressed the importance of accurate public information to counter misinformation, while the adviser accused a neighboring country of spreading false narratives about Bangladesh.

Information and Broadcasting Adviser Mahfuz Alam announced the formation of a taskforce to improve the quality of newspapers. The taskforce will focus on verifying actual circulation figures, implementing the wage board, and setting fair ad rates. He stressed that newspapers following government guidelines will be eligible for state advertisements and benefits. The adviser emphasized the need for transparency at all stages of newspaper publication and hinted at tighter scrutiny on tax compliance.

Polytechnic students in Chattogram blocked roads demanding cancellation of a 30% promotion quota for craft instructors applying for junior instructor posts. They argue that many craft instructors lack the technical background required for teaching roles. Most only have education up to class 8 or SSC, traditionally serving as lab assistants. Students announced they would continue protests, including hunger strikes, until their demands are met.

KUET Director of Student Welfare Professor Dr. Abdullah Elias Akhtar has called on students to resolve issues through dialogue instead of resorting to hunger strikes. He assured students that he would discuss the suspension of 37 students with the university administration. Assistant Professor Raju Ahmed added that necessary legal assistance would be provided regarding the case against the students and discussions are underway to withdraw the case. He clarified that the KUET administration has no involvement in the case.

India has expressed concern over Bangladesh’s new dam construction on the Muhuri River near Tripura, fearing that nearby villages could flood during the monsoon. In response, the state government sent a high-level delegation to the border. Tripura official Kiran Gitte stated that India is also building protective infrastructure to safeguard the Belonia region and surrounding areas. Repairs and construction are expected to be completed by June.

The U.S. Embassy in Dhaka stated that the Trump administration has deported 31 undocumented Bangladeshis—30 men and one woman. The embassy vowed to continue cracking down on visa fraud and illegal immigration, warning that those involved will face lifetime bans and criminal charges. “A country without secure borders cannot survive as a nation,” the statement concluded.

UNESCO Director-General candidate Gabriela Ramos met with Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser, praising the country’s commitment to policy, resilience, and equity. She described Bangladesh as a promising partner for meaningful global change. Professor Yunus added that although challenges persist, the nation is dedicated to rebuilding trust and establishing strong institutions. Both sides emphasized enhancing diplomatic ties between Mexico and Bangladesh.

During a meeting with Bangladesh’s Trade Adviser Sheikh Bashiruddin, Yunnan Governor Wang Yubo expressed interest in importing mangoes and hilsa from Bangladesh. The Governor noted Yunnan’s proximity to Bangladesh and suggested that a direct Chattogram-Kunming flight would enhance trade ties. Opportunities for collaboration were also identified in education, agriculture, health, and tourism infrastructure development.

Japan’s newly appointed Ambassador to Bangladesh, Iwama Kiminori, visited Rohingya camps and pledged continued support. Since 2017, Japan has provided over $250 million through international agencies and NGOs for projects in Cox’s Bazar and Bhasan Char. The ambassador confirmed Tokyo’s ongoing commitment to assisting the Bangladeshi government and stakeholders in resolving the crisis.

Speaking at the first International Bangladesh Studies Conference in Istanbul, Professor Dr. Yasin Aktay, former adviser to Turkish President Erdoğan, reaffirmed Turkey’s commitment to supporting Bangladesh’s development. Dr. Mahmudur Rahman noted that resisting Indian dominance was central to the political philosophy of the July Revolution, which will shape future Bangladesh. Ambassador M. Amanul Haq highlighted enhanced bilateral ties, particularly in economic and defense sectors, following the revolution.

Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus met the Chinese Ambassador to discuss moving joint commitments into action. Both sides want immediate implementation of projects instead of delays. Preparations for Mongla and Anwara economic zones are almost done and will soon be handed over to developers. A deal for four ships from China is set to be finalized and executed by June. Plans are underway to launch direct Kunming–Chattogram flights. China has also pledged to help build a 1,000-bed hospital and a special burn unit in Chattogram. Additionally, a 50-year water management plan, including the Teesta River project, is being initiated.

Barisal University Vice-Chancellor Professor Suchita Sharmin removed several officials and appointed unqualified individuals, ignoring the Academic Council and Syndicate meetings. She also expelled one professor and two teachers due to disagreements. Students protested, accusing her of retaining authoritarian figures in departments despite repeated demands for change.