Passengers are facing major disruptions as most bus counters on the Dhaka–Rajshahi route remain closed. Workers from several transport companies, including Desh Travels, National Travels, and Hanif, have halted operations demanding higher wages and benefits. Only a handful of counters remain open, forcing many commuters to seek alternative transport. The movement began late Sunday when Desh Travels employees locked their counters in protest.

A dawn-to-dusk hartal is underway in Bagerhat demanding the reinstatement of four parliamentary seats. Protesters locked the main gate of the district election office, halting activities. Transport across 16 major routes has been suspended, leaving commuters stranded and forcing many to pay inflated fares. Shops in the town remain closed, though a few rickshaws and easybikes are still on the roads. Security forces have been deployed around key government offices and the court premises.

Train services across northern Bangladesh have been disrupted after a coach of the Dhaka-bound Kurigram Express derailed early Monday near Akkelpur in Joypurhat.

Railway officials said the derailment occurred about two kilometers south of Akkelpur station, involving the train’s power car. Five other coaches were later moved to Joypurhat station.

Rescue teams from Parbatipur have been deployed to remove the derailed carriage. Until then, train operations on the route remain suspended, cutting off links between the north and the rest of the country.

Dhaka University has come under fire after issuing accreditation cards for journalists covering the Daksu elections riddled with errors in names, designations, and institutions.

Examples include Sheikh Nasir Uddin of Daily Sun, whose name appeared as “Sheikh Nasir Uddir” and designation “Stff Correspondent” instead of “Staff Correspondent.” Similarly, Azharuzzaman of Ekhon TV was labeled as “Sir Reporter” instead of “Staff Reporter.”

The mistakes, signed off by the Chief Returning Officer, sparked outrage among journalists and drew widespread criticism on social media.

Chief Returning Officer Dr. Mohammad Jasim Uddin acknowledged the issue, explaining that over 1,200 applications were processed by lower-level staff, leading to errors. He assured corrections would be made upon request and promised measures to prevent future lapses.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has delivered what he called a “last warning” to Hamas, demanding the release of Israeli hostages in Gaza.

“Israel has accepted my conditions. Now Hamas must do the same,” Trump said. “If Hamas refuses, they will face the consequences. This is my final warning.”

The statement comes after Trump previously issued a similar caution in March, following his meeting at the White House with eight hostages freed by Hamas.

Israeli military officials say at least 25 hostages have been killed in captivity and are pressing for the return of their bodies.

Prince Hisahito of Japan, nephew of Emperor Naruhito, has formally reached adulthood at the age of 19—becoming the first male royal in four decades to do so. As the second in line to the Chrysanthemum Throne, his milestone has reignited debate over Japan’s 19th-century male-only succession law.

At a ceremony Saturday, Hisahito received the traditional kanmuri crown from the Emperor’s envoy. In his remarks, he said, “As an adult member of the Imperial Family, I will fulfill my duties with a sense of responsibility.”

The prince later donned ceremonial attire at the Imperial Palace and is scheduled to pay respects at the Ise Grand Shrine, Emperor Jimmu’s mausoleum, and the tomb of his great-grandfather, Emperor Showa. He will also meet Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and other dignitaries.

With no younger male heirs in line, calls are growing to amend succession laws that exclude women despite Japan’s shrinking imperial family.

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has called on the government to prioritize citizens’ livelihoods while simultaneously urging Islamic nations to sever all trade and political relations with Israel.

During a meeting with President Masoud Pezeshkian and his cabinet on Sunday, Khamenei stressed that soaring prices and economic hardships remain pressing national concerns. He demanded stronger measures to control inflation and improve people’s living conditions.

Khamenei described Israel as a “cursed and criminal entity” and directed Iran’s Foreign Ministry to push other countries to cut ties with Tel Aviv. “National unity and morale are the foundations of strength, but we must also stand firm against the Zionist regime’s atrocities,” he said.

Syeda Rizwana Hasan, adviser and rights activist, has assured that the government is committed to safeguarding journalists and strengthening the media’s role as the “fourth pillar of the state.”

Speaking at a dialogue organized by the Bangladesh Journalists Council (BJC), she said:
“The government wants to see media evolve as the people’s voice. Necessary reforms are being implemented, and a separate commission has already been formed to prioritize media development. Journalists’ protection will be ensured, and those involved in mob attacks are facing legal action — not just condemnations.”

Other speakers emphasized that without a properly empowered media, the country cannot progress. They urged the Ministry of Information to lead the sector’s development, while calling on the government to formally acknowledge the commission’s reform report to ensure media owners take it seriously.

A new natural gas flow has been discovered in Rashidpur gas field, Bahubal, Habiganj, following the renovation of Well No. 3.

Officials estimate the well could produce 25.55 million cubic feet of gas over the next 10 years, along with condensate as a byproduct.

At current LNG market rates (Tk 65 per cubic meter), the gas is valued at approximately Tk 4,700 crore.

Adviser Farida Akhter has emphasized the government’s goal of making every household self-reliant, with livestock farming playing a central role.

Speaking in Keraniganj, she said:

“We want villagers to rear poultry, goats, or sheep on a small scale so they can support their families and earn extra income.”

She added that livestock contributes not only to food security but also to poverty alleviation and economic growth. During the event, 217 families in riverine char areas received livestock and feed support.

Education Adviser C.R. Abrar has expressed deep sorrow over the death of eminent thinker and political activist Badruddin Umar. In a statement issued Sunday, Abrar said, “Umar’s contributions to the objective documentation of Bangladesh’s key political, social, and cultural movements—including the Language Movement—will remain unforgettable.”

He added, “Umar did not confine himself to theoretical discussions. He actively joined the people’s struggle for liberation and remained uncompromising in his stand against past authoritarian regimes. No temptation or opportunistic lure could sway him from his ideals. His life and work were dedicated to the cause of freedom.”

Abrar described Umar’s passing as a national loss, calling him a visionary intellectual and tireless fighter whose legacy will continue to inspire just struggles across generations.

A Goaland court has rejected bail petitions for six individuals accused in a case of attacking police and vandalizing vehicles, ordering them to be sent to jail.

The defense lawyer urged authorities not to harass anyone by falsely implicating unidentified individuals.

The accused are Shafin Sardar (19), Enamul Haque Jony (32), Chhatra League leader Masud Mridha (29), Swechchhasebak League leader Hiru Mridha (40), Kazi Apu (25), and Ali Mridha (29).

Police said five of them were arrested on Saturday night after reviewing video footage of the incident, and another was detained on Sunday afternoon. They were subsequently presented in court.

Meanwhile, no case has yet been filed regarding the vandalism, arson, or deaths linked to the destruction at Nural Pagol’s shrine.

Advisor Adilur Rahman has expressed optimism that the upcoming national election in February will be held in a festive atmosphere, continuing the momentum of reforms and justice.

Speaking at a ship handover ceremony to Turkey, Adilur said: “The interim government has initiated crucial reforms. The elected government will carry them forward. Despite obstacles, we are moving ahead with the power of the people.”

He likened the nation’s journey to waves — sometimes rising, sometimes falling — but expressed confidence in the country’s resilience. Highlighting the shipbuilding industry’s growing strength, he said it would play a vital role in strengthening Bangladesh’s economy.

The exported vessel is a 5,500-ton ship, 341 feet long, 55 feet wide, and 25 feet deep.

Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus has directed the Public Service Commission (PSC) to hold Bangladesh Civil Service (BCS) exams every year on a fixed calendar, ensuring complete transparency in the process.

Speaking at a meeting with PSC officials, Yunus stressed that BCS is the “entry point” to government service. “If irregularities occur at this entry point, the entire system is affected. We must resolve existing problems responsibly and implement reforms to restore public trust,” he said.

PSC Chairman Mobasher Monem informed that the commission has already prepared a five-year roadmap, aiming to complete recruitment cycles between November and October each year.

PSC members admitted that over the past 15 years, political interference had led to irregularities, nepotism, and question leaks in BCS exams. Reforms, they assured, have now been implemented to ensure fairness and credibility.

Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam has said that the Chief Advisor has instructed authorities to ensure a festive environment during the upcoming Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) elections.
He reiterated that the 13th national parliamentary elections will be held in the first half of February next year, and “no global force can prevent the vote.”
The Chief Advisor has directed local administrations nationwide to maintain law and order to ensure a free, fair, and impartial election.