On Bangladesh’s Victory Day, December 16, 2025, Hefazat-e-Islam Bangladesh leaders called for a renewed national commitment to defend the country’s independence and sovereignty. In a statement to the media, Amir Allama Muhibullah Babunagari and Secretary General Allama Sajedur Rahman urged citizens to take an oath to resist what they termed 'Awami fascism' and 'Delhi’s dominance.' They commemorated the martyrs of the 1971 Liberation War and other historical struggles for freedom.

The leaders accused India of undermining Bangladesh’s sovereignty through border killings, water-sharing disputes, and political interference. They also alleged that the ruling Awami League had maintained illegitimate power for 17 years with external support. Hefazat reiterated its commitment to resist conspiracies aimed at destabilizing the nation.

The statement reflects ongoing tensions between Islamist political groups and the government, as well as persistent nationalist concerns over Bangladesh-India relations. Analysts suggest such rhetoric could intensify political polarization ahead of future national movements or elections.

Police in Gaibandha’s Gobindaganj upazila have arrested six individuals, including four Awami League leaders, in connection with the vandalism of local offices belonging to the BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami. The arrests took place late Monday night during a police operation led by Sub-Inspector Selim Reza. The detainees were identified as residents of various unions under Gobindaganj and nearby districts.

According to Officer-in-Charge Mozammel Haque, the four Awami League leaders were accused in a case related to the vandalism incident, while the remaining two were detained in separate drug and warrant cases. All six were sent to Gaibandha District Jail on Tuesday following a court order. Police have not disclosed further details about the motive or extent of the damage.

The arrests come amid heightened political tensions in northern Bangladesh, where clashes between rival party supporters have occasionally turned violent. Authorities said investigations are ongoing and additional arrests may follow as part of broader efforts to maintain law and order in the region.

Interim government Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus declared that no force could halt Bangladesh’s democratic progress through fear or violence. In a televised address to the nation on Victory Day, December 16, he condemned what he described as attempts by 'defeated fascist terrorists' to destabilize the country ahead of the upcoming national election, scheduled in two months. Yunus called on citizens to remain calm, avoid misinformation, and unite against those seeking unrest.

He emphasized that the government and people must ensure a festive and peaceful election season, highlighting the courage of the youth as a key safeguard for democracy. Yunus warned that groups attempting to return to power through violence were targeting young activists, but assured that their efforts would fail. He urged citizens to protect the younger generation and reject any return to 'old servitude.'

The speech, delivered amid heightened political tension, signals the interim administration’s intent to maintain stability and public confidence as Bangladesh prepares for a crucial electoral transition.

Interim Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus addressed the nation on Tuesday evening, marking Victory Day 2025, and spoke with deep concern over the recent attack on Sharif Osman Hadi, spokesperson of Inquilab Mancha and independent candidate for Dhaka-8. Yunus described the shooting as an assault not only on one individual but on Bangladesh’s democratic journey and national integrity. He confirmed that Hadi, now in critical condition, has been sent to Singapore for advanced medical treatment under full government supervision.

Yunus emphasized that the government is taking the incident very seriously and that those involved have been preliminarily identified. He assured the public that no conspirator will escape justice, regardless of their position or location. The Chief Adviser also urged citizens to remain calm, avoid rumors, and resist provocations by what he termed “fascist terrorists” seeking to destabilize the nation.

The address underscored the interim government’s commitment to maintaining democratic progress and unity amid political uncertainty following the July uprising.

At a Victory Day discussion on December 16, 2025, Manarat International University Treasurer and former secretary Md. Monirul Islam stated that following the events of August 15, 1975, many people regarded that day as a 'Day of Deliverance'. He described the preceding period under Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s rule as one marked by fear and insecurity, claiming that citizens suffered under the actions of the Rakkhi Bahini. The event was held at the university’s Ashulia campus to commemorate Bangladesh’s Victory Day.

Speakers including Professor Md. Mizanur Rahman and Dean Md. Mahbub Alam linked the 2024 July uprising to a renewed sense of freedom and divine intervention. They expressed hope that the unity of youth would sustain the nation’s progress. The program concluded with prayers for the martyrs of the 1971 Liberation War and the 2024 uprising.

The remarks have drawn attention for revisiting sensitive historical narratives about the post-independence period and the 1975 political upheaval, reflecting ongoing debates about Bangladesh’s political past and national identity.

Interim government Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus delivered a televised address to the nation on Tuesday evening, marking Bangladesh’s Victory Day. The speech was broadcast live on Bangladesh Television (BTV) and BTV World, commemorating the country’s triumph in the 1971 Liberation War.

Earlier in the morning, Dr. Yunus paid tribute to the martyrs of the Liberation War by placing floral wreaths at the National Memorial in Savar. His address, delivered amid the day’s celebrations, focused on national unity, remembrance, and the ongoing responsibilities of the interim administration. The event drew wide public attention as the country reflected on its 54th Victory Day.

Observers note that such national addresses serve to reinforce collective memory and provide direction during transitional governance. The Chief Adviser’s participation in both ceremonial and formal events underscored the government’s emphasis on honoring the nation’s founding values while addressing current challenges.

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has finalized extensive preparations for the return of its acting chairman, Tarique Rahman, who is set to arrive in Dhaka on December 25 after 18 years in self-exile in London. Party officials confirmed that his residence at 196 Gulshan Avenue has been fully prepared, including enhanced security measures such as CCTV installation and protective canopies. Separate offices have been arranged for him at the BNP chairperson’s Gulshan office and the party’s central headquarters in Naya Paltan.

BNP sources said the residence is located near Begum Khaleda Zia’s home, ‘Firoza,’ and another rented house in Gulshan will serve as the coordination center for the upcoming 13th national election campaign. Party Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir stated that leaders and activists are preparing to welcome Tarique in an orderly manner along Dhaka’s streets. The return marks a significant moment for the BNP as it seeks to consolidate leadership and mobilize support ahead of the next election.

Police in Bagatipara upazila of Natore have arrested Md. Sekendar Rahman, former general secretary of the local Awami League unit, during a special operation on Tuesday morning. The arrest took place around 10:30 a.m. at Malanchi Bazar, according to police sources. Rahman served as the upazila Awami League’s general secretary from 2004 to 2022.

Authorities stated that multiple allegations of corruption, extortion, and irregularities had been filed against him during his tenure. Local sources also claimed that Rahman was involved in politically motivated cases and repressive actions against opposition activists from Jamaat-e-Islami and the BNP. He was further accused of participating in crackdowns during the July movement.

Officer-in-Charge of Bagatipara Model Police Station, Md. Manjurul Alam, confirmed that Rahman was sent to court after initial interrogation. The arrest has drawn attention to growing scrutiny of local political figures and could signal intensified law enforcement actions ahead of upcoming political activities.

Sharif Osman Hadi, spokesperson of Inquilab Mancha and independent candidate for Dhaka-8, remains in critical condition at Singapore General Hospital following a gunshot injury. Doctors report that his neurological condition has not improved, with ischemic changes and brain edema persisting. A specialized medical team continues to monitor him closely, but his current health does not permit the brain surgery required to remove bullet fragments.

According to Dhaka Medical College neurosurgeon Dr. Abdul Ahad, Hadi’s vital organs are being supported by artificial ventilation, and his Glasgow Coma Scale score remains unchanged. His brother Omar confirmed from Singapore that while other organs are functioning, his brain remains severely affected. Doctors emphasized that the next few days are crucial, as the medical ‘time window’ for potential recovery is narrowing.

Medical experts have urged the public to avoid spreading unverified information about Hadi’s condition. His family and colleagues have requested prayers, while doctors continue intensive treatment in hopes of unexpected improvement within medical limits.

Jamaat-e-Islami Secretary General Mia Golam Parwar has alleged that the recent attack on Sharif Osman Hadi was part of a deeper conspiracy to derail Bangladesh’s upcoming national election. Speaking at a youth marathon event in Dhaka on Victory Day, Parwar demanded that authorities ensure the safety of all candidates, including freedom fighters, and create a fair electoral environment where voters can cast ballots without fear.

Parwar criticized what he described as a long-standing pattern of political targeting and called for unity in building a 'new Bangladesh.' He also made controversial remarks about India’s role in 1971, claiming it acted out of strategic motives rather than support for Bangladesh’s independence. His comments drew attention amid heightened political tension and security concerns ahead of the polls.

Observers note that Jamaat’s renewed public activity signals its intent to reassert political relevance despite past restrictions. The Election Commission has yet to respond to Parwar’s security demands, but law enforcement agencies are under pressure to prevent further violence as the campaign season intensifies.

The National Citizens Party (NCP) launched its ‘Anti-Aggression March’ in Dhaka on Tuesday afternoon to commemorate Bangladesh’s Victory Day. The procession began at Banglamotor intersection around 3:30 p.m. and is scheduled to pass through Katabon, Nilkhet, and Palashi before concluding at the Central Shaheed Minar.

The march is being led by NCP convener Nahid Islam and member secretary Akhtar Hossain, accompanied by senior party figures including chief coordinator Nasiruddin Patwary, southern region organizer Hasnat Abdullah, and joint conveners Samanta Sharmin and Ariful Islam Adib. The event aims to highlight national unity and opposition to aggression, both domestic and external, according to party organizers.

The rally underscores NCP’s attempt to strengthen its political visibility amid a crowded opposition landscape. Observers note that the Victory Day occasion provides smaller political groups an opportunity to connect with citizens through symbolic demonstrations of patriotism and solidarity.

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has announced a social media reel-making competition titled “Amar Vabnay Bangladesh” to mark the homecoming of its acting chairman, Tarique Rahman. The contest, unveiled at a press conference in Gulshan, Dhaka, encourages participants from Bangladesh and abroad to create one-minute reels on 11 selected themes, including family card, farmer card, employment, education, environment, and sports. Entries must be posted on the BNP’s official Facebook event page between December 16 and December 25.

According to Dr. Mahdi Amin, adviser to Tarique Rahman, the top ten winners will earn an exclusive conversation opportunity with the BNP leader. Winners will be chosen based on 30% public voting and 70% jury evaluation. The initiative aims to engage citizens of all ages, particularly youth, in expressing their vision for Bangladesh’s future through digital storytelling.

Party officials said the competition seeks to highlight public aspirations and foster political engagement ahead of Tarique Rahman’s return, signaling BNP’s growing emphasis on digital outreach and youth mobilization.

National Citizens Party (NCP) convener Nahid Islam declared that his party remains united against what he termed the 'traitors of 1971 and 2024'. Speaking at the National Martyrs’ Memorial on December 16, he accused 'fallen fascist forces' of attempting to destabilize Bangladesh and disrupt the upcoming parliamentary elections. Islam linked current political unrest to historical struggles for sovereignty and justice, asserting that the people’s fight for dignity continues.

He criticized the government for failing to arrest those involved in the recent attack on Inquilab Mancha leader Sharif Osman Bin Hadi, expressing frustration over what he described as a deteriorating security environment. Islam also urged NCP candidates to campaign for reform and a 'yes' vote in the forthcoming election and referendum.

Political analysts view his remarks as part of a broader effort by smaller parties to position themselves amid rising uncertainty before the polls. The NCP’s emphasis on anti-fascist unity may signal attempts to mobilize disaffected voters seeking systemic reform.

Gono Odhikar Parishad’s General Secretary Rashed Khan has accused the ruling Awami League of plotting to assassinate 50 parliamentary candidates before Bangladesh’s upcoming 13th national election. Speaking to reporters after paying tribute at the National Martyrs’ Memorial on Tuesday, Khan claimed the campaign had already begun, citing the recent shooting of activist Osman Hadi as evidence.

Khan criticized the government’s handling of the attack, questioning the effectiveness of law enforcement and intelligence agencies. He referenced the Home Affairs Adviser’s announcement of a 5 million taka reward for identifying the attackers, calling it a sign of institutional failure. Khan further alleged that the government’s advisory and administrative bodies lack coordination and competence, arguing that promised reforms have not materialized.

The opposition leader’s remarks come amid heightened political tension ahead of the election. His call for an “Operation Devil Hunt 2” against what he termed “fascist elements” in government underscores growing distrust between opposition groups and state authorities.

Mufti Amir Hamza, the Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami candidate for Kushtia-3 constituency, claimed that 90% of the stories surrounding Bangladesh’s 1971 Liberation War are fabricated. Speaking at a Victory Day rally organized by the district Jamaat at Kushtia’s Bijoy Ullash Chattar, he argued that the party’s wartime role had been misrepresented and that Jamaat was opposed to Indian intervention, not the independence movement itself.

Hamza cited historian Badruddin Umar’s writings to support his claim, asserting that the public had been denied the truth about the war’s history. He emphasized that Jamaat stood for Bangladesh’s sovereignty and sought to build a future free from foreign influence. Party leaders including Suja Uddin Joardar and Mazharul Haque were present at the event.

His remarks have drawn sharp criticism from pro-liberation groups and historians, who view such statements as attempts to distort the nation’s foundational history. The comments are likely to intensify political debate ahead of upcoming national elections.