Bangladesh’s former army chief, General (Retd.) Moeen U Ahmed, told the National Independent Inquiry Commission that India had prepared for possible military intervention during the 2009 BDR mutiny if the Bangladeshi armed forces acted outside government orders. He said Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, feeling insecure and uncertain of army support, had sought India’s security assistance. Indian paratroopers were reportedly on standby to secure key sites in Dhaka, including the Prime Minister’s residence.

The revelations, supported by research from Avinash Paliwal of SOAS, appear in his 2024 Oxford University Press book *India’s Near East: A New History*. Former foreign secretary Touhid Hossain confirmed that Moeen was instructed not to use force, as Indian troops could have entered Dhaka within an hour. The commission’s report, submitted on November 30, 2024, details these communications and India’s readiness.

Analysts suggest the episode underscores the fragility of Bangladesh’s civil-military relations at the time and India’s strategic vigilance in the region. The findings may influence future discussions on regional security cooperation and crisis management.

A complaint has been filed under Bangladesh’s Anti-Terrorism Act against journalist Anis Alamgir, actress Meher Afroz Shaon, and two others. The case was lodged Sunday night at Uttara West Police Station by Arian Ahmed, a central organizer of the July Revolutionary Alliance. The complaint alleges that the accused conspired to destabilize the state and promote banned organizations through social media and television appearances following the July 2024 student movement.

According to the complaint, the accused allegedly spread propaganda to revive outlawed groups such as the Awami League’s student and youth wings, inspiring followers to engage in anti-state activities. Following the filing, Dhaka Metropolitan Detective Police (DB) took Alamgir in for questioning Sunday night. DB officials confirmed his detention for interrogation but said further decisions would follow after questioning.

The incident has drawn attention from media and civil society, with observers noting the sensitivity of applying anti-terror laws to public figures. Authorities have not yet confirmed whether formal charges will proceed or if the accused will be released after questioning.

Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) Liberation War and Democratic Movement Secretary Fatima Tasnim Juma has called on all citizens to join an all-party resistance rally scheduled for Monday afternoon at the Central Shaheed Minar. The rally is being organized to protest the recent shooting of activist Sharif Osman Hadi. Juma made the appeal through a Facebook post late Sunday night, expressing deep emotion and solidarity with Hadi and his supporters.

In her post, Juma described Hadi as a selfless leader devoted to his comrades and the nation, recalling his dedication and personal sacrifices. She criticized the state for failing to protect what she called one of its most patriotic citizens and vowed that those responsible for the attack would be held accountable. The post also carried a strong nationalist tone, pledging to resist external cultural and political dominance.

The rally is expected to draw participants from various political and student groups. Observers note that the event could become a focal point for renewed student activism and broader political mobilization in Dhaka.

Abdullah Al Jaber, member secretary of Inqilab Mancha, issued a stern warning to Bangladesh’s interim government on Sunday night, saying the administration would face its 'last day' if Osman Hadi, who was recently shot, suffers further harm. Speaking at an emergency press briefing outside Evercare Hospital in Dhaka, Jaber criticized authorities for failing to arrest those responsible within the 48-hour deadline previously set by the group.

He accused the government of negligence and warned that the nation’s stability could be at risk if justice is not served swiftly. Jaber also condemned certain lawyers for allegedly prioritizing money over justice, questioning how a suspect in a weapons case could be granted bail. Addressing the media, he urged journalists to avoid giving platforms to individuals who, in his view, celebrate violence or undermine national unity.

The statement reflects rising political tension surrounding the attack on Hadi, with Inqilab Mancha positioning itself as a vocal critic of the interim administration’s handling of the case.

Sharif Osman Bin Hadi, an independent candidate hopeful for Dhaka-8 and convener of the Inqilab Manch, was critically injured after being shot on Friday, December 12. He is currently receiving treatment at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka, where doctors report that bullet fragments remain lodged in his head. The attack has sparked widespread condemnation across Bangladesh’s political spectrum, with parties and government officials denouncing the violence.

However, the reaction across the border in India has taken a disturbing turn. Several Indian social media activists and accounts have celebrated the attack, spreading false claims that Hadi sought to annex India’s northeastern region to form a so-called “Greater Bangladesh.” Retired Indian Army officer Major Madhan Kumar and BJP-linked campaigners such as Dr. Rajesh Patil amplified these narratives, using hashtags like #Dhurandar to praise the attackers. Analysts from The Descent found that many of these posts originated from coordinated pro-BJP networks.

The incident underscores rising cross-border disinformation and political polarization online, raising concerns about digital extremism and its potential to inflame regional tensions.

The Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) has announced a protest program to surround the Home Affairs Adviser’s office, demanding the arrest of those involved in the shooting of student leader Osman Hadi. The announcement was made late Sunday by DUCSU Vice President Abu Sadiq Kayem through a Facebook post, calling for a nationwide crackdown on illegal firearms and banned militant groups.

According to the declaration, students will gather at the DUCSU premises at noon on Monday before marching toward the adviser’s office. The call for action follows growing student unrest after the attack on Hadi, which has raised concerns about campus security and political violence. DUCSU Social Welfare Secretary A.B. Zubair also expressed alarm on social media, warning of potential instability and foreign interference.

The protest underscores rising tensions within student politics and broader anxieties about law enforcement and governance. Authorities have yet to respond formally to DUCSU’s demands, but security measures are expected to be tightened around the adviser’s office during the demonstration.

BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman has called on party leaders and activists to take their development and governance plans directly to the public ahead of Bangladesh’s upcoming national elections. Speaking virtually from London at a discussion titled ‘Upcoming National Election and Public Expectations’ in Dhaka’s Gulshan, Rahman emphasized unity within the party and the need to clearly articulate BNP’s vision for governance if it returns to power.

Rahman outlined several priorities for a future BNP government, including establishing the rule of law, improving public safety, and addressing Dhaka’s chronic traffic congestion. He also highlighted the capital’s water crisis, citing the depletion of groundwater and pollution of major rivers. Addressing youth issues, he argued that social and cultural engagement, not punishment alone, is key to tackling drug abuse. BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir chaired the event, which featured academics and policy experts.

Rahman concluded that implementing even 40 percent of BNP’s proposed plans could significantly alleviate national crises, signaling a renewed push to connect policy with public sentiment before the election season intensifies.

At a discussion marking Martyred Intellectuals Day, United Peoples Bangladesh (UP Bangladesh) chief organizer Naeem Ahmad claimed that the systematic killing of intellectuals by Pakistani forces in 1971 paved the way for the emergence of what he termed a fascist ideology, 'Mujibism,' after independence. Speaking as chief guest, Ahmad argued that opportunistic groups exploited the post-war vacuum to consolidate political control under this ideology.

Ahmad further alleged that similar tactics of silencing dissent are being revived following the July 2024 mass uprising, citing recent attacks on activists including Inquilab Mancha spokesperson Sharif Osman Hadi and the killing of UP Bangladesh leader Tahmid. Other speakers, including Advocate Munshi Abdul Alim, accused the government of remaining indifferent to such violence and called for unity among pro-democracy forces.

The event concluded with prayers for the souls of intellectuals killed on December 14, 1971. Analysts note that such statements reflect ongoing tensions between opposition movements and the ruling establishment over political freedoms and historical narratives.

Inquilab Mancha has issued a strong ultimatum to the government, demanding the resignation of Bangladesh’s Home and Law Advisers if suspects involved in the shooting of its spokesperson, Sharif Osman Bin Hadi, are not arrested by tomorrow. The warning came during an emergency press conference held on Sunday night, where the group’s member secretary, Abdullah Al Jaber, expressed frustration over what he described as a deteriorating law and order situation.

Jaber stated that the authorities responsible for maintaining national security have failed to ensure safety and justice in recent incidents. He emphasized that the organization expects immediate action from law enforcement agencies to apprehend those responsible for the attack.

The demand adds pressure on the interim administration to demonstrate accountability in handling politically sensitive violence. Observers note that failure to respond promptly could escalate public criticism and further strain confidence in the government’s ability to maintain order.

In a strongly worded statement, Abdullah Al Jaber, member secretary of Inkilab Monch, warned that Indian diplomatic activities in Bangladesh could be suspended if India refuses to cooperate in extraditing a fugitive accused of murder. Speaking at an emergency press conference on Sunday night, Jaber alleged that the suspect had fled to India and urged the Bangladeshi government to formally request the individual's return.

Jaber criticized what he described as India’s continued interference in Bangladesh’s sovereignty and accused New Delhi of sheltering individuals who threaten the country’s security. He argued that a responsible neighboring state should assist in maintaining regional stability rather than providing refuge to criminals. The statement also included sharp criticism of India’s perceived political influence in Bangladesh’s internal affairs.

The warning reflects growing nationalist sentiment among some civic groups and could strain bilateral relations if echoed by larger political movements. No official response from the Indian High Commission or the Bangladeshi government was immediately available following the remarks.

Bangladesh’s interim government has decided to transfer Sharif Osman Hadi, a key leader of the July uprising and independent candidate for Dhaka-8, to Singapore for advanced medical treatment on Monday, December 15. An air ambulance from Singapore is scheduled to arrive in Dhaka at 10:30 a.m. and depart at 1:30 p.m. with Hadi on board. The decision followed consultations among senior advisers, including Professor Muhammad Yunus, cultural adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki, and medical specialists from Evercare Hospital.

Officials confirmed that Hadi’s condition remains stable but unchanged. The government had contacted hospitals in Singapore, Thailand, and Malaysia before finalizing Singapore General Hospital’s emergency department for his care. All travel and medical arrangements have been completed, and the state will bear the full cost of treatment. The interim chief adviser has instructed continuous monitoring of Hadi’s medical progress and requested public prayers for his recovery.

The move underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring adequate medical support for prominent political figures during the transitional period.

Bangladeshi journalist Anis Alomgir has been taken into custody by the Detective Branch (DB) for questioning, according to police sources. The move followed mounting criticism from the political platform July Oikya, which accused Alomgir of inciting hostility against its spokesperson Sharif Osman Bin Hadi and defaming the July movement. The group has issued an ultimatum, threatening to besiege the Home Ministry if Alomgir is released without formal arrest.

July Oikya organizers alleged that Alomgir, known for his pro-Awami League stance, engaged in what they called 'information terrorism' and made derogatory remarks about July revolution activists. They further claimed that both government and foreign lobbyists were pressuring authorities to release him. A DB official, speaking anonymously, confirmed that Alomgir was brought in for interrogation on specific issues but did not clarify whether charges would follow.

The incident underscores growing political polarization and tensions between pro- and anti-government factions in post-Hasina Bangladesh. Observers warn that such confrontations between activist groups and state institutions could further strain the fragile political environment.

In Sitakunda, Chattogram, local sources and political observers have accused the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) of deliberately spreading misinformation on social media regarding a picnic organized by former Jamaat-e-Islami leader Tawhidul Haque Chowdhury. The event, held at the foothills of Chandranath Hill, reportedly included participants from Hindu and Buddhist communities. However, posts circulated online falsely claimed that the picnic involved cow slaughter at a Hindu pilgrimage site, sparking communal tension.

Community leaders, including Puja Committee officials, dismissed the allegations as fabricated and politically motivated. They stated that the meat was prepared offsite and that the picnic area was far from any temple or cremation ground. Local residents confirmed the location is a common picnic spot used by various social groups. Jamaat representatives alleged that the rumors were part of a broader attempt to divert attention from ongoing political controversies and disrupt communal harmony.

Authorities and civic leaders have urged restraint and fact-based reporting to prevent further unrest in the region.

Abdul Hannan Masud, Senior Joint Chief Coordinator of the National Citizens’ Committee (NCP) and candidate for Noakhali-6 (Hatiya), stated that students have historically led Bangladesh’s liberation movements. Speaking at a discussion organized by the National Student Power in Hatiya, he said students freed the country from British rule in 1947, Pakistani occupation in 1971, autocracy in 1990, and most recently, from what he termed 'Indian domination' in 2024.

Masud emphasized that the National Student Power evolved from earlier democratic student movements and now represents a mass uprising for a new Bangladesh. He urged students to unite beyond personality-based politics, reach out to farmers, workers, and citizens, and bring transformative change to Hatiya and the nation. Other NCP leaders, including Hafizur Rahman and Niamat Ullah Nirab, also addressed the event.

The remarks reflect the NCP’s attempt to position student activism as central to its political narrative ahead of upcoming national political developments.

Leaders and activists of the Shibganj Upazila and Municipal units of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) organized a protest march and rally condemning the recent attack on Sharif Osman Hadi, spokesperson of Inqilab Mancha, in Dhaka. The demonstration paraded through the municipal area before concluding with a protest gathering at Shaheed Mir Mugdho Square.

The rally, presided over by Municipal BNP President Bulbul Islam, featured speeches from Upazila BNP General Secretary Advocate Abdul Wahab and several local leaders, including former secretary S.M. Tajul Islam and youth and student wing representatives. Speakers strongly condemned the attack, urging authorities to conduct a thorough investigation and bring those responsible to justice.

Local BNP leaders emphasized that such incidents reflect a deteriorating political environment and called for ensuring safety for opposition activists. They warned that continued attacks on political figures could further heighten tensions ahead of national political activities.