Islami Chhatra Shibir’s central secretary general, Nurul Islam Saddam, stated that Bangladesh’s young generation is rejecting attempts to revive divisive political narratives from the past. Speaking at a bicycle rally marking the 55th anniversary of the country’s independence at Dhaka College, he accused certain groups of trying to create national division by resurrecting outdated political discourses.

Saddam recalled that post-independence restrictions on free speech and the establishment of one-party rule had led to famine and political instability, pushing the nation into crisis. He emphasized the need for patriotic and corruption-free leadership to build a new Bangladesh based on equality, human dignity, and social justice as envisioned in the independence declaration.

The rally, organized by the Dhaka College unit of Islami Chhatra Shibir, began at the central Shaheed Minar and circled the Parliament area before returning to its starting point. Around five hundred students participated, with several central leaders addressing the event.

Journalist, columnist, and corporate executive Md. Shakhawat Hossain has officially taken charge as the new editor of the Bangladeshi national daily *Amader Shomoy*, replacing Abu Sayeed Khan. The appointment ceremony took place on December 14 at the newspaper’s Tejgaon office in Dhaka, attended by publisher Dr. Khondkar Shawkat Hossain and senior staff members who welcomed the new editor with flowers.

In his address, Hossain pledged to uphold the newspaper’s legacy and strengthen its editorial quality and readership trust. He emphasized professional development for journalists and improved staff welfare. Hossain, who began his career in journalism before moving to the corporate sector, previously served as Managing Editor of *The Business Post* and currently leads Unique Hotel & Resorts PLC as CEO.

Widely recognized in Bangladesh’s tourism and hospitality industry, Hossain also serves as a Vice President of the Bangladesh Cricket Board. His appointment is seen as a bridge between media, corporate leadership, and national branding, potentially bringing a new strategic direction to *Amader Shomoy*’s editorial operations.

Social Welfare Adviser Sharmin S. Murshid stated that the 2024 mass uprising in Bangladesh represents a continuation of the 1971 Liberation War’s pursuit of economic and social justice. Speaking at the National Martyrs’ Memorial on Victory Day, she said the young protesters of 2024 embody the same spirit of freedom and equality that inspired the nation’s independence movement.

Murshid, daughter of educationist Khan Sarwar Murshid, emphasized that both movements sought democracy, equality, and fairness. She cautioned against drawing divisive comparisons between 1971 and 2024, arguing that such debates diminish national pride. According to her, the Liberation War remains a source of immense honor, and any “unwanted interpretation” of it weakens the country’s unity.

Her remarks come amid ongoing national reflection on the legacy of 1971 and the meaning of recent civic movements. Analysts note that her comments may influence how younger generations connect their activism to Bangladesh’s foundational struggles for justice and democracy.

Chief Adviser Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus attended the Victory Day celebrations at the National Parade Ground in Dhaka on Tuesday morning. He was received by Liberation War Affairs Adviser Faruk-i-Azam upon arrival at around 11:15 a.m. The event, organized under the supervision of the Armed Forces Division with support from the Ministry of Liberation War Affairs, featured a special exhibition including a fly-past, parachute jumps, and aerobatic displays.

Thousands of spectators gathered at the old Tejgaon Airport to witness the air show, marking Bangladesh’s 54th Victory Day. Security was heightened, with visitors allowed entry only after thorough screening. The Armed Forces also performed a coordinated band presentation, showcasing military discipline and national pride.

The Victory Day celebrations commemorate Bangladesh’s triumph in the 1971 Liberation War. Dr. Yunus’s presence at the event underscored the caretaker government’s emphasis on honoring the nation’s independence and unity. Officials indicated that similar programs would continue throughout the day across the country.

Environmental and climate adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan has strongly criticized the use of violence and assassination attempts as political tools in Bangladesh. Speaking to reporters at the National Martyrs’ Memorial in Savar on Tuesday, she said there is no heroism in trying to eliminate opponents through violence, calling such acts cowardly and unacceptable in a democratic society.

Hasan emphasized that true political strength lies in facing the public through democratic means, not in silencing dissent. Reflecting on Bangladesh’s post-independence aspirations, she lamented that the nation has yet to achieve a fully democratic and equitable society, which has led to repeated uprisings and unrest. She expressed hope that the upcoming February election and concurrent referendum could mark a renewed journey toward genuine democracy and reform.

Her remarks come amid heightened political tensions, as parties prepare for the national polls and debate the scope of proposed constitutional and governance reforms.

Sharif Osman Hadi, spokesperson of Inquilab Mancha and independent candidate for Dhaka-8, is currently receiving treatment at Singapore General Hospital following gunshot injuries. His brother Omar Faruk reported early Tuesday that Hadi’s breathing and heartbeat have returned to normal, and his heart function has improved. Doctors have declared his condition stable after intensive monitoring and medication.

According to hospital sources, Hadi’s condition deteriorated during his transfer to Singapore as his heart rate and breathing increased sharply. Upon arrival, he was immediately admitted to the ICU, where doctors administered intravenous medication and kept him under close observation for two hours. After responding positively to treatment, his vital signs stabilized.

A specialized medical team has been formed to oversee Hadi’s continued care. The team is expected to review his test results and determine the next phase of treatment later Tuesday. Hadi remains under intensive observation as his recovery progresses, with family members expressing cautious optimism about his condition.

Jamaat-e-Islami organized a large youth rally in Satkania, Chattogram, on Bangladesh’s Victory Day, December 16, 2025. Thousands of party and Islami Chhatra Shibir activists joined the procession carrying national flags. The rally began at Keranihat Sea World Restaurant and concluded several kilometers away at Hasmat’s Shop area along the Chattogram–Cox’s Bazar highway.

Addressing a brief assembly before the march, Jamaat central executive member and former deputy speaker Shahjahan Chowdhury said Victory Day represents the foundation of national identity and unity against injustice. He emphasized that despite 54 years of independence, many citizens still face inequality and lack of justice. Chowdhury urged the establishment of accountability and moral governance to fulfill the true spirit of liberation.

Highlighting the role of youth, he stated that Bangladesh’s young population could transform the nation into a welfare state if guided by honesty and discipline. The event was chaired by Chattogram South District Jamaat chief Advocate Anwarul Alam Chowdhury, with leaders from district and sub-district levels in attendance.

Rashed Pradhan, vice president and spokesperson of the National Democratic Party (JAGPA), has called for what he termed an 'intellectual war' against Indian influence in Bangladesh. Speaking at the National Martyrs’ Memorial on Victory Day, he said the country must now fight for true sovereignty following the July uprising, comparing the struggle to the 1971 war against Pakistan.

Pradhan argued that Bangladesh gained independence in name only, claiming successive governments from Sheikh Mujibur Rahman to Sheikh Hasina failed to assert national dignity before India. He demanded stronger border responses, fair water-sharing through international arbitration, and resistance to what he described as Indian cultural and economic dominance. He also urged boycotts of Indian goods and services and identification of ‘domestic collaborators’.

The remarks, made during a symbolic national commemoration, reflect JAGPA’s nationalist stance and growing anti-India rhetoric within parts of Bangladesh’s opposition. Analysts suggest such statements may heighten diplomatic sensitivities as Dhaka and New Delhi maintain close but occasionally tense relations.

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman has expressed hope that the upcoming national election on February 12 will open a new chapter in the country’s political history. Speaking at a youth marathon organized in Dhaka on Victory Day, he urged the Election Commission and administration to ensure a fair and transparent voting process, warning against any form of manipulation or bias. He emphasized that the people’s mandate must be respected and that any attempt to undermine it would face strong public resistance.

Rahman also reflected on Bangladesh’s political past, criticizing previous governments for authoritarianism, corruption, and suppression of democratic rights. He called for a new political culture focused on justice, integrity, and national sovereignty, led by the country’s youth. Jamaat leaders including Secretary General Mia Golam Porwar and Dhaka South Ameer Nurul Islam Bulbul also addressed the event, highlighting the party’s vision for a peaceful and prosperous Bangladesh.

The remarks come as political parties prepare for the February polls, amid calls for neutrality and accountability in the electoral process.

On Bangladesh’s Victory Day, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir warned that forces defeated in the 1971 Liberation War are attempting to re-emerge. Speaking after paying tribute at the grave of BNP founder and former president Ziaur Rahman, he said the people will resist any conspiracy against the country’s independence and sovereignty. Fakhrul announced that acting BNP chairman Tarique Rahman will return to Bangladesh on December 25 to intensify the party’s pro-democracy movement.

Fakhrul emphasized that Victory Day holds special significance for the BNP, as Ziaur Rahman’s declaration of independence marked the beginning of the war that culminated in victory on December 16, 1971. He reiterated the party’s commitment to preserving independence and establishing democracy in Bangladesh. The BNP leader also expressed deep respect for the martyrs of the Liberation War and prayed for the recovery of party chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, who remains critically ill.

The statement underscores BNP’s attempt to rally supporters around nationalist and democratic ideals amid ongoing political uncertainty and leadership transitions.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Victory Day message on December 16, 2025, drew attention after he referred to the 1971 conflict as India’s historic victory without mentioning Bangladesh. In a Facebook post, Modi honored Indian soldiers for their courage and sacrifice during the war, describing the day as a proud moment in India’s history. His remarks, however, made no reference to Bangladesh’s independence struggle or the shared nature of the victory.

The omission has prompted discussion among observers in both countries, as December 16 marks Bangladesh’s Liberation Day and India’s Vijay Diwas. Analysts note that while India played a crucial role in the final phase of the war, the day primarily symbolizes Bangladesh’s independence from Pakistan. Some commentators in Dhaka viewed Modi’s message as a missed opportunity to reaffirm bilateral ties rooted in the 1971 war.

Diplomatic analysts suggest the incident may not cause lasting tension but underscores sensitivities surrounding historical narratives in South Asia. Both nations continue to commemorate the day through parallel but distinct ceremonies.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has filed a $50 billion defamation lawsuit against the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), alleging that a documentary segment falsely implied he directly incited the January 6, 2021, Capitol Hill attack. The suit, filed on December 15, 2025, accuses the BBC of editing footage in a way that damaged his reputation and caused substantial financial harm.

The disputed report aired as part of the BBC’s ‘Panorama’ series and suggested Trump had instructed supporters to storm the Capitol following his 2020 election loss to Joe Biden. Although the segment was not broadcast in the United States, it drew international attention. The BBC later issued an apology, acknowledging that the editing could have created a misleading impression. Several senior BBC officials reportedly resigned after the controversy.

Legal analysts say the case could test the boundaries of international defamation law and media accountability. The lawsuit adds to Trump’s ongoing legal battles as he continues to challenge portrayals of his role in the Capitol unrest.

On the night of December 16, 2025, citizens in Rangpur gathered at the Central Shaheed Minar to honor the martyrs of Bangladesh’s Liberation War. Among them was six-year-old Malaicha Rahman, holding a placard reading “Bangladesh Awaits Osman Hadi,” symbolizing the nation’s concern for Sharif Osman Hadi, spokesperson of Inquilab Mancha, who remains critically injured after a recent shooting.

Political leaders from the BNP, Jatiya Party, and National Citizens Party (NCP), along with cultural organizations, laid floral wreaths at the monument. District BNP convener Saiful Islam and several local leaders attended the midnight ceremony, calling for unity and prayers for Hadi’s recovery.

Hadi was shot in the head on December 12 by two assailants on a motorcycle in Dhaka’s Purana Paltan area. The attack has sparked widespread condemnation and renewed concerns over political violence. Authorities have yet to announce any arrests, while supporters continue to demand justice and improved security for activists.

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has lifted the suspension of five local leaders from Nawabganj upazila in Dinajpur district. The decision was announced in a statement signed by Senior Joint Secretary General Advocate Ruhul Kabir Rizvi on Monday. The leaders—former upazila president Md Yunus Ali, Md Azad Rahman, Md Kamruzzaman Babu, joint secretary Md Shahjahan, and treasurer Md Moharram Ali—had previously been suspended for alleged anti-organizational activities.

According to the BNP statement, the suspensions were revoked on December 15 following appeals and a subsequent review by the party’s central leadership. The move signals an effort by the BNP to consolidate internal unity ahead of potential political mobilizations.

Party insiders view the decision as part of a broader reconciliation process within the BNP’s grassroots network. Observers suggest that restoring these leaders may strengthen local organizational structures as the party prepares for upcoming political challenges and national-level engagements.

A newly submitted report by Bangladesh’s National Independent Inquiry Commission has alleged that India had a close and multifaceted involvement in the 2009 BDR (Bangladesh Rifles) mutiny that killed dozens of army officers in Dhaka’s Pilkhana headquarters. The commission, which handed its findings to the Chief Adviser on November 30, claims India sought five strategic advantages from the event, including weakening Bangladesh’s military leadership, undermining its peacekeeping reputation, and increasing dependence on Indian security structures.

The report cites testimonies from military officers, intelligence sources, and foreign research, suggesting coordination between Indian intelligence agency R&AW and certain Bangladeshi political figures before the mutiny. It references alleged meetings in India’s Barasat and statements by Indian diplomat Neeraj Srivastava as indicators of prior intent. The findings also recall the 2001 Padua border clash, implying a motive for retribution.

While the report’s claims remain unverified independently, they could reignite debate over foreign interference in Bangladesh’s security affairs. Officials have not yet commented on whether the government will initiate diplomatic discussions with India regarding the allegations.