An activist of Bangladesh Amar Party (AB Party) was seriously injured in an alleged attack by BNP supporters during an election campaign in Muladi upazila of Barishal. The incident occurred around 12:30 p.m. on Sunday at Lakshmipur village in Ward 4 of Charkalekhan Union. The injured worker, identified as Junaid, was admitted to Muladi Upazila Health Complex in critical condition.

According to eyewitnesses and local sources, AB Party supporters were putting up stickers bearing the eagle symbol for Barrister Asaduzzaman Fuad, the 11-party alliance candidate for Barishal-3 (Muladi–Babuganj) constituency and the party’s central general secretary. Two men, Md. Swadhib and Md. Roni, reportedly objected to the activity and later attacked Junaid with a brick, causing a head injury. Following the attack, local residents took the injured to the hospital.

The incident sparked tension in the area. AB Party leaders condemned the attack and demanded immediate arrest of the perpetrators. Muladi Police Station’s officer-in-charge Fayez Uddin Mridha said legal action would be taken upon receiving a written complaint.

Religious Adviser Dr. A F M Khalid Hossain said the upcoming referendum would change the course of Bangladesh’s politics and called for a victory of the 'Yes' vote to build an enlightened nation. He made the remarks on Sunday at the National Imam Conference held at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Center in Agargaon, Dhaka. The event was organized by the Islamic Foundation under the Ministry of Religious Affairs to promote the referendum and encourage voter participation.

The conference was chaired by Islamic Foundation Director General A. Salam Khan and attended by several special assistants to the Chief Adviser, including Professor Ali Riaz, Dr. Anisuzzaman Chowdhury, and Monir Haider, as well as Religious Secretary Md. Kamal Uddin. Speakers urged citizens to vote 'Yes' in the February 12 referendum and general election, emphasizing the need to end autocracy, establish the rule of law, and protect fundamental and human rights. They dismissed claims that a 'Yes' vote would remove “Bismillah” or Islam as the state religion from the constitution as false propaganda.

Participants, including over a thousand imams and khatibs, were urged to mobilize public opinion in favor of the 'Yes' vote to bring political transformation.

Bangladesh’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has expressed surprise and disappointment after India allowed former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to deliver what it described as an ‘inciting’ speech from New Delhi. The ministry said in a statement on Sunday that Hasina, convicted of crimes against humanity and currently a fugitive, was given a platform to speak publicly at a seminar titled ‘Save Democracy in Bangladesh’. The statement alleged that her remarks aimed to disrupt Bangladesh’s upcoming election and destabilize the interim government.

The ministry further stated that India’s refusal to extradite Hasina despite repeated requests under the bilateral extradition treaty had deeply angered Bangladesh. Allowing her to make such remarks from Indian soil was described as a direct threat to Bangladesh’s democratic transition, peace, and security. The statement warned that such actions could harm bilateral relations by undermining mutual respect for sovereignty and non-interference.

The ministry also said that the inflammatory comments by Awami League leaders justified the interim government’s decision to ban the party’s activities and that those responsible for pre-election violence would face appropriate measures.

Former Supreme Court Appellate Division Justice Md Abdul Matin stated that public aspirations would be thwarted if the upcoming referendum’s 'Yes' vote fails. Speaking on Sunday at a debate competition organized by Debate for Democracy at the FDC, he said that if citizens remain aware, no conspiracy or obstruction could derail the election process. He also remarked that the Awami League must understand why it cannot participate in the election, though its supporters may still vote as citizens.

Matin criticized the Awami League for alleged bloodshed and lack of remorse, saying the party could seek forgiveness from the people for its actions. He also commented on the former prime minister Sheikh Hasina, who has been sentenced to death, questioning her strength and motives for fleeing. Debate for Democracy Chairman Hasan Ahmed Chowdhury Kiron, presiding over the event, said the people want a fair election and that democracy cannot be restored without it.

The event concluded with State University of Bangladesh defeating Tejgaon College in a mock parliament debate on the Election Commission’s role in ensuring a fair referendum and parliamentary election.

A condolence book has been opened at Dhaka Medical College (DMCH) to pay tribute to BNP Chairperson and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia following her death. The signing ceremony was inaugurated on Sunday morning by Professor Dr. Harun Al Rashid, president of the Doctors’ Association of Bangladesh (DAB) and a former student of the college. The initiative was organized by former leaders of the Dhaka Medical College unit of the BNP’s student wing, with the book to remain open for seven days on the college premises.

The event was conducted by DAB’s central joint secretary Dr. Zafar Iqbal and attended by several DAB leaders, teachers, and physicians from Dhaka Medical College. During the program, newly appointed principal Professor Dr. Faruk Ahmed was also congratulated. Among those present were BNP’s Dhaka-7 candidate Hamidur Rahman Hamid, senior DAB officials, and faculty members from the University of Dhaka’s Faculty of Medicine.

The condolence book provides an opportunity for medical professionals and students to express their respect and remembrance for Khaleda Zia over the coming week.

Independent parliamentary candidate Barrister Rumin Farhana for Brahmanbaria-2 (Sarail–Ashuganj) constituency said that political workers like Saddam, who supported leaders for 15 years, have been neglected by those same leaders. She made the remarks on Sunday evening, January 25, during an election meeting at Panishwar Union in Sarail upazila.

Rumin Farhana referred to Saddam, a Chhatra League activist whose wife killed their newborn child and then took her own life while Saddam was imprisoned. She criticized political leaders for failing to support such workers or their families, noting that Saddam was allowed only five minutes to see the bodies of his wife and child. She urged voters to be cautious when choosing leaders who ignore their followers in times of crisis.

Farhana also commented that many senior BNP figures had been unreachable for 15 years, leaving grassroots workers disconnected. She called for leadership accountability and warned that no party worker in Bangladesh should face a fate similar to Saddam’s.

Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Shafiqur Rahman has pledged to introduce an evening bus service exclusively for women if his party forms the government. He made the announcement on Sunday, January 25, during an election rally at Jatrabari in Dhaka. Rahman said the initiative aims to ensure safe and dignified travel for working women, particularly during peak hours in major cities including the capital.

He stated that women currently lack both security and respect in public spaces and workplaces. Rahman promised that his party would prioritize women’s safety and dignity at home, in transit, and at work. He also mentioned that the lower decks of government double-decker buses would be reserved for women to ease their travel difficulties.

Rahman emphasized that men should willingly make sacrifices to uphold the honor of women, describing mothers’ dignity as more valuable than life itself. He added that national progress requires equal participation of men and women, asserting that women have a rightful place in social and professional life.

The Ministry of Home Affairs has clarified that no parole application was submitted for Jewel Hasan Saddam, an inmate at Jashore Central Jail, following the deaths of his wife and child. The ministry issued a press statement on Sunday evening, signed by Public Relations Officer Faisal Hasan, addressing media reports on the matter.

According to the statement, Saddam’s family did not file any written request with the Jashore Deputy Commissioner, District Magistrate, or prison authorities for his temporary release. Instead, based on the family’s verbal request, arrangements were made for Saddam to view the bodies of his wife and child at the Jashore jail gate. The ministry said the Jashore district administration and prison authorities provided full cooperation on humanitarian grounds.

The Home Ministry also stated that reports circulating in various media and on social platforms claiming a parole application had been filed were inaccurate. It urged all media outlets to ensure factual and objective reporting to uphold the public’s right to accurate information.

Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) and the Bangladesh Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD) have come into confrontation over allegations of extortion, vandalism, and eviction involving small and mobile shops on the Dhaka University campus. DUCSU presented video and audio evidence at a press conference held at Madhur Canteen, accusing several JCD leaders of demanding daily payments from shop owners. In response, JCD dismissed the allegations as false and politically motivated, submitting a written complaint to the university proctor and warning of legal action against the accusers.

Following the dispute, the university administration formed a four-member investigation committee headed by Assistant Proctor Dr. Md. Miraj Kobad Chowdhury. The committee was instructed to submit its report promptly. DUCSU representatives said the evidence was gathered after inconsistencies were found between the statements of shop owners and the accused. JCD leaders countered that the circulated video was edited and called for legal measures if any of their members were proven guilty.

JCD also demanded a clear policy for managing small and mobile shops on campus and disciplinary action against any DUCSU representatives or officials found involved after investigation.

BNP candidate Shafiqul Islam Khan has expressed optimism about winning the Dhaka-15 parliamentary seat, where he is contesting against Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami’s Amir, Dr. Shafiqur Rahman. Speaking during a campaign event on Sunday morning in the capital’s West Shewrapara Technical area, Khan said many party chiefs in Bangladesh had previously lost to ordinary workers like him. He emphasized his confidence in securing victory despite facing a major political leader.

The Dhaka-15 constituency includes parts of Shewrapara, Kazipara, Kafrul, and Mirpur. Khan, a former acting general secretary of the BNP’s youth wing, said he was born and raised in the area and maintains strong ties with local residents. He pledged to prioritize repairing roads, resolving water and gas shortages, and addressing waterlogging if elected. He also promised to establish playgrounds to keep youth away from drugs.

Khan’s remarks highlight his grassroots campaign approach and his focus on local development issues as key elements of his electoral message.

The interim government of Bangladesh has announced that the Awami League will be held accountable for any violence or terrorist activities occurring before or on the day of the upcoming national election. The statement, issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Sunday, expressed concern that a recent public speech by Sheikh Hasina in New Delhi contained incitement to engage in violent acts aimed at disrupting the election process.

The government expressed deep surprise and anger that India allowed Hasina to deliver such a speech, calling it contrary to the principles of good neighborly relations and non-interference in internal affairs. The statement accused Hasina of openly calling for the overthrow of the Bangladeshi government and urging her supporters to engage in violence to derail the election. It further stated that this incident represents a serious affront to Bangladesh’s sovereignty and a dangerous precedent for future Bangladesh-India relations.

The government also reiterated that repeated requests for Hasina’s extradition under a bilateral treaty have not been fulfilled by India, and that allowing her to make such remarks poses a grave threat to Bangladesh’s democratic transition, peace, and security.

The Bangladesh government has expressed deep shock and anger after fugitive Sheikh Hasina, convicted of crimes against humanity, was allowed to speak publicly in New Delhi. According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on January 25, Hasina’s January 23 speech allegedly urged her followers and the public to engage in violent and terrorist acts to derail Bangladesh’s upcoming national election and overthrow the government.

Dhaka stated that it had repeatedly requested India to extradite Hasina under a bilateral treaty, but India had not acted on those requests. Instead, Bangladesh said, India permitted her to deliver an inflammatory speech that poses a serious threat to Bangladesh’s democratic progress, peace, and security. The government described the event’s approval as a violation of international norms of sovereignty, non-interference, and good-neighborly relations, calling it an insult to the Bangladeshi people and a dangerous precedent for future bilateral ties.

The statement further asserted that the interim government banned the Awami League due to such incitement and warned that the party would be held responsible for any election-related violence or terrorism.

The Khan A Sabur Smriti Sangsad organized a discussion and prayer meeting in Khulna on Sunday to mark the 44th death anniversary of Khan A Sabur, the founding president of the Bangladesh Muslim League and a key figure in the region’s development. The event took place at Sabur Lodge near the Circuit House, where speakers paid tribute to his contributions and recalled his political and developmental legacy.

Former Khulna University treasurer Mazharul Hannan, speaking as chief guest, said that during the 1947 partition, Khulna, Bagerhat, and Satkhira were initially included in India. Khan A Sabur appealed to the Boundary Commission and, through legal efforts, secured Khulna’s inclusion in Pakistan. Hannan also noted Sabur’s role as communications minister in 1962 under Ayub Khan, when he established industries, ports, and projects that transformed the local economy. He criticized attempts to erase Sabur’s name from history.

The meeting was chaired by Sheikh Zahidul Islam, with participation from Muslim League leaders, lawyers, journalists, and educators. The program began with Quran recitation and was conducted by Advocate Akhtar Jahan Ruku and Sirajuddin Sentu.

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman declared that a 'Yes' vote means freedom and a 'No' vote means slavery, urging supporters to ensure a 'Yes' victory. He made the remarks on Sunday afternoon at a rally in Dhupkhola Field, Old Dhaka, organized in support of Jamaat-nominated and 11-party-backed Dhaka-6 parliamentary candidate Dr. Abdul Mannan. Rahman also said the party would not provide unemployment allowances even if state funds were available, arguing that such payments increase joblessness. Instead, Jamaat would focus on creating employment opportunities and empowering youth.

Rahman criticized the country's leadership over the past 54 years, saying justice had not been established and young people had fallen into drugs and wrongdoing. He pledged to build a corruption-free and extortion-free nation if given responsibility. The rally also featured speeches from leaders of allied parties, including Islami Chhatra Shibir and the Liberal Democratic Party, who called for reform, honest politics, and an end to extortion.

At the event, Rahman handed party symbols to Dhaka-6 candidate Abdul Mannan and Dhaka-8 alliance candidate Nasiruddin Patwari, emphasizing vigilance against vote rigging.

U.S. President Donald Trump on Saturday praised British soldiers as “very brave” and “warriors,” marking a reversal from his earlier remarks about NATO forces in Afghanistan. The shift came a day after UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer called Trump’s previous comments “offensive and appalling.” Trump posted on his social media platform Truth Social that British troops have always stood by the United States and described those killed or wounded in Afghanistan as among the greatest warriors.

Trump had earlier sparked outrage across Europe by claiming that European soldiers were not on the front lines in Afghanistan. His comments drew strong criticism from political and military circles in Britain and beyond. Afghanistan was Britain’s deadliest foreign conflict since the 1950s, with 457 British troops killed, many of them leading allied operations in Helmand province.

According to the British Prime Minister’s Office, Trump and Starmer spoke on Saturday about the issue. Starmer emphasized that the sacrifices of British and American soldiers who fought side by side in Afghanistan must never be forgotten.