Citizen organization Shushashoner Jonno Nagorik (SUJAN) has expressed deep concern over reports that private television channel Ekhon TV issued show-cause notices to four of its journalists. According to SUJAN’s Thursday statement, the journalists were reportedly served notices and forced to take a seven-day leave after expressing opinions on social media in favor of reform and referendum. The organization also noted that security guards were shown the journalists’ photos to restrict their entry into the TV office.

SUJAN stated that the show-cause letters referenced Facebook posts and warned the journalists to delete them or face consequences. The group questioned whether Ekhon TV management could impose censorship on employees’ freedom of expression. It emphasized that institutional discipline should be maintained transparently and fairly, without infringing on individual rights.

SUJAN urged Ekhon TV’s owners and editors to clarify the basis and policy behind these actions and called on the Information Ministry and relevant authorities to ensure a fair resolution and restore the journalists’ newsroom access.

Venezuela’s National Assembly on Thursday unanimously approved a long-awaited amnesty law, raising hopes for the release of hundreds of political leaders imprisoned for anti-government activities. Interim President Delcy Rodríguez, who assumed office after Nicolás Maduro’s detention in a U.S. military operation on January 3, signed the bill at the Miraflores Presidential Palace in Caracas. The law covers incidents dating back to 1999, including the coup attempt against Hugo Chávez, the 2002 oil strike, and unrest following Maduro’s disputed 2024 re-election. However, those accused or convicted of inciting or participating in military actions against the state are excluded.

Public concern remains that the government might use the law to pardon its own supporters while denying freedom to genuine political prisoners. The law’s Article 9 specifically excludes anyone involved in armed actions against Venezuela’s sovereignty with foreign assistance. UN human rights experts from Geneva urged that the law’s scope be limited to victims of rights violations and exclude perpetrators of serious crimes. According to rights group Foro Penal, around 450 detainees have been freed since Maduro’s fall, but over 600 remain imprisoned, with families continuing protests outside prisons.

The Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) has implemented extensive security measures across Bangladesh, including at the Central Shaheed Minar in Dhaka, ahead of Shaheed Dibas and International Mother Language Day. RAB Director General AKM Shahidur Rahman announced the arrangements on Friday morning during an inspection of the security setup at the Central Shaheed Minar. He said that all necessary preparations have been made to ensure the event proceeds smoothly, with coordination among law enforcement agencies and the establishment of inner and outer perimeters.

According to Rahman, over 300 RAB members will be deployed in the area, supported by bomb disposal units, dog squads, and plainclothes intelligence officers. The entire area has been brought under CCTV surveillance, divided into several sectors with foot patrols, vehicle patrols, and striking reserves. He added that there is no specific security threat at present, but all precautions have been taken to handle any situation.

Rahman emphasized that law enforcement agencies have successfully stabilized the country’s security situation and will continue to maintain vigilance to prevent public disruption or unrest during the observances.

Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Sheikh Mohammad Sajjat Ali has said there is no security concern surrounding the observance of February 21, marking Shaheed Dibas and International Mother Language Day. Speaking after inspecting security arrangements at the Central Shaheed Minar on Friday morning, he confirmed that SWAT, dog squads, bomb disposal teams, and the crime scene unit will remain on standby, with enhanced intelligence surveillance and cyber monitoring.

The commissioner stated that around 15,000 police personnel will be deployed in a multi-layered security plan centered on the Central Shaheed Minar, where large crowds are expected to pay tribute to the language martyrs. Alongside the police, other law enforcement agencies and volunteers will assist in maintaining order and the sanctity of the monument. He urged the public to show respect in a disciplined manner.

Sheikh Mohammad Sajjat Ali added that the security measures extend beyond the Shaheed Minar area, covering the entire city of Dhaka to ensure overall safety during the commemorations.

Prime Minister Tarek Rahman will place a floral wreath at the Central Shaheed Minar at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, February 20, to honor the language martyrs on the occasion of Shaheed Day and International Mother Language Day. The event marks the beginning of national observances commemorating the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the Bengali language.

Law enforcement agencies have implemented multi-layered security measures surrounding the observance. A.K.M. Shahidur Rahman stated that there are no direct threats to the International Mother Language Day events on February 21, but preparations have been made to handle any situation. The Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) Director General said during a briefing at 11:20 a.m. Friday that all arrangements around the Shaheed Minar have been completed, with forces deployed in coordination with other agencies.

RAB’s bomb disposal unit and dog squad have completed necessary sweeps, and special forces remain on standby to respond to any incidents. Security arrangements have also been made to ensure the safe participation of VVIPs, VIPs, and political leaders during the tribute ceremonies.

A discussion meeting titled “Citizen Thoughts on Implementing the July National Charter” was held on 11 February at Shining Jewels Institute in North Chattogram, organized by the local unit of Pathokmela. The event was chaired by Principal Khair Uddin Ahmed Sohel and conducted by Muhammad Mohsin Abul Kashem. Distinguished educationist Professor Md. Abul Hasan attended as chief guest, with journalist Sohag Kumar Biswas as main discussant and Ochman Jahangir as special guest. Speakers emphasized the need to legally institutionalize the July National Charter, which they said emerged from the revolutionary changes of 2024.

Participants highlighted that the charter addresses key constitutional and governance issues, including balance of power between the president and prime minister, judicial independence, and parliamentary reforms. They argued that previous frameworks fostered autocracy and called for comprehensive reform to enhance accountability and professionalism in state institutions. Several speakers warned against attempts to obstruct the charter’s implementation and urged citizens to unite for systemic change.

The meeting concluded with calls to resist any return to authoritarian politics and to uphold the sacrifices made during past movements by ensuring the charter’s full realization.

Pakistan’s government has denied reports of any deal with imprisoned Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan. Rana Sanaullah Khan, the prime minister’s political adviser, said on Geo News that no agreement had been made and none would be offered in the future. His remarks came after local media suggested a possible understanding between the government and Khan, which Information Minister Attaullah Tarar also dismissed.

Sanaullah stated that the government’s position toward the former ruling party remains clear: to work together for Pakistan’s stability. He invited PTI to engage in dialogue for strengthening the country. He confirmed that on November 24, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and other officials met PTI leaders, but the talks failed because Khan rejected the government’s conditions. Sanaullah criticized Khan’s stance as obstinate and said the terms proposed by PTI were unacceptable to the government.

He assured that Imran Khan is receiving the best possible medical care while in custody, emphasizing that the government remains committed to lawful and humane treatment of the former prime minister.

In the 13th national election, Jamaat-e-Islami candidates in Jhalakathi-1 and Jhalakathi-2 constituencies failed to win but achieved a remarkable increase in votes, signaling a potential shift in local and national politics. In Jhalakathi-1, Jamaat candidate Dr. Fayzul Haque lost to BNP’s Rafiqul Islam Jamal by only 6,890 votes, securing 55,120 votes compared to Jamal’s 62,010. In Jhalakathi-2, Jamaat’s Sheikh Niamul Karim received 70,556 votes, though BNP’s Israt Sultana Ellen Bhutto won by a margin of about 44,000.

According to local Jamaat sources, both constituencies were initially rated low in internal surveys, but public support grew rapidly after candidate changes and intensified campaigning. Historical data show Jamaat’s vote count in Jhalakathi-1 rose from under 2,000 in 1991 to over 55,000 in 2026. Party leaders attributed the surge to expanded grassroots organization and improved public perception. However, they cited incidents of polling agents being expelled and threats to minority voters as factors behind their losses.

Observers believe the strong performance could position Jamaat advantageously in upcoming municipal elections, particularly in Jhalakathi town where the party nearly matched BNP’s vote share.

Law enforcement agencies have implemented extensive and technology-driven security measures in Dhaka ahead of the observance of Language Martyrs’ Day and International Mother Language Day on February 21. The Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) has introduced a three-tier security plan around the Central Shaheed Minar, restricting vehicle movement from the evening of February 20. Hundreds of high-powered CCTV cameras are monitoring the area in real time, while archways and metal detectors have been installed at all entry points. Bags, flammable materials, and suspicious objects are strictly prohibited.

The Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) has deployed drones to monitor crowds and identify suspects, while its commando and dog squads have conducted multiple sweeps of the area. Bomb disposal and special forces units remain on standby. Authorities have also imposed traffic restrictions around Dhaka University and urged residents to return home by 7 p.m. on February 20. Cyber monitoring has been intensified nationwide to prevent misinformation or unrest.

Police officials confirmed there are no specific threats but emphasized that no compromise will be made in ensuring public safety during the commemorations.

Former Thakurgaon-2 Member of Parliament and Awami League leader Dabirul Islam was released on bail on Thursday evening after being imprisoned for one and a half years. He was freed from Dinajpur District Jail at around 7 p.m. following a bail order issued by a Thakurgaon court. The jail superintendent, Farhad Sarkar, confirmed his release.

Dabirul Islam had been arrested on August 5, 2024, following the fall of the Awami League government during a mass uprising. He was detained in a case involving allegations of land grabbing and extortion. His son, former MP Mazharul Islam Sujon, was also arrested in the same case and remains in custody at Dinajpur Jail.

Family members reported that Dabirul became seriously ill during his long detention due to inadequate medical care in prison. He has been taken to Dhaka for advanced treatment following his release.

A far-right Hindu organization in India reportedly called for the expulsion and conversion of Muslims during a government-funded event in Delhi. According to a report by The Quint, the group organized the 'Sanatan Rashtra Shankhnad Mahotsav' on December 13–14, 2025, with 6.3 million rupees allocated by the Ministry of Culture. Several central government ministers attended the event. The government stated that the funding was intended to mark the 150th anniversary of the nationalist song 'Vande Mataram'.

The incident has triggered widespread controversy in India. The Congress party strongly criticized the Ministry of Culture, alleging that hate speech targeting Muslims was delivered at the event. Congress also claimed that the Sanatan organization is linked to the killings of journalist Gauri Lankesh and scholar M. M. Kalburgi, cases currently under investigation by the Karnataka government.

Opposition parties have demanded accountability from the central and Delhi governments for financing an event that allegedly promoted anti-Muslim rhetoric. Reports indicate that multiple speakers at the taxpayer-funded gathering called for the eradication of India’s Muslim minority.

Barrister Farzana Sharmin Putul, daughter of late BNP leader Fazlur Rahman Potol, has been appointed state minister for the Ministry of Social Welfare, the same position once held by her father 33 years ago. She also received the additional charge of state minister for the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs. Putul, elected from Natore-1 (Lalpur-Bagatipara) as the only female BNP candidate in Rajshahi division during the 13th National Election, took oath on February 17 and began her first day at the Secretariat on February 18.

Her appointment marks a symbolic return to the same office where her father once served. Fazlur Rahman Potol, a four-time MP and former state minister in multiple BNP governments, was widely respected in his constituency. Putul, a 41-year-old barrister educated in Dhaka and London, overcame internal party competition to secure her nomination and won by about 12,000 votes.

Following her appointment, residents of Natore-1 celebrated the news, expressing optimism that she will continue her father’s legacy of development and leadership in the region.

BNP lawmaker Lutfullahel Majed from Mymensingh-8 (Ishwarganj) has called for building social resistance against teenage gangs. On Thursday morning, through a verified Facebook post, he urged residents to raise their voices in every area, prepare lists of gang members with names, fathers’ names, and photos, and take a united stand against them. He warned that any political leader providing shelter to such groups would face action. Majed also emphasized ensuring the safety of school-going girls and encouraged community unity to drive out offenders.

Local residents responded in the comment section, reporting gang activities across various unions. Hashim Uddin, head teacher of Sakhua Adarsha High School, noted a rise in teenage gang crimes nationwide, including harassment of schoolgirls and recording videos on mobile phones, and suggested increased police patrols during school hours. Another commenter, Russell Pathan, alleged that teenage gangs in Uchakhila Bazar were involved in theft, robbery, and drug dealing, urging swift legal action.

Earlier, Majed had posted separately about forming market monitoring teams to prevent price manipulation during Ramadan.

Bangladesh’s political landscape has shifted dramatically as Tarique Rahman, son of former president Ziaur Rahman and former prime minister Khaleda Zia, has been elected the country’s new prime minister. After more than a decade in exile in the United Kingdom, he returned to contest and win the 13th national election. His rise follows a turbulent history, including severe injuries during detention under the 2008 military-backed government. The article describes his journey from a grassroots BNP activist to the nation’s top leadership, emphasizing his decision to seek votes based on reform plans rather than family legacy.

The commentary highlights the challenges Rahman faces, including widespread corruption, weakened law enforcement morale, and politicization of state institutions. It urges him to prioritize anti-corruption measures, national unity, and transformation of Bangladesh’s economy from labor-based to knowledge-based through investment in education, research, and skilled workforce development. The author stresses that success will depend on equitable wealth distribution and avoiding the concentration of power and wealth that led to the previous government’s downfall.

If Rahman can unite the nation, eliminate corruption, and build a globally competitive economy, the article concludes, he may truly become a “people’s prime minister.”

North Korea’s ruling Workers’ Party has begun its key congress in the capital, Pyongyang, held once every five years. The gathering has drawn attention for possible announcements on the country’s next steps in its nuclear program. In his opening speech, Kim Jong Un called for accelerating economic development, improving living standards, and driving rapid change across all sectors. He also criticized defeatism and poor leadership within the party, which observers interpret as a warning of potential disciplinary actions against some officials.

State media reported that despite hardships since the 2021 congress, the country is entering a new phase of hope and confidence. The congress will set directions on housing construction, economic planning, and military strategy, and it traditionally concludes with a military parade showcasing new weapons. Kim has previously stated that the congress will outline plans to strengthen the nation’s nuclear arsenal, while scientists are believed to be developing smaller warheads for long-range missiles.

Western sanctions continue to pressure North Korea’s economy, aimed at cutting funding for its nuclear program. Analysts suggest Kim may emphasize nuclear progress and closer ties with China and Russia during the event.