Hasnat Abdullah, chief coordinator for the southern region of the National Citizen Party (NCP), described the return of BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman as a significant achievement in Bangladesh’s continuous democratic movement. He made the statement on Thursday through a verified Facebook post, emphasizing that Rahman’s homecoming after nearly fifteen years of exile should not be viewed as a personal or organizational success but as a collective democratic victory.

In his post, Abdullah argued that Rahman’s return demonstrates that a Bangladeshi citizen’s right to return home cannot be permanently suppressed by state power. He linked the event to the sacrifices of countless martyrs and the emergence of a new political reality shaped by public movements. Abdullah also expressed hope for a Bangladesh where differing political opinions are treated as rights, not crimes, and where democracy ensures freedom of expression and fair political competition.

He concluded that Rahman’s return would strengthen multiparty democracy and called for mutual respect and coexistence among political forces in the evolving national landscape.

The Indian Army has introduced a new social media policy restricting its personnel from posting, liking, or commenting on Instagram. Soldiers will now be allowed to use the platform solely for viewing and monitoring content. According to Indian media reports, the directive has been circulated across all army units and departments to enhance awareness of online trends and identify misleading or harmful content.

Officials said the move aims to prevent security breaches and protect sensitive information after several past incidents where personnel were targeted through online 'honey traps' by foreign entities. Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi, speaking at the Chanakya Defence Dialogue, emphasized the importance of smartphones for communication but urged caution in digital engagement. He distinguished between reacting impulsively and responding thoughtfully, underscoring that soldiers should avoid hasty online interactions.

The new policy reflects the Army’s ongoing efforts to balance operational security with the realities of modern communication, as it seeks to maintain discipline while adapting to the digital habits of younger recruits.

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has returned to Bangladesh after nearly sixteen years abroad, receiving a large public reception upon arrival. Following his return, he visited his ailing mother, former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka’s Bashundhara area.

According to party sources, after taking rest from his long journey from London, Rahman will begin his official programs on Friday. His schedule includes visiting the grave of his father, former President Ziaur Rahman, at Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, followed by paying tribute to the martyrs of the Liberation War at the National Memorial in Savar. On Saturday, he is expected to go to the Election Commission in Agargaon to register as a voter and potential candidate for the upcoming elections.

Later, Rahman will visit the Dhaka University campus to pay respects at the graves of national poet Kazi Nazrul Islam and martyr Osman Hadi, before visiting the National Orthopedic Hospital to meet those injured in the July uprising. His return marks a significant political moment for the BNP ahead of the national polls.

A major rift has emerged within the eight-party Islamist alliance led by Jamaat-e-Islami as negotiations over seat-sharing for the upcoming national election stall. The coalition, which includes Islami Andolan Bangladesh led by Charmonai Pir Syed Rezaul Karim and Bangladesh Khelafat Majlish led by Maulana Mamunul Haque, has failed to finalize a unified candidate list despite multiple liaison committee meetings. Both parties are demanding significantly higher seat allocations—around 100 for Islami Andolan and 25–30 for Khelafat Majlish—creating pressure on Jamaat, which aims to contest at least 200 constituencies.

Sources suggest that if demands remain unmet, Islami Andolan and Khelafat Majlish may withdraw to form a separate platform, possibly encouraged by external political assurances. Jamaat leaders, however, maintain optimism that consensus will be reached before the nomination withdrawal deadline. The inclusion of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), seeking 50 seats, has further complicated talks. Analysts note that the outcome of these negotiations could reshape Islamist political alignments and influence opposition strategies in the forthcoming election.

Former Information and Broadcasting Adviser Mahfuz Alam stated that the Zia family’s long-standing commitment to Bangladesh’s sovereignty and democracy has once again been proven. In a Facebook post on Thursday evening, he welcomed Tarique Rahman’s return to Bangladesh after 17 years in exile, expressing hope that his comeback would strengthen public confidence in democratic governance.

Tarique Rahman, son of former President Ziaur Rahman and BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia, left Bangladesh in 2008 for medical treatment following his release from an 18-month detention under the military-backed caretaker government. Since then, multiple corruption cases had kept him abroad. His return marks the end of a prolonged absence that began during a politically turbulent period.

Political observers note that Tarique’s homecoming could reshape the opposition landscape ahead of future elections. Supporters view it as a symbolic moment for the BNP’s revival, while critics remain cautious about its political and legal implications.

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman visited his mother, former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, who is currently receiving treatment in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of Evercare Hospital in Dhaka. He was accompanied by his wife, physician Dr. Zubaida Rahman, and daughter, Barrister Zaima Rahman. During the visit, Tarique Rahman inquired about his mother’s condition and spoke with the attending medical team.

Outside the ICU cabin, Khaleda Zia’s personal physician, Professor Dr. A.Z.M. Zahid Hossain, was seen briefing family members about her health status and ongoing treatment. Khaleda Zia, who has been suffering from multiple health complications, has been under close medical supervision for several weeks. Her condition continues to draw attention from political circles and supporters.

The visit marks a rare public appearance by Tarique Rahman, who has been living abroad for years. Party insiders say his presence underscores the family’s concern and the BNP leadership’s focus on Khaleda Zia’s health amid ongoing political developments in Bangladesh.

BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman paid tribute to Shaheed Sharif Osman Hadi during a public reception in Purbachal on December 25, emphasizing Hadi’s vision for restoring the people’s economic rights. Rahman recalled Hadi’s recent martyrdom and linked his sacrifice to the broader struggle for a just and prosperous Bangladesh.

In his address, Rahman urged citizens of all faiths—Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians—to unite in building a peaceful nation. Drawing parallels between the liberation struggle of 1971 and the defense of sovereignty in 2024, he said Bangladeshis now seek to reclaim their rights to free speech and democracy. He highlighted the role of the youth in shaping the country’s future and stressed the need for a democratic system supported by a strong economic foundation.

Rahman concluded by repeating his call for peace, underscoring that national harmony and inclusive development are essential for fulfilling the sacrifices of past generations.

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman delivered his first public speech in Dhaka after returning to Bangladesh following 17 years of exile. Speaking at a mass reception on the 300 Feet Road on December 25, he expressed gratitude to God and pledged to build a just and inclusive nation modeled on the fairness of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Rahman emphasized unity among all religious communities, calling on citizens to work together for peace and national progress.

His return marks a significant political moment for the BNP, which has faced leadership challenges during his absence. Party supporters gathered in large numbers to welcome him, viewing his comeback as a potential turning point ahead of future elections. Analysts note that Rahman’s message of justice and inclusivity aims to broaden BNP’s appeal beyond its traditional base.

Political observers expect his re-entry to reshape opposition dynamics and test the government’s response to renewed BNP activism in the coming months.

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman delivered his first public speech in Dhaka after returning to Bangladesh following 17 years in exile. Addressing a massive crowd at a reception event on the 300 Feet Road area, Rahman urged citizens of all faiths—Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists, and Christians—to work together to build a peaceful and inclusive nation. He expressed gratitude to the Almighty for his safe return to his homeland.

Rahman arrived at Sylhet Osmani International Airport early on December 25 from London and traveled to Dhaka amid large public gatherings along the route. His return marks a significant political moment for the BNP, which has been under pressure amid ongoing political challenges. Party leaders and supporters hailed his comeback as a potential revival of BNP’s national leadership.

Analysts suggest Rahman’s return could reshape Bangladesh’s political landscape ahead of future elections, though questions remain about his legal status and political strategy in the coming months.

BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman delivered his first public address in Bangladesh after 17 years, speaking at a grand reception event on Dhaka’s 300 Feet Road in Purbachal on December 25, 2025. Expressing gratitude to the Almighty, he said he had returned to his motherland through divine blessings. The rally marked his first direct engagement with supporters since his long exile abroad.

In his speech, Rahman compared the people’s recent political struggle to the 1971 Liberation War, asserting that citizens across all sectors—students, farmers, and workers—had united to defend the nation’s sovereignty in 2024. He emphasized the public’s desire to restore democracy and called for collective efforts to rebuild the country. Party leaders and supporters hailed his return as a symbolic revival of BNP’s leadership.

Analysts view Rahman’s comeback as a potential turning point for the opposition’s political strategy ahead of future national elections. His remarks suggest a renewed attempt to mobilize grassroots support and reposition BNP in Bangladesh’s evolving political landscape.

The Trump administration is reportedly preparing to detain around 80,000 undocumented migrants in large warehouse facilities across the United States, according to a draft plan obtained by The Washington Post. The initiative, led by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), includes the establishment of at least 22 detention warehouses nationwide, marking one of the largest expansions of migrant detention infrastructure in U.S. history.

The plan outlines the conversion of industrial warehouses in key states such as Texas, Virginia, Louisiana, Arizona, Georgia, and Missouri into holding centers. Seven major facilities would each accommodate between 5,000 and 10,000 detainees, while 15 smaller centers would hold 500 to 1,500 people each. The move follows a record-high detention rate, with more than 70,000 migrants currently in custody.

Critics have raised concerns over human rights and logistical feasibility, while supporters argue it strengthens border enforcement. The proposal signals a continuation of President Trump’s hardline immigration stance during his second term, with further deportation operations expected in the coming months.

Bangladesh’s interim government has described the anticipated return of BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman as a potential turning point in the country’s political landscape. Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam told reporters on Thursday that Rahman’s arrival would help fill an existing political vacuum and contribute positively to the national atmosphere. He made the remarks while exchanging Christmas greetings with the Christian community at Tejgaon’s Holy Rosary Church in Dhaka.

Alam emphasized that Bangladesh is currently in a phase of democratic transition, with a major election approaching. He noted that Rahman, as the leader of one of the country’s largest political parties, could play a crucial role in shaping the next phase of political dialogue. The statement has drawn attention from political observers, who see Rahman’s return as a test of both the interim administration’s inclusivity and the opposition’s readiness for electoral engagement.

Analysts suggest that Rahman’s re-entry could influence voter sentiment and party mobilization, though challenges remain regarding legal and political reconciliation before the polls.

The Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education (DSHE) of Bangladesh has issued a strict warning to all teachers, students, and staff under its jurisdiction regarding the use of Facebook and other social media platforms. In an urgent circular dated December 24, the Ministry of Education emphasized that any violation of existing social media policies or the newly enacted Cyber Security Ordinance 2025 will be treated as a serious offense.

According to officials, the directive aims to maintain discipline in digital spaces and safeguard national security. The notice referenced the 2019 revised guidelines for social media use in government institutions and reiterated the government’s ‘zero tolerance’ stance toward cybercrime. It explicitly prohibits provocative posts, rumor-spreading, or any activity that could harm institutional reputation.

Heads of educational institutions have been tasked with ensuring compliance, while authorities confirmed that teachers’ and students’ online activities will be regularly monitored. Violators may face departmental and legal action, with no leniency in the enforcement of the Cyber Security Ordinance 2025.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has sharply criticized India’s opposition parties, accusing them of practicing selective outrage and appeasement politics. Speaking at a public event, Adityanath alleged that opposition leaders protest Israeli actions in Gaza but remain silent when minorities, particularly Hindus or Dalits, face violence in neighboring countries such as Bangladesh or Pakistan. He urged opposition leaders to introduce a condemnation motion in the state assembly regarding a recent killing of a Dalit youth in Bangladesh.

Adityanath further accused opposition parties of supporting illegal immigration, claiming they defend Bangladeshi nationals and Rohingya refugees for electoral gains. He alleged that some have even helped illegal migrants obtain voter identification cards. His remarks, reported by NDTV, come amid heightened political rhetoric over religious and regional issues in India.

The comments are expected to intensify political polarization ahead of upcoming elections, as opposition parties may respond to the accusations while maintaining focus on domestic governance and communal harmony.

The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has clarified that its acting chairman, Tarique Rahman, selected December 25 for his return to Bangladesh to minimize public inconvenience and prioritize citizens’ welfare. BNP Media Cell convener and reception committee member Professor Mowdud Hossain Alamgir Pavel stated at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport that the date was chosen because it coincides with a public holiday and an extended weekend, reducing traffic congestion and disruption to daily life.

Pavel explained that most educational institutions have completed exams by this time of year, and many people are on vacation, making it easier to manage large gatherings. To ensure smooth movement, BNP volunteers set up help desks at Mahakhali, Abdullahpur, and near the airport to assist travelers and ambulances. He emphasized that Rahman wanted a peaceful, citizen-friendly event that would not disturb normal life.

Tarique Rahman, who had been living in London since 2008 following his release on bail, is returning after the High Court annulled his previous convictions in 2024, clearing legal barriers to his homecoming.