National Citizens Party (NCP) convener Nahid Islam has claimed that the recent wave of violent incidents across Bangladesh was not spontaneous but part of a deliberate political conspiracy. Speaking at a joint protest meeting titled “Bangladesh Affected by Mob Violence” at the Pan Pacific Sonargaon Hotel in Dhaka, he said the attacks on media houses, including Prothom Alo and The Daily Star, were premeditated and aimed at destabilizing the political environment.

Islam alleged that the attackers exploited the slogans, names of martyrs, and language of the July uprising to justify their actions and generate social support for violence. He emphasized that thousands were involved, proving it was not an isolated event. According to him, the post-revolution law and order weakness allowed organized crimes to flourish, steering national politics and the upcoming elections toward a specific agenda.

The NCP leader expressed disappointment that the aspirations of the July movement to build a new Bangladesh have been derailed, urging accountability from those who initially led the movement.

Bangladesh Railway has announced that it will operate 20 special trains on ten routes on December 25 to facilitate travel for Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) leaders, activists, and supporters arriving in Dhaka to welcome the party’s acting chairman, Tareque Rahman, upon his return to the country. The decision was confirmed in a statement issued by the Ministry of Railways on December 22.

According to the ministry, the move follows formal requests from BNP’s central and regional offices for additional transportation arrangements. Alongside the special trains, several regular services will receive extra coaches to accommodate increased passenger demand. The initiative is expected to generate approximately 3.6 million taka in revenue. However, three regular trains—Rajbari Commuter, Dhalarchar Express, and Rohanpur Commuter—will suspend operations for one day to support the special schedule.

The ministry expressed regret for any temporary inconvenience to passengers on affected routes. The special trains will operate on major routes including Cox’s Bazar, Khulna, Rajshahi, Jessore, and Panchagarh, ensuring nationwide connectivity for the event.

Rajshahi University Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Saleh Hasan Nakib stated that Bangladesh today lacks individuals like Hadi, a 32-year-old activist remembered for his moral courage and popularity across social strata. Speaking at a seminar titled “A Guide in Building an Intellectual, Cultural and Just Bangladesh” organized by RAKSU at the university’s Senate Building, he emphasized that establishing justice requires self-reflection and personal struggle.

The Vice-Chancellor urged young people to embody Hadi’s values of fairness and humanity, warning that envy and division cannot advance the nation. Former Islamic University VC Professor Rafiqul Islam described Hadi as a key figure in the July uprising who transcended party lines to pursue a just social order. RAKSU Vice-President Mostakur Rahman Jahid vowed to resist domination and authoritarianism in the spirit of Hadi’s ideals.

The event highlighted growing calls among academics and students for moral leadership rooted in justice and equality, reflecting a broader yearning for ethical renewal in Bangladesh’s political and civic life.

Bangladesh has suspended visa services for Indian citizens through its High Commission in New Delhi, according to diplomatic sources on Monday, December 22, 2025. The move follows a series of tense exchanges between Dhaka and New Delhi after recent political and security incidents that have strained bilateral relations.

The decision comes amid growing friction following reports that India provided refuge to several former Bangladeshi political figures and military officers. Tensions rose further after the killing of activist Sharif Osman Bin Hadi earlier in December, which triggered nationwide protests in Bangladesh. Demonstrations also occurred outside the Indian High Commission in Dhaka, while extremist groups allegedly threatened Bangladesh’s envoy in Delhi.

Bangladesh’s Foreign Ministry summoned the Indian High Commissioner to protest the threats, prompting a reciprocal summons by India. Analysts view the visa suspension as a significant diplomatic signal that could affect cross-border travel, trade, and cooperation if the standoff continues.

Bangladesh police have arrested 44 leaders and activists of the banned Awami League and its affiliated organizations across the Rangpur division during a 24-hour operation named 'Operation Devil Hunt Phase-2'. The arrests took place between Sunday morning and Monday morning across seven districts, including Rangpur, Gaibandha, Kurigram, Lalmonirhat, Nilphamari, Dinajpur, Thakurgaon, and Panchagarh.

According to Rangpur Range DIG Aminul Islam, those detained include several local leaders such as union presidents, general secretaries, and youth and student wing officials. Police stated that the detainees are accused in multiple cases related to murder, attempted murder, and anti-terrorism charges linked to the anti-discrimination student movement.

Authorities confirmed that the operation will continue, emphasizing a zero-tolerance stance toward banned political groups. The arrests mark one of the largest coordinated crackdowns in northern Bangladesh since the party’s activities were outlawed, signaling intensified enforcement ahead of potential political unrest.

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman will apply for voter registration on December 27, according to BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed. He made the announcement after a meeting with Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) A.M.M. Nasir Uddin at the Election Commission office in Agargaon on Monday.

Ahmed clarified that December 27 falls on a Saturday, when all Election Commission offices remain open during the election period, allowing Rahman to complete his voter registration or related formalities that day. Responding to questions about law and order, he emphasized that maintaining security is primarily the government’s responsibility, though the Election Commission has authority over official transfers during elections.

The BNP leader expressed hope for a peaceful and festive electoral environment, urging the government to ensure free and fair participation. He added that both the party and the public expect improved law and order as the election approaches.

Leaders from Bangladesh’s media, political, and civil society sectors have demanded immediate legal action against those responsible for recent attacks on the offices of Prothom Alo and The Daily Star. The call came during a joint protest meeting titled “Bangladesh Affected by Mob Violence,” organized by the Editors’ Council at a Dhaka hotel on Monday.

Speakers, including BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, described the assaults as direct attacks on democracy and freedom of expression. Alamgir urged unity against what he termed conspiracies to silence the press. Jamaat-e-Islami Assistant Secretary General Advocate Ehsanul Mahbub Zobayer also condemned the incidents, recalling previous attacks on journalists and editors.

Participants from political parties, human rights groups, business associations, and civic organizations expressed concern over the rise of mob violence in Bangladesh. Observers warned that repeated assaults on the media could further erode public trust and democratic accountability if perpetrators are not swiftly brought to justice.

The Inqilab Mancha has demanded the formation of a special judicial tribunal within 24 hours to ensure a fair and speedy trial in the murder case of Shahid Sharif Osman Hadi, spokesperson of the July Revolutionary and Inqilab Mancha. At a press conference held in front of the National Museum in Dhaka, the group’s member-secretary Abdullah Al Jaber urged the government to seek assistance from international agencies such as the FBI or Scotland Yard if local investigators fail to deliver results.

Jaber described the Hadi killing as a critical test for post-July Bangladesh, warning that public trust in state institutions would erode further without visible judicial progress. He accused some quarters of attempting to divert attention from the case and insisted that no national election should be held before justice is served. He also called for transparency regarding obstacles to the investigation and urged the government to use extradition treaties to bring suspects back if they have fled abroad.

The group issued a 24-hour ultimatum, threatening to continue street protests if the government fails to respond satisfactorily.

Ganosamhati Andolon chief coordinator Jonayed Saki has declared that the people of Bangladesh will not accept any attempt to establish religious fascism. Speaking at a protest rally in front of the National Press Club on Monday, Saki accused reactionary forces of trying to destabilize the country and derail the upcoming elections through violence and intimidation, including the recent killing of activist Usman Hadi.

Saki criticized the government for remaining silent on attacks against media outlets and for failing to arrest Hadi’s killers. He warned that if justice is not ensured, the government must be held accountable. The activist leader also condemned the arson attack in Lakshmipur that killed a child, linking such incidents to broader attempts to spread fear and political instability.

He further alleged that some groups are attempting to become “new fascists” and that neighboring India’s rise of religious nationalism could influence similar trends in Bangladesh. Saki reaffirmed his party’s commitment to fighting fascism and defending democratic reform and justice.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir has said that the Bangladesh he fought for—a free, sovereign, and democratic nation—no longer exists in its intended form. Speaking at a protest meeting titled “Bangladesh Under Mob Violence,” organized by the Editors’ Council and NOAB in Dhaka, Fakhrul warned that attacks on the press are direct assaults on democracy itself and the spirit of the July Revolution.

He argued that the right to think and speak freely is under threat, calling the situation dangerous not only for journalists but for all citizens. Fakhrul urged all pro-democracy groups to unite beyond party boundaries to resist what he described as growing authoritarianism. Editors and journalists attending the event pledged to defend press freedom and oppose organized violence.

The remarks come amid increasing concerns about media suppression and political polarization in Bangladesh, with opposition leaders framing the issue as a broader struggle for democratic survival.

National Citizen Party (NCP) Khulna divisional head and central labor wing organizer Motaleb Shikdar was shot by unidentified assailants near Gazi Medical College Hospital in Khulna city late Monday morning. The bullet reportedly entered through the side of his ear and exited, causing heavy bleeding. He was first taken to Khulna Medical College Hospital and later transferred to a private imaging center for a CT scan due to his deteriorating condition. Doctors have since confirmed that he is now out of danger.

Police from Sonadanga station confirmed the incident and said an investigation is underway to identify the attackers. NCP leaders, including former district coordinator Sajidul Islam Bappy and joint secretary SM Saif Mostafiz, expressed concern over the attack, linking it to rising political tensions ahead of the interim election. The party has demanded swift justice and enhanced security for its organizers.

Authorities are reviewing CCTV footage from the area, while local residents have urged stronger policing to prevent further political violence in Khulna.

Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal-1 has scheduled January 4 for the next hearing on the formation of charges against Salman F Rahman, former adviser to ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, and former law minister Anisul Huq. The two are accused of crimes against humanity allegedly committed during the July Revolution. The tribunal, chaired by Justice Golam Mortuza Majumder and assisted by Justice Shafiul Alam Mahmud, issued the order after hearing arguments from the prosecution.

Chief Prosecutor Tazul Islam presented the allegations, which include ordering curfews, directing ruling party affiliates to suppress protests, and authorizing lethal force that led to civilian deaths and injuries. The prosecution has charged both men under the doctrine of superior responsibility, citing their positions of authority during the unrest.

Defense counsel Mansurul Haque requested additional time to respond, which the court granted. The accused, detained since August 13 following the fall of the Awami League government, remain in custody as the tribunal prepares for the next stage of proceedings.

Cumilla district has recorded the highest number of expatriate voter registrations in Bangladesh ahead of the 13th National Parliament election and referendum. According to the Election Commission, 54,545 expatriates from Cumilla have registered through the 'Postal Vote BD' app, placing the district first among 64 nationwide. Dhaka ranks second. Registration began on November 19 and will continue until December 25, marking the first use of an IT-supported postal ballot system for overseas voters.

Election officials report that of the total applicants, 52,835 are men and 1,710 are women, with 8,755 registrations already approved. Cumilla has around 4.99 million total voters across 11 constituencies. The district’s large expatriate population—over 764,000 workers sent abroad since 2015—contributes nearly 9% of Bangladesh’s overseas workforce and about $100 million in monthly remittances. Officials expect total expatriate voter registrations to reach 60,000–70,000 before the deadline.

Authorities believe postal ballots could influence constituency results if participation is high. Ballots will be mailed to registered voters abroad, who will return them by post for counting on election day afternoon.

Bangladesh has launched a nationwide ‘Vote Car’ campaign aimed at raising voter awareness and participation ahead of the upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Election and 2026 referendum. The campaign officially began Monday afternoon at the South Plaza of the National Parliament, inaugurated virtually by Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus through a video message.

The initiative will see specially branded vehicles travel across all 64 districts and over 300 upazilas, promoting civic engagement and voter education. Information and Broadcasting Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Cultural Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki, and Election Commission Senior Secretary Akhtar Ahmed attended the launch event. Officials emphasized that the campaign seeks to strengthen democratic participation and ensure a transparent electoral process.

Observers note that the ‘Vote Car’ project reflects the interim government’s effort to restore public confidence in electoral institutions. As the election approaches, authorities hope the outreach drive will address voter apathy and misinformation, encouraging higher turnout in both the general election and the referendum.

Inqilab Mancha’s member secretary Abdullah Al Jaber has demanded that justice for the killing of Shaheed Osman Hadi be ensured before the upcoming national election. Speaking at a press conference in Dhaka’s Shahbagh on Monday, he accused the home and law advisers of negligence, saying their irresponsibility had contributed to the current state of disorder in the country.

The statement followed a Facebook post by the organization on Sunday night, which alleged that none of its two major demands had been met despite widespread public support. The post also criticized the home and deputy home advisers for failing to provide explanations during a recent briefing. It further claimed that the chief adviser had not established full authority over civil and military intelligence agencies and that individuals loyal to the previous administration remained in key positions.

The group warned that attempts to downplay Hadi’s murder through official briefings would deepen public mistrust. Observers note that the demand adds political pressure on the interim administration as the election approaches.