A violent incident occurred in Muradnagar, Cumilla, on December 21, when local Awami League leader Sajjad Hossain allegedly drove a motorcycle into Kazi Tahmina Akter, president of the upazila unit of the BNP-affiliated Jatiyatabadi Mohila Dal. The attack took place during a leaflet distribution campaign promoting BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman’s 31-point program. Witnesses said Tahmina suffered a broken arm and head injuries before being taken to the Muradnagar Health Complex and later referred to Cumilla for further treatment.

BNP leaders claimed the assault was a politically motivated attempt to silence opposition activities ahead of the national election. Upazila BNP joint convener Kamal Uddin Bhuiyan accused the Awami League of orchestrating targeted attacks on opposition figures. Locals handed over the alleged attacker and his motorcycle to police. Authorities have yet to release an official statement on the incident.

The attack underscores rising political tensions in rural Bangladesh as both parties intensify grassroots campaigns. Police investigations and possible legal actions are expected in the coming days.

Barishal district Detective Branch (DB) police arrested Captain (Retd.) M. Moazzem Hossain Babul, president of the Sheikh Hasina Parishad and Barishal Division Development Forum, as part of the ongoing 'Devil Hunt Phase-2' operation. He was detained from his residence in Salia Bakpur village, Banaripara upazila, on Saturday night and sent to jail through the court on Sunday morning.

According to local sources, Hossain had sought Awami League nomination in the 2018 and upcoming 2028 parliamentary elections. Police presented him in court as an unidentified accused in an explosives case. The court set December 24 for the next hearing and ordered his detention. Banaripara Police Officer-in-Charge Mojibur Rahman confirmed the arrest, stating that authorities are verifying whether any other cases exist against him.

The arrest comes amid intensified law enforcement drives in Barishal under the 'Devil Hunt Phase-2' initiative, aimed at curbing political and criminal activities ahead of the election season.

BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Advocate Ruhul Kabir Rizvi stated that although Bangladesh has passed through what he called a dark period of fascist rule, the nation’s sense of fear has not yet subsided. Speaking at a discussion meeting in Dhaka’s Radisson Blu Hotel on Sunday, Rizvi described the previous political climate as one where journalists and political activists alike faced widespread repression.

He emphasized that attacks on individuals for their opinions or statements remain unacceptable, warning that such incidents continue to raise deep concern even after the end of authoritarian governance. Rizvi referenced the treatment of veteran journalist Shafik Rehman as an example of the harsh conditions faced during that period.

The BNP leader also condemned the recent death of a young political activist, arguing that no one should lose their life for expressing their views. His remarks reflect the opposition’s ongoing criticism of the government’s human rights record and its call for greater political tolerance and accountability.

The Shibir-supported panel ‘Adommo Jobian Oikko’ has announced a 21-point manifesto ahead of the 2025 Jagannath University Central Students’ Union (JAKSU) and hall elections. The manifesto, revealed on Sunday at the university’s Rafiq Bhaban, outlines reforms to be implemented within 12 months, prioritizing a second campus project, resolving housing shortages, and ensuring a safe, violence-free campus.

Key pledges include adopting an output-based education curriculum, expanding high-speed internet, introducing paperless administration, and promoting research through scholarships and exchange programs. The panel also emphasized women’s safety through security apps, daycare facilities, and mental health support, along with commitments to accessible campuses for students with special needs.

Panel leaders said the manifesto reflects students’ core problems and aspirations. They pledged transparency by publishing monthly JAKSU activities online and engaging regularly with students. The panel’s VP candidate Md. Riazul Islam stated that their campaign seeks to build a student-friendly alliance based on ethics and justice rather than politics.

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia is set to contest the upcoming 13th National Parliamentary Election from the Bogura-7 (Gabtali–Shajahanpur) constituency. On Sunday, her election coordinator and former MP Helaluzzaman Talukder Lalu collected the nomination papers on her behalf from the Election Office on Gohail Road in Bogura city, in the presence of local BNP leaders and activists.

Following the submission, Lalu stated that Bogura-7 is Khaleda Zia’s traditional constituency, from which she was elected to parliament three consecutive times. He added that local residents are eager to see their leader return to parliament. The announcement has generated enthusiasm among BNP supporters across Gabtali and Shajahanpur, who expressed optimism about her victory if a fair electoral environment is maintained.

Khaleda Zia’s candidacy marks a significant political moment for the BNP, as the party seeks to regain parliamentary strength amid ongoing political challenges. The Election Commission is expected to finalize candidate lists and campaign schedules in the coming weeks.

The Bangladesh Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (BJCD) has announced a strong stance against groups accused of inciting mob violence under the guise of religion. Speaking at a rally at Dhaka University, BJCD central president Rakibul Islam Rakib warned that the organization will actively resist attempts to exploit religious sentiment to destabilize the nation. The protest, organized to demand justice for recent mob killings, concluded with a call for unity and social harmony.

Rakibul criticized what he described as a coordinated campaign by certain factions to spread hatred online and fuel unrest since early August. He reaffirmed BJCD’s commitment to democratic principles, emphasizing patience and restraint in confronting violence. Dhaka University BJCD president Ganesh Chandra Roy echoed the demand for impartial investigations and exemplary punishment for those responsible.

The rally followed recent incidents in Mymensingh and Lakshmipur, where a garment worker and a child were killed in alleged mob attacks. The student group urged the government to ensure swift justice and to prevent further religiously motivated violence.

Students at Rajshahi University on Sunday locked the offices of six deans reportedly aligned with the Awami League, protesting their continued presence after their official terms expired on December 17. The action took place at noon in the Deans’ Complex, where demonstrators chanted slogans demanding the removal of the deans and denouncing what they called political influence in university administration.

Student leaders, including RAKSU’s cultural secretary Zaid Hasan Zoha, said the deans had lost moral legitimacy to hold office beyond their tenure, calling their continued stay a betrayal of the July movement’s ideals. Senate member Akil Bin Taleb criticized the administration for failing to uphold the spirit of the post-July reforms and cited unresolved security issues on campus, including the killing of activist Hadi.

RAKSU General Secretary Salahuddin Ammar stated on social media that none of the six deans attended campus duties and had informed the vice-chancellor they would step aside. Students vowed to keep the offices locked until accountability measures are taken, putting pressure on the university administration to announce replacements.

Bangladesh observed its Victory Day with solemn tributes to the martyrs of the 1971 Liberation War, reaffirming the nation’s commitment to uphold the values for which independence was achieved. The commemorations emphasized that true respect for the fallen heroes lies in building a united, corruption-free, and democratic nation.

Speakers and commentators highlighted that the nine-month war was not only a fight for territorial freedom but also a struggle against oppression and inequality. They urged citizens to embody the spirit of humanity, justice, and secularism that guided the liberation movement. University representatives and civic leaders reiterated the need to institutionalize democracy and reject political violence and division.

The Victory Day reflections underscored a collective pledge to protect sovereignty and work toward a prosperous and dignified Bangladesh for future generations. Observers noted that sustaining unity and moral governance remains essential to realizing the aspirations of 1971.

A Dhaka court has issued a travel ban against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and 16 others, including senior Awami League leaders and ex-ministers, in connection with a corruption case involving alleged embezzlement of 3.09 billion taka. The order was delivered by Acting Judge Md Abdullah Al Mamun of the Dhaka Metropolitan Senior Special Judge’s Court following a petition from the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC).

According to the ACC, the accused conspired to misappropriate government funds through inflated billing by Computer Network System Limited, which reportedly caused significant financial losses to the state. The court was informed that the accused might attempt to leave the country, potentially obstructing the investigation and destroying evidence.

The travel restriction marks a significant legal development following the fall of Hasina’s government. Legal analysts suggest the case could set a precedent for future anti-graft proceedings involving high-profile political figures. The ACC is expected to continue its investigation in the coming weeks before filing formal charges.

Rashed Pradhan, vice-president and spokesperson of the National Democratic Party (JAGPA), was stopped by police on Sunday while attempting a solo protest march to the Indian Embassy in Dhaka. He began his walk from Paltan Box Culvert Road, carrying a symbolic black rose meant to protest what he described as Indian dominance and aggression. Police intercepted him near Badda Link Road after he had walked more than six kilometers.

Pradhan said he intended to deliver the black rose as a message of resistance against Indian influence and criticized the Bangladeshi interim government for preventing his peaceful demonstration. He also condemned an alleged attack on the Bangladeshi embassy in New Delhi, accusing Indian police of inaction. His remarks included strong criticism of India’s foreign policy and demands for justice in cross-border issues such as killings, water sharing, and alleged territorial encroachments.

The incident underscores rising nationalist rhetoric among smaller political groups in Bangladesh and could add strain to the already sensitive Dhaka-New Delhi diplomatic relationship.

The funeral prayer of Air Vice Marshal (Retd.) A.K. Khandaker, Deputy Chief of Staff during Bangladesh’s Liberation War and former Chief of Air Staff, was held at the Bangladesh Air Force Base Bashar in Dhaka on Sunday, December 21, 2025. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) confirmed that Khandaker passed away on Saturday morning at 10:35 a.m.

A.K. Khandaker had a distinguished military career beginning with his commission in the Pakistan Air Force in 1952. He served as a fighter pilot, flying instructor, and later as a senior officer in various command positions until 1969. During the 1971 Liberation War, he played a crucial role in coordinating the air operations of the Mukti Bahini and allied forces.

His passing marks the end of an era for Bangladesh’s military leadership. Senior officials, former comrades, and citizens paid tribute to his lifelong service to the nation. The government is expected to organize further commemorations recognizing his contributions to the country’s independence and defense establishment.

BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed has strongly condemned recent attacks on newspaper offices, including The Daily Star and Prothom Alo, describing the incidents as a national disgrace. Speaking at a media dialogue in Dhaka’s Radisson Blu Hotel, organized to mark acting chairman Tarique Rahman’s return to Bangladesh, he accused the government of negligence despite prior intelligence warnings about possible violence.

Ahmed questioned the delayed response of law enforcement and said the attacks reflect a growing intolerance toward the press. He urged stronger institutional safeguards for democracy and called for accountability from those responsible for ensuring free and fair elections. Other BNP leaders, including Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, echoed concerns about press freedom and political repression, citing past mistreatment of senior journalists.

Editors attending the event, such as Matiur Rahman Chowdhury of Manabzamin, emphasized the need for a clear media policy and collective unity to face future challenges. The discussion underscored the fragile state of media safety and democratic institutions ahead of Tarique Rahman’s anticipated political re-engagement.

Two journalists were injured in Shariatpur’s Sakhipur on Saturday night after being attacked by local BNP leader Mazharul Islam Sardar and his associates outside a police station. The incident occurred when the BNP leader allegedly tried to pressure police to release a detained former Youth League leader during the ongoing ‘Operation Devil Hunt’. When journalists began taking photographs, the situation escalated, leading to physical assault and attempts to seize their phones.

Police later intervened to control the situation and took the injured journalists to Vedarganj Upazila Health Complex. Local journalist associations strongly condemned the attack, calling it a blow to press freedom. The district BNP president, Shafiqul Rahman Kiran, said disciplinary action would be taken if party members were found involved and expressed regret over the incident. The Sakhipur police chief described the attack as “unfortunate” and confirmed that legal measures would follow if formal complaints were filed.

The assault has raised concerns about journalist safety and political interference in law enforcement, prompting calls for accountability and protection of media workers.

Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal has postponed its order on charge framing against 17 accused, including former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, in a case related to alleged abductions and torture at the Taskforce for Interrogation (TFI) Cell. The tribunal, led by Justice Md Golam Mortuza Majumder, rescheduled the order for December 23 after defense lawyers sought additional time during Sunday’s hearing.

Ten detained army officers were produced before the tribunal from Dhaka Cantonment’s special prison. Defense counsel Mansurul Haque Chowdhury requested the delay on behalf of several officers, while Chief Prosecutor Mohammad Tajul Islam objected, accusing the defense of intentionally delaying proceedings. The tribunal previously ordered public notices for six absconding defendants, including former security adviser Tariq Ahmed Siddiq and ex–Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal.

The case, involving allegations of enforced disappearances and torture, marks one of the most politically sensitive proceedings since the change of government. Observers say the tribunal’s next session on December 23 will be crucial in determining whether formal charges move forward against the high-profile accused.

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has collected nomination papers to contest the upcoming national election from the Bogura-6 (Sadar) constituency. The papers were received on his behalf by district BNP President Rezaul Karim Badsha from the Bogura Deputy Commissioner and Returning Officer Taufiqur Rahman on Sunday afternoon.

Following the submission, Rezaul Karim Badsha stated that Tarique Rahman’s candidacy from Bogura-6 marks a moment of pride for the party. Senior BNP leaders including Mahbubur Rahman, GM Siraj, VP Saiful Islam, Zainal Abedin Chan, and district acting general secretary Mosharraf Hossain were present during the collection.

Tarique Rahman, currently residing in the United Kingdom, has long been a central figure in BNP politics. His potential participation in the election could significantly influence the party’s campaign strategy and voter sentiment in northern Bangladesh, where Bogura remains a BNP stronghold.