The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has initiated an investigation into former Sirajganj-5 MP Abdul Momin Mondal and former Chowhali Upazila Chairman Taj Uddin over allegations of corruption, embezzlement, and illegal wealth accumulation. ACC’s Pabna district office confirmed the operation on December 20, citing suspicions of misappropriating government project funds and laundering money abroad.

According to ACC sources, both Mondal and Uddin, who were affiliated with the Awami League, are accused of acquiring assets beyond known income sources, including properties under their family members’ names. Mondal, first elected in 2018 and re-elected in 2024, lost his parliamentary seat following the fall of the Awami League government after a student-led uprising.

The investigation marks a continuation of the ACC’s intensified scrutiny of former political figures after the recent political transition. Officials indicated that further legal steps may follow depending on the outcome of the inquiry, which could set a precedent for future anti-graft actions in post-transition Bangladesh.

India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has dismissed reports in some Bangladeshi media describing a protest outside the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi as a security concern. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said on Sunday that the demonstration, held on December 20 by around 20–25 youths, was peaceful, brief, and posed no threat to the mission’s security.

Jaiswal clarified that the protesters gathered to condemn the killing of Dipu Chandra Das in Mymensingh and to call for the protection of minorities in Bangladesh. He emphasized that there was no attempt to breach the security perimeter, and police dispersed the group within minutes. India, he added, remains committed under the Vienna Convention to ensuring the safety of all foreign missions on its soil.

The spokesperson further noted that India is closely monitoring developments in Bangladesh and remains in contact with Dhaka. New Delhi has expressed concern over attacks on minorities and urged accountability for those responsible for the recent killing.

Bangladesh is undergoing a period of significant transformation marked by rising civic awareness and a renewed emphasis on national identity. The concept of “Bangladesh First” has gained prominence, reflecting aspirations that extend beyond economic growth to include justice, good governance, and human dignity. Citizens are increasingly vocal about transparency, equality, and state accountability, signaling a shift in public expectations from mere development to participatory governance.

Observers note that fear among the public has diminished, and people—especially the youth—are more willing to question authority and engage in civic discourse. Infrastructure improvements in roads, bridges, electricity, and communications are driving economic dynamism, while social change is evident in growing female participation and entrepreneurship. However, challenges remain in ensuring equitable growth and sustaining democratic engagement.

Analysts suggest that this evolving political consciousness could shape the country’s future direction, demanding realistic evaluation of progress and collective commitment to inclusive nation-building.

Police in Mirzaganj, Patuakhali, arrested Awami League leader and Union Parishad member Molla Maruf Hossain on Sunday morning. The arrest took place at a shop in New Market Bazar under Madhabkhali Union as part of the ongoing 'Operation Devil Hunt Phase-2'. Hossain, aged 42, serves as the publicity secretary of the Madhabkhali Union Awami League and represents Ward No. 7 in the local council.

According to Mirzaganj Police Station Officer-in-Charge Md. Abdus Salam, the arrest was made under regular legal procedures, and a case is being processed against Hossain. The police official added that the operation will continue as part of broader law enforcement efforts in the area. Local authorities have not disclosed further details about the charges or the nature of the investigation.

The arrest has drawn attention within the local political community, highlighting ongoing police actions targeting alleged irregularities and criminal activities in the region. Authorities have stated that similar operations will persist to ensure law and order.

Bangladesh’s Senior Land Secretary ASM Saleh Ahmed emphasized the importance of survey and settlement training in reducing land-related disputes and ensuring accurate land records. Speaking at the closing ceremony of the 141st Survey and Settlement Training Course in Dhaka, he said that precise surveys and reliable documentation can ease the burden on the judiciary and protect citizens from harassment. The 52-day training, organized by the Directorate of Land Records and Surveys, included 60 officers from various civil, police, forest, railway, and judicial services.

Ahmed highlighted the need to expand the use of modern tools such as GIS, GPS, drone surveys, and digital mapping to strengthen digital land services. Other speakers underscored that efficient human resource development is essential for fair resource management and transparency in land administration. Officials from the Land Appeal Board, Land Reform Board, and senior ministry representatives attended the event.

The initiative reflects the government’s broader effort to modernize land management, reduce litigation, and promote accountability through technology and capacity building.

Police in Lakshmipur have reported finding no credible evidence of arson or mob involvement in the fire that destroyed the home of BNP leader Belal Hossain, killing his eight-year-old daughter and severely injuring two others. The incident occurred late on December 19, and as of Sunday, no case had been filed and no arrests made.

Belal Hossain alleged that the fire was deliberately set, claiming the doors were locked and flammable materials used. He urged authorities to conduct a fair investigation, questioning how his house could burn down within minutes without external interference. BNP leaders, including Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, expressed condolences and demanded justice.

Police officials stated that preliminary investigations found no signs of petrol or accelerants, and it remains unclear whether the incident was politically motivated or domestic in nature. The investigation continues as the surviving victims receive treatment in Dhaka Medical College Hospital’s burn unit.

Omar Hadi, brother of slain activist Sharif Osman Hadi, has expressed deep concern about the possibility of receiving justice for his brother’s killing. Speaking at a prayer gathering organized by Jamaat-e-Islami at Al-Falah Auditorium in Dhaka’s Moghbazar, he said the family seeks no financial aid but only the fulfillment of Osman Hadi’s unfinished revolutionary mission.

Omar Hadi urged supporters to continue striving for an ‘insaf-based Bangladesh,’ emphasizing that the struggle initiated by his brother should not end with his death. He lamented that the family and members of the Inquilab Mancha, the movement Hadi led, have yet to return to normal life since the assassination.

The remarks come amid ongoing frustration over delays in the investigation and perceived lack of accountability in politically sensitive murder cases. Observers note that the call for justice may reignite discussions about political violence and the state of rule of law in Bangladesh.

Bangladesh marked Victory Day on December 16, commemorating the nation’s triumph after nine months of war in 1971. The day, celebrated nationwide, was portrayed not only as a state holiday but as a symbol of youth consciousness, responsibility, and collective aspiration for a just and humane society. Students and educators emphasized that true respect for the martyrs lies in building a united, accountable, and democratic nation.

Speakers and contributors highlighted that despite progress in global standing, Bangladesh has yet to fully realize the promises of its liberation struggle—equality, human dignity, and social justice. They pointed to persistent challenges such as corruption, inequality, unemployment, and political mistrust as barriers to national progress. Calls were made for stronger rule of law, effective democracy, and moral renewal.

The reflections underscored a broader national sentiment: that independence should not remain a memory but be manifested in every layer of civic life, ensuring that the sacrifices of 1971 continue to inspire inclusive nation-building.

Engineer M.A. Matin Khan, former Assistant Personal Secretary (APS) to BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia, has collected nomination papers to contest as an independent candidate in the Comilla-2 (Titas-Homna) constituency. The papers were collected from the Upazila Executive Officer and Assistant Returning Officer Md. Shahidul Islam on Sunday afternoon, marking the start of the nomination process for Bangladesh’s 13th National Parliamentary Election.

Local BNP leaders, including former upazila chairmen and union-level party officials, were present during the submission, signaling continued grassroots interest in the upcoming polls. According to election officials, the nomination paper distribution will continue until December 29. Meanwhile, the BNP’s official candidate for the seat, Principal Selim Bhuiyan, hails from neighboring Meghna upazila, which has drawn attention to intra-party dynamics.

Observers note that Matin Khan’s independent candidacy could split the BNP vote in Comilla-2, potentially influencing the overall electoral outcome. The development underscores growing competition among local political figures ahead of the national election.

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.