Bangladesh Islami Chhatra Shibir has strongly condemned what it described as systematic state oppression and post-election violence against minority Muslims in India, as well as recent restrictions by the newly formed West Bengal government that effectively ban cow slaughter. In a joint statement issued on Friday, the organization’s central president Nurul Islam and secretary general Sibgatullah denounced these actions as discriminatory and harmful to the religious and economic rights of Muslims, particularly ahead of the Eid-ul-Azha festival.

The statement alleged that following the West Bengal assembly election results, more than 34 incidents of planned violence targeted Muslims in several districts, including Cooch Behar, North and South 24 Parganas, and Kolkata. It cited an APCR report claiming widespread destruction of Muslim homes, businesses, and mosques. The leaders also referred to a broader pattern of persecution, mentioning the NRC and CAA laws in Assam, the revocation of Article 370 in Kashmir, and the demolition of the Babri Mosque.

Chhatra Shibir urged immediate cessation of violence in West Bengal, withdrawal of the discriminatory slaughter ban, and called on the UN, OIC, Arab League, and global human rights bodies to take effective action against the ongoing oppression of Muslims in India.

Jamiat-e-Ulama-e-Islam Bangladesh organized a protest march and rally in Sylhet on Friday, denouncing alleged persecution of Muslims in West Bengal and criticizing the silence of India’s central government. The demonstration began after Friday prayers at Bandar Bazar Jame Mosque and concluded with a rally at Chowhatta Point, led by the organization’s Sylhet metropolitan branch.

Speakers at the rally, including acting president Maulana Nizam Uddin and central joint secretary general Maulana Abdul Malek Chowdhury, claimed that Muslim homes, businesses, mosques, and madrasas in West Bengal had been attacked following the state elections. They described these incidents as crimes against humanity and urged international intervention. The speakers also emphasized the historical contributions of Muslims in the subcontinent and called for interfaith harmony and tolerance among all communities.

In addition to condemning the alleged violence, the speakers criticized a trade agreement with the United States, calling it contrary to national interests and demanding its cancellation.

Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahid Uddin Swapan announced that the government will continue to follow an equal rights-based state policy, as stated by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman after his return to the country. He made the remarks on Friday afternoon at the CHT Welfare Society’s reunion discussion on Biju, Baisuk, Sangrai, Bishu, and Changkran festivals held at the Chittagong Hill Tracts Complex in Dhaka.

The minister emphasized that Bangladesh’s linguistic, religious, gender, and ethnic diversity should be transformed into a national asset rather than a source of division. He recalled that former President Ziaur Rahman had resolved post-independence identity confusion through the concept of “Bangladeshi nationalism,” ensuring equal dignity for all citizens. Swapan also called for special facilities and quota systems to integrate marginalized ethnic groups into the mainstream, noting that such measures are essential for national unity.

Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs Minister Dipen Dewan expressed gratitude to the hill people for electing BNP-nominated candidates in all three constituencies and pledged to work under Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s leadership for lasting peace and development in the region.

Saiful Haque, General Secretary of the Revolutionary Workers Party of Bangladesh, stated that the judiciary must remain free from political interference to ensure a genuine democratic transition. Speaking on Friday, May 15, 2026, at a representative meeting of the Democratic Lawyers’ Solidarity in Segunbagicha, Dhaka, he emphasized that the best governments are those that guarantee full judicial independence. He warned that without a balanced relationship among the executive, parliament, and judiciary, a liberal democratic system cannot function effectively.

Haque identified political influence in judicial appointments as a major problem, noting that such practices often create psychological pressure on judges and hinder fair justice. He called for freeing judges from such pressures and ensuring that the judiciary operates independently of political, social, and economic forces. He added that public trust in the judiciary depends on whether marginalized people receive justice. Haque also expressed hope that the newly elected government would soon take steps to reform the judicial system in line with the July Charter and public expectations.

The meeting, chaired by senior lawyer Advocate Mahbubul Karim Tipu, also formed a 21-member convening committee for the Democratic Lawyers’ Solidarity and approved its draft declaration and constitution.

Saiful Alam Khan Milon, a central executive member of Jamaat-e-Islami and Member of Parliament for Dhaka-12, visited injured July fighters undergoing treatment at Vejthani International Hospital in Bangkok, Thailand. Milon, who was in Thailand on personal business, met the patients on Friday to check their physical and overall condition and wished them a speedy recovery. He stated that around 57 injured July fighters are receiving treatment there, many of whom were shot in Mirpur, Jatrabari, Rangpur, and other areas of Dhaka. Several have undergone up to 15 or 16 surgeries, with some suffering paralysis in limbs or waist.

Milon noted that the hospital is providing adequate treatment but that a large amount of medical expenses remains unpaid. He added that the families of the injured are in severe distress, as the government’s assistance of 20,000 taka per person is insufficient. He urged the government to take humanitarian steps for their rehabilitation and continued treatment. The injured fighters reportedly expressed frustration over the non-implementation of the July Charter and referendum verdict.

Earlier, on May 9, opposition leader and Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman also visited the same hospital and called for ensuring the best possible medical care for the injured.

Mujibur Rahman Manju, chairman of the Amar Bangladesh Party (AB Party), said that if the growing distance between the BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami turns into open conflict, it would politically benefit the ruling Awami League. He made the remarks on Friday, May 15, in Chattogram while addressing a city-level AB Party organizers’ gathering as the chief guest.

Manju recalled that the BNP had formed a government in 1991 with Jamaat’s support, but later their relations deteriorated over student organization influence in educational institutions, leading to violent clashes. He noted that although the two parties reunited in 2001 to share power and political movements, they now appear to be heading toward confrontation again. He warned that escalating tensions, along with internal disputes within the ruling BNP, could worsen law and order across the country.

The AB Party chairman also expressed concern that the past practice of using police as a partisan force might return. He urged the government to strengthen the judiciary and the Anti-Corruption Commission, warning that failure to do so could create more complex political challenges ahead.

A political controversy erupted during Barcelona’s championship parade in May 2026 when young Spanish footballer Lamine Yamal was seen waving a Palestinian flag amid celebrations in the city. The event, attended by around 750,000 fans, followed Barcelona’s 2–0 victory over Real Madrid that secured their second consecutive La Liga title. Yamal’s gesture, alongside a playful jab at Real Madrid, drew international attention.

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz reacted sharply on social media, accusing Yamal of inciting hatred and arguing that displaying the Palestinian flag sent the wrong message while Israel was at war with Hamas. Katz referenced the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack, alleging atrocities against Jewish civilians.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez swiftly defended Yamal, calling Katz’s remarks misguided and asserting that showing solidarity with Palestinians reflected the feelings of many Spaniards. Spain’s government has long criticized Israel’s military actions in Gaza, and public sympathy for Palestinians remains strong across Spanish society and sports. Yamal’s act has since inspired widespread support online, with many praising his humanitarian stance.

Ahmad Abdul Kaiyum, Assistant Secretary General of Islami Andolon Bangladesh and president of its Dhaka South unit, has said that the persecution of Muslims in West Bengal reflects the extremism of Hindutva ideology. He made the remarks on Friday during the party’s regular monthly meeting at its Purana Paltan office in Dhaka. Kaiyum stated that Muslims worldwide practice their faith peacefully, but since the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) came to power in West Bengal, Muslims there no longer feel safe in their homeland.

He alleged that after Narendra Modi assumed power, BJP leaders and activists have engaged in anti-Muslim actions, including denying Muslims the right to pray in mosques and turning places of worship into battlegrounds. Kaiyum called on the United Nations to take effective measures to stop what he described as inhumane acts by the BJP. He also urged Muslim world leaders to demand punishment for Modi and called for direct intervention by the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to end the persecution of Muslims in India.

The meeting was conducted by city secretary Abdul Awal Majumdar and attended by several senior party officials.

U.S. President Donald Trump has dismissed Iran’s latest proposal regarding its nuclear program, calling it unacceptable. Speaking to reporters on Friday, Trump said the first sentence of Iran’s proposal could not be accepted, claiming Tehran had previously agreed to completely halt its nuclear activities but has now backtracked. He added that Iran had once agreed to abandon enriched uranium or nuclear dust but later reversed that decision, though he expressed hope that Tehran would eventually agree again.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said the issue of uranium enrichment is not currently on the negotiation agenda, according to semi-official Tasnim News Agency, adding that it will be discussed in the next phase. Iran maintains that it does not seek to build nuclear weapons but continues to refuse relinquishing its stockpile of enriched uranium.

Trump also commented on the ongoing truce, saying it lasted about a month and was made possible by the effectiveness of U.S. blockades. Earlier on Friday, he hinted on social media that military operations against Iran could resume, suggesting renewed tensions despite the fragile ceasefire.

Opposition leader and Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman said that Bangladesh is facing many problems along its borders and that new challenges are emerging. He expressed hope for divine assistance to confront these issues with courage. Rahman made the remarks on Friday afternoon while addressing a gathering of dignitaries in Rangpur.

During his speech, Rahman emphasized his party’s commitment to the country, saying that they love Bangladesh and wish to contribute to its betterment. He stated that they have not left the country because of their devotion to it and expressed belief that the nation will eventually change for the better. He also urged his followers to fulfill their responsibilities properly, suggesting that being in the opposition might be a divine test that they must overcome.

Earlier in the day, Rahman arrived in Rangpur for a one-day visit and received a guard of honor from the metropolitan police at the Circuit House.

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami’s Nayeb-e-Ameer and Member of Parliament Professor Mujibur Rahman stated that if the referendum verdict is implemented, no one will be able to become an autocrat again. Speaking as the chief guest at a Dhaka Metropolitan South Jamaat educational camp on Friday, he said those aspiring to authoritarian rule cannot accept the verdict. He warned the government that no administration opposing the people’s will has ever survived and urged respect for the referendum outcome.

Assistant Secretary General Maulana Rafiqul Islam Khan, the main discussant at the event, said Jamaat has endured severe repression but earned a place in the people’s hearts. He claimed that before the February 12 election, citizens voted hoping to bring Jamaat to power, but election engineering and vote rigging deprived them of that outcome. He cautioned that such manipulation could recur and called on supporters to remain vigilant.

The event, held at the Institution of Diploma Engineers auditorium in Dhaka, was chaired by MP Nurul Islam Bulbul and attended by several central and city-level Jamaat leaders.

A protest rally and gathering were held in Singair, Manikganj, on Friday afternoon to denounce reported attacks, intimidation, and persecution of Muslims in West Bengal, India. The event took place at the Sahrail Central Eidgah field under the banner of the Sayesta Union Ulama Parishad and Tawhidi Janata. It was presided over by Mufti Sulaiman, with several local religious and political leaders addressing the crowd.

Speakers at the gathering described the incidents in West Bengal as clear violations of human rights and urged effective measures to stop communal violence and provocation. They emphasized that Bangladesh remains a country of communal harmony where people of all faiths coexist peacefully, and warned against any attempts to create religious division.

Participants also called on the international community to take effective action regarding the reported persecution of Muslims. The program concluded with a special prayer for peace, safety, and the freedom of the oppressed.

A protest rally and gathering were held in Khulna on Friday, May 15, 2026, condemning alleged persecution of Muslims in India’s West Bengal and the reported anti-Bangladesh remarks by West Bengal Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. The event took place at Dakbangla Square under the initiative of the Khulna District Imam Parishad and later turned into a procession through several city streets. Speakers at the rally demanded that Adhikari publicly apologize to Muslims, warning that failure to do so would not make Muslims responsible for any resulting tensions.

The gathering, presided over by Maulana Golam Kibria, general secretary of the Khulna District Imam Parishad, featured several religious leaders including Maulana Abu Bakar Siddiq, Maulana Nur Said Jalali, Maulana Hekmat Ali, Sheikh Md Nasir Uddin, and Maulana Abdullah Al Mamun. They urged Bangladesh’s parliament to adopt a motion condemning Adhikari’s remarks and cautioned that government silence could be interpreted as support for anti-Muslim sentiment.

The protest procession ended near the Baitun Nur Mosque Complex adjacent to New Market after starting from Dakbangla intersection.

Five leaders and activists of the BNP’s student wing and Jamaat-e-Islami were injured in an attack following a banned Awami League flash procession in Brahmanbaria. The incident occurred around 12:30 a.m. on Thursday night in the Suhilpur Bazar area of Sadar upazila. The injured include district Chhatra Dal joint convener Rahim Uddin, district Nabin Dal joint convener Javed, activists Jasim and Shahinul Islam Shahin, and district Jamaat publicity secretary and former Shibir president Md. Rokon Uddin.

According to local sources and party activists, Awami League, Jubo League, and Chhatra League members organized a motorcycle flash procession in Suhilpur Union, allegedly attempting to create panic in the area. BNP and Jamaat activists followed them on motorcycles. When they reached Malihata Shantinagar in the neighboring Budhal Union, several attackers ambushed them, injuring five people who were later treated at Brahmanbaria Sadar Hospital.

District Council Administrator and BNP General Secretary Sirajul Islam visited the injured at the hospital on Friday morning and claimed the attack was premeditated, demanding that those responsible be identified and brought to justice.

Bangladesh Labour Party Chairman Dr. Mostafizur Rahman Iran has alleged that Muslims in West Bengal are facing systematic persecution under the guise of secularism in India. Speaking on Friday at the party’s Nayapaltan office in Dhaka, he claimed that after the recent elections, armed groups linked to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have carried out violent attacks, looting, and arson against Muslim communities with the support of the new Chief Minister Suvendu Adhikari. He also said that cow and buffalo slaughter had been banned in the state, targeting the Muslim community.

Dr. Iran stated that Muslims in various Indian states are facing threats to their civil rights, religious freedom, and security. He urged international human rights organizations to investigate incidents of minority persecution in West Bengal and other parts of India and to take effective action. The event was organized to mark the 30th death anniversary of Maulana Abdul Matin, the party’s founder.

During the event, Dr. Iran also recalled Maulana Matin’s political legacy, describing him as a strong voice against oppression and a key figure in Bangladesh’s nationalist movements.