India’s Ministry of External Affairs recently stated that its territory has never been used for activities against the interests of Bangladesh’s people. The declaration, issued on December 14, followed reports that former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and several Awami League leaders had taken refuge in India after the July uprising. The statement drew sharp attention in Dhaka, where many questioned its credibility amid ongoing tensions between the interim government and New Delhi.

Analysts and commentators argue that India’s claim contradicts historical and current realities, pointing to alleged instances of interference in Bangladesh’s internal affairs. The article highlights long-standing grievances, including India’s perceived favoritism toward the Awami League and its reluctance to repatriate Bangladeshi fugitives. Public anger reportedly intensified after the attempted assassination of activist Osman Hadi, whose attackers are said to have fled to India.

Observers warn that unless India reassesses its approach and engages directly with the Bangladeshi public rather than political elites, bilateral trust may deteriorate further. Calls are growing for India to return wanted fugitives and prevent its soil from being used for political operations against Bangladesh.

Bangladesh has been plunged into mourning following the death of Sharif Osman Bin Hadi, a prominent activist known for his role in the July uprising and his opposition to authoritarianism and foreign dominance. Hadi died in Singapore General Hospital after being shot at close range, sparking nationwide grief and protests. The government declared a day of national mourning and pledged to bring the perpetrators to justice.

However, isolated incidents of violence and vandalism erupted in parts of the country, prompting appeals for restraint from political leaders and civil society. Several media offices, including The Daily Star and Prothom Alo, were attacked, raising concerns about attempts to divert public attention from Hadi’s legacy. Analysts and journalists have warned that opportunistic groups and social media influencers may be exploiting public emotion to sow division among reformist forces.

Observers caution that continued infighting could undermine the democratic transition and justice process following the July uprising. Calls have intensified for unity among pro-reform groups to safeguard the ongoing political transformation and prevent destabilization ahead of the next parliamentary election.

The International Crimes Tribunal-1 of Bangladesh is set to deliver its order today on whether to formally frame charges against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and 16 others, including several senior military officers, in a case related to alleged enforced disappearances at the Taskforce for Interrogation (TFI) cell. The three-member judicial panel, led by Chairman Golam Mortuza Majumdar, will issue the ruling following hearings held earlier this month.

Defense lawyers representing the accused sought discharge, arguing insufficient evidence, while the prosecution, led by Gazi M.H. Tamim, requested the tribunal to proceed with formal charges. Among the 17 accused, Hasina and six others, including her former security adviser Major General (Retd.) Tariq Ahmed Siddiq, remain absconding. Ten detained officers are expected to be brought to court from prison for the order.

The case has drawn significant attention as it involves high-profile political and military figures. Legal analysts say the tribunal’s decision could shape future accountability proceedings for alleged human rights violations during the previous administration.

Authorities in Chattogram have dismissed widespread social media claims of an attack on the Indian Deputy High Commission, confirming that no direct assault or damage occurred. The confusion arose Thursday night after the death of Osman Hadi triggered protests in several city areas. A small group of demonstrators reportedly threw stones near the diplomatic compound, but police quickly contained the situation.

Deputy Commissioner Aminur Islam stated that only a few stones hit the outer gate, with no intrusion, vandalism, or fire inside the premises. Police used tear gas and sound grenades to disperse the crowd, detaining 12 individuals. Later, army personnel joined to secure the area and prevent escalation. Video analyses and eyewitness accounts supported the police version, showing no evidence of an actual attack.

Security analysts warned that misinformation involving diplomatic sites can create unnecessary panic and strain bilateral relations. They urged authorities and media to ensure verified communication to prevent similar rumor-driven unrest in the future.

Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman has warned that if those responsible for the killing of Sharif Osman Hadi are not brought to justice, no one in the country will remain safe. Speaking to reporters after visiting Hadi’s grave near Dhaka University’s central mosque, he demanded the immediate arrest of the perpetrators and their prosecution under the law.

Dr. Rahman described Hadi as a symbol of revolutionary ideals and accused his killers of being enemies of Bangladesh’s independence and culture. He expressed dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of the investigation, saying the public remains unconvinced by its actions. He also suggested that Hadi’s growing popularity might have motivated the killing, calling it a planned attempt to silence a voice of justice.

The Jamaat leader expressed hope that the upcoming national election, scheduled for February, would be held on time. Senior Jamaat and Islami Chhatra Shibir leaders were present during the visit, underscoring the party’s continued political mobilization around Hadi’s legacy.

The Bangladesh Armed Forces have requested permission from the Election Commission (EC) to enter polling stations freely and exercise judicial authority under the Mobile Court Act during the upcoming national elections. The proposal was raised at a recent inter-agency meeting chaired by Chief Election Commissioner Nasir Uddin, but no immediate decision was made. Currently, under electoral law, security personnel may enter polling centers only with the presiding officer’s consent.

Election Commissioner Abdur Rahmanel Mashud confirmed that the government has already deployed the armed forces nationwide with limited judicial powers until February 28. However, he noted that the Representation of the People Order (RPO) restricts such authority to executive magistrates. The EC will revisit the issue in a follow-up meeting. Other security agencies, including the Navy and Air Force, raised logistical concerns, while the EC emphasized neutrality and swift action against electoral offenses.

The discussion reflects broader efforts to ensure a peaceful and credible election amid concerns over potential unrest, sabotage, and misuse of money. Final decisions on the armed forces’ expanded powers are expected after further consultations.

As Bangladesh’s 13th parliamentary election nears, the Sylhet region has emerged as a key battleground for the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). Despite early campaign momentum, internal disputes over nominations and alliance negotiations with Jamaat-e-Islami’s eight-party coalition have created tension within the BNP. The party has announced candidates for five of Sylhet’s six constituencies, leaving the Sylhet-5 seat undecided amid speculation it may be allocated to an ally.

Local BNP leaders have expressed frustration over the delay and potential seat-sharing compromises, while Jamaat and other Islamist parties have already launched vigorous campaigns. Political observers note that BNP’s traditional dominance in Sylhet could be undermined if factionalism persists. Meanwhile, Jamaat’s strong grassroots organization and the presence of multiple smaller parties could fragment the opposition vote.

Analysts suggest that finalizing the alliance deal before late December will be crucial for BNP’s electoral cohesion. Failure to resolve internal rifts may weaken its position in a region long considered a bellwether for national political trends.

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman visited the grave of Shaheed Sharif Osman Hadi on Sunday morning after offering Fajr prayers at the Dhaka University Central Mosque. He was accompanied by senior party leaders and members of Islami Chhatra Shibir, the student wing of Jamaat. The visit was part of a remembrance event honoring the late Osman Hadi’s contributions to the organization and his role in the party’s history.

Among those present were Jamaat Secretary General Professor Mia Golam Porwar, Assistant Secretary General Maulana Abdul Halim, and several central and city-level leaders. Following the visit, Dr. Rahman spoke briefly with journalists, recalling Osman Hadi’s dedication and sacrifice. The event drew attention from both party supporters and observers, highlighting Jamaat’s ongoing efforts to maintain internal unity and historical continuity.

The visit comes at a time when Jamaat is seeking to strengthen its organizational presence amid political challenges. Analysts note that such symbolic gestures may aim to reinforce morale among members ahead of future political developments.

The Bauphal Press Club in Patuakhali has elected a new executive committee, with Md. Jalilur Rahman of the daily *Amar Desh* chosen as president and Md. Jasim Uddin of *Manabkantha* as general secretary. The election took place on Saturday, December 20, 2025, under the supervision of local administrative officials. Rahman secured 19 votes to win the presidency, while Jasim Uddin received 35 votes for the general secretary post.

ABM Mizanur Rahman from *Prothom Alo* was elected vice president with 36 votes. The election was overseen by Assistant Commissioner (Land) Sohag Milu as the returning officer, with other local officials serving as presiding and assistant presiding officers. The newly elected committee includes representatives from several national and regional media outlets.

The committee will serve for a two-year term, aiming to strengthen professional collaboration among journalists in Bauphal. Members expressed optimism that the new leadership will enhance press freedom, ethical reporting, and community engagement in the region.

A violent clash erupted in Hatiya upazila of Noakhali on Saturday night when members of a banned Awami League faction allegedly attacked a local BNP office, injuring at least five opposition activists. The assault took place around 7:30 p.m. at the Bhairab Bazar area of Char King Union, reportedly led by local union council member and Awami League leader Abu Taher. Attackers vandalized the BNP office and beat several BNP and affiliate organization members.

According to BNP activists, the attack was linked to a previous dispute over local dominance and a recent case filed against Abu Taher’s associates. Police confirmed that a confrontation occurred between two groups but downplayed the political aspect, describing it as a continuation of an existing local feud. Law enforcement officials said they had deployed forces to the area and made one related arrest later that night.

The incident underscores ongoing political tension in Bangladesh’s coastal regions, where rival party factions frequently clash over territorial and organizational control. Authorities are investigating the matter amid calls for stronger political oversight in the area.

Large numbers of people continued to gather late into Saturday night at the grave of martyr Sharif Osman Hadi, located beside the Dhaka University Central Mosque and adjacent to the mausoleum of national poet Kazi Nazrul Islam. Visitors were seen praying and waiting to view the grave, even after security barriers around the area were lifted earlier in the evening.

Police officials confirmed that night-time security would remain in place for safety reasons, restricting public entry inside the cemetery. Only prayers from outside the main gates were being allowed. Earlier in the day, Hadi was buried near the mosque following a funeral prayer at the South Plaza of the National Parliament, attended by thousands, including political leaders, university officials, and family members.

Authorities are expected to continue monitoring the site amid ongoing public interest. The heavy turnout reflects widespread mourning and public solidarity following Hadi’s death, while law enforcement remains alert to ensure order around the high-profile burial site.

A funeral-in-absentia (gayebana janaza) for Sharif Osman Hadi, spokesperson of Inquilab Mancha and a key figure in the July Revolution movement, was held in Noakhali on Saturday afternoon. The prayer took place beside the district model mosque near the Deputy Commissioner’s office and drew participants from various political and social groups, including BNP, Jamaat-e-Islami, Islami Andolon, NCP, and Gana Adhikar Parishad.

Speakers at the event described Hadi as a selfless and courageous young man committed to non-communal ideals. They demanded a transparent investigation into his death and the immediate arrest of those responsible. Local leaders such as former Noakhali mayor Harunur Rashid Azad and student leaders from Shibir and JCD were present.

Following the prayer, members of the July All-Party Alliance declared the Bangabandhu Square in front of the DC office as “Osman Hadi Square,” symbolizing their respect and commitment to his ideals.

A memorial prayer and discussion meeting was held in Nawabganj, Dinajpur, on Saturday evening to honor the memory of martyr Sharif Osman Hadi. The event took place at the local office of Jamaat-e-Islami and was attended by party leaders, local dignitaries, and community members. Professor Rezaul Islam attended as the chief guest, while Akram Hossain, a member of the Thana Working Committee, presided over the session.

Speakers at the gathering reflected on Osman Hadi’s contributions to the Islamic movement and his dedication to social and religious causes. The program concluded with a prayer session led by Maulana Rahmatullah Azadi, seeking blessings for the nation and forgiveness for the departed soul. Attendees later participated in the distribution of food offerings (tobarak).

The event underscored Jamaat-e-Islami’s continued efforts to commemorate its historical figures and reinforce its ideological roots within local communities in northern Bangladesh.

Hundreds of thousands of mourners gathered on Saturday at Dhaka’s Manik Mia Avenue for the funeral of revolutionary leader Sharif Osman Hadi, whose death has sparked widespread emotion across Bangladesh. The massive crowd, stretching around the National Parliament complex, was described by witnesses as one of the largest public gatherings in the country’s recent history. Many attendees traveled from distant districts to pay their final respects to the slain activist, known for his fiery speeches and commitment to justice.

Participants described Hadi as a symbol of honesty and courage, with many calling him the voice of the working class. The funeral was marked by chants, tears, and expressions of frustration over the lack of arrests in connection with his killing. Security forces struggled to manage the overwhelming turnout, as some mourners scaled barriers to enter the area. Observers compared the scale of the event to the funeral of former President Ziaur Rahman, underscoring Hadi’s enduring influence.

The unprecedented turnout reflects deep public sentiment and may signal growing political mobilization around Hadi’s ideals of justice and equality.

Police in Faridpur’s Saltha upazila have arrested Shawon Kazi, a local leader of the banned Chhatra League, in connection with the 2018 case involving the vandalism of BNP central organizing secretary Shama Obaid Islam’s car. Kazi, aged 30, was detained from Phulbaria area on Saturday afternoon following a tip-off. He had been wanted under the Speedy Trial Act and was sent to the Faridpur court after his arrest.

According to police inspector Maruf Hasan Russell, Kazi had been absconding for a long time in case CR 112/24. The case stems from a violent attack on a BNP rally held in December 2018 at Saltha College field, organized in support of Obaid ahead of the national election. Following the fall of the Awami League government in August, a fresh case was filed naming 82 Awami League leaders and 200–300 unidentified individuals.

The arrest marks a renewed push in politically sensitive cases reopened after the change in government, potentially signaling further legal actions against those accused of past election-related violence.