BNP Vice Chairman and Noakhali-3 MP Barkat Ullah Bulu stated that Sheikh Mujibur Rahman did not want Bangladesh’s independence but instead aimed to become Pakistan’s chief minister. He made the remark on Saturday, July 4, during a rally at Chaumuhani Public Hall in Noakhali, organized against drugs, terrorism, and extortion. Bulu credited former President Ziaur Rahman with declaring the country’s independence from the battlefield.

During his speech, Bulu criticized unqualified individuals who became mayors and MPs, alleging that such representatives formed armed groups involving drug dealers and teenage gangs, turning the country into a haven for crime. He warned that those involved in arms trading, robbery, and murder could face a military-style operation similar to “Operation Clean Heart.”

Bulu urged religious leaders, teachers, and the public to build social awareness against drugs and called on the administration to act decisively. He linked the success of the government’s newly announced national budget to eliminating drugs, terrorism, extortion, and armed gangs from society.

Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Asif has questioned the credibility of a recent honor awarded to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Seychelles, describing it as an embarrassing event for India. In a statement posted on X, Asif raised doubts about the timing and authenticity of the award, claiming it was introduced only days before Modi’s visit. He alleged that the certificates were produced using low-quality artificial intelligence and contained spelling errors, though he provided no evidence.

Asif further claimed that Modi was the first and only recipient of the honor, suggesting it reflected either propaganda or political bias. He argued that the incident had embarrassed India and criticized the publicity surrounding the award. India condemned Asif’s remarks, with NDTV reporting that Seychelles’ government rejected his claims. The Seychelles president’s office clarified that the “Order of the Guardian of the Blue Horizon” was established under national honors law and formally approved before Modi’s arrival.

The exchange comes amid ongoing political and diplomatic tensions between Pakistan and India, reflecting continued friction between the two neighbors.

A local BNP leader in Mirzapur, Tangail, was expelled from the party after a video of him dancing in a three-piece suit to celebrate Brazil’s victory over Japan in the ongoing World Cup went viral. The expulsion was announced on Sunday through a notice signed by Harunur Rashid, office secretary of the Mirzapur Upazila BNP. The notice stated that Khondkar Aminur Islam Mintu, president of Ward No. 1 of Gorai Union BNP, was permanently removed from both his position and primary membership.

According to local sources, Mintu’s celebratory dance drew widespread attention and criticism on social media. Following internal discussions, the party cited violations of organizational discipline and involvement in unethical activities as reasons for his dismissal. Attempts to reach Mintu for comment were unsuccessful.

Mirzapur Upazila BNP office secretary Harunur Rashid confirmed the expulsion in a statement released to the media.

The Government of Bangladesh has initiated a process to modernize the laws, regulations, and policies under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to align with the realities of the digital age. Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan announced the initiative during a meeting at the ministry on Sunday, emphasizing the need for updated legal frameworks to address challenges arising from rapid technological development and the expansion of the digital ecosystem.

According to the minister, the review of all existing laws and regulations under the ministry has already begun. The committee will identify areas requiring modernization, new legislation, or legal reform. Swapan noted that the ministry’s scope has expanded beyond print and broadcast media to include numerous digital platforms that often fall outside current legal coverage. The committee has been tasked with studying relevant laws from the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, and the United States to develop a framework suited to Bangladesh’s context.

The minister also stressed the importance of coordination among government and private stakeholders, including technology experts and telecommunications entities, to ensure effective regulation of digital services and cyber activities.

Chief Prosecutor of the International Crimes Tribunal, Md. Aminul Islam, stated that the Awami League destroyed state institutions during its 15 years in power and committed various crimes as a political party. He said that all incidents would be tried according to law. He made these remarks on Sunday afternoon during a briefing at the International Crimes Tribunal.

Aminul Islam confirmed that an investigation is ongoing against the Awami League for alleged crimes against humanity. If the allegations are proven, the party could be legally banned. He also mentioned that Awami League President Sheikh Hasina could face trial in several specific cases, including the Shapla Chattar incident.

On Saturday, Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed said at the July National Conference that the now-banned Awami League would never again be able to engage in politics in the country, claiming the party’s political downfall is complete.

Prime Minister’s Special Assistant and Chairman of the Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Welfare Front, Babu Bijon Kanti Sarkar, stated that no attacks on minorities occurred in the country after August 5. Speaking on Saturday evening at the annual Kali Puja at Char Koshunda Kali Temple in Ghior upazila of Manikganj, he said that although members of the Hindu community initially felt fear and uncertainty, investigations the following day found no evidence of violence or persecution. He also claimed that some media outlets in a neighboring country had spread misleading reports about the situation.

Bijon Kanti Sarkar added that party leaders, including Tarique Rahman, had instructed that no harm should come to any person, particularly minorities. He said teams were sent across the country to observe the situation, and they found no signs of attacks. Member of Parliament S A Jinnah Kabir, speaking as a special guest, highlighted the contributions of the Hindu community during the Liberation War and urged them to remain confident about their equal role in the nation.

The event was attended by local officials, BNP leaders, and community members, reflecting a message of communal harmony and reassurance.

Brigadier General Ahmad Vahidi, the commander of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), appeared in public for the first time in a long period. He attended the funeral of Iran’s late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei at a mosque in Tehran on Sunday morning, according to Iranian officials.

Officials said that during the early stages of the war, former IRGC chief Major General Mohammad Pakpour was killed in a joint attack by the United States and Israel. Following his death, General Vahidi was appointed as the new commander of the Revolutionary Guard. Since assuming this position, he has rarely been seen in public.

Iran’s state news agency IRNA released a video showing General Vahidi wearing a black cap while participating in the funeral ceremony.

Abidul Islam Khan, joint general secretary of the Dhaka University unit of Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal (JCD) and a former vice president candidate in the last DUCSU election, made strong remarks about the July uprising during a recent private television talk show. He said that those who mock or deny July or use disparaging language about it should face severe consequences. He described July as a turning point for Bangladesh’s change and stability, calling it a movement organized for long-term democratic stability.

Khan emphasized that his political activism stems from love for Bangladesh and its liberation, asserting that the nation comes before his organization. He urged the government to implement the July charter and adopt a zero-tolerance policy toward those who ridicule the uprising. He also recalled visiting the graves of martyrs, saying he witnessed their deaths firsthand and that the uprising was essential for national unity and existence.

He concluded by stating that July, like 1971, holds vital importance for the state and must be protected from defamation.

A protest march was held in Gulistan on Sunday in response to what organizers described as a brutal attack by extortionists, occupiers, and terrorists on local traders. The demonstration, organized by the Committee for Prevention of Extortion, Land Grabbing, and Terrorism, began with a rally at the north gate of Baitul Mukarram National Mosque and proceeded through several key points before ending at Gulistan Zero Point. Many traders and shop employees from Gulistan, Baitul Mukarram Mosque Market, and Stadium Market participated.

Speakers at the rally, including business leaders and Jamaat-e-Islami-affiliated figures, alleged that extortionists attacked traders on Saturday afternoon as they prepared for a protest march. Several traders, including Kabir Hossain, were reportedly injured, but police had not made any arrests. They accused law enforcement of protecting the attackers instead of ensuring public safety.

Committee president and labor leader Abdus Salam condemned the attack and warned that any group sheltering extortionists or terrorists would face consequences similar to those of the ruling Awami League, urging authorities to bring all offenders to justice regardless of political affiliation.

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman stated that members of the President Guard Regiment (PGR) are performing their duties with patriotism but emphasized that, as a specialized force, the PGR cannot afford to lag behind in training and technology. He made these remarks on Sunday afternoon at the 51st founding anniversary ceremony of the PGR held at Dhaka Cantonment.

The Prime Minister highlighted the importance of preparedness across all forces to face socioeconomic and cyber challenges. He said the government has taken initiatives to further modernize the armed forces, stressing that courage, honesty, and loyalty are essential alongside modern security strategies and technological skills. He also underscored the need for all officers and employees to strictly follow the chain of command.

Rahman noted that the armed forces’ significant role in the 1971 Liberation War has deeply connected them with the people of Bangladesh. He praised the PGR’s challenging duties and their commendable performance in difficult situations.

The Cabinet Division of Bangladesh has issued a circular prohibiting the use of the Prime Minister’s image on banners, festoons, and billboards used for publicity at any government event. The directive, signed by Deputy Secretary Tania Afroz, was released on Sunday and made effective immediately. It specifies that no three-dimensional or other forms of the Prime Minister’s image may appear in such materials.

According to the circular, designs for promotional materials must clearly reflect the purpose, message, and content of the event, giving priority to the event’s subject matter. The Cabinet Division emphasized that all ministries, departments, and field-level officials should implement the directive with utmost importance.

The instruction aims to ensure that government event materials focus on institutional objectives rather than individual representation, reinforcing a standardized approach to official publicity.

U.S. President Donald Trump declared that America has entered a golden age during a speech marking the country’s 250th Independence Day. Speaking at the National Mall in Washington, D.C., he highlighted his administration’s achievements and future plans, describing the moment as the dawn of America’s golden era. Despite adverse weather, thousands of citizens gathered to hear his address, which lasted about 40 minutes.

In his speech, Trump emphasized the passage of the 'Save America Act,' reaffirming his commitment to require proof of citizenship and identification for voting. He also announced that mail-in ballots would be restricted except in cases of illness, military deployment, or other exceptional circumstances. Repeatedly referring to socialism as a “specter” and comparing it to cancer, he said it must be eliminated.

Trump introduced the crew of 'Artemis 2' on stage and presented them with a special flag. The event concluded with fireworks and an aerial display by fighter jets, as Trump thanked attendees for braving the weather and ended with a blessing for America.

Political activity has intensified across Cumilla’s unions ahead of the expected local government elections, likely to be held between September and October 2026. According to local observers, Jamaat-e-Islami is currently ahead in campaign preparation, having already announced single candidates in most unions. In contrast, multiple BNP hopefuls are campaigning separately, raising concerns within the party about vote division and internal challenges.

BNP leaders acknowledged that participation by multiple candidates outside official party decisions could lead to electoral losses. The party’s central leadership has warned of organizational action against rebel contenders. Jamaat leaders said they have finalized most of their candidates, while BNP leaders indicated that final nominations will follow directives from the central leadership. The National Citizen Party (NCP) stated it will field its own candidates, though local-level coordination with Jamaat remains possible.

Analysts believe that unless BNP unites behind single candidates, Jamaat’s organized campaign could secure victories in many unions. The Election Commission is considering holding the polls by year-end to restore local governance disrupted after the fall of the previous ruling party.

Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that Turkey’s success is Pakistan’s success during a joint press conference with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Istanbul on Saturday. He described Pakistan and Turkey as two hearts of the same soul and vowed to strengthen their special friendship and cooperation. Sharif expressed gratitude for Erdogan’s warm hospitality and said he always enjoys visiting Istanbul.

Sharif highlighted the deep historical and spiritual ties between the two nations, rooted in shared faith, mutual sacrifices, and brotherhood. He noted that Turkey has always stood by Pakistan during difficult times such as wars, earthquakes, and floods. The two leaders held what Sharif described as a productive and detailed discussion, focusing on expanding cooperation in trade, investment, and industry, and exploring ways to raise bilateral trade to five billion dollars.

Sharif also thanked Turkey for supporting the right to self-determination of the people of Jammu and Kashmir and for backing Pakistan’s efforts toward regional peace. He emphasized that dialogue, diplomacy, and mutual respect are the most effective means to resolve disputes and maintain global peace.

Jamaat-e-Islami Hind (JIH) has protested the demolition of mosques and Muslim homes in Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Delhi. The organization alleged that these demolitions were carried out under the pretext of development and security without following proper legal procedures and with political motives. JIH also expressed concern over the ongoing voter list revision process.

In an interview with NDTV, JIH vice president Salim Engineer said that targeting religious structures of a specific community is alarming. He noted that while a few Hindu sites were also affected, the overall approach was biased. He accused the government of using development and security narratives to instill fear and claimed that the demolitions lacked due legal process.

JIH further stated that it does not oppose voter list revisions but criticized the rushed process, warning that legitimate citizens might be excluded. The group urged authorities to ensure that no eligible voter is removed and that no community is unfairly targeted.