BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed will attend an all-party meeting today at the Foreign Service Academy to finalize the July uprising proclamation. While there was initial uncertainty about BNP’s participation, media cell member Shairul Kabir Khan confirmed their involvement. The meeting, convened by interim government leader Professor Muhammad Yunus, is scheduled from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. However, several political parties claimed they were not formally informed about the meeting as of last night.

A Bangladeshi youth, Sheikh Alimur Rahman, was detained by the Border Security Force (BSF) for 22 hours after crossing into India at Thakurgaon border. Following a flag meeting between the border forces of both countries, he was returned on January 15. The incident occurred on January 14 when Alimur entered India near Beurjhari. BSF handed him over to local police before the return, which was facilitated by BGB’s efforts and the flag meeting.

The National Board of Revenue (NBR) has decided to reduce the VAT rate for hotels and restaurants from 15% to 5%. This decision, confirmed by NBR Member Mohammad Belal Hossain Chowdhury, will be officially announced today. The NBR’s move follows a review of the Bangladesh Restaurant Owners Association’s appeal. Earlier, the VAT on restaurants had been raised to 15% from 5% on January 9, alongside VAT hikes on over 100 goods and services.

The National Board of Revenue (NBR) has announced that starting February 1, 2025, all certificates, licenses, and permits for import-export goods must be submitted through the Bangladesh Single Window system, replacing traditional paper certificates. This change, impacting seven key government institutions, aims to streamline customs procedures, reduce costs, and prevent customs evasion. The system will be fully operational by March 2025, covering 19 government agencies. This initiative supports Bangladesh’s commitment to the WTO’s Trade Facilitation Agreement, ensuring a more efficient and faster import-export process for businesses.

A commission led by Dr. Badiul Alam Majumdar has recommended banning those convicted in crimes against humanity tribunals from participating in politics. The proposals also include reforms such as maintaining a party membership list, introducing rotating women’s representation in local governments, and implementing a “no” vote provision. Other suggestions include limiting the term of the Prime Minister, revising MPs’ benefits, and establishing an upper house for the election commission’s proposals. The commission also advocates for postal and online voting for expatriates.

Election Commissioner Abul Fazal Mohammad Sanaullah announced that the Election Commission (EC) is preparing for parliamentary elections targeting December this year. Efforts include updating the voter list and verifying it through house-to-house visits starting January 20. The EC aims to complete this process by June, addressing issues like deceased voters, non-citizens, and dual IDs. The final voter list will be published on March 2. The timeline may adjust based on political consensus and evolving circumstances.

The National Citizens’ Committee and the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement announced the “March for Felani” in Kurigram to protest BSF border killings and demand justice for Felani. Led by Sarjis Alam, the movement begins on January 16 with street meetings and aims to escalate nationally. Leaders criticized the government’s failure to address border atrocities and plan to raise the issue internationally. They called for public support to pressure India into stopping such killings and ensuring justice for victims.

The Rajshahi Forest Department is seeking two vloggers, Al-Amin and Tuli, for posting viral videos of eating egrets and wild ducks, violating the Wildlife (Conservation and Security) Act, 2012. A memorandum by Youth Action for Social Change urged swift legal action and conservation measures. The vloggers face penalties, including imprisonment and fines. Authorities are preparing a case, with law enforcement tasked to locate them. Conservationists demand protecting bird habitats and preventing hunting and pollution.

An all-party meeting will be held at the Chief Advisor’s residence to finalize the July Uprising Declaration. Political parties, professionals, and advisors, including Dr. Muhammad Yunus, are expected to attend. The Anti-Discrimination Student Movement and National Civic Committee demand the inclusion of seven key points, including justice for martyrs, recognition of student leadership, and a new democratic constitution. While most parties agree on the draft, some clauses remain contentious, requiring further discussion for consensus.

The Bangladesh Financial Intelligence Unit (BFIU) has requested the bank account details of 14 journalists, including Zulhas Alam of AP and Farid Hossain of UNB, along with their business account information. The BFIU has directed banks to provide these details within seven working days. This follows previous actions taken against journalists in recent months amid a broader investigation into corruption and misdeeds linked to the Awami League government.

A threatening message, “Coordinator, prepare for death. Joy Bangla, Joy Bangabandhu,” was found on the wall of activist Fardin Rahman’s house in Charghat, Rajshahi. Fardin, a key organizer of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, filed a police complaint. His family, already shaken by his previous arrest during a 2023 protest, is now living in fear. Police are investigating the incident, with Fardin expressing concerns for his parents’ safety, who often stay home alone.

An investigation by Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMU) identified 144 teachers, doctors, nurses, and staff involved in violent acts during anti-discrimination protests on August 4, 2023. Accusations include assaulting students, arson, and attempted murder. Of these, 16 were suspended for attempting to kill a student, and 23 were identified as masterminds. A case has been filed, and disciplinary actions are being pursued by both the university and law enforcement authorities.

A viral claim circulated on social media that the Bangladesh Army had seized the passports of 45 individuals, including Sarjis Alam, who were allegedly preparing to travel to Europe illegally. However, this was debunked by the fact-checking organization Rumor Scanner, which confirmed that the information was fabricated. The army confirmed that the claim was false, and no mainstream media or official reports supported the story. The rumor originated from a blog website and spread through social media.

BNP leader Lutfuzzaman Babar has been acquitted of a life sentence in the 10-truck arms smuggling case, with no obstacles remaining for his release on January 16. The High Court also acquitted four others and reduced sentences for five, including ULFA commander Paresh Barua. In total, five defendants were sentenced, five acquitted, and four were exonerated due to death. The case, involving former high-ranking officials, revolved around arms smuggling and illegal arms possession.

The Appellate Division acquitted BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia, acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, and all other accused in the Zia Orphanage Trust corruption case. The court overturned previous High Court and lower court verdicts, stating the trial stemmed from political vengeance. Khaleda had been sentenced to 10 years in prison in 2018, serving over two years. The Anti-Corruption Commission found no evidence of corruption. Defense lawyers hailed the verdict, calling the earlier trial a mockery of justice.