During a rally toward the Indian High Commission demanding the repeal of the Wakf Amendment Bill and an end to Muslim persecution, Hefazat leader Mamunul Haque issued a stern warning. “No government can survive in Bangladesh if it stands against Islam,” he said, cautioning leaders not to bring upon themselves a fate similar to Prime Minister Hasina’s by aligning with anti-Islamic forces. He threatened a long march to Delhi if the demands are not met and condemned both Israel’s assault on Gaza and India’s Modi government for attempting to eradicate Muslims.

In a meeting with Qatar’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, Sheikh Saud bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus proposed establishing a dedicated Special Economic Zone for Qatari investors. He suggested that Qatari businesses could invest in defense equipment manufacturing and other sectors. Yunus emphasized Bangladesh’s vision to become a global manufacturing and economic hub, highlighting enhancements in port capacities and investment services. He added that industries set up in Bangladesh can freely export goods abroad.

At a rally in front of the Press Club, Mahbub Alam, Joint Convenor of the National Citizen Party (NCP), asserted that elections are not possible without comprehensive institutional reforms and the repeal of repressive laws stemming from 15 years of looting, violence, and fascist rule. He emphasized that these reforms are essential to ensure voting rights. “Without reforms, we’ll witness another era of politics dominated by muscle and money,” he said. Other speakers criticized efforts to rehabilitate the Awami League through repeated election calls. They demanded justice and a ban on the party, stressing, “We want a Second Republic. Don’t make elections and reforms adversaries.”

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has projected that Bangladesh will see an increase in dollar inflows during the current fiscal year, which is expected to ease pressure on the country’s current account deficit. According to the IMF, the growing size of the country’s GDP will contribute to an improvement in foreign currency inflows, helping to narrow the deficit in external accounts.

The report also notes that this improvement trend may continue into the next fiscal year, with the deficit likely remaining stable. Due to a dollar crisis, Bangladesh’s current account deficit had previously surged to 4% of GDP in the 2021–22 fiscal year. However, it decreased to 2.6% in 2022–23, and further declined to just 1.4% of GDP in the 2023–24 fiscal year.

The Cabinet Division has issued a notification declaring three days of national mourning from Thursday to Saturday following the death of His Holiness Pope Francis, the head of the Catholic Church and the sovereign of Vatican City.

During this period, national flags will be flown at half-mast on all government, semi-government, autonomous institutions, and educational establishments, as well as in all private buildings and Bangladeshi missions abroad.

Special prayers will also be held for the departed soul of the Pope, honoring his memory and legacy.

Public Works Adviser Adilur Rahman Khan said his first action after taking office was to eliminate quota-based allocations. “We aim to build a practical, livable Dhaka,” he said. He emphasized improving connectivity with nearby districts to allow easier access for commuters. Reflecting on Dhaka’s expansion, he lamented the destruction of the once-rich Bhawal forest, stressing the need to avoid unplanned urban sprawl.

Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus praised Qatar Charity’s humanitarian work during a meeting with Acting Head Nawaf Abdullah Al Hammadi. He requested support in launching tech education programs for madrasa students across Bangladesh. Qatar Charity has already supported vocational training in some madrasas and will seriously consider the proposal.

Information Adviser Mahfuz Alam stated that the government is undertaking various initiatives to strengthen the Bangladesh Film Development Corporation (BFDC). With a large domestic market, he said the film industry must be revitalized. He called on stakeholders to work together and emphasized the importance of the modern film city under construction in Kabirpur.

BNP leader Emran Saleh Prince called on Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus to swiftly announce a reform roadmap and prepare for elections by December. He accused the government of conspiring to derail elections. “Under Tarique Rahman’s leadership, we will restore voter rights and dismantle all conspiracies,” he said. He reiterated BNP’s 31-point agenda to build a fair, equitable society, including family cards, unemployment benefits, fair agricultural pricing, and wage guarantees.

Anjan Roy, a Computer Science student at Missouri State University, faced deportation after allegedly losing his legal student status. But he successfully challenged the notice in court, regaining legal status in the U.S. Anjan began his undergrad in August 2024 and started his Master’s in January. The deportation threat came via email on April 10. U.S. authorities had previously warned about expelling those opposing the U.S. or Israel.

DNCC demolished a two-story building in Mohammadpur’s Katasur area built on canal land. A portion of a mosque’s toilet and boundary wall built on the canal was also removed, with more demolition planned. Administrator Mohammad Ejaz said religious and political institutions had long encroached public land. “The era of grabbing canals and sleeping soundly is over,” he said, promising no notice—just action. He also mentioned robust dengue-prevention efforts underway.

Labor Adviser M. Sakhawat Hossain criticized factory owners for claiming financial hardship while living lavish lifestyles. “You drive luxury cars, travel abroad, and enjoy private healthcare—yet say you can’t pay workers,” he remarked. He condemned the cozy relationship previous labor ministry officials had with factory owners, saying, “This is why no one ever stood up to them.”

Education Adviser Dr. C. R. Abrar expressed grave concern over ongoing unrest at educational institutions across the country. “We have a plan to address this,” he said. Speaking about the recent tension at KUET, he mentioned that a committee has been formed and the government will act based on its recommendations. “We’ve started working. I urge students to remain calm,” he added, assuring swift resolution.

Four female students at Baufal Salehia Fazil Madrasa were reportedly penalized for refusing to remove their hijabs during a Hadith exam. The exam’s tag officer, Tural Pramanik, allegedly confiscated their answer sheets. One student’s paper was later returned after she broke down in tears, but the remaining three did not receive theirs back. Pramanik is a BRDB project officer.

Chaired by President and Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman, the Executive Committee of the Bangladesh Olympic Association (BOA) held its meeting. The Army Chief expressed gratitude to all federations and ministries involved. He shared hope for the successful implementation of the proposed Olympic Complex in Trishal, Mymensingh, with construction of the indoor stadium expected to begin in June. The committee also made decisions regarding participation in the 3rd Asian Youth Games, 6th Islamic Solidarity Games, 14th South Asian Games, and hosting the 10th Bangladesh Games.