Leaders of the Discrimination Resistance Student Movement, Chittagong branch, have expressed deep concern over the recent incidents of rape and violence against women in the capital and across the country. They demanded that the government take strict action, warning at a press conference that if the situation does not improve within 24 hours, they will launch an unstoppable movement. They emphasized that the mass uprising has taken Bangladesh into a new era and stated their willingness to assist the government in reforming the constitution to build a democratic and discrimination-free society. They reaffirmed their commitment to the overall welfare of the state.

A designated prayer space for female students has been inaugurated at the Dhaka University Teacher-Student Center (TSC), along with the renovation of the men’s prayer area and ablution facilities. Former Dhaka University Chhatra Shibir president Sadik Kayem stated that establishing this prayer space was not an easy task. He alleged that anti-Islamic elements had targeted Muslim female students who supported this noble initiative and harassed them online with various labels. Kayem asserted that there will no longer be room for Islamophobia and harassment at the university. He also pledged that no student should face discrimination due to their religious beliefs.

Jahangirnagar University Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Mohammad Kamrul Hasan has expressed concern and condemnation over the physical assault on the Vice-Chancellor of Khulna University of Engineering and Technology (KUET). In a press release on Monday, he stated that such an attack is a criminal offense. He pointed out that after the mass uprising, the government set a precedent by appointing eminent academics to universities. He described the assault on these vice-chancellors, who work to uphold and implement the spirit of the uprising, as an attempt to rehabilitate fascists and their allies. He demanded a thorough investigation and exemplary punishment for those responsible.

The coordinator of the Ganaodhikar Parishad, Abu Hanif, has stated that the interim government has failed to meet public expectations. He criticized its inability to maintain law and order, highlighting that those involved in the July massacre are being granted bail. Due to this failure, he believes the Law and Home Affairs advisers should step down. Hanif made these remarks while participating in the July Mancha’s protest on February 18, demanding a ban on the ruling Awami League and its affiliated organizations. He also strongly called for the prosecution and banning of Awami League and its allies involved in the July massacre.

A violent clash between locals and members of the banned extremist group Hizb ut-Tahrir in Pirgachha, Rangpur, left 15 people injured. Police intervened and arrested seven individuals to control the situation. Reports indicate that around 40 members of the group were holding a secret meeting on Monday morning when locals confronted them, leading to an outbreak of violence. In the ensuing chaos, four houses belonging to Hizb ut-Tahrir members were set on fire. Four critically injured individuals have been taken to Rangpur Medical College, while two others, including an eight-month-pregnant woman, are in police custody.

Speaking at a rally in Dhamrai, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir warned that any attempt to form a new party while holding power would be mocked as a ‘tease party’ by the public. He declared that such political maneuvers would not be accepted. Fakhrul stressed BNP’s commitment to working alongside other parties to restore democracy in Bangladesh. Calling for patience, he said, “We have removed one fascist. Now, we want this government to complete the election process.” He also expressed BNP’s willingness to cooperate with the interim administration.

Hasnat Abdullah, convener of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, emphasized that the nation can only progress by taking a firm stand against corruption. “If merit is lost, incompetence will rule,” he said, pointing out that unqualified individuals often end up leading mosque committees. He praised Mustafa Fayezi Huzur as one of the few who never wavered in the face of jail, abduction, or murder threats. Hasnat also urged everyone to focus on education and humility.

The Home Minister described the country’s law and order situation as satisfactory. Addressing the unusual timing of the press conference, he stated, “Previously, it was impossible to find officials at 2:30 AM. We called this conference to demonstrate that we work day and night.” He dismissed concerns that crime is increasing, explaining that incidents, like the recent mugging in Banasree, are now reported instantly, whereas before, it took days to learn about them. He instructed law enforcement to ensure such incidents do not recur. Meanwhile, the State Minister for Home Affairs hinted at possible changes in security measures after sunset. The Chief Adviser’s press secretary announced that joint patrols in Dhaka will be prioritized.

BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia’s adviser Zainul Abedin Faruk declared that if his party comes to power, no fascist forces will emerge in Bangladesh. He called for unity to prevent the return of dictatorship and stressed the need for media and constitutional institutions to operate independently. He urged the Chief Adviser to announce an election roadmap without delay and welcomed the formation of the new political party. Faruk also warned against market syndicates exploiting Ramadan and called for proactive measures to control commodity prices.

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md. Touhid Hossain revealed that there is no clear information on how USAID’s $29 million funding, intended to strengthen Bangladesh’s political landscape, was distributed. He stated that the NGO Affairs Bureau reported having no record of such an entry. He emphasized that no funds can be withdrawn without NGO Bureau approval, yet the allocation remains unclear. He assured that more information would be shared as it becomes available.

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman cautioned that unnecessary debates should not create opportunities for autocratic forces and their allies. He warned that excessive discussions on reforms could overshadow the country’s core issues. Rahman urged for a swift election and stressed that BNP, as a pro-democracy force, must continue its efforts to restore democracy in Bangladesh. He asserted that ensuring people’s right to vote is paramount and would ultimately free the nation from oppressive forces. He also expressed frustration over BNP leaders and activists still being summoned in fabricated cases orchestrated by the ruling regime.

Muntasir Al Jemi, a death row convict in the brutal murder of BUET student Abrar Fahad, has escaped from prison. Although the escape occurred on August 5 last year, the authorities only disclosed the information on February 24—six months later. Abrar’s younger brother, Abrar Faiyaz, confirmed the news.

According to prison officials, Jemi was among 202 inmates who broke out of Gazipur prison. Among them, 86 were on death row. So far, 51 escapees, including 35 death row inmates, have been recaptured. Authorities continue their efforts to apprehend the remaining fugitives.

At a discussion held at the Nagarik Oikya office in Dhaka on Sunday, party President Mahmudur Rahman Manna emphasized that Bangladesh is moving toward a universally acceptable election. He stated that reforms are crucial in this process and cannot be bypassed with shortcuts. The discussion, titled “July Uprising and Bangladesh Politics,” saw the participation of representatives from 20 districts. A 64-page booklet was also released on the occasion. Manna remarked that the July uprising was a response to the regime’s widespread abductions, murders, and oppression. He further noted that law and order remained stable even in the absence of a government, and the interim administration was following a democratic process.

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman held a meeting with Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus to discuss the country’s special circumstances. He was accompanied by the party’s Naib-e-Ameer and former MP Dr. Syed Abdullah Mohammad Taher. According to Jamaat’s office, the discussions revolved around the overall national situation. Following the meeting, Jamaat announced the temporary suspension of its previously declared mass sit-in and the voluntary arrest program of its Ameer in front of the court premises.

In an early morning operation on Monday, RAB-11, CPC-2 Comilla arrested four professional muggers in possession of weapons. The arrested individuals are Ashiqur Rahman (32), Jamil Hossain (19), Jisan (19), and Asifur Rahman Asif (22). Authorities recovered a switchblade, a knife, an anti-cutter, two screwdrivers, a flashlight, and marijuana from their possession. Law enforcement officials stated that the gang engaged in extortion and mugging by holding people at gunpoint.