A joint press conference is scheduled in Dhaka today to present the progress of the investigation into the killing of Sharif Osman Hadi, convener of the Inqilab Manch. Officials from the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), and police are expected to detail findings, arrests, and evidence gathered so far. The case, initially filed as an attempted murder, has now been reclassified as a murder case following a court directive.

Hadi, an independent candidate for Dhaka-8 constituency and a key figure in the July uprising, was shot in the head on December 12 while campaigning. He died six days later in a Singapore hospital. Authorities have arrested 11 people, including relatives and associates of the main suspect Faisal Karim Masud, a banned student leader. RAB’s media director Wing Commander M Z M Intekhab Chowdhury said the briefing would present a comprehensive update on the investigation.

The killing has drawn wide public attention ahead of the upcoming national elections, with investigators under pressure to ensure transparency and swift justice.

After nearly ten months of restrictions, the Bangladeshi government has reopened Saint Martin Island for overnight stays this December, reigniting tourist interest. However, travelers report steep increases in travel expenses and logistical difficulties, particularly due to limited ship tickets and the lengthy six-hour journey from Cox’s Bazar. The minimum round-trip fare has risen to about BDT 3,500 per person—more than triple previous rates from Teknaf.

On-site observations reveal severe disorganization at the island’s jetty, where ongoing repair work leaves passengers without proper waiting areas and exposed to safety risks. Delays in ship schedules and narrow, unsafe access routes have heightened concerns among visitors, especially families and elderly travelers. Local business owners argue that environmental restrictions have hurt livelihoods, urging authorities to curb pollution instead of tourism.

Officials claim that safety and coordination measures are being strengthened and that infrastructure repairs will be completed soon. Yet, without improved transport efficiency and management, the island’s renewed tourism momentum may falter amid growing visitor frustration.

The Indian Assistant High Commission in Chattogram has suspended operations at its visa application center, citing security concerns. The announcement was posted on the official Bangladesh visa website on Sunday, stating that services would remain closed from December 21 until further notice. The decision follows recent unrest near the commission’s premises.

According to reports, the closure comes after clashes between police and protesters erupted on December 19 in Chattogram’s Khulshi area. The protests followed the death of Sharif Osman Bin Hadi, convener of the Inquilab Mancha. The Indian mission said it would review the situation before deciding when to reopen the center.

The suspension is expected to affect visa applicants from southeastern Bangladesh who rely on the Chattogram center. Officials have advised applicants to monitor official channels for updates. Diplomatic observers note that such closures, while temporary, can disrupt travel and trade ties between the two neighboring countries.

Panchchar High School in Shibchar, Madaripur, has marked over a century of educational excellence, evolving from its 1920 founding as 'The Panchchar High English School' into a model institution blending traditional learning with modern technology. Established by a group of visionary youths led by Dhirendranath Chatterjee, the school has produced generations of accomplished alumni, including national leaders, educators, and professionals.

Currently hosting 950 students, the school features digital classrooms, a library, and sports facilities, while maintaining strong academic results — achieving a 100% pass rate in the 2025 SSC exams with 21 students earning GPA-5. Principal Md. Shah Alam Siraji highlighted the school’s commitment to inclusive education, offering free tuition and uniforms to underprivileged students. However, he noted the need for additional classrooms and a new computer lab to meet growing demands.

School board president and former national football coach Sajjad Hossain Siddiqui emphasized preserving the institution’s legacy and ensuring continued academic excellence as Panchchar High School advances toward becoming a fully smart educational model.

Nearly twelve years after the brutal killing of six people, including self-proclaimed spiritual leader Lutfor Rahman Faruk, in Dhaka’s Gopibagh area, the investigation remains unfinished. Despite 147 extensions, the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) has yet to submit its final report. The Dhaka Metropolitan Magistrate’s Court has now set January 14, 2026, as the next deadline for the report.

The case, filed by Faruk’s son Abdullah Al Faruk on the night of the murders in December 2013, has passed through multiple law enforcement agencies before reaching the CID. Investigators cite the case’s complexity and the time elapsed as reasons for delay. Families of the victims express frustration, saying prolonged delays have denied them justice. Defense lawyers argue that their clients, all currently on bail, suffer financial and psychological strain from repeated court appearances.

The killings, allegedly linked to ideological disputes and extremist motives, remain one of Dhaka’s most protracted murder investigations. Legal experts warn that continued delays risk eroding public confidence in the justice system and prolonging the suffering of both victims’ families and the accused.

Rashed Pradhan, vice-president and spokesperson of the National Democratic Party (JAGPA), began a solo march toward the Indian Embassy in Dhaka’s Gulshan area on Sunday morning. Starting from Box Culvert Road in Bijoynagar, he said the walk symbolized public protest against what he described as India’s dominance and interference in Bangladesh’s sovereignty. Carrying a black rose, Pradhan stated it represented resistance to political authority.

In his remarks, Pradhan accused India of harboring individuals linked to political violence in Bangladesh and criticized Delhi’s handling of border killings, water-sharing disputes, and alleged territorial intrusions. He said previous attempts to march to the embassy with groups were blocked by authorities, prompting his decision to walk alone this time to demonstrate peaceful intent.

The protest underscores ongoing nationalist sentiment and political friction between Dhaka and New Delhi over cross-border issues. Authorities have not commented on whether Pradhan will be allowed to reach the embassy or deliver his symbolic message.

Jahangirnagar University has commenced its 2025–2026 academic year admission tests, starting with the ‘C’ unit covering the Faculties of Arts and Humanities, Law, and the Institute of Comparative Literature and Culture. The exams began on Sunday, December 21, at 9 a.m., marking the start of a week-long admission process across multiple faculties.

According to the university’s central admission committee, 47,497 applicants have competed for 466 seats in the ‘C’ unit, translating to roughly 101 candidates per seat. The test is being conducted in six shifts—three for female candidates and three for male candidates—to ensure smooth management. Tests for other units, including ‘B’, ‘E’, ‘C1’, and ‘D’, will follow through December 29.

Officials said the large turnout reflects growing interest in Jahangirnagar University’s humanities and law programs. The admission process will conclude with the final ‘A’ unit examinations on December 29, after which results and merit lists are expected to be published in early January 2026.

An investigation in South Keraniganj, Dhaka, has revealed widespread illegal brick kilns and unauthorized ferry operations along the Dhaleshwari River. The report identifies Akhtar Hossain, an organizing secretary of the local Swechchhasebak Dal, as allegedly running a business involving stolen soil and substandard bricks under political cover. Locals claim that farmland has been seized to operate the ferry, which transports trucks at night, reportedly collecting Tk 500 per trip.

Former Krishak League leader Haji Abu Taleb and BNP figures have traded accusations over control of the ferry and illegal land occupation. Law enforcement officials confirmed awareness of the issue, with the local police chief and Upazila Nirbahi Officer acknowledging that no official lease or permit exists for the ferry. The BIWTA also confirmed it had not authorized any pontoon or toll collection at the site.

Authorities have promised enforcement actions, but residents remain skeptical, citing years of unchecked illegal trade and political protection. The case underscores persistent governance and environmental challenges in peri-urban Dhaka.

Bangladesh Bank’s latest report shows a steep decline in consumer loans during the July–September 2025 quarter, with total outstanding loans falling by over Tk 22,000 crore compared to the previous quarter. At the end of September, consumer loans stood at Tk 1,50,340 crore, representing 8.63% of total bank credit, down from Tk 1,72,621 crore or 9.95% in June. This marks a sharp reversal from the April–June quarter, when consumer lending had increased by nearly Tk 25,000 crore.

Economists and banking officials attribute the contraction to persistently high inflation, rising borrowing costs, and continued economic uncertainty following political transitions. Interest rates on personal loans now range between 11% and 14%, while credit card rates have reached up to 25%. The largest declines were seen in loans for electronics, vehicles, and housing.

Analysts warn that reduced consumer borrowing could further dampen domestic demand, slowing retail and service sectors. The central bank is expected to monitor credit trends closely as inflationary pressures and liquidity constraints continue to challenge household spending.

Bangladesh’s interim government has declared a national day of mourning following the death of Osman Hadi, a 32-year-old political activist and founder of the Inquilab Manch, who was fatally shot in Dhaka on December 12. According to reports, Hadi was attacked while returning home from Friday prayers and later succumbed to his injuries despite extensive medical treatment in Bangladesh and Singapore. The government has announced state support for his family and called for prayers in all places of worship.

Hadi was known for his strong stance against corruption, foreign influence, and authoritarianism in Bangladesh’s political system. His activism, writings, and public speeches had earned him a following among nationalist and Islamist groups. The interim government’s chief adviser described him as a “national hero,” while opposition voices accused ruling party affiliates of involvement in his killing.

The incident has sparked widespread protests and renewed debate over political violence and freedom of expression in Bangladesh. Observers warn that Hadi’s death could further polarize the country ahead of the planned February referendum and upcoming elections.

Across Bangladesh, thousands participated in funeral prayers and rallies on Saturday mourning Sharif Osman Hadi, spokesperson of Inqilab Manch, who was recently killed under disputed circumstances. Events took place in districts including Gopalganj, Rajshahi, Jamalpur, and Naogaon, where participants prayed for Hadi’s soul and called for the immediate arrest and maximum punishment of his killers.

Speakers at various gatherings alleged that Hadi was targeted for his outspoken stance against Indian influence and government policies. Political and student leaders from Jamaat-e-Islami, BNP, and other groups joined the programs, emphasizing the need to end the culture of impunity. In Rajshahi, Jamaat’s central leader Professor Mujibur Rahman criticized the interim government for failing to ensure Hadi’s safety.

Protesters warned of intensified demonstrations if arrests are not made promptly. The widespread response underscores growing public frustration over political violence and demands for accountability in Bangladesh’s volatile political landscape.

Bangladesh’s vast maritime resources remain underutilized due to chronic deficiencies in marine science research and infrastructure. Despite the Bay of Bengal’s economic and ecological importance, the country lacks adequate research vessels, hydrographic survey tools, and modern sonar or satellite data systems. This technological and institutional gap has left policymakers without reliable data on fish stocks, ocean currents, or breeding cycles, resulting in unscientific and often counterproductive fishing policies.

Experts note that the shortage of trained marine scientists, limited research funding, and weak international collaboration have further stalled progress. Universities offering marine science programs struggle with outdated laboratories and minimal publication output. Without regular stock assessments or genetic studies, valuable species such as hilsa, lobster, and shrimp remain vulnerable to overexploitation. Climate change impacts—rising sea levels, salinity shifts, and warming waters—are compounding the crisis.

Analysts urge immediate investment in research vessels, GIS and satellite monitoring, and international partnerships with Japan, Norway, and FAO. Strengthening marine science is seen as essential for sustainable fisheries, biodiversity protection, and unlocking Bangladesh’s blue economy potential.

In Kishoreganj’s Pakundia upazila, the centuries-old tradition of ox-driven ploughing is rapidly disappearing as farmers increasingly adopt mechanical tillers. Once a defining feature of rural Bengal, the sight of farmers guiding oxen through muddy fields has become rare, surviving only in isolated pockets such as Kursha village in Charfaradi Union. Local farmer Sabuj Mia continues the practice inherited from his forefathers, though most neighbors have shifted to machines for efficiency.

Residents recall when nearly every household kept oxen for ploughing, but the spread of affordable power tillers has made manual methods obsolete. Agricultural officer Nure-E-Alam noted that mechanization is essential to transform farming into a commercial enterprise, emphasizing the need for modern equipment. While nostalgia remains for the communal rhythms of traditional farming, economic pressures and time constraints are driving the transition.

Experts warn that the decline of ox-ploughing marks not only a technological shift but also the erosion of rural heritage. As Bangladesh pursues agricultural modernization, preserving cultural memory of these practices may become increasingly difficult.

Bangladesh’s export earnings have slowed in the 2025–26 fiscal year, driven largely by a downturn in the ready-made garment (RMG) sector, which accounts for nearly half of total exports. According to the Export Promotion Bureau, exports to the European Union fell by 1.03% year-on-year between July and November, totaling $7.83 billion. While shipments to Spain, Poland, and the Netherlands rose slightly, exports to Germany, France, Denmark, and Italy declined, reflecting reduced consumer demand and intensifying competition.

Industry leaders attribute the slump to global inflation, higher living costs in Europe, and aggressive pricing by China and India. Domestically, rising gas prices—up nearly 150% since 2023—and higher lending rates have strained production. Exporters also cite reduced cash incentives, now at 2% from 5%, and weak marketing strategies as key challenges. The Exporters Association of Bangladesh warns that without policy support and energy cost relief, more factories may close, deepening the sector’s crisis.

The RMG industry, employing millions, faces mounting pressure to diversify products and markets. Analysts expect export recovery to hinge on energy stability, financial reforms, and renewed trade competitiveness in 2026.

A livestock quarantine station built at Bilonia land port in Feni’s Parshuram upazila has remained unused since its completion nearly a decade ago. The facility, constructed in 2016 under the Department of Livestock Services’ disease prevention project, was intended to inspect imported animals and animal products before entry into Bangladesh. Despite an investment of several crore taka and installation of 51 laboratory instruments, the station has never been operational.

Local traders and officials report that the station’s inactivity has led to the decay of expensive equipment, with only a single outsourced guard maintaining the premises. The Bilonia land port, opened in 2009 to facilitate trade with India, has seen minimal import activity, undermining the station’s purpose. Officials note that activating the facility could help regulate livestock imports, curb smuggling, and increase government revenue.

Experts warn that prolonged neglect of such infrastructure not only wastes public funds but also weakens border biosecurity. The Livestock Department has indicated that operationalization depends on renewed diplomatic and trade engagement with India.