The ‘1 Nojor’ media platform is now live in beta, inviting users to explore and provide feedback as we continue to refine the experience.
A case has been filed against 277 individuals, including former Education Minister Mohibul Hasan Chowdhury Nowfel and former Mayor Rezaul Karim Chowdhury, for their alleged involvement in an attack on the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement. The case, lodged at Bakolia Police Station, names 127 individuals while keeping 100-150 others unidentified. According to the complaint, on August 4, the accused attacked students near a gas station with domestic and foreign weapons. Student leader Rijon allegedly attempted to kill a pickup driver with a machete. Initially, police refused to register the case, but it was accepted on court orders eight days later.
Case Filed Against 277 Individuals, Including Former Minister and Mayor
BNP’s Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman will listen to grassroots leaders during the party’s upcoming extended meeting on February 27. Former parliamentary candidates from the 2018 elections will also attend, according to BNP Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi. He described this meeting as fulfilling a long-standing demand of party activists. When asked if this gathering would serve as an alternative to the party’s council, Rizvi clarified that it was not a replacement but a regular party event. A 27-member committee, led by Rizvi, has been formed to organize the meeting, with the time and venue yet to be finalized.
Tarique Rahman to Hear Grassroots Leaders' Concerns
Already suffering from outdated machinery, Ashuganj Fertilizer Factory in Brahmanbaria has been facing a severe gas supply crisis, leading to production halts for half the year. Despite its potential for profitability, inconsistent gas supply has severely hampered operations. The factory, which began commercial production in 1983, primarily produces prilled urea fertilizer. Although its production capacity is 1,600 tons per day, it currently operates at only 1,100 tons. Allegations suggest that vested interests within the Awami League deliberately cut gas supply to boost fertilizer imports for personal profit.
Ashuganj Fertilizer Factory Shuts Down Half the Year Due to Gas Shortage
Speaking at a women's rally on Sunday, organized to demand justice against Sheikh Hasina and the Awami League for the July massacre, National Citizens' Committee convener Nasiruddin Patwari called for greater female representation in decision-making roles. He stressed that women must claim their rightful place in the new constitution and actively participate in the upcoming local elections. "We don’t just want women’s participation; we want them in decision-making positions, in the parliament through people's votes," he declared. He also highlighted the oppression women have faced over the last 15 years, urging them to rise in protest.
Not Just Participation, Women Need Decision-Making Roles: Nasiruddin
The Election Commission (EC) will convey its message on conducting the best election in the country’s history during the ongoing Deputy Commissioner (DC) conference. On Sunday, Election Commissioner Md. Anwarul Islam Sarkar confirmed the EC’s invitation to the DC conference, stating, "We are committed to holding a flawless election at any cost." He emphasized that there will be no political bias in administrative appointments, as the EC will make postings strictly based on necessity, without any government pressure.
Election Commission Aims for the Best Election in History
The 55th Border Conference between the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and India's Border Security Force (BSF) is set to commence on Monday in New Delhi. During this four-day summit, Bangladesh will take a strong stance on unauthorized border crossings and illegal activities. This marks the first high-level border meeting since Sheikh Hasina's departure from power. Home Affairs Adviser Lieutenant General Jahangir Alam has stated that the tone of this discussion will be different, emphasizing that India must put an end to border killings. The meeting will also address issues such as border fencing and attacks on civilians.
Bangladesh to Take a Firm Stand on Border Issues
Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus has emphasized the importance of establishing a joint economic framework among Bangladesh, India, Nepal, and Bhutan. He believes that due to their geographical proximity, all four countries would benefit significantly from such an initiative. He also mentioned that the process of economic collaboration has already begun. Speaking as the chief guest at the Bangladesh Administration Service Association conference, Yunus highlighted the region’s natural wealth and its large population as valuable resources. He also praised the potential of the youth, stating that the achievements of Bangladeshi youth in July-August were unprecedented on a global scale.
Dr. Yunus Calls for a Joint Economy with India, Nepal, and Bhutan
On Sunday, Bangladesh’s Foreign Affairs Adviser Touhid Hossain and Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met on the sidelines of the Indian Ocean Conference. Their discussions focused on mutual interests and concerns. Jaishankar expressed hope that the upcoming border security director general-level meeting on February 20 in Delhi would resolve key border-related issues. Meanwhile, Hossain emphasized the renewal of the water-sharing treaty and pushed for a meeting of the SAARC Standing Committee. In an X post, Jaishankar mentioned that they also discussed bilateral relations and BIMSTEC cooperation.
Bangladesh and India to Collaborate on Challenges
A Dhaka court has ordered the seizure of movable and immovable assets belonging to former State Minister for ICT, Zunaid Ahmed Palak, following an Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) petition. The ACC cited concerns over possible asset transfers that could hinder the investigation. Seized assets include 15.15 acres of land, two buildings, and four shops in Natore, along with significant bank deposits. Palak, his son, and mother-in-law collectively hold over Tk 47 million in multiple bank accounts, according to the ACC.
Court Orders Seizure of Former ICT Minister Palak’s Assets Amid Corruption Probe
In response to calls for the implementation of the water-sharing agreement and comprehensive planning, the ‘Teesta River Protection Movement’ has announced a 48-hour program, with participation expected from a million people across five northern districts under the slogan “Save Teesta, Wake Up”. The situation worsened when India released floodwater from upstream, drying out the Teesta riverbed. This has caused immense concern among local farmers, as the release of water during the dry season is unprecedented. Farmers fear that their crops may be damaged. Despite the water release, the program organizers confirmed that the event will continue along the Teesta banks, with BNP Chairperson Tarique Rahman joining virtually.
Dry Teesta River Affects Farmers as India Diverts Water
The High Court has ruled that the appointment of an administrator for the mobile financial service ‘Nagad’ is valid, dismissing the related writ petition. BM Elias Kochi, a lawyer for Bangladesh Bank, clarified that the court referred to Nagad as an agent of the Postal Department. Prior to appointing the administrator, Bangladesh Bank issued a notice to the Postal Department, which responded. After inspecting Nagad’s operations and discovering multiple irregularities, Bangladesh Bank appointed the administrator in the interest of customer protection. The writ petitioner argued that they were not given prior notice, but since Nagad is an agent of the Postal Department, the petitioner could have filed an application with the department, which they did not. Based on these considerations, the writ was dismissed.
High Court Validates Appointment of Administrator for Nagad
In a statement, Bangladesh Passenger Welfare Association Secretary-General Mojammel Haque Chowdhury alleged that the Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) had succumbed to the demands of CNG rickshaw drivers, who staged rampage across the capital demanding meter-based fare implementation. The BRTA canceled orders to file cases against rickshaws overcharging passengers and allowed the drivers to control the situation. The statement also accused the BRTA, under the leadership of Obaidul Quader, of building a massive syndicate that led to a corruption scandal worth 1,200 crore taka, inflating CNG prices from 3 lakh to 30-35 lakh taka. These drivers are allegedly fueling protests, the association claimed.
Government Hands Over Control of CNG Drivers to Passengers, Claims Bangladesh Passenger Welfare Association
Dr. Wahiduddin Mahmud, Education Adviser, announced that specific educational qualifications will now be mandatory for positions in the managing committees of educational institutions across the country. To be eligible for a school managing committee, candidates must hold a Bachelor’s degree, while a Master’s degree is required for a college managing committee position. The move aims to ensure qualified leadership in educational institutions. Additionally, textbooks for non-exam subjects will be distributed by February, with remote areas prioritized, and efforts are being made to arrange teachers’ retirement benefits via bonds.
Qualification Required for Positions in Managing Committees of Educational Institutions
BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has stated that Bangladesh has been destroyed by a fascist dictatorship over the past 15 years. Speaking virtually as the chief guest at the Narail BNP conference, Rahman emphasized the need for state reforms and the restoration of basic rights like voting and freedom of speech. He pledged BNP’s commitment to rebuilding the nation and ensuring a strong foundation for future generations. The conference also held elections for district committee leadership positions.
Tarique Rahman: Fascist Rule Has Ruined Bangladesh Over the Last 15 Years
The Director General of the National Consumer Rights Protection Directorate, Mohammad Aleem Akhtar Khan, has issued a warning of severe penalties for businesses that impose conditions on customers buying edible oil, such as bundling it with other products. He highlighted ongoing market instability in soybean oil prices and assured that companies caught in such practices would be fined. The statement came during a meeting to ensure price stability and a smooth supply of oil ahead of the holy month of Ramadan.
Strict Punishment for Conditional Edible Oil Sales, Warns Consumer Rights Chief
The ‘1 Nojor’ media platform is now live in beta, inviting users to explore and provide feedback as we continue to refine the experience.