Opposition leader and Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Ekushey Padak-winning poet Al Mujahidi. In a Facebook post on Friday afternoon titled “Responding to the call of the Almighty, poet Al Mujahidi departs,” he announced that the poet, born on January 1, 1943, had passed away earlier that day.

Dr. Rahman noted that Al Mujahidi served for more than three decades as the literary editor of the daily Ittefaq and actively participated in the Liberation War of 1971. He highlighted the poet’s significant contributions to various branches of literature, including poetry, fiction, essays, criticism, and children’s literature. He described Mujahidi as a poet of faith and values whose creative works would remain memorable in Bengali literature.

Offering prayers for the deceased, Dr. Rahman asked for divine forgiveness and eternal peace for the poet, and strength for his family, colleagues, and admirers to bear the loss with patience.

A woman named Rina Khatun from Natun Kola village in Maheshpur, Jhenaidah, has alleged that her husband divorced her after she gave birth to twin daughters. According to Rina and her family, she was married to Rakibul Islam about two years ago, and their relationship deteriorated after medical tests confirmed she was expecting twin girls. She claimed that her husband and in-laws began abusing her physically and mentally, eventually sending her back to her parents’ home, where she later delivered the babies by cesarean section.

Local residents said that community leaders held two arbitration meetings to resolve the issue, but Rakibul and his family refused to accept Rina or the children. Rakibul reportedly sent a divorce letter afterward. Attempts to contact Rakibul’s family were unsuccessful, as locals said he and his father had gone into hiding.

Maheshpur Upazila Nirbahi Officer Sajjad Hossain described the incident as deeply regrettable and a reflection of social decay, confirming that a written complaint has been received and an investigation is underway.

Former BBC journalist and ex-UK press minister Akbar Hossain has compared Awami League leader Mahbubul Alam Hanif with State Minister for Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Mir Shah Alam. In a Facebook post on Friday, Hossain remarked that Shah Alam reminded him of Hanif, describing both as figures who gained prominence only during Awami League’s tenure in power.

The comparison comes amid growing controversy in Bogura over the formation of four new unions following a gazette notification issued on June 11. Local residents have alleged that three of the newly created unions—Mirbari, Simanto, and Digonto—bear names linked to the minister’s family. According to locals, Mirbari reflects the minister’s ancestral home, while Simanto and Digonto correspond to the names of his two sons.

The administrative restructuring affected Shibganj and the newly formed Mokamtola upazilas, sparking political debate and criticism over alleged nepotism in naming the unions.

The Bangladesh Association of Journalists (BAJ) has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Ekushey Padak-winning journalist, poet, researcher, and freedom fighter Al Mujahidi. He passed away on Friday afternoon at the age of 83 while undergoing treatment at United Hospital in Dhaka. The condolence statement, signed by BAJ’s publicity and publication secretary Mahmudul Hasan, was issued by president M Abdullah and general secretary Ahmad Matiur Rahman.

In their statement, BAJ leaders described Al Mujahidi as one of the leading literary voices of the 1960s and a shining figure in journalism. They said his death marked an irreparable loss for the country’s literary and media sectors. Mujahidi served for decades as the literary editor of the daily Ittefaq, where he played a vital role in nurturing new generations of writers and journalists.

The BAJ leaders also noted that Mujahidi was a valiant freedom fighter and received the Ekushey Padak in 2003 for his outstanding contributions to journalism and literature. They prayed for the salvation of his soul and extended condolences to his bereaved family.

An eleven-year-old domestic worker named Rifa, also known as Rikta, died after falling from a multi-storey building on Road 9/A in Dhaka’s Dhanmondi area early Friday, June 19, 2026. Security guards rescued her in a critically injured state and took her to a private hospital in Dhanmondi, where doctors declared her dead. Rifa, originally from Kishoreganj, had started working at the apartment only two months earlier through an agency due to her family’s financial hardship.

Police have begun investigating whether the death was an accident, suicide, or caused by other factors. Local residents said there had been previous allegations of mistreatment and abuse of domestic workers in the same flat, though the apartment owner’s statement was not available. A police team visited the scene, collected CCTV footage, and examined parts of the building.

The body was sent to Dhaka Medical College Hospital for autopsy. Investigators said the cause of death will become clearer after reviewing the post-mortem report and technical evidence.

Bangladesh fell short by seven runs against Australia in the second T20 match at Mirpur on June 19, 2026, losing the series with one game remaining. Chasing a target of 197, the hosts were well placed at 122 for 2 after 12 overs, but a late batting collapse and disciplined Australian bowling ended their hopes. Australia’s victory secured them a 2–0 lead and the T20 series win.

Australia, after winning the toss, opted to bat first and posted 196 for 5. Matt Renshaw led the innings with an unbeaten 89 off 52 balls, supported by Tim David’s quick 45 from 25 deliveries. For Bangladesh, Nasum Ahmed took two wickets for 27 runs. In reply, Bangladesh’s openers gave a flying start, with Tanzid Hasan scoring 30 and Saif Hasan 42, but the middle order faltered under pressure.

With 44 runs needed from the last four overs, Bangladesh’s chase lost momentum as wickets fell regularly. Despite Towhid Hridoy’s late effort, the team finished on 189 for 7, handing Australia a narrow win and the series title.

A senior BNP leader, Mohammad Nur Islam, was seriously injured after being attacked with sharp weapons in Dhaka’s Mohammadpur area on Friday, June 19, 2026. The incident occurred around 2:30 p.m. on Road No. 4 of Satmasjid Housing when several assailants on motorcycles attacked him in front of his residence shortly after Friday prayers. He was first taken to a nearby hospital and later transferred to Dhaka Medical College Hospital, where he remains under intensive care.

Nur Islam, aged 55, serves as the senior joint secretary of Ward 33 BNP under Dhaka North City Corporation. Witnesses reported that the attackers used sharp weapons, inflicting multiple injuries to his face, shoulder, and hands. Police have begun investigating the motive and identity of the attackers, reviewing CCTV footage and interviewing witnesses.

The attack has caused concern among local residents, who expressed alarm over such a violent incident occurring in a densely populated residential area. Authorities have launched operations to identify and arrest those involved.

Residents of Ward 25 in Rangpur City and members of the Shalban Mistripara Youth Social Organization held a protest march and rally on Friday, June 19, demanding the arrest of Anjuman Akter Shiuli, who they accused of involvement in drug trafficking and antisocial activities. The demonstration began near RCCI Public School and College after Friday prayers and concluded with a brief rally at Indira Mor, where participants chanted slogans calling for Shiuli’s arrest.

Speakers at the rally alleged that Shiuli had long been involved in drug trade and immoral activities that harmed local youth and residents. They claimed she had previously left the area due to public outrage but was now attempting to return. The protesters urged authorities to take immediate legal action and investigate the allegations to restore peace and social order in the neighborhood.

Community leaders warned that if the administration failed to act promptly, residents might announce larger programs to press their demands for justice and safety in the area.

Football fans in Kendua upazila of Netrokona organized a vibrant procession carrying a 300-foot-long Argentine national flag on Friday afternoon. The supporters, dressed in Argentina jerseys and holding flags and banners, marched through various streets of the town, chanting slogans in support of their favorite team. The rally concluded at a designated spot after circling the main roads of Kendua municipality, creating a festive atmosphere among football enthusiasts and onlookers.

Organizers said the event was arranged to express their love for football and support for the world champion Argentina team. By carrying the massive flag, they aimed to spread a message of joy and unity among local football lovers. Participants described football as more than just a game, calling it an emotion and a symbol of love for Argentina.

Local sports enthusiasts noted that such events can inspire young people to engage more in sports and help strengthen social harmony within the community.

Three ministers of the Bangladesh government visited the Teesta Barrage and surrounding river areas in Kaunia, Rangpur, on Friday afternoon to assess the overall condition of one of the country’s largest irrigation projects. Disaster Management and Relief Minister Asadul Habib Dulu, Water Resources Minister Shahid Uddin Chowdhury Anny, and State Minister Farhad Hossain Azad observed the river’s current state, erosion-prone zones, and the living conditions of nearby residents.

During the visit, the ministers held discussions with local representatives, administrative officials, and stakeholders about long-standing regional issues, including river erosion, flood control, irrigation expansion, and the much-discussed Teesta Master Plan. Local and central leaders highlighted the importance of development initiatives centered on the Teesta River, noting that millions of people in the basin face recurring floods, erosion, and water shortages.

Speakers emphasized that implementing an integrated and long-term plan could boost agriculture, create jobs, prevent erosion, and strengthen the regional economy. The ministers assured that the government is committed to sustainable development and improving living standards in the Teesta basin, urging cooperation from all concerned parties.

Ekushey Padak-winning poet Al Mujahidi, a leading figure in Bangla literature, passed away on Friday at 1:40 p.m. while undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Dhaka. He was 83. According to family sources, he had been suffering from multiple health complications for nearly two years, including heart and kidney problems. He was admitted to United Hospital on April 23, later discharged, and then readmitted to Crescent Hospital and again to United Hospital as his condition worsened. He was placed on life support on June 16 and died following cardiac arrest.

Born on June 19, 1943, in Tangail, Al Mujahidi served as the literary editor of the daily Ittefaq for over three decades. He published more than 20 poetry collections and over 50 books, including novels, short stories, and children’s literature. His daughter Mariama said burial is likely to take place at Mirpur Martyred Intellectuals’ Graveyard on Saturday.

Relatives, admirers, and political figures expressed grief over his death, including opposition leader and Jamaat-e-Islami chief Dr. Shafiqur Rahman, who posted condolences on social media.

The government of Bangladesh has approved a grant of Tk 140 crore 11 lakh 8 thousand for private orphanages across the country as the second installment of the 2025–26 fiscal year. The Ministry of Social Welfare sanctioned the funds for 4,209 registered private orphanages in 64 districts, benefiting 116,759 orphaned children. The Directorate of Social Services issued an official order confirming the allocation, which will be distributed through local social services offices under the 2014 grant allocation and distribution policy.

According to the Directorate, the total allocation for private orphanages in the current fiscal year amounts to Tk 280 crore, with the first installment of Tk 139 crore 88 lakh 76 thousand already released. Each child will receive Tk 12,000 for six months, covering January to June 2026, primarily for food and basic needs. The ministry emphasized strict monitoring to ensure proper use of the funds.

Officials noted that the grant plays a vital role in improving living conditions for disadvantaged children and supporting the operational costs of financially constrained orphanages nationwide.

Education and Primary and Mass Education Minister Dr. A N M Ehsanul Haque Milan said that transforming the country's population into human resources would enable Bangladesh to lead the world. He made the remarks on Friday while addressing the 'Incoming Leaders' Training Seminar' organized by Rotary International at the Krishibid Institution Bangladesh auditorium as the chief guest.

The minister stated that the government is prioritizing the education sector to achieve this transformation. He emphasized the importance of technical and vocational education and training (TVET) to build a skilled workforce. Dr. Milan also called for collective efforts from all citizens to build the future Bangladesh and urged Rotarians to play an active role in improving the education sector.

The event was presided over by Rotary Bangladesh Country Governor Dr. Ishtiaq Zaman.

Laxmipur-1 (Ramganj) Member of Parliament Shahadat Hossain Selim visited the grave of slain student Mehedi Hasan at Raghbapur village in Ichapur Union on Friday, June 19, 2026. During the visit, he met Mehedi’s parents, offered condolences, and assured them of proper justice. The MP became emotional and wept while comforting Mehedi’s mother, saying that the college’s activities would remain suspended until justice is served.

Local officials, including Ramganj Police Station Officer-in-Charge Firoz Uddin Chowdhury, and BNP leaders Monowar Hossain and Nazrul Islam Pintu, were present during the visit. The incident has drawn attention across the upazila due to the brutality of the killing.

According to the report, Mehedi Hasan, a student of Farid Ahmad Bhuiyan Academy, was beaten to death on June 16 by some misguided students who falsely accused him of stealing a mobile phone.

A mother and her young son died after being electrocuted while pumping water from a pond in Chatkhil, Noakhali. The incident occurred around 1:15 p.m. on Friday at Munshur Member’s house in Chayani Tobga village under Ward 9 of Chatkhil Municipality. The victims were identified as Anjana Rani Ghosh, 35, and her eight-year-old son Rahul, both residents of the same village.

According to police and local sources, several owners, including Dulal Chandra Ghosh, were using an electric motor to pump water from a shared pond. Rahul reportedly came into contact with an electric wire connected to the motor and was electrocuted. His mother Anjana was also electrocuted when she tried to rescue him. Both died on the spot, casting a pall of grief over the area.

Chatkhil Police Station Officer-in-Charge Abdul Monnaf said police visited the scene and would take legal steps after speaking with the victims’ family members.