The government has extended the tenure of the independent investigation commission probing the 2009 BDR massacre at Pilkhana headquarters until November 30. Originally formed on December 24 last year with Major General (Retd.) A L M Fazlur Rahman as chairman, the commission was initially given three months, later extended twice by three months each, ending September 30. A new extension order, effective from October 1, was issued Tuesday night by the Cabinet Division. The commission’s mandate includes uncovering the nature of the tragic events on February 25–26, 2009, identifying perpetrators, instigators, conspirators, evidence destroyers, and both domestic and international actors involved. This extension aims to ensure a comprehensive and conclusive report on one of the most tragic episodes in Bangladesh’s history, which left the nation in deep shock and mourning.

Education advisor Prof. Dr. C. R. Abrar has accused political syndicates of taking control of educational institutions across Bangladesh, discouraging genuine philanthropists and alumni from contributing to development. Speaking at the 246th founding anniversary of Dhaka Alia Madrasa, he said that in the past, wealthy individuals and communities actively worked to improve schools, but political interference pushed them away. Alumni also distanced themselves, fearing conflict with politically linked groups who treat institutions as personal property. Abrar noted that the burden of improvement now solely falls on the government. He revealed that the interim government is formulating policies to free institutions from such groups, enabling social workers and education enthusiasts to contribute once again. He expressed hope that reforms will soon bring positive results in the country’s education system.

During an interview in New York on the sidelines of the 80th UN General Assembly, Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus highlighted India’s consistent backing of Sheikh Hasina, noting that New Delhi still hopes she may one day return to Bangladesh as a victorious leader. Speaking to journalist Mehdi Hasan of digital media outlet GTO, Yunus addressed concerns over Awami League’s virtual meeting with Hasina, suggesting external forces could aid her return. He confirmed direct talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, requesting that Hasina not comment on Bangladesh while in India. Yunus also discussed key issues such as the July uprising, the fall of the Awami League government, his interim leadership, the party’s ban, and upcoming elections, underscoring the delicate balance of domestic politics and regional influence shaping Bangladesh’s path ahead.

BNP’s Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has extended greetings to the Hindu community on Durga Puja and Vijayadashami, emphasizing peace, harmony, and security for all. In a statement, he said Bangladesh’s heritage is built on religious coexistence and cultural values, where festivals unite people across faiths. Stressing that “religion belongs to individuals, but security is the responsibility of the state,” he called upon Hindu citizens to celebrate freely without fear. He cited constitutional guarantees of equal protection and referenced Islamic teachings against injustice to non-Muslims. Rahman urged law enforcement agencies to remain vigilant to prevent communal unrest or security threats. He asserted that ensuring mutual respect, brotherhood, and safety is not just a constitutional duty but also a moral responsibility, and that resisting oppression and protecting diversity is essential for a just and democratic Bangladesh.

Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam has clarified that the Chief Adviser never mentioned lifting restrictions on Awami League’s activities. He said a mistranslation caused confusion, as the Chief Adviser only shared information regarding the party’s current status, not future decisions. According to him, there is no plan to withdraw the existing ban, and the Election Commission has also restricted Awami League from participating in polls. He warned that quoting words out of context may create misleading narratives. The Press Secretary further noted that the government remains firm on the restriction, and the matter is already fact-checked by PIB. Addressing concerns about national elections, he assured there is no uncertainty, and enthusiasm is growing nationwide with campaign banners and candidates reaching voters. He expects the excitement to intensify as the election approaches.

Around 3.75 lakh teachers and staff from non-government schools and colleges under the MPO scheme are set to receive their September salaries and allowances by mid-next week. The delay occurred due to the Durga Puja holiday, which suspended office activities. According to an official from the Education Management Information System (EMIS) under the Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education, the salaries have already been deposited into iBAS and will be disbursed on October 6 or 7. Earlier, on September 28, the proposal for disbursement was sent to the Education Ministry. Among the total staff, nearly 2.89 lakh work in schools, while over 86,000 are employed in colleges. This update brings relief to MPO-enlisted teachers and employees who had been waiting for their payments.

Economic Adviser Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed has said extortion has sharply increased in Bangladesh since August 5 of last year, stressing that without political commitment and an elected government, it cannot be controlled. Speaking to reporters at the Ministry of Finance on Tuesday, he explained that where extortion once demanded one unit, it now demands one and a half or even two. He noted that both new and old groups are involved, and many extortionists are also members of business organizations. This illegal practice has been pushing up commodity prices, he warned, though he emphasized that controlling it is not his ministry’s job, nor is the interim government inclined to pursue arrests. However, he expressed hope that inflation would decline to 7 percent by June next year despite these challenges.

In an interview with GTO during the UN General Assembly, interim government chief adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus revealed that many people urge him to remain in power not for five or ten years, but even for fifty years—questioning the need for elections. Responding to why Bangladesh requires 18 months for elections instead of the usual six, he highlighted both public sentiment and political complexities. He clarified that the ruling Awami League has not been banned, only its political activities suspended temporarily, with the possibility of reinstatement anytime. Dr. Yunus also spoke about the Rohingya crisis and the legitimacy of delaying polls. After Sheikh Hasina was ousted in 2024 following mass uprisings, Yunus reluctantly accepted his role as interim head, describing it as a duty rather than ambition.

The United Nations General Assembly Hall in New York hosts a high-level international conference today focusing on the plight of Rohingya Muslims and other minorities in Myanmar. Representatives from at least 75 countries and organizations, including heads of state and government, are participating. The meeting aims to strengthen political support, maintain global attention, review the crisis, and adopt measures to address root causes and human rights concerns. A key priority is ensuring the safe, voluntary, and dignified repatriation of Rohingya refugees. Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus will deliver the opening speech. Turkey will represent the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, while Kuwait will represent the Gulf Cooperation Council. Ahead of the event, UN officials held talks with Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser on funding, repatriation roadmap, refugee education, and addressing the conflict in Myanmar’s Rakhine State.

In Bangladesh’s upcoming 13th parliamentary election, the dominance of family legacy in BNP politics is once again visible. Children of senior BNP leaders are actively seeking party nominations in multiple constituencies across the country. Among them are Shama Obaid, daughter of late KM Obaidur Rahman; Anindya Islam Amit, son of Tariqul Islam; Barrister Naushad Zamil, son of Barrister Jamiruddin Sircar; Nipun Roy Chowdhury, linked to Nitai Roy and Goyeshwar Roy; and Ishraq Hossain, son of Sadeque Hossain Khoka. In Chattogram, seven heirs of six senior leaders are competing for nominations, including Mir Helal, Hummam Quader Chowdhury, and Saeed Al Noman. Similar trends appear in Cumilla, Manikganj, Natore, Sylhet, Rangpur, and Dhaka. While some heirs built political credibility through activism, others largely rely on their family background, reflecting both continuity and controversy in BNP’s leadership.

A Dhaka court has granted a two-day remand for Saiful Islam Rabbi, former coordinator of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, along with three others—Abu Sufian, Abdur Rahman alias Manik, and Habibur Rahman Forhad—in connection with an extortion case. Another accused, Shahin Hossain, has been allowed to be interrogated at the jail gate if necessary. The case originated after the group allegedly demanded Tk 3 lakh from a private clinic in Mohammadpur, threatening vandalism and abduction when their demands were not met. According to the case statement, the accused already collected part of the money and continued issuing threats over the phone. The accused were arrested by the army and later handed over to police. Their lawyers sought bail, but the court rejected it, granting remand for interrogation.

The National Board of Revenue (NBR) has issued an urgent directive ensuring that import-export operations will continue during the upcoming Durga Puja holidays. According to a notification issued on September 30, customs houses and stations will remain partially operational on October 1 and 2, despite being official holidays. This measure is intended to keep trade uninterrupted and facilitate smooth handling of imports and exports. The NBR instructed all concerned authorities to take necessary steps for maintaining limited services during the holidays. Previously, similar arrangements were made during Eid holidays. This year, October 1 is a government-declared special holiday, and October 2 is a general holiday for Durga Puja. Combined with the weekend on October 3 and 4, government employees will enjoy a continuous four-day holiday.

Police in Mymensingh’s Tarakanda arrested a man named Majnu Mia on Tuesday for allegedly cutting the dreadlocks and beard of an elderly man, Halim Uddin, against his will. The incident occurred on June 5, when several individuals restrained Halim and forcibly cut his hair and beard. A video of the incident quickly went viral on social media, sparking widespread condemnation from different organizations and reports in national media outlets. Following the incident, Halim’s son, Shahid Akand, filed a case against 12 individuals, including seven identified suspects and five unnamed ones. Police have so far arrested only one accused, Majnu Mia, from Mymensingh Sadar. Authorities confirmed that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the remaining suspects involved in this act of humiliation, which has drawn significant public outrage across the region.

BNP central leader Shama Obaid has warned party activists against extortion, tender manipulation, and unethical activities, declaring no place for such practices in the party. She urged that even if her own supporters engage in wrongdoing, they must be handed over to the police. While visiting Durga Puja mandaps in Faridpur’s Saltha, she emphasized that real development requires ending corruption, police brokerage, and land office lobbying. Shama Obaid pledged to prevent immoral activities in her constituency as long as she is alive. She also assured equal treatment of Hindus and Muslims, calling for vigilance against attempts to disrupt communal harmony during the festival. BNP activists will guard temples day and night to prevent any mischief. She reaffirmed her lifelong support for the Hindu community, continuing her father’s legacy of unity and cooperation.

A leaked phone recording published Sept 30, 2025 captures a July 24 conversation between former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and ex-state minister Nasrul Hamid Bipu. During the call, the recording alleges Hasina instructed Bipu to pin arson at government buildings during the July–August uprising on BNP and Jamaat, to ‘manage’ journalists by giving them ‘hadia’, and to intimidate channels by threatening to cut lines or electricity if they did not comply. The clip has circulated across media and social platforms, prompting debate and demands for investigation into the authenticity and political implications of the leak.