Cultural Adviser Mostofa Sarwar Farooki claimed that the Mongol Shobhajatra had previously been exploited by certain political groups for their own benefit. This year, he said, the procession returned to its roots—a celebration by and for the people, free of political interference.

Press Secretary Shafiqur Alam declared that the nation has already rid itself of many negative elements, and whatever remains will soon disappear. Speaking during the New Year festivities, he emphasized that the festival has turned into a joyful national gathering. “This celebration is for everyone—plains or hills, all ethnic groups,” he said, also noting the continued progress of the country.

In the past 24 hours, Israeli airstrikes have killed at least 37 Palestinians across Gaza, including six brothers who were distributing food to the hungry. The WHO reported that bombing near Al-Ahli Arab Hospital resulted in a child’s death due to disrupted medical services. Since 2023, Israel’s military campaign has killed 50,944 people and injured 116,156 in Gaza. Since March 18 alone, 1,574 Palestinians have died and 4,115 more injured.

Myanmar has returned 20 Bangladeshi nationals who were detained for attempting to travel illegally to Malaysia by sea. Bangladesh’s Ambassador to Myanmar, Dr. Md. Monwar Hossain, oversaw the repatriation and reiterated the embassy’s commitment to verifying and facilitating the return of all detained Bangladeshis. Over the past two years, 352 citizens have been repatriated, including 85 last September.

With the theme “Harmony of the New Year, End of Fascism,” this year’s Mongol Shobhajatra concluded back at the Faculty of Fine Arts after traversing Shahbagh, TSC, Central Shaheed Minar, Doel Chattar, and Bangla Academy. Starting at 9 AM, thousands from all walks of life joined the jubilant procession, celebrating the Bengali spirit with vibrant art and cultural performances.

Participants in this year’s Mongol Shobhajatra expressed strong solidarity with Palestine. Many carried Palestinian flags and placards reading “Free Palestine.” A giant watermelon sculpture, symbolizing resistance and resilience, was also featured. Organizers explained that the colors of the watermelon reflect those of the Palestinian flag, making it a powerful cultural symbol of their ongoing struggle.

In a tragic incident in Chandina, Cumilla, a man named Md. Sabuj attempted self-immolation after being falsely accused of theft. Sabuj, whose body sustained 30–35% burns, was hospitalized in Cumilla Medical College. The incident followed an unfair fine of BDT 50,000 imposed by local leaders after two auto-rickshaws went missing during his night watch. Unable to pay, Sabuj refused the judgment. On Sunday, under pressure and provocation, he was detained and his rickshaw seized—leading to the desperate act.

At the close of its Pahela Baishakh program at Ramna Batamul, Chhayanaut observed a one-minute silence to honor those killed in Gaza. At 8:30 AM, performers and attendees stood in solemn remembrance. Executive President Dr. Sarwar Ali condemned the humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, especially the killing of children, and expressed solidarity with the Palestinian struggle for justice and dignity.

A powerful earthquake measuring 6.5 on the Richter scale struck south of the Fiji Islands on Monday morning at 8:03 AM. The U.S. Geological Survey confirmed the quake originated at a depth of 174 kilometers. No casualties or tsunami warnings were reported. The quake follows a series of tremors that shook India, Myanmar, and Tajikistan on Sunday.

The traditional Mongol Shobhajatra (procession of goodwill) began with a burst of colors and symbolic artwork, including masks, puppets, and large bamboo sculptures of animals and nature. Participants included teachers, students, artists, and citizens of all ages—including many foreign nationals. This year’s Shobhajatra, the first in a “New Bangladesh,” featured artistic representations of rural life, nature’s harmony, and a massive portrait of Sheikh Hasina. The procession, organized by the Faculty of Fine Arts, started at 9 AM and circled through Shahbagh, TSC, the Central Shaheed Minar, Doel Chattar, and returned to its point of origin.

Strict security measures have been implemented across the Dhaka University area to ensure the safety of visitors during Pahela Baishakh celebrations. Law enforcement, including police in both uniform and plain clothes, have been deployed at key entry points. Members of RAB, SWAT, army, and intelligence agencies are also on patrol. University security personnel are assisting police to maintain a peaceful environment throughout the campus.

Bangladesh has officially signed the constitution of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Labour Center. The signing ceremony took place in Jeddah on Sunday, with Labour Adviser Sakhawat Hossain representing Bangladesh. OIC Assistant Secretary General Dr. Ahmed Kawesa Sengendo warmly welcomed the adviser. Both parties emphasized the significance of the signing, which will enable Bangladesh to play a more active role in promoting labor rights and workers’ welfare within the OIC framework. Adviser Hossain noted that Bangladesh is a signatory to all core ILO conventions and protocols and has made significant strides in improving worker safety, health, minimum wages, and welfare. Sengendo expressed appreciation for Bangladesh’s commitment.

In retaliation for Israel’s ongoing attacks on Gaza, Yemen’s Houthi rebels have launched ballistic missiles at Israel. Although there were no immediate reports of casualties or damage, air raid sirens were sounded across Israel on Sunday as a precaution. The Israeli military confirmed that the Iran-backed Houthis fired at least two ballistic missiles toward Israeli territory. Air defense systems attempted to intercept the projectiles. Authorities are currently investigating whether the missiles were successfully neutralized.

In a message for Pahela Baishakh, Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus emphasized that the people’s uprising of 2024 has presented an opportunity to build an egalitarian Bangladesh. “Let this New Year be our commitment to eliminating inequality,” he said. Calling Pahela Baishakh a day of unity and harmony, Dr. Yunus urged citizens to leave behind the sorrows of the past and move forward with hope and determination. He also noted the enduring tradition of Hal Khata, still observed in marketplaces across the country, and highlighted how ethnic communities in both hills and plains are celebrating this New Year on a larger scale.

Israeli forces have advanced 12 miles into Syrian territory, escalating from air raids to direct land occupation. Several areas have already been captured, and at least nine military outposts have been set up. On December 8, Israeli troops launched a sudden attack on Rasem al-Rawadi near Quneitra. Local resident Ali al-Ahmad reported that homes were searched and some destroyed, with displaced families housed in schools. The village has been under Israeli control for the past four months, during which around 350 people have been forcibly evicted, and some have been killed. Israel claims support from Syria’s Druze population to legitimize the occupation. Protests have erupted across Damascus, Daraa, Khan Arnabah, Suwayda, Quneitra, and other areas. The Druze community has even rejected humanitarian aid in defiance of the aggression.