China has imposed sanctions on six American companies, accusing them of undermining its national security through military cooperation with Taiwan. Three firms—Sarinc Technologies, Aerocom, and Oceaneering International—were added to Beijing’s “unreliable entities list,” barring them from trade with China. Separately, Huntington Ingalls Industries, Planet Management Group, and Global Dimensions were placed on the export control list, preventing them from receiving dual-use goods. The move comes as U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping prepare for a high-level meeting.

National Citizens’ Party (NCP) South Region Coordinator Hasnat Abdullah responded to Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) A M M Nasir Uddin’s statement on the Shapla symbol with a cryptic Facebook post, saying there was “no permission from above” and “no signal from the north.” The CEC earlier clarified that the Election Commission would not explain why parties were denied the Shapla symbol, stressing the decision was final and independent. He emphasized the EC works neutrally and not under external influence.

Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam confirmed that the 13th National Parliamentary Election will be held in the first half of February, as declared by the Chief Adviser. His comments came amid controversy after the NCP was denied its lotus symbol. While some NCP leaders threatened to escalate political protests, Alam dismissed concerns: “What statements political leaders make is not our issue. The fact is—elections will take place in early February, and no conspiracy can prevent them.”

GOP leader Rashed Khan praised Dr. Muhammad Yunus for his rare simplicity, suggesting it could earn him a second Nobel Prize. He said Yunus openly shows affection for leaders he admires rather than hiding it, unlike others. Khan recalled how advisers sometimes remind Yunus to balance his affections, but Yunus responds with childlike sincerity. “His simplicity is unique in the world. If he wins another Nobel, it will be for this very quality,” Khan said.

BNP leader Rumeen Farhana has accused Jamaat-e-Islami of repeatedly making historic mistakes, recalling its participation alongside Sheikh Hasina in the controversial 1986 election that legitimized military dictatorship. She noted that until 1996, Jamaat also joined hands with Awami League in anti-BNP movements. Farhana further alleged that Jamaat activists, while banned from campuses, had successfully merged into Chhatra League to pursue politics, reaping benefits in Dhaka University and Jahangirnagar University student elections.

Education Adviser Professor Dr. C.R. Abrar has said Bangladesh is advancing towards a biotechnology-driven future to ensure sustainable solutions in health, agriculture, and the environment. Speaking at a conference, he highlighted biotechnology’s potential in tackling climate change, food security, and healthcare challenges. Successes such as high-yield rice varieties, local COVID-19 test kits, and microbial waste management were cited. Dr. Abrar also proposed establishing a National Biotech Innovation Institute and a National Biotech Data Bank to accelerate progress.

NCP leader Sargis Alam has alleged that Sheikh Hasina personally called and thanked the man who threw eggs at Akhtar Hossain in the U.S. Writing on social media, he questioned: “How small-minded must someone be to act this way? What happens to a nation when such a person remains Prime Minister for 16 years?” He expressed gratitude that Bangladesh had been freed from what he described as Hasina’s vindictive and narrow-minded leadership.

Ganosamhati Andolon leader Zonayed Saki has stressed the urgent need for justice, reforms, and elections to safeguard democracy. Speaking on Friday, he warned that any obstruction in these areas would allow fascist forces to gain ground again. He accused former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of plundering the country and committing killings for 15 years, adding that justice must be ensured. He also called on the government to introduce a clear policy on the recruitment of drivers.

This year, 259 mandaps in Dhaka and 33,355 mandaps across Bangladesh will host Durga Puja celebrations, according to the Bangladesh Puja Udjapan Parishad (Central Puja Committee). Committee President Jayanta Kumar Dey noted that the number of mandaps has grown significantly compared to last year’s 31,461. “This year, nearly 2,000 more mandaps will celebrate Durga Puja,” he said. He, however, raised concerns over recent attacks on idols and temples in 13 districts during festival preparations. “Law enforcement responded swiftly, and most of the culprits have been arrested. Security forces remain on high alert to prevent any untoward incidents,” Dey added. The Puja rituals will officially commence tomorrow, Saturday, September 27, with Bodhon, and conclude on October 2 with Bijoya Dashami. On the final day, starting from 3 PM, colorful processions will take place in Dhaka and across the country, marking the grand conclusion of the biggest festival for the Hindu community in Bangladesh.

Election Commissioner Anowarul Islam has assured that the ongoing movement demanding a proportional representation (PR) system by Jamaat-e-Islami and the dispute over the NCP’s electoral symbol will not hinder the upcoming parliamentary elections. He emphasized that those involved in past electoral irregularities will not be entrusted with election duties this time. “The Election Commission is fully prepared to conduct the 13th National Parliamentary Elections. All preparations are underway strictly in line with existing laws,” he stated. Highlighting the commission’s preventive measures, Anowarul said mobile teams, mobile courts, electoral inquiry and monitoring teams, along with a dedicated mobile app, will be deployed to ensure transparency. He also reassured that journalists will face no obstacles in carrying out their professional duties on election day.

Former Anti-Discrimination Student Movement leader K.M. Mamunur Rashid Mamun has been rescued five days after he went missing. However, details of who abducted him remain unknown. He was found on Friday afternoon in Purbachal, Narayanganj, and later taken to Kuwait Maitree Hospital in Dhaka for treatment. Mamun had disappeared last Sunday morning after leaving home in traditional attire. His family had filed a missing person report with the local police.

At a high-level dinner hosted by Bangladesh’s Permanent Mission to the UN, Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus reaffirmed his government’s pledge to implement major labor reforms aligned with ILO conventions before the upcoming February national elections. Yunus stressed that labor reforms are crucial to attract large-scale foreign investment in Bangladesh. The event was attended by the ILO Director-General, UN officials, and senior political leaders. BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir emphasized that Bangladesh’s garment industry is the cornerstone of the economy and must remain a top priority for any future government. Jamaat leader Abdullah Mohammad Taher highlighted his party’s experience in the garment sector, claiming it could help boost competitiveness. NCP senior leader Dr. Tasnim Jara, recalling her frontline experience during the Rana Plaza tragedy as a medical student, said it shaped her understanding of the human cost of unsafe labor practices.

The Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) has deployed 281 patrol teams across Bangladesh, including 94 in Dhaka, to ensure security during this year’s Durga Puja celebrations. RAB reports that 31,526 puja mandaps are being set up nationwide. Enhanced surveillance, intelligence monitoring, and continuous patrols have been launched to prevent violence, sabotage, or disruption during the festivities. Deployment began on September 25 and will continue until October 3. Battalions are coordinating with local puja committees, elected representatives, and other law enforcement agencies. RAB also urged citizens to immediately contact local control rooms or assigned district officers in case of any security concerns.

Travelers have been left stranded in Rajshahi, Chapainawabganj, and Natore after bus owners abruptly suspended Dhaka-bound services, escalating tensions following recent worker strikes. On Thursday night, owners announced the sudden shutdown from ticket counters, citing disputes over increased wages for transport workers. This comes just days after transport unions held strikes demanding pay raises. A tripartite meeting on September 23 in Dhaka agreed to implement wage increases from September 25. However, owners halted operations without notice. Rafiqul Islam Pakhi, acting general secretary of the District Motor Workers’ Union, said: “Workers had reached a negotiated settlement with owners. Yet, without warning, owners have stopped buses, causing immense suffering for passengers.”

An elderly man in Mymensingh’s Tarakanda upazila was forcibly shaved in public, sparking outrage and condemnation. The victim, Halim Uddin Akand (70)—popularly known as Halim Fakir in his village of Kodalia—was attacked by a group of men who cut his decades-old matted hair and beard against his will. Eyewitness video shows three men, dressed in traditional attire, restraining the fakir in a crowded marketplace and forcibly cutting his hair. Despite his desperate attempts to break free, he was overpowered. “They dragged me out, pinned me down, and eight to ten of them shaved my hair with a machine. I fainted,” Halim recounted in tears. “I am not insane. I am a fakir. I practice herbal healing. My hair was nearly 30 years old, untouched since visiting the shrine of Hazrat Shahjalal in Sylhet.” Deeply humiliated, Halim said he has been unable to work since the assault. “They thought I was mad, but I am not. I leave their punishment to Allah.” Local police chief Tipu Sultan confirmed that authorities have spoken with Halim’s family. “If a complaint is filed, those responsible will be arrested,” he assured.