Adviser Farida Akhter has declared that those using illegal fishing nets are “enemies of the country,” as they are depriving people of food. She called for strict action not only against users but also against factories producing and selling such nets. “Raids must be conducted to shut down illegal net production,” she said. Highlighting the need for more fish sanctuaries, she urged increased government allocations to support fish breeding. She stressed that agricultural diversification could also boost production and that new projects would be launched in the future. Akhter emphasized inter-ministerial coordination—between the ministries of fisheries, water resources, and shipping—for effective conservation. She acknowledged that despite extensive government drives to protect jatka and conserve hilsa, low rainfall and reduced river navigability have hindered the migration of hilsa from sea to river this season, leading to lower catches.

Padma Bridge South Police Station’s Officer-in-Charge (OC) Parvez Ahmed Selim has been removed from his post after hosting a banquet attended by a local Jubo League leader in Shariatpur’s Jajira. According to reports, the police station had organized its monthly feast on Friday afternoon, where OC Selim invited Moktar Bepari, president of Naodoba Union Jubo League. The invitation sparked criticism. Following the backlash, Bepari was arrested Friday night on charges of involvement with anti-discrimination student protests and presented before the court on Saturday. OC Selim has since been transferred to the police lines.

Adviser Fauzul Kabir Khan has stated that even if the Awami League remains banned, its supporters still retain their constitutional right to vote. “No one can dictate which party they will vote for,” he stressed. Khan reiterated that the interim government has no political affiliation and will ensure a free, fair, and neutral election. He warned that no government official will be allowed to take sides: “If anyone does, strict action will be taken immediately.” He added that regardless of which party wins, civil servants must work under the elected government. Reflecting on the 2018 polls, he said: “That was a ‘Lailatul election’—but now the situation is different.” On other issues, Khan confirmed that there is no electricity crisis at present, though some industries face gas shortages, which will be resolved. He also acknowledged public inconvenience due to construction of the Dhaka–Ashulia Elevated Expressway but said: “Temporary hardships for development are nothing.”

The Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education (DSHE) has instructed the submission of information to prepare the gradation list for assistant teachers who joined in 2017, 2018, and 2019. Schools have been asked to send two hard copies of the required documents by September 30. These include copies of personal applications, service records, attested academic certificates, regularization orders, appointment and joining letters, and certifications regarding departmental or criminal cases, as well as audit objections.

Adviser M. Sakhawat Hossain has confirmed that national elections will take place in February, emphasizing that there is “absolutely no doubt” about it. He stressed that even within the advisory council, there is no uncertainty regarding the polls. “The Election Commission will oversee the elections, not us. Whoever assumes power through that process will govern the country in the democratic spirit,” he said. He also announced the launch of a new paddle steamer service in October for passengers traveling from Barishal to Dhaka, blending tradition with modernity. “This initiative will not only enhance passenger services but also boost tourism,” he noted. Hossain praised local authorities for restoring canals in Barishal and mentioned ongoing efforts to secure Tk 850 crore for the construction of the Mirganj Bridge and embankments in Hizla-Muladi. Discussions are also underway to bring Bhola gas to Barishal.

Bangladesh Chhatra Dal leader Sheikh Tanvir Bari Hamim has vowed that his organization will not allow an “unjust PR system” to undermine the upcoming national election. In a statement, he invoked the sacrifice of Abu Sayeed, saying, “Just as Abu Sayeed laid down his life with open arms for a democratic Bangladesh, patriotic students of Chhatra Dal will also shed blood if necessary—but they will not let the election be derailed under the guise of an unfair PR arrangement.” Hamim also criticized Barrister Fuad, accusing him of echoing Awami League rhetoric. “When Barrister Fuad insulted our activists by calling them junkies, it reminded me of the slander once directed at Abu Sayeed. He should take a lesson from Tolstoy’s story ‘How Much Land Does a Man Need?’—despite their degrees from abroad, some fail to grasp the limits of arrogance.”

Senior BNP leader M. Ruhul Quddus Talukdar Dulu has announced that Natore residents will receive household gas connections within two months if his party wins the upcoming national election. Speaking at a local event, he stressed the urgent need for a medical college hospital in Natore, saying, “Without quality healthcare, ordinary people suffer, and broader development is also hampered.” Jamaat leader Abdul Hakim echoed the call for regional development, urging the establishment of an agricultural research institute and an agro-industrial EPZ in the food basket region of Chalan Beel. Meanwhile, Professor Jargis Kadir, an NCP candidate from Natore-3, criticized past governments, claiming, “Under Delhi’s influence, the backbone of our education system was destroyed. To ensure quality education, we must build strong institutions.”

Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Dr. Shafiqur Rahman has extended warm congratulations to all participants in the Jahangirnagar University Central Students’ Union (JUCSU) and hall union elections, with special praise for those who secured leadership positions. In a statement, he wrote: “Congratulations to everyone who contested the elections. Special felicitations to those who earned the highest votes and were elected to various posts.” Expressing optimism about the newly elected representatives, he added: “We hope they will give the utmost importance to safeguarding the trust placed in them by the student community. May Almighty Allah assist them in this responsibility.” Dr. Rahman also thanked the university administration, election commission, and all others involved in conducting the polls. He praised the government and law enforcement agencies for their sincerity and dedication in ensuring a smooth electoral process. Looking ahead, the Jamaat chief expressed hope for collective progress: “We expect that students, teachers, and the administration of Jahangirnagar University will work together to elevate the institution to the standards we all aspire to.”

The government has strongly condemned the attempted assault on Adviser Mahfuz Alam in London, weeks after a similar incident in New York. Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam reiterated: “Violence is not protest; intimidation is not freedom of expression. The same applies in London as it did in New York.” The statement declared that such barbaric acts have no place in a democratic society. While the right to peaceful assembly and expression must be respected, it should always be exercised responsibly. The government has urged London’s Metropolitan Police to conduct a full investigation, review CCTV footage, and bring the perpetrators to justice. Political leaders and community organizers abroad were also urged to reject violence and intimidation publicly. “Throwing eggs, fists, or launching group attacks does not prove a point—it only shows the absence of reason,” the statement concluded.

NCP leader Hasnat Abdullah has urged young people to discover their true passions and pursue them with confidence, rather than being forced into careers dictated by societal pressure. Speaking at a reception program for university aspirants, Abdullah emphasized that not everyone needs to study at a university or secure top grades to succeed in life. “Each person has their own path to success,” he said. He pointed out that a lack of interest in academics is not a crime, but failing to be a good human being is unacceptable. “Some excel in cooking, others in painting or singing—these too can become professions. What matters is identifying your skills and interests,” Abdullah noted, warning that imposed education and career choices often destroy potential. Highlighting the importance of empathy and ethical living, he added: “Whatever we become—doctor, engineer, artist, or anything else—we must at least ensure that no one suffers because of us. Even if we cannot help others, we must never cause harm.” Abdullah further stressed the need for prayer and patience in achieving goals. “True success comes only through these two strengths,” he concluded.

Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of eminent singer Farida Parveen. In his condolence message, Dr. Yunus said that although Parveen performed Nazrul songs and patriotic music, she was best known as the “Daughter of Lalon.” For five decades, her soulful renditions of Lalon’s spiritual songs touched millions, reflecting the deeper philosophy and life values embedded in Bangladeshi culture. “Despite many hardships, she never distanced herself from music. Her devotion inspired generations,” Dr. Yunus said, adding that the Ekushey Padak–winning artist’s contributions will remain unforgettable and continue to inspire new thoughts and creativity in the cultural sphere. He prayed for her eternal peace and conveyed his condolences to the bereaved family.

Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and India’s Border Security Force (BSF) held a meeting at the Maheshpur border in Jhenaidah on Saturday to discuss cross-border issues including pushbacks, killings, human trafficking, and drug smuggling. The hour-long meeting took place between 5–6 PM at the commanding officer level. Lt. Col. Md. Rafiqul Alam represented BGB, while Commandant Muganthan led the BSF side. Officials described the talks as “cordial,” with both forces agreeing to take effective measures. After the meeting, commanders and staff from both sides walked about 2 km along the zero line, reaffirming their commitment to maintain friendly bilateral relations.

A US trade delegation is arriving in Dhaka on Sunday for a two-day visit to discuss the 20% counter-tariff imposed on Bangladeshi goods in the American market. The delegation will be led by Brendan Lynch, Assistant USTR for South and Central Asia. Although tariffs have been reduced from 35% to 20%, no formal agreement has yet been signed. A draft deal is prepared, and discussions will focus on finalizing it and potentially reducing tariffs further. During the visit, the delegation will meet with the Ministry of Commerce, Chief Adviser, Foreign Affairs Adviser, and Foreign Secretary.

Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) Vice President Md. Abu Sadiq Kayem congratulated and extended greetings to the newly elected representatives of JUCSU. In a statement, he lauded Jahangirnagar University students’ courage during the July Revolution and expressed hope that the new JAKSU leadership will uphold democracy, justice, and student rights while shaping a just and prosperous Bangladesh.

BNP leader Gayeshwar Chandra Roy has warned that while fascism has been removed, communal violence is rising due to mob incidents across the country. He emphasized that unless democracy guides governance, communalism could surpass fascism in destructiveness. Roy affirmed BNP’s belief in religious values, stating: “What religion condemns as sin, the modern state defines as crime. Religion does not conflict with the state system, but misinterpretations have distorted it.” He accused the interim government of sliding into superstition under the guise of reforms.