Bangladesh’s Religious Affairs Adviser A F M Khalid Hossain announced that several individuals involved in the recent arson attacks on the offices of national newspapers Prothom Alo and The Daily Star have been identified. Speaking to reporters at the Secretariat on Sunday, he said law enforcement agencies have been instructed to arrest the suspects and bring them under legal process. The adviser also condemned the mob killing of a Hindu garment worker in Mymensingh, calling it a heinous act and reaffirming the government’s stance against vigilante justice. Hossain acknowledged the difficulty of preventing sudden attacks across multiple locations, including incidents at cultural institution Chhayanaut, but rejected claims of government complicity. He stated that the administration remains committed to maintaining law and order and ensuring a free and fair election. When asked about intelligence failures, he said such events are hard to predict but emphasized that prompt action had prevented further violence elsewhere. The adviser further noted that misinformation and incitement from abroad via social media platforms like Facebook and YouTube remain outside direct government control, though authorities are monitoring the situation closely.

Bangladesh has formally rejected India’s press note regarding an attempted attack on the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi. Foreign Affairs Adviser Mohammad Touhid Hossain said on Sunday that Dhaka dismissed the Indian statement entirely, questioning how protesters managed to reach deep inside the diplomatic zone. He also mentioned that Bangladesh might consider downsizing its mission in India if necessary. According to earlier reports quoting the High Commission’s press minister, several individuals arrived in three vehicles on Saturday night, shouted slogans demanding protection for Hindus, and called for the High Commissioner. They left after a brief demonstration. In response, Indian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal accused the media of spreading misleading propaganda about the incident. The exchange underscores rising diplomatic tension between the two neighbors over security issues surrounding the Bangladeshi mission. Analysts suggest both governments may seek to de-escalate through diplomatic channels, though Dhaka’s remarks indicate growing concern about the safety of its diplomats in India.

Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) has completed the removal of all election campaign materials from its jurisdiction ahead of Bangladesh’s 13th National Parliamentary Election and the upcoming national referendum. Following a public notice issued on December 2, 2025, DSCC urged all organizations and individuals to voluntarily remove unauthorized banners, posters, festoons, and advertisements. The city authority began the cleanup operation on December 8, in compliance with the Election Commission’s directive to clear all campaign materials within 48 hours of the official election schedule announcement. The Election Commission announced the schedule on December 11, 2025, prompting DSCC to act swiftly across all wards. Officials confirmed that nearly all unauthorized campaign materials were removed within the stipulated time. DSCC also appealed to political parties and candidates to adhere to the 2025 electoral code of conduct and maintain the city’s cleanliness and aesthetics. Residents have been requested to report any reinstallation of unauthorized materials to the central control room via hotline 02223386014, as the monitoring and enforcement drive continues.

Omar Hadi, brother of slain activist Sharif Osman Hadi and convener of the Inquilab Moncho, has called on supporters to complete the revolutionary movement his brother began. Speaking at a prayer gathering organized by Jamaat-e-Islami at Al-Falah Auditorium in Dhaka’s Moghbazar, he emphasized that the family does not seek donations or financial assistance, but rather justice and fulfillment of Osman Hadi’s political vision. During the event, Omar Hadi expressed doubts about receiving justice for his brother’s killing, which he linked to the July Revolution movement. He urged attendees to pledge that they would not rest until a just Bangladesh is established, echoing the ideals for which Osman Hadi was martyred. He also noted that the family and members of Inquilab Moncho have struggled to return to normal life since the death. The call underscores ongoing frustration among supporters over the unresolved investigation into Hadi’s death and reflects broader dissatisfaction with the pace of political justice in Bangladesh.

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has initiated an investigation into former Sirajganj-5 MP Abdul Momin Mondal and former Chowhali Upazila Chairman Taj Uddin over allegations of corruption, embezzlement, and illegal wealth accumulation. ACC’s Pabna district office confirmed the operation on December 20, citing suspicions of misappropriating government project funds and laundering money abroad. According to ACC sources, both Mondal and Uddin, who were affiliated with the Awami League, are accused of acquiring assets beyond known income sources, including properties under their family members’ names. Mondal, first elected in 2018 and re-elected in 2024, lost his parliamentary seat following the fall of the Awami League government after a student-led uprising. The investigation marks a continuation of the ACC’s intensified scrutiny of former political figures after the recent political transition. Officials indicated that further legal steps may follow depending on the outcome of the inquiry, which could set a precedent for future anti-graft actions in post-transition Bangladesh.

India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has dismissed reports in some Bangladeshi media describing a protest outside the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi as a security concern. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said on Sunday that the demonstration, held on December 20 by around 20–25 youths, was peaceful, brief, and posed no threat to the mission’s security. Jaiswal clarified that the protesters gathered to condemn the killing of Dipu Chandra Das in Mymensingh and to call for the protection of minorities in Bangladesh. He emphasized that there was no attempt to breach the security perimeter, and police dispersed the group within minutes. India, he added, remains committed under the Vienna Convention to ensuring the safety of all foreign missions on its soil. The spokesperson further noted that India is closely monitoring developments in Bangladesh and remains in contact with Dhaka. New Delhi has expressed concern over attacks on minorities and urged accountability for those responsible for the recent killing.

Bangladesh is undergoing a period of significant transformation marked by rising civic awareness and a renewed emphasis on national identity. The concept of “Bangladesh First” has gained prominence, reflecting aspirations that extend beyond economic growth to include justice, good governance, and human dignity. Citizens are increasingly vocal about transparency, equality, and state accountability, signaling a shift in public expectations from mere development to participatory governance. Observers note that fear among the public has diminished, and people—especially the youth—are more willing to question authority and engage in civic discourse. Infrastructure improvements in roads, bridges, electricity, and communications are driving economic dynamism, while social change is evident in growing female participation and entrepreneurship. However, challenges remain in ensuring equitable growth and sustaining democratic engagement. Analysts suggest that this evolving political consciousness could shape the country’s future direction, demanding realistic evaluation of progress and collective commitment to inclusive nation-building.

Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal has postponed its order on charge framing against 17 accused, including 10 army officers, in a case involving enforced disappearances and torture. The tribunal, led by Justice Md Golam Mortuza Majumder, rescheduled the hearing to December 23 after defense lawyers requested additional time. Senior lawyer Monsurul Haque Chowdhury represented three detained officers during the session. Chief Prosecutor Mohammad Tajul Islam objected strongly to the defense’s repeated petitions, alleging that the defense team was deliberately attempting to mislead the tribunal and delay proceedings. He argued that such tactics were meant to obstruct justice and prevent the framing of charges despite the existence of prima facie grounds. The tribunal panel includes Justices Md Shafiul Alam Mahmud and retired District Judge Mohitul Haque Enam Chowdhury. The delay highlights ongoing tensions in high-profile war crimes cases, where procedural motions often slow progress. Observers note that the tribunal’s next session will be crucial in determining whether formal charges proceed against the accused officers.

Police in Mirzaganj, Patuakhali, arrested Awami League leader and Union Parishad member Molla Maruf Hossain on Sunday morning. The arrest took place at a shop in New Market Bazar under Madhabkhali Union as part of the ongoing 'Operation Devil Hunt Phase-2'. Hossain, aged 42, serves as the publicity secretary of the Madhabkhali Union Awami League and represents Ward No. 7 in the local council. According to Mirzaganj Police Station Officer-in-Charge Md. Abdus Salam, the arrest was made under regular legal procedures, and a case is being processed against Hossain. The police official added that the operation will continue as part of broader law enforcement efforts in the area. Local authorities have not disclosed further details about the charges or the nature of the investigation. The arrest has drawn attention within the local political community, highlighting ongoing police actions targeting alleged irregularities and criminal activities in the region. Authorities have stated that similar operations will persist to ensure law and order.

Bangladesh’s Senior Land Secretary ASM Saleh Ahmed emphasized the importance of survey and settlement training in reducing land-related disputes and ensuring accurate land records. Speaking at the closing ceremony of the 141st Survey and Settlement Training Course in Dhaka, he said that precise surveys and reliable documentation can ease the burden on the judiciary and protect citizens from harassment. The 52-day training, organized by the Directorate of Land Records and Surveys, included 60 officers from various civil, police, forest, railway, and judicial services. Ahmed highlighted the need to expand the use of modern tools such as GIS, GPS, drone surveys, and digital mapping to strengthen digital land services. Other speakers underscored that efficient human resource development is essential for fair resource management and transparency in land administration. Officials from the Land Appeal Board, Land Reform Board, and senior ministry representatives attended the event. The initiative reflects the government’s broader effort to modernize land management, reduce litigation, and promote accountability through technology and capacity building.

Police in Netrakona recovered the body of Helal Uddin, a 60-year-old farmer, who was found with his hands, feet, and mouth bound and his throat slit in his bedroom early Sunday morning. The incident occurred in Nariyapara village of Kaliyara Gabragati Union under Netrakona Sadar upazila. According to local sources, Uddin’s wife discovered the body around 4 a.m. and alerted neighbors, who then informed police. Law enforcement officials, including the Superintendent of Police Md. Tariqul Islam, visited the scene along with detectives and the CID crime scene unit, collecting evidence for investigation. Police suspect the murder was premeditated. Authorities noted inconsistencies in the wife’s statement, and she has been taken in for questioning. The body was sent to Netrakona Modern Sadar Hospital for autopsy. Investigators are prioritizing the case, emphasizing that legal action will follow based on forensic findings and investigative progress. The killing has shocked the rural community, prompting heightened security and scrutiny of possible personal or financial motives.

Police in Lakshmipur have reported finding no credible evidence of arson or mob involvement in the fire that destroyed the home of BNP leader Belal Hossain, killing his eight-year-old daughter and severely injuring two others. The incident occurred late on December 19, and as of Sunday, no case had been filed and no arrests made. Belal Hossain alleged that the fire was deliberately set, claiming the doors were locked and flammable materials used. He urged authorities to conduct a fair investigation, questioning how his house could burn down within minutes without external interference. BNP leaders, including Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, expressed condolences and demanded justice. Police officials stated that preliminary investigations found no signs of petrol or accelerants, and it remains unclear whether the incident was politically motivated or domestic in nature. The investigation continues as the surviving victims receive treatment in Dhaka Medical College Hospital’s burn unit.

Police in Kishoreganj upazila of Nilphamari district arrested two individuals, including a local Jubo League ward president, during separate raids on Saturday night under an anti-terrorism case. The detainees were identified as Ziaur Rahman, 42, president of the Jubo League’s Ward No. 9 unit in Putimari Union, and Jagdish Chandra Barman, 55, of Uttar Barovita Dangapara village. Both were sent to the district jail on Sunday afternoon following their arrest. According to Abdul Kuddus, the investigating officer of Kishoreganj Police Station, the arrests were made as part of the ongoing “Devil Hunt Phase-2” operation targeting individuals accused in anti-terrorism cases. Police stated that the operation aims to strengthen law enforcement presence and curb militant or extremist activities in the region. Local sources said the arrests have drawn attention within political circles, as one of the accused holds a leadership role in the ruling party’s youth wing. Authorities have not disclosed further details about the specific charges or the next steps in the legal process.

Police in Taraganj upazila of Rangpur district have arrested a local leader of the banned student organization, Chhatra League. The arrest took place around 1 p.m. on Sunday during an operation at Taraganj Bazar. The detainee, identified as Md. Ruhul Amin, 27, was serving as the general secretary of the Ikarchali Union unit of the group and is the son of Md. Abdul Majid from Ikarchali (Pashchimpara) village. Officer-in-Charge Ruhul Amin of Taraganj Police Station confirmed the arrest and stated that the accused was sent to Rangpur Jail following a court order. Authorities have not disclosed further details about the charges or the specific reasons behind the ban on the organization. Local sources indicated that the arrest followed ongoing surveillance of banned political activities in the area. The incident underscores the government’s continued enforcement against proscribed political groups in northern Bangladesh. Further legal proceedings are expected in the coming days as police continue monitoring similar organizations.

Omar Hadi, brother of slain activist Sharif Osman Hadi, has expressed deep concern about the possibility of receiving justice for his brother’s killing. Speaking at a prayer gathering organized by Jamaat-e-Islami at Al-Falah Auditorium in Dhaka’s Moghbazar, he said the family seeks no financial aid but only the fulfillment of Osman Hadi’s unfinished revolutionary mission. Omar Hadi urged supporters to continue striving for an ‘insaf-based Bangladesh,’ emphasizing that the struggle initiated by his brother should not end with his death. He lamented that the family and members of the Inquilab Mancha, the movement Hadi led, have yet to return to normal life since the assassination. The remarks come amid ongoing frustration over delays in the investigation and perceived lack of accountability in politically sensitive murder cases. Observers note that the call for justice may reignite discussions about political violence and the state of rule of law in Bangladesh.