National Citizen Party (NCP) central organizing secretary for the southern region, Hasnat Abdullah, emphasized peaceful political competition during a series of campaign rallies across Cumilla-4’s Debidwar constituency. Speaking in Elahabad and Jafarganj unions, he declared that love and public trust cannot be won through fear or violence, asserting that his campaign would focus on constructive work rather than confrontation. Abdullah accused rival political groups of using phone threats and intimidation to influence voters, claiming such actions stem from their own insecurity. He also vowed to end extortion and tender manipulation if elected, suggesting that opposition to his campaign arises from vested interests. Addressing threats to his life, Abdullah expressed confidence in local women and residents to protect him, adding that even opposition activists would stand against fascism. The NCP candidate’s remarks come amid heightened political activity ahead of the upcoming national elections, as parties intensify grassroots campaigns across Bangladesh’s constituencies.

Bangladesh received $2 billion in remittances during the first 17 days of December 2025, marking a 14% increase compared to the same period last year, according to Bangladesh Bank spokesperson Arif Hossain Khan. The central bank’s data shows that expatriate income continues to rise steadily, reflecting stronger inflows through formal banking channels. In November 2025, remittances totaled $2.889 billion, up 31.37% from $2.199 billion in November 2024, making it the highest monthly inflow in six months. From July to December 17 of the current fiscal year, Bangladesh received $15.04 billion in remittances, compared with $12.89 billion during the same period last year—a 16.7% year-on-year growth. Economists attribute the surge to improved exchange rate management and incentives for remittance senders. The continued rise in remittance inflows is expected to support Bangladesh’s foreign exchange reserves and help stabilize the local currency amid global economic uncertainty.

Bangladesh police have arrested 67 individuals across eight districts of Rangpur Division during a 24-hour operation named ‘Devil Hunt Phase-2’. The detainees are reportedly members and affiliates of the banned Awami League and its associated organizations. The arrests took place between Wednesday and Thursday morning, confirmed Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Aminul Islam of the Rangpur Range. According to police sources, the operation covered Rangpur, Kurigram, Lalmonirhat, Nilphamari, Gaibandha, Dinajpur, Thakurgaon, and Panchagarh districts. Those arrested face charges related to murder, attempted murder, and terrorism under the Anti-Terrorism Act, many linked to the anti-discrimination student movement. DIG Islam described the operation as part of a broader effort to curb political violence and enforce the ban on the party’s activities. Authorities have not disclosed whether further arrests are expected, but security operations are likely to continue across northern Bangladesh as part of the ongoing crackdown on banned political networks.

Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur Rahman delivered a standout performance in the ILT20, taking three wickets in a single over against MI Emirates just a day after being bought by Kolkata Knight Riders for INR 9.2 crore in the IPL auction. His spell, highlighted by dismissals of Rashid Khan, Tom Banton, and Mohammad Ghazanfar in the 18th over, limited the opposition to 137 runs. Despite his efforts, Dubai Capitals fell short by seven runs, bowled out for 130. Mustafizur’s final figures stood at 3 for 35, bringing his tournament tally to nine wickets in five matches and placing him third on the ILT20 wicket-takers list. Teammate Waqar Salamkheil leads with 12 wickets. The left-arm seamer’s performance reinforced his rising value ahead of the IPL season, where expectations are high for him to replicate his UAE form. Analysts note that his control in the death overs remains a key asset for both franchise and national teams.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced sweeping reforms to strengthen hate speech laws following the Bondi Beach massacre that killed 15 people. After a National Security Committee meeting, Albanese outlined new federal offenses targeting hate speech promoters and leaders, with increased penalties for incitement to violence. The reforms also classify hate motivation as an aggravating factor in online harassment and threats. The proposed legislation comes amid a surge in hate crimes and extremist rhetoric across Australia. Authorities have reported a rise in both anti-Muslim and anti-Jewish incidents since the Bondi attack. In one case, a Muslim cemetery was desecrated with a pig’s head, highlighting growing communal tensions. The government has also begun listing organizations whose leaders advocate racial hatred or supremacy. Analysts say the measures mark one of the most significant updates to Australia’s hate crime framework in decades. Lawmakers are expected to debate the bill early next year, with civil rights groups urging careful balance between security and free speech protections.

The Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) seized illegal Indian sarees valued at approximately Tk 6.28 million during separate anti-smuggling operations along the Comilla border on Thursday, December 18. The raids were conducted by special patrol teams under the Comilla Battalion (10 BGB) in the Tikkar Char, Kabiraj Bazar, and Chauddagram areas, where the sarees were found abandoned within eight kilometers inside Bangladesh territory. According to BGB sources, the operations were part of ongoing efforts to curb cross-border smuggling of goods and narcotics. Comilla Battalion Commander Colonel Mir Ali Ejaz confirmed the seizure and stated that the confiscated items would be handed over to customs authorities following legal procedures. He emphasized that the BGB would continue such drives to prevent illegal trade across the frontier. The incident underscores persistent challenges in controlling cross-border smuggling activities along the Bangladesh-India boundary, where textile and consumer goods are frequently trafficked. Authorities are expected to strengthen surveillance and coordination with customs to enhance border security.

Shamaruh Mirza, daughter of BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, publicly criticized a Jamaat-e-Islami leader’s recent statement suggesting that joining the party is necessary to attain heaven. In a Facebook post on Thursday, she expressed dismay, calling the remark potentially un-Islamic and urging reflection on its implications for faith and politics. The controversy stems from a viral video showing Jamaat-affiliated lawyer Barrister Shahriar Kabir allegedly telling supporters that paradise is reserved for those aligned with Jamaat-e-Islami. Kabir has since denied the authenticity of the footage, claiming it was manipulated. The video has sparked widespread debate on social media, with many questioning the use of religious rhetoric in political mobilization. Analysts note that the incident underscores growing tensions between Islamist and secular political narratives in Bangladesh. The Election Commission and religious scholars have yet to comment, but observers warn that such statements could deepen ideological divides ahead of the next national polls.

The century-old Bangladesh Muslim League has announced its reunification and decision to field candidates in all 300 constituencies in the upcoming 13th national election. The announcement came after a meeting in Old Dhaka, chaired by senior leader Md. Sharafuddin, where previously divided factions pledged unity against what they termed foreign dominance. Leaders including Secretary General Kazi Abul Khair and Vice President Nazrul Islam attended, while senior figures Abdul Aziz Hawlader and Aftab Hossain Molla joined virtually to endorse the move. Party leaders described the unification as a historic step to restore the League’s nationalist identity and influence. Kazi Abul Khair accused a neighboring state of undermining Bangladesh’s sovereignty, while organizational secretary Khan Asad admitted internal divisions had weakened the party’s public appeal. The leadership vowed to rebuild the organization under its traditional lantern symbol and reconnect with grassroots supporters. Analysts note that the League’s decision to contest all seats signals an attempt to reassert relevance in a polarized political landscape dominated by larger parties. The move may reshape alliances and test the party’s organizational strength nationwide.

India’s Chief Justice Surya Kant has expressed deep concern about a growing trend of judges delivering controversial or questionable rulings shortly before retirement. Speaking during a Supreme Court hearing on a suspended district judge from Madhya Pradesh, the Chief Justice described the pattern as an “unfortunate judicial tendency.” The bench, also comprising Justice Joymalya Bagchi, was reviewing the judge’s suspension, which followed two disputed orders issued days before his scheduled retirement. The Chief Justice noted that such actions undermine public confidence in the judiciary and send a troubling message about judicial integrity. The bench questioned why the judge bypassed the High Court to appeal directly to the Supreme Court. Senior advocate Bipin Sanghi defended his client’s record, arguing that a judge should not face disciplinary action for appealable decisions unless motivated by bad faith. Ultimately, the Supreme Court declined to admit the petition, directing the applicant to approach the High Court instead. The bench also criticized the use of Right to Information (RTI) requests to seek internal judicial details, calling formal representation the proper route.

Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) arrested 392 individuals in the capital within 24 hours under 'Operation Devil Hunt Phase-2'. Among those detained were 15 active members of the banned Awami League and its affiliated organizations, while 377 were wanted in various cases or named in charge sheets. The DMP said the operation was part of ongoing efforts to maintain law and order in the city. In addition to the arrests, police set up 11 special checkpoints at key entry and exit points of Dhaka on December 17 to inspect suspicious vehicles and ensure public safety. During these checks, 769 vehicles were searched, and five more people were detained. The DMP emphasized that such operations will continue to preserve stability in the capital. Authorities have not disclosed further details on the charges against the detainees, but the large-scale operation signals intensified security measures amid heightened political and public safety concerns in Dhaka.

Islamic Movement Bangladesh has accused the Election Commission (EC) of infringing on religious freedom by imposing restrictions on waz mahfils, traditional Islamic sermons held across the country during winter. In a statement released Thursday, the party’s joint secretary general and spokesperson, Maulana Gazi Ataur Rahman, said such events are deeply rooted in Bangladeshi culture and banning them during the election period would be seen as an attack on religious rights. Rahman argued that most preachers are non-political and focus solely on religious teachings. He warned that limiting these gatherings could create public resentment toward the government and the EC. The statement also noted that religious speakers often address issues like corruption and injustice, which should not be misinterpreted as political speech. The party urged the EC to withdraw the restrictions, emphasizing that freedom of religious expression must be preserved even during election periods to maintain public trust and social harmony.

Chattogram Metropolitan Police Commissioner Hasib Aziz has pledged to guarantee voter safety during Bangladesh’s upcoming national election, even if extreme measures are required. Speaking at a press briefing at the Chattogram Press Club, Aziz said the city will be placed under a comprehensive security plan to encourage voter turnout and prevent intimidation. He warned that police will not hesitate to act decisively against armed groups operating in the city. Aziz identified several local gangs, including the Sajjad, Laltu, and Poltu groups, as threats to public security, asserting that no force other than the police will be allowed to operate. He noted that 80% of previously looted police weapons have been recovered, while the rest are believed to be in the hands of separatist groups in hill areas. Additional security will be deployed in minority and high-crime polling centers. The commissioner also criticized past administrations for aligning state institutions, calling it a cause of authoritarian governance. He urged officers to remain firm yet polite, emphasizing that public confidence and safety are the true measures of police success.

Bangladesh’s Ministry of Education has issued an urgent directive instructing all private schools and colleges to collect tuition fees strictly in accordance with the revised student admission policy. The notice, signed by Deputy Secretary Syed A.Z. Morshed Ali from the Secondary and Higher Education Division, emphasizes adherence to the updated 2026 academic year guidelines. According to the circular, institutions must follow the 2024 Tuition Fee Policy schedules A, B, and C when determining and collecting fees. The revised admission policy for private schools and colleges, covering secondary, lower secondary, and attached primary levels, was officially published on November 19, 2025. The ministry’s directive aims to ensure transparency and uniformity in fee collection practices across private educational institutions. Education officials said the move seeks to prevent arbitrary fee hikes and protect guardians from financial exploitation. Schools have been asked to implement the policy immediately and report compliance to the ministry. Monitoring mechanisms are expected to be strengthened ahead of the 2026 academic session.

Bangladesh’s Rapid Action Battalion (RAB-6) has arrested Md. Ijazul Hossain, a listed top criminal and active member of the 'Grenade Babu' gang, for his alleged direct involvement in the daylight double murder at the Khulna District and Sessions Judge Court premises. He was detained on December 17 from the Aichgati area across the Rupsha River. According to RAB, Ijazul confessed to participating in the killing of Fazle Rabbi Rajon and Hasib Howlader on November 30. RAB officials stated that seven attackers took part in the assault, which stemmed from a long-standing feud between the 'Grenade Babu' and 'Palash' gangs over territorial control, drug trade profits, and extortion money. CCTV and mobile footage captured Ijazul at the scene, leading to his arrest. The victims’ families did not initially file a case, prompting police to register two cases under murder and arms laws on December 3. Authorities continue to investigate the broader network behind the attack as law enforcement intensifies operations against organized crime groups in Khulna.

The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) of Bangladesh has approved a chargesheet against former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, his wife, and two children for allegedly amassing illegal wealth worth over Tk 220 million and conducting suspicious transactions totaling Tk 870 million. The charges were confirmed by ACC Director General Md. Akhter Hossain on Thursday. According to the chargesheet, Kamal, while serving as a public official, abused his authority to acquire assets inconsistent with his known sources of income. Investigators also found evidence of money laundering through nine bank accounts, allegedly used to conceal or transfer illicit funds. The charges were filed under the Anti-Corruption Commission Act 2004, the Prevention of Corruption Act 1947, and the Money Laundering Prevention Act 2012. Kamal was previously sentenced to death by the International Crimes Tribunal in November for crimes against humanity during the July uprising. The new corruption case adds to his legal troubles, signaling intensified scrutiny of former high-ranking officials accused of financial and wartime offenses.