The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has urged the government to ensure the safety of its acting chairman, Tarique Rahman, who is scheduled to return to Bangladesh on December 25 after nearly 18 years abroad. The call came amid heightened political tension following a shooting attack on independent candidate Sharif Osman Hadi in Dhaka, which has stirred concerns about election-time violence. BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed, after meeting the chief adviser on December 13, said the attack on Hadi appeared to be the work of professional shooters and should not be dismissed as an isolated incident. He emphasized that all political leaders must be guaranteed safety and called for coordinated efforts by the government, law enforcement, and the public to prevent further violence. Ahmed reaffirmed the party’s commitment to maintaining a united anti-fascist front and warned that such attacks would not derail Bangladesh’s democratic transition. Hadi remains in critical condition, with doctors describing his brain injury as life-threatening.

National Citizen Party (NCP) South Organizing Chief Hasnat Abdullah issued a fiery warning against what he termed Delhi’s dominance in Bangladesh politics. Speaking at a protest rally organized by Inquilab Mancha in Dhaka’s Shahbagh area on Saturday, December 13, Abdullah declared that the ‘throne of Delhi’ would be burned in Bangladesh, denouncing any external interference in the country’s internal affairs. Abdullah referenced the recent killing of Osman Hadi, saying the incident struck the conscience of every Bangladeshi. He criticized individuals and groups who previously supported the ruling Awami League but are now re-emerging under new identities as intellectuals or cultural activists. The NCP leader also vowed that fascist forces, regardless of their political labels, would find no place in Bangladesh. His remarks reflect growing nationalist rhetoric among opposition-aligned groups amid heightened political tensions. Analysts note that such statements could further strain Bangladesh-India relations and intensify domestic polarization ahead of possible political realignments.

Dr. Badiul Alam Majumdar, founder secretary of Citizens for Good Governance (SUJAN), has said that maintaining law and order will be the biggest challenge in ensuring a fair and credible national election in Bangladesh. Speaking at a mock parliament session organized by Debate for Democracy in Dhaka, he noted that while concerns remain about the electoral environment, unity among all political parties could help overcome these fears. He emphasized that although some members of the interim government may have personal loyalties, the administration as a whole remains neutral and committed to democratic transition. Majumdar also warned that the misuse of social media could spread misinformation and rumors about election results, urging media outlets to strengthen fact-checking mechanisms. Debate for Democracy Chairman Hasan Ahmed Chowdhury Kiron, who presided over the event, alleged that recent attacks on political figures were part of attempts by domestic and foreign actors to derail the democratic process. The event concluded with a debate competition where Hazaribagh Government College emerged as the winner. Observers say the remarks highlight growing concern over political violence, digital misinformation, and the need for institutional neutrality ahead of the polls.

Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) Standing Committee member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury has said that the return of the party’s acting chairman, Tarique Rahman, will bring a new wave of political energy to Bangladesh. Speaking at a BNP-organized workshop in Dhaka’s Khamarbari on Saturday, he urged party leaders and activists to prepare for the upcoming national elections, calling the event part of the party’s broader nation-building vision. Khosru described Tarique Rahman as a symbol of democratic struggle and expressed optimism that his arrival on June 25 would reinvigorate the movement for restoring democracy. He emphasized that the upcoming election would be a victory not just for the BNP but for democracy itself. Citing a foreign survey, he noted that respondents associated BNP leaders Ziaur Rahman, Khaleda Zia, and Tarique Rahman with democratic values. The BNP leader also cautioned against divisive and disrespectful politics, urging members to remain committed to peaceful and tolerant political practices. Senior BNP figures Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, Habib-un-Nabi Khan Sohel, and others also addressed the event.

Independent candidate Sharif Osman Bin Hadi, convener of the Inquilab Mancha, was critically injured after being shot in Dhaka’s Bijoynagar area on Friday afternoon. Police said the attack occurred while Hadi was traveling in a battery-run rickshaw following a campaign event. A motorbike passenger fired a single bullet that struck Hadi in the head before fleeing. He underwent emergency surgery at Dhaka Medical College Hospital and was later transferred to Evercare Hospital, where his condition remains critical. Authorities have yet to identify the assailants, though Hadi’s associates suspect individuals who had been accompanying him during campaign activities. Photos and CCTV footage are being analyzed, and police have urged the public to share any information. Veteran crime reporters described the shooting as the work of a professional marksman due to its precision from a moving vehicle. The attack came a day after the national election schedule was announced for February 12. The Inquilab Mancha has blamed political rivals and demanded government accountability, warning that failure to ensure safety could undermine public trust ahead of the polls.

On the occasion of Martyred Intellectuals Day, BNP’s acting chairman Tarique Rahman paid deep tribute to the teachers, doctors, writers, journalists, and artists killed on December 14, 1971, by the occupying forces and their collaborators. Rahman expressed prayers for their souls and emphasized their enduring inspiration for the nation. He stated that the martyred intellectuals had taken up the pen in defense of freedom and justice, and their assassination was a calculated attempt to cripple Bangladesh’s intellectual foundation. Rahman lamented that even after more than fifty years, the vision of those martyrs remains unfulfilled, as democracy has repeatedly faced setbacks. Calling for renewed commitment to the rule of law, an independent judiciary, and a pluralistic political system, Rahman urged citizens to work together to build the Bangladesh envisioned by the martyred intellectuals. He also extended condolences to the families of the martyrs, reaffirming BNP’s respect for their sacrifice.

Interim government legal adviser Asif Nazrul expressed deep emotion and optimism for the recovery of Osman Hadi, describing him as a courageous and patriotic individual. In a social media post on Saturday, December 13, Nazrul said he believed that with the prayers of so many people, Hadi would return to health. His message quickly drew attention for its heartfelt tone and personal reflections. Nazrul recalled stories shared by Hadi’s colleagues, highlighting his humility and dedication. They said Hadi often slept on bare carpets with coworkers, gave up his pillow for others, and even washed colleagues’ clothes himself. Nazrul added that hearing these accounts, along with the cries of Hadi’s sister, deeply moved everyone present at Jamuna. The message comes amid ongoing concern following an attack on Hadi, with authorities offering a reward for information about those involved. The incident has sparked widespread sympathy and calls for justice across Bangladesh.

Barrister Asaduzzaman Fuad, General Secretary of the Amar Bangladesh (AB) Party, alleged that certain political factions are attempting to compromise Bangladesh’s sovereignty by aligning too closely with India. Speaking at a protest in Dhaka on December 13, Fuad claimed that if some parties return to power, they would again 'sell Bangladesh to Delhi,' undermining national independence and dignity. Fuad criticized what he described as the moral decay of political leadership, saying that individuals driven by greed and opportunism have risen to prominence in major parties. He argued that these leaders fail to recognize the nation’s true adversaries and disregard the historical struggle for sovereignty. His remarks came during a demonstration organized by Inquilab Mancha, protesting an attack on its convener Sharif Osman Hadi. The AB Party’s statement reflects growing nationalist rhetoric ahead of Bangladesh’s next election cycle. Political analysts note that such accusations underscore rising tensions over foreign influence and internal legitimacy, signaling a contentious political environment in the coming months.

BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmad has called for a broad national unity against fascism and terrorism, describing it as the country’s greatest strength. Speaking to reporters on Saturday, December 13, after meeting Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus, he emphasized that only through such unity can Bangladesh confront its current political and security challenges. Ahmad stated that democratic forces must remain united within democratic alliances to resist conspiracies by extremist or authoritarian groups, both domestic and foreign. He urged a fair investigation into recent incidents and called for coordinated action among the Home Ministry, law enforcement agencies, and political parties. He also expressed support for the Inquilab Mancha’s ongoing anti-fascism and anti-terrorism rallies, pledging BNP’s participation in upcoming demonstrations at Shahbagh or the Central Shaheed Minar. Addressing possible threats to candidates, Ahmad said vigilance and cooperation among government bodies, political parties, and citizens are essential to prevent violence and maintain stability during this tense political period.

Sharif Osman Hadi, spokesperson of the Inquilab Mancha, remains in critical condition after being shot by unidentified assailants in Dhaka’s Bijoynagar area on Friday. Doctors at Evercare Hospital have said the next 48 to 72 hours will be crucial for his recovery, as his body’s response to ongoing treatment will determine his survival prospects. A medical board is monitoring his condition daily and has informed his family that he is not yet out of danger. Hadi was initially taken to Dhaka Medical College Hospital after being shot while traveling in a rickshaw, before being transferred for advanced care. Rashed Khan, general secretary of the Gana Odhikar Parishad, confirmed Hadi’s condition and urged supporters to pray for his recovery. Police have yet to identify the attackers or establish a motive behind the shooting. The incident has heightened concerns over political violence in the capital, with rights groups calling for a swift and transparent investigation to ensure accountability and public safety.

At least 23 people have been killed and around 700,000 displaced amid renewed border clashes between Thailand and Cambodia, officials confirmed on Friday, December 12. Cambodia’s Interior Ministry reported that over 274,000 people have been relocated to official shelters, while many others fled independently. Thailand’s Defense Ministry said more than 400,000 residents from seven border provinces have been moved to safety. The Cambodian Interior Ministry stated that 11 civilians and one soldier have died, with 76 others injured since December 7. On the Thai side, nine soldiers and three civilians were reported dead, and 190 people wounded. The violence follows a peace agreement signed in October in Kuala Lumpur, attended by U.S. President Donald Trump and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. The long-standing border dispute has repeatedly disrupted regional trade and security. With land crossings closed since July, cross-border commerce remains paralyzed. Analysts warn that unless both governments resume dialogue, humanitarian conditions could worsen as displaced populations grow.

The Bangladesh government has announced a reward of Tk 5 million for information leading to the arrest of those involved in the assassination attempt on Sharif Osman Hadi, spokesperson of Inquilab Moncho and an independent candidate for Dhaka-8. The announcement was made by Home Affairs Adviser Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Md. Jahangir Alam Chowdhury following a law and order committee meeting at the Secretariat on Saturday. Chowdhury stated that the government is committed to apprehending the perpetrators swiftly and ensuring the safety of all election candidates. He also mentioned that, unlike before, election candidates will now be eligible to obtain firearm licenses for personal protection, and previously deposited weapons will be returned. Authorities have already identified one suspect involved in the shooting, according to the Dhaka Metropolitan Police Commissioner. The adviser emphasized that the government is determined to protect those who played key roles in the July uprising and that special security measures are being implemented. The investigation into the attack remains ongoing, with officials urging public cooperation to bring the assailants to justice.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee publicly apologized to Argentine football legend Lionel Messi after severe disorder erupted during his event at Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata. Thousands of fans who gathered to see Messi were left disappointed as the situation spiraled out of control, prompting the Chief Minister to express her deep regret over the mismanagement. In a message on X, Banerjee said she was deeply disturbed by the chaos and extended an apology to Messi, sports enthusiasts, and fans. She announced the formation of an inquiry committee led by retired Justice Asim Kumar Roy, along with senior state officials, to investigate the incident and recommend preventive measures for the future. Videos circulating online showed angry spectators breaking barricades and throwing objects onto the field. Many attendees complained about poor arrangements and limited visibility despite paying high ticket prices. The incident has drawn criticism of event organizers and local authorities, raising questions about crowd management and VIP privileges at major public events in India.

Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Sheikh Mohammad Sajjat Ali announced that one suspect involved in the shooting of Inqilab Manch spokesperson Sharif Osman Hadi has been identified. He stated that the suspect will be arrested soon, though the investigation is still ongoing. The commissioner made the remarks on Saturday, December 13, after attending the annual meeting of the Retired Police Officers Welfare Association in Rajarbagh. According to a DMP press release, authorities have pledged to keep the informant’s identity confidential and to offer a suitable reward for information leading to the suspect’s capture. Hadi remains in critical condition at Evercare Hospital after being shot in the head on Friday in Dhaka’s Bijoynagar area. Witnesses and CCTV footage show that the attackers, riding a motorcycle, fired at Hadi while he was traveling in a battery-powered rickshaw. Police have not yet confirmed the motive behind the attack. However, investigators noted that the shooter had earlier participated in Hadi’s election campaign activities on the same day.

Iran’s coast guard has seized a tanker carrying around six million liters of smuggled diesel in the Gulf of Oman, detaining all 18 crew members on board. The vessel was intercepted near the southern Hormozgan province after its navigation system reportedly malfunctioned, leaving it adrift. Among those detained are citizens of Bangladesh, India, and Sri Lanka, according to Iranian state media. Authorities have not disclosed the nationality of the seized tanker. The operation marks the latest in a series of maritime enforcement actions by Iran against alleged fuel smuggling in regional waters. Last month, Iranian forces detained another vessel in the Persian Gulf under similar circumstances. The seizure comes just days after the U.S. Navy captured a tanker off Venezuela’s coast, which Washington claimed was used for oil transport between Iran and Venezuela. Analysts suggest the timing underscores escalating maritime tensions and reciprocal enforcement moves between Tehran and Washington in contested shipping lanes.