Mahathir Hasan, one of the accused in the murder of Zahidul Islam Parvez, a student at Prime Asia University and a leader of Chhatra Dal, has confessed to the crime. Earlier, on Wednesday, another suspect, Md. Al Kamal Sheikh, also gave a confessional statement in court. Parvez was fatally stabbed on April 19. According to the case statement, Mehraj and his associates attacked Parvez with sticks, knives, and machetes, leading to his death.

Islamic leader Maulana Mamunul Haque declared that the spirit of the July-August movement must be honored in shaping the nation’s politics. He demanded justice for the Shapla Chattar crackdown, the BDR mutiny, and the killings during the 2024 uprising. “There can be no acceptance of any political attempt to rehabilitate Sheikh Hasina,” he said. Mamunul further urged that the Awami League be officially declared a terrorist organization and warned that any anti-Islamic stance will be met with strong resistance.

Following months of protests and a 57-hour hunger strike, the Vice Chancellor and Pro-Vice Chancellor of Khulna University of Engineering & Technology (KUET) have stepped down. While students celebrated the resignations, KUET Teachers’ Association expressed disappointment, calling it a setback for justice since the decision came without any formal investigation.

Dr. Md. Sayedur Rahman has called for the introduction of a licensing examination for medical professionals to ensure consistent standards of care. He also proposed periodic renewal exams to maintain public trust. “Medicine is one of the few professions where the term ‘practice’ applies. Continuous learning must be verified through a structured system,” he said.

Russia has launched its largest assault on Kyiv this year, using drones and missiles that killed at least 12 and injured 90. Former U.S. President Donald Trump responded by directly appealing to Vladimir Putin, saying, “Vladimir, stop! Five thousand troops are dying every week. Let’s make peace first.” Trump condemned the attack as unnecessary and poorly timed.

Following the deadly attack in Pehelgam that killed 26 people, Kashmiri students across India are facing harassment and threats. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said his government is in touch with officials in affected states. Former CM Mehbooba Mufti reported contacting Home Minister Amit Shah, urging him to ensure the safety of Kashmiri students. Videos of student abuse have been widely circulated on social media.

After months of legal and logistical challenges, a sea-track service has been successfully launched between Maheshkhali and Cox’s Bazar, announced Maritime Affairs Adviser M. Shakhawat Hossain. The project faced numerous lawsuits and delays before finally being inaugurated. Professor Dr. Salimullah Khan praised the government’s initiative, calling it a “historic breakthrough” for Maheshkhali residents. However, he criticized the reintroduction of tolls and encouraged public opposition to them.

Supporters of Islami Andolan Bangladesh leader Mufti Syed Muhammad Faizul Karim staged a protest at the Barisal court premises, demanding that he be officially declared mayor of Barisal City Corporation. The Election Tribunal has rescheduled the case hearing for May 5. Protesters attempted to enter the court premises but were stopped by police. The protest ended after hearing the new court date. The legal petition to declare Karim the elected mayor was filed on April 17.

Prominent lawyer Shishir Monir criticized Article 116 of the Constitution, claiming it obstructs the establishment of an independent judiciary and a separate judicial secretariat. He alleged that the Ministry of Law exerts undue influence on lower courts and even intimidates judges. He cited an incident involving Sajeeb Wazed Joy’s court appearance, where the magistrate broke protocol to escort him—demonstrating the influence on the judiciary. Monir has legally challenged the article and called for structural reforms.

Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus stated that Bangladesh’s struggling economy has recovered thanks to the contributions of expatriates. “We will ensure VIP services at airports for them,” he said, adding that travel to and from Bangladesh should be smooth and joyful. The government is also working on reducing cargo fees and improving logistics at Dhaka, Chattogram, and Sylhet airports. All passport and consular services are being moved online, and Yunus urged expats to offer suggestions for improvements.

Islami Chhatra Shibir President Zahidul Islam has warned that any attempt to reintroduce fascism in Bangladesh will be rejected by the new generation. “They can rise again at any moment, in any context,” he said. He accused the ruling party of using the narrative of patriotism and the spirit of 1971 to justify a reign of terror over the past 15 years. “Anyone who dared to speak against the regime faced persecution through the legal system,” he claimed. Highlighting rampant corruption, he stated that the amount of money laundered abroad could fund four national budgets. Criticizing those who support the ruling party, he called them “fools” manipulated by a leader who, according to him, fled to save herself. “Don’t risk your lives for someone who abandoned the country,” he added.

Tarique Rahman has called on BNP leaders and activists to engage directly with the public to implement democratic reforms and win votes. “Without the people, you have no alternative,” he said. He emphasized unity across social classes and professions, encouraging internal dialogue to move the nation forward without hindering democratic rights or voting freedoms.

BNP leader Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury has called on all political parties to publicly disclose areas of consensus regarding national reforms. Citing the Chief Adviser, he said reforms must be consensus-driven and added that nearly all parties have submitted proposals. He urged signing a national charter and moving forward toward elections, as the public is eager to vote by December.

BNP leader Ruhul Quddus Talukdar Dulu has warned of an ongoing domestic and international conspiracy to trigger communal unrest in Bangladesh. He urged party workers and the public to stay alert. Dulu emphasized that without an elected government, such instability is unlikely to end. He reiterated BNP’s 31-point reform agenda, stating that these reforms are essential to prevent the return of authoritarianism.

Two students from the University of Scholars have been arrested in connection with the murder of Zahidul Islam Parvez. The suspects are Fatema Tahsin Oishi from the Business Administration department and Faria Haque Tina from the English department. The university had previously suspended both students temporarily. Parvez was allegedly killed after an altercation involving the two students, who claimed he and his friends were laughing at them.