A day after 26 tourists were killed in Pahalgam, a gunfight broke out in Kulgam between Indian forces and separatist fighters. Two men were shot dead while allegedly attempting to cross into India. Indian Express reports at least seven attackers were involved in the earlier massacre, four or five of whom reportedly spoke Urdu and may be Pakistani nationals. Pakistan denied any involvement, blaming local resentment and minority repression instead.

Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus praised Qatar Charity’s humanitarian work during a meeting with Acting Head Nawaf Abdullah Al Hammadi. He requested support in launching tech education programs for madrasa students across Bangladesh. Qatar Charity has already supported vocational training in some madrasas and will seriously consider the proposal.

Information Adviser Mahfuz Alam stated that the government is undertaking various initiatives to strengthen the Bangladesh Film Development Corporation (BFDC). With a large domestic market, he said the film industry must be revitalized. He called on stakeholders to work together and emphasized the importance of the modern film city under construction in Kabirpur.

BNP leader Emran Saleh Prince called on Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus to swiftly announce a reform roadmap and prepare for elections by December. He accused the government of conspiring to derail elections. “Under Tarique Rahman’s leadership, we will restore voter rights and dismantle all conspiracies,” he said. He reiterated BNP’s 31-point agenda to build a fair, equitable society, including family cards, unemployment benefits, fair agricultural pricing, and wage guarantees.

Anjan Roy, a Computer Science student at Missouri State University, faced deportation after allegedly losing his legal student status. But he successfully challenged the notice in court, regaining legal status in the U.S. Anjan began his undergrad in August 2024 and started his Master’s in January. The deportation threat came via email on April 10. U.S. authorities had previously warned about expelling those opposing the U.S. or Israel.

DNCC demolished a two-story building in Mohammadpur’s Katasur area built on canal land. A portion of a mosque’s toilet and boundary wall built on the canal was also removed, with more demolition planned. Administrator Mohammad Ejaz said religious and political institutions had long encroached public land. “The era of grabbing canals and sleeping soundly is over,” he said, promising no notice—just action. He also mentioned robust dengue-prevention efforts underway.

Labor Adviser M. Sakhawat Hossain criticized factory owners for claiming financial hardship while living lavish lifestyles. “You drive luxury cars, travel abroad, and enjoy private healthcare—yet say you can’t pay workers,” he remarked. He condemned the cozy relationship previous labor ministry officials had with factory owners, saying, “This is why no one ever stood up to them.”

Education Adviser Dr. C. R. Abrar expressed grave concern over ongoing unrest at educational institutions across the country. “We have a plan to address this,” he said. Speaking about the recent tension at KUET, he mentioned that a committee has been formed and the government will act based on its recommendations. “We’ve started working. I urge students to remain calm,” he added, assuring swift resolution.

Four female students at Baufal Salehia Fazil Madrasa were reportedly penalized for refusing to remove their hijabs during a Hadith exam. The exam’s tag officer, Tural Pramanik, allegedly confiscated their answer sheets. One student’s paper was later returned after she broke down in tears, but the remaining three did not receive theirs back. Pramanik is a BRDB project officer.

Chaired by President and Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman, the Executive Committee of the Bangladesh Olympic Association (BOA) held its meeting. The Army Chief expressed gratitude to all federations and ministries involved. He shared hope for the successful implementation of the proposed Olympic Complex in Trishal, Mymensingh, with construction of the indoor stadium expected to begin in June. The committee also made decisions regarding participation in the 3rd Asian Youth Games, 6th Islamic Solidarity Games, 14th South Asian Games, and hosting the 10th Bangladesh Games.

Two Bangladeshi fishermen were reportedly abducted by the Arakan Army from the Naf River near Teknaf. The victims are Abdul Badsha Alam (45) and Abul Kalam (40) from Balukhali. Local UP member Sirajul Mostafa said the fishermen were taken at gunpoint while fishing near the border. The incident has spread panic among local fishermen. Police are actively investigating.

The Ministry of Education has announced that the government has initiated the process to relieve Professor Dr. Muhammad Mashud, Vice Chancellor of Khulna University of Engineering & Technology (KUET), and the Pro-Vice Chancellor from their responsibilities.

In an official statement, the ministry cited recent events and the need to swiftly restore normalcy and resume academic activities as the reasons behind this decision. A search committee will be formed shortly to appoint new individuals to both positions.

To ensure uninterrupted university operations during this interim period, a senior professor will be temporarily assigned the role of Acting Vice Chancellor.

Sabbir Ahmed, acting secretary of the Technical Student Movement Cell, announced a revival of protests, withdrawing the earlier suspension decision. He stated that the committee formed by the Education Ministry lacks credibility, as similar past committees failed to meet any demands. A new wave of protests is set to begin, with fresh programs to be declared at a representative conference on Thursday.

BNP leader Tarique Rahman said the party is not driven by revenge but by the goal of serving the nation. Speaking about the party’s 31-point reform agenda, he stressed the importance of reaching grassroots communities. “If the people understand our mission, we can face any opponent,” he said. “Unlike the previous regime, BNP does not believe in oppression or retaliation.” He urged the party to unite the public for national reconstruction, warning of an emerging visible force spreading false propaganda against BNP. “Our activists must confront these conspiracies together.”

During a protest in Uttara, NCP leader Sargis Alam declared that justice must be served not only against Sheikh Hasina but also those who helped her become a “murderer.” He warned that her accomplices are attempting a political comeback, and some are trying to erase the label “killer” from her name. “Those responsible for such mass killings should have no right to contest in elections,” he said, adding, “If they dare to participate, the people will rise in a mass uprising.” Alam emphasized the need for Hasina’s trial before the next election, saying, “We’ve come this far at the cost of over 1,500 martyrs. Those obsessed with elections now only care about power, not justice.”