Umama Fatema, spokesperson of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, clarified that she has no affiliation with the newly formed political party NCP. In a public statement, she urged people not to involve her in discussions or proposals related to the party, even though many of her acquaintances are associated with it. “This will save both our time,” she added.

The Gano Adhikar Parishad has proposed reducing the minimum age for parliamentary candidates to 23 and shortening the term of parliament to four years. They are also calling for a national referendum on constitutional amendments. Leader Nurul Haque highlighted additional proposals, including extending maternity leave for women and halving their work hours for up to two years. The party suggests members of parliament be allowed to vote freely on all issues except constitutional amendments, budget bills, and confidence motions.

As part of the ongoing protest movement, the Technical Students’ Movement has declared an indefinite shutdown of all polytechnic institutes across the country starting Tuesday. The strike will continue until their six-point demand is met. In recent days, students submitted petitions to the offices of the Institution of Diploma Engineers in every district, following widespread protest marches and rallies.

In a public notice, Jagannath University has requested detailed reports—including names, accusations, and supporting evidence—against any students, faculty, or staff allegedly involved in illegal and violent activities during the July 2024 mass uprising. The administration has asked for sealed submissions within seven working days, assuring complete confidentiality for whistleblowers.

Responding to Bilawal Bhutto’s comments that “either our water will flow through the Indus or their blood,” Asaduddin Owaisi called the remarks “childish” and inappropriate. He reminded Bilawal of the tragedies faced by his grandfather and mother, urging him to act responsibly. Owaisi warned that no nation would remain silent if innocent civilians are harmed under the guise of such rhetoric.

RAJUK Chairman Engineer Md. Riazul Islam warned that no one will be spared for building code violations, regardless of their influence. He said RAJUK’s nationwide drive against unauthorized structures would continue, and legal action is already underway against past irregularities involving RAJUK officials. He emphasized that building approvals are now fully online to prevent corruption.

Jamaat-e-Islami leader Md. Nurul Islam Bulbul claimed that past elections only resulted in changes in political power without establishing people’s rights. He asserted that Jamaat-e-Islami has been persistently oppressed despite not holding state power and highlighted the party’s longstanding efforts in social welfare, regardless of political or religious affiliation.

Leaders and activists protested in Chattogram demanding justice for Maulana Muhammad Rais Uddin, a student organization leader allegedly tortured and killed. They issued a 72-hour ultimatum to identify and arrest the perpetrators, warning of nationwide protests if demands are not met.

Jamaat-e-Islami Secretary General Mia Golam Parwar stated that since August 5, the Indian Border Security Force (BSF) has shot and killed 16 Bangladeshis and injured 48 others. Condemning the killing of Mohammad Obaidul from Maheshpur, he urged the Bangladesh government to take strong diplomatic measures to stop such incidents and demanded India cease border killings if it desires good relations.

Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) announced the cancellation of trade licenses for all rooftop restaurants operating without approval in residential and commercial buildings. A public notice stated that unauthorized restaurants, especially those operating on rooftops, pose serious risks to public safety. Any business continuing operations with a canceled license will face legal action.

Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus launched the ‘Labbayk’ mobile app, aimed at facilitating services for Hajj pilgrims. He expressed hope that the app would allow pilgrims to perform their religious duties more smoothly. He directed that from next year, the app should assist pilgrims right from the planning phase. He also encouraged collaboration with developed countries for technical support and providing assistance to less developed nations.

BNP leader Amir Khosru said that Bangladeshis did not fight and sacrifice to hand over the country’s leadership to a ‘superman.’ He questioned the narrative that democracy must wait for a savior, emphasizing instead the people’s right to vote. Khosru highlighted that nearly 50 parties have clearly demanded elections before December and called for immediate electoral reforms and setting an election roadmap.

Lawyer Md. Moniruzzaman has issued a legal notice urging authorities to halt the gazette notification and swearing-in of BNP leader Ishraq Hossain as mayor. He argues the decision was made hastily and without proper procedure. “We expected the Election Commission to challenge the tribunal’s ruling, but they didn’t. Instead, a revised gazette was issued without consulting the Law Ministry,” he stated. He further claimed that the mayoral term had already ended and the post was declared vacant by ordinance, rendering the tribunal’s order ineffective.

Khelafat Majlis leader Maulana Mamunul Haque called for building unity from the grassroots level to defend Islam and the nation’s dignity. Speaking to party workers in Sherpur, Bogura, after returning from a visit to Rangpur, he said, “Victory is assured through the power of faith. We must stand tall against injustice, despite hardships and obstacles.”

Trade Adviser Sheikh Bashiruddin emphasized that the Pakistan-Bangladesh Business Forum will play a critical role in strengthening bilateral trade and economic cooperation. He stressed the need for enhanced people-to-people connections between the two nations. Despite their large populations, trade volume between Bangladesh and Pakistan remains disappointingly low. He urged businesses to proactively work toward overcoming tariff and non-tariff barriers.