BNP leader Harunur Rashid has called for a clear roadmap for holding national elections, emphasizing that the country cannot continue outside of a democratic system. He criticized the new slogan being raised by the advisory council, which advocates for reforms, justice, and then elections, arguing that such demands should not delay the election process. Rashid reiterated that the BNP is not asking for elections out of a desire for power but because the people demand a free and fair election. He also noted that the party would announce a nationwide protest program if the roadmap for the election is not provided.

In a violent incident in Comilla’s Chauddagram, local residents attacked the house of former railway minister Mujibul Hossain Mujib, ransacking it and setting it on fire. Fire service personnel were able to control the blaze. The attack followed an altercation in which the nephew of Mujibul Hossain, Abdul Awal Suman, physically assaulted the President of Comilla South District Chhatra Shibir, Mahiyuddin Roni. Local residents cited this as the reason for the attack.

BNP leader Anisur Rahman Talukdar Khokon has vowed to seek justice for the victims of extrajudicial killings and enforced disappearances over the past 17 years. He stressed that no fascist regime should ever be allowed to take root in Bangladesh again. Khokon called on the current government to announce an election schedule and hand over power to a democratic government, which would bring the perpetrators of such crimes to justice. He also offered support to the families of martyrs and the injured.

Turkey is preparing to take control of Syria’s Tiyas Airbase (T4) following Israeli attacks in the region. The country is deploying air defense systems, including the S-400 missile defense system, and plans to station radar systems with a range of 600 kilometers at the airbase. This would allow Turkish forces to track potential threats from Tel Aviv in real time. Israeli forces are attempting to prevent Turkish control of the base, but analysts suggest that Turkey remains undeterred in its plans, with suspicions that Israeli influence may be behind domestic protests in Turkey.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has called on China and India to contribute to global humanitarian efforts, stating that the US will no longer bear the majority of the responsibility. In the aftermath of the earthquake in Myanmar, Rubio urged wealthy nations, including China and India, to participate in providing aid. He defended the US’s response to the Myanmar earthquake, dismissing claims of delay, and emphasized that the Myanmar military junta made it difficult for aid efforts to proceed.

The Secretary-General of the International Muslim Scholars Union, Ali al-Qaradaghi, issued a fatwa urging all Muslim nations to immediately intervene militarily, economically, and politically to stop the Israeli genocide and widespread destruction in Gaza. In the 15-point decree, al-Qaradaghi warned that Arab and Islamic governments failing to act would be committing a grave sin against their oppressed Palestinian brothers. He also prohibited the sale of weapons or the provision of logistical support to Israel through international waterways like the Suez Canal, Bab El-Mandeb, and the Hormuz Strait. The fatwa has been supported by 14 other prominent Islamic figures.

The Police Headquarters has confirmed that no major crimes occurred during the recent Eid holidays, thanks to timely and effective measures taken by law enforcement. Enamul Haque Sagar, a police spokesperson, stated that ensuring a safe and peaceful Eid was a priority, and efforts are continuing to ensure a secure return for people after the holidays. He further mentioned that road accidents had decreased compared to last year, although several motorcycle accidents occurred, resulting in casualties. Authorities stressed the need for greater awareness among passengers and drivers to prevent such accidents in the future.

After more than a decade, Bangladesh is set to resume political dialogue with Pakistan, expected to take place later this month. The talks will focus on strengthening bilateral relations, re-establishing a joint ministerial commission, and enhancing coordination on political, economic, and social issues. The Pakistani delegation will be led by the country’s Foreign Secretary, Amna Baloch, though Bangladesh’s representative has yet to be confirmed. The dialogue aims to lay the groundwork for future intergovernmental plans. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar is set to visit Bangladesh from April 22-24.

amaat-e-Islami North Dhaka Secretary Dr. Muhammad Rezaul Karim has reiterated the party’s demand for the national elections to be held by the end of this year. He also noted the party’s previous call for local elections, having already announced mayor and councilor candidates. He highlighted the need for a national government to pass laws but emphasized that local governments remain essential for serving the people. Karim also called for justice for those involved in violent acts, insisting that no one should be above the law.

BJP Chairman Andalib Rahman Parth has expressed optimism about the recent bilateral talks between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Dr. Muhammad Yunus, believing that it will benefit the country. He emphasized that although the current government is not elected through popular vote, it remains a government that is working for the people. He confirmed that elections are expected between December and June, with December seeming more likely, and that the future of electoral reforms remains uncertain.

Ishraq Hossain has demanded the immediate resignation of student representatives from the government, stating that their continued presence jeopardizes the impartiality of the interim government during elections. He emphasized that the national elections must be held by 2025 and promised that the people would secure these elections together, Insha’Allah. His post on social media has sparked significant opposition, with many netizens expressing support for the current government.

Hefazat-e-Islam has expressed agreement with BNP’s demand for holding the national parliamentary elections by December this year. Both parties have also united in calling for the withdrawal of false charges against Hefazat activists and politicians. Salahuddin Ahmed emphasized the importance of democratic reforms and the need to prioritize peaceful transitions within the democratic process. While the Chief Advisor has assured elections by December, concerns remain as some voices suggest a possible delay until June. Both parties also agreed on the necessity of justice for those killed during the Shapla Square and anti-Modi movements.

Jamaat-e-Islami has confirmed its candidates for the upcoming national parliamentary elections. The party has announced its nominees for the seven constituencies in Bogura, who are as follows: Md. Shahabuddin for Bogura-1, Maulana Shahadatuz Zaman for Bogura-2, Nur Mohammad Abu Taher for Bogura-3, Maulana Taieb Ali for Bogura-4, Dhabibur Rahman for Bogura-5, Abidur Rahman Sohel for Bogura-6, and Golam Rabbani for Bogura-7. The party’s Assistant Secretary General stated that those calling for elections without reforms are essentially aiming to bring back the misrule of Sheikh Hasina. He also criticized those who failed to take action against injustice during the past regime and betrayed the martyrs’ blood. Additionally, speakers at the event demanded capital punishment for their leaders.

Saudi Arabia has imposed a temporary visa restriction on 14 countries—including Bangladesh and Pakistan—during the Hajj season.
The ban affects Umrah, business, and family visit visas and is expected to remain in place until mid-June.
Travelers holding Umrah visas may enter Saudi Arabia until April 13.
Other countries on the restricted list include India, Egypt, Indonesia, Iraq, Nigeria, Jordan, Algeria, Sudan, Ethiopia, Tunisia, and Yemen.
Saudi authorities said the ban was necessitated by past incidents where long-term visa holders performed Hajj without authorization, leading to severe overcrowding.

To attract more foreign direct investment (FDI), economists and business leaders have urged the interim government to take immediate steps to reduce the tariffs imposed by the United States.
BKMEA Executive Vice President Fazle Shamim Ehsan said, “We expected increased investments after the US imposed higher tariffs on China. But now, the same tariffs are being applied to us. If this continues, investment won’t come to Bangladesh.”
Selim Raihan, Executive Director of SANEM, emphasized the importance of sending a clear and positive message to the US.
Ehsan, Managing Director of Fatullah Apparels Ltd., echoed this sentiment, urging the government to take prompt action on tariff reductions.