Aditya Dhar’s new film *DhuranDhar*, released on December 5 across Indian cinemas, has ignited intense political and social debate. The three-hour spy thriller revisits major terror incidents such as the 1999 Kandahar hijacking, the 2001 Parliament attack, and the 2008 Mumbai attacks. While audiences have praised its cinematic scale and storytelling, critics argue that the film carries hyper-nationalist overtones and religious bias, prompting bans in several Gulf countries.

Political reactions have been sharply divided. Congress MP Tariq Anwar accused the film of promoting Islamophobia, while BJP leaders defended it as a factual portrayal of terrorism. Actor Hrithik Roshan publicly expressed discomfort with the movie’s political stance. Analysts note that Dhar’s work, including his earlier *Uri: The Surgical Strike*, aligns with government narratives on national security and patriotism.

Experts suggest *DhuranDhar* reflects a broader trend of Bollywood films reinforcing state ideology since 2014. Its upcoming second part, due in March, is expected to reignite debates over religion, nationalism, and the politicization of Indian cinema.

A fatal road accident occurred on the Padma Bridge early Tuesday, leaving one person dead and at least 20 others injured. The collision took place when a Dhaka-bound Basumati Paribahan bus was struck from behind by a Kuakata-bound Padma Special Paribahan bus traveling at high speed. The deceased was identified as Md. Tofayel Mia, 27, a bus helper from Madaripur’s Dakshin Para area.

According to police and eyewitnesses, the Basumati bus sustained severe damage, and several passengers were critically injured. Emergency responders transported the wounded to hospitals in Dhaka and nearby districts. Mohammad Shahe Alam, Officer-in-Charge of Padma South Police Station, confirmed that both vehicles involved were seized and legal procedures are underway.

Traffic on the bridge was temporarily halted following the crash but resumed shortly after authorities cleared the site. Officials said the overall law and order situation and vehicular movement on the Padma Bridge have since returned to normal.

The National Citizen Party (NCP) organized a symbolic rally at Dhanmondi 32 in Dhaka on December 16, displaying portraits of five prominent liberation-era figures — Sirajul Alam Khan, Siraj Sikder, Maulana Abdul Hamid Khan Bhashani, Major Jalil, and Sharif Osman Hadi. The event, led by NCP joint member secretary Arif Sohel, coincided with Bangladesh’s Victory Day celebrations.

During the program, Sohel criticized what he described as the monopolization of the Liberation War’s legacy by the Awami League and the Sheikh family. He argued that the 1971 people’s war was driven by farmers, workers, students, and the general public, independent of any single political party. The rally aimed to reclaim the Liberation War’s spirit for the people and to honor leaders he said had been erased from official narratives.

NCP announced that similar programs would continue in the future, signaling an effort to reshape public memory around the Liberation War and to challenge the dominant political narrative surrounding Bangladesh’s independence history.

The Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) seized smuggled Indian goods and vehicles worth approximately Tk 3.5 crore in a series of operations across Habiganj district over the past 24 hours. Acting on intelligence, a special patrol from the 55th Battalion intercepted a covered van near Jagadishpur Muktiyoddha Chattar in Madhabpur upazila, about five kilometers inside Bangladesh from the border. Hidden compartments inside the van contained Indian sarees and shawls, while a separate sand-laden truck was found concealing cosmetics and cumin.

Additional raids in nearby border outposts recovered Indian liquor and onions. The seized vehicles were also taken into custody. Lieutenant Colonel Md Tanjilur Rahman, commanding officer of the 55 BGB Battalion, stated that the force continues its relentless operations to curb smuggling and narcotics trafficking along the frontier. He emphasized that such drives not only suppress cross-border crimes but also safeguard the nation’s economic and social stability.

Authorities indicated that intensified surveillance and intelligence-led operations will continue to prevent illegal trade across the Bangladesh-India border.

Islami Chhatra Shibir’s central secretary general, Nurul Islam Saddam, stated that Bangladesh’s young generation is rejecting attempts to revive divisive political narratives from the past. Speaking at a bicycle rally marking the 55th anniversary of the country’s independence at Dhaka College, he accused certain groups of trying to create national division by resurrecting outdated political discourses.

Saddam recalled that post-independence restrictions on free speech and the establishment of one-party rule had led to famine and political instability, pushing the nation into crisis. He emphasized the need for patriotic and corruption-free leadership to build a new Bangladesh based on equality, human dignity, and social justice as envisioned in the independence declaration.

The rally, organized by the Dhaka College unit of Islami Chhatra Shibir, began at the central Shaheed Minar and circled the Parliament area before returning to its starting point. Around five hundred students participated, with several central leaders addressing the event.

Bangladesh has achieved a new world record as 54 paratroopers performed a synchronized free-fall jump carrying national flags over Tejgaon Old Airport in Dhaka on Tuesday. The event, marking the 54th anniversary of the country’s independence, was organized by the Armed Forces and attended by Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus as the chief guest. The jump from nearly 12,000 feet symbolized each year of independence, creating the world’s largest flag-bearing parachuting display.

The team, named “Team Bangladesh,” included 46 army, 5 navy, and 2 air force personnel, along with BIDA Executive Chairman Chowdhury Ashiq Mahmud Bin Harun. The final six paratroopers honored Bangladeshi peacekeepers killed in Sudan by carrying their names. Thousands of spectators gathered from early morning to witness the historic moment amid tight security. The event also featured a joint fly-past by the three services and a Victory Day band show.

Officials said the record highlights Bangladesh’s growing stature in international peacekeeping and military professionalism. Similar celebrations took place nationwide, with naval ships and military museums opened to the public.

Journalist, columnist, and corporate executive Md. Shakhawat Hossain has officially taken charge as the new editor of the Bangladeshi national daily *Amader Shomoy*, replacing Abu Sayeed Khan. The appointment ceremony took place on December 14 at the newspaper’s Tejgaon office in Dhaka, attended by publisher Dr. Khondkar Shawkat Hossain and senior staff members who welcomed the new editor with flowers.

In his address, Hossain pledged to uphold the newspaper’s legacy and strengthen its editorial quality and readership trust. He emphasized professional development for journalists and improved staff welfare. Hossain, who began his career in journalism before moving to the corporate sector, previously served as Managing Editor of *The Business Post* and currently leads Unique Hotel & Resorts PLC as CEO.

Widely recognized in Bangladesh’s tourism and hospitality industry, Hossain also serves as a Vice President of the Bangladesh Cricket Board. His appointment is seen as a bridge between media, corporate leadership, and national branding, potentially bringing a new strategic direction to *Amader Shomoy*’s editorial operations.

Social Welfare Adviser Sharmin S. Murshid stated that the 2024 mass uprising in Bangladesh represents a continuation of the 1971 Liberation War’s pursuit of economic and social justice. Speaking at the National Martyrs’ Memorial on Victory Day, she said the young protesters of 2024 embody the same spirit of freedom and equality that inspired the nation’s independence movement.

Murshid, daughter of educationist Khan Sarwar Murshid, emphasized that both movements sought democracy, equality, and fairness. She cautioned against drawing divisive comparisons between 1971 and 2024, arguing that such debates diminish national pride. According to her, the Liberation War remains a source of immense honor, and any “unwanted interpretation” of it weakens the country’s unity.

Her remarks come amid ongoing national reflection on the legacy of 1971 and the meaning of recent civic movements. Analysts note that her comments may influence how younger generations connect their activism to Bangladesh’s foundational struggles for justice and democracy.

Chief Adviser Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus attended the Victory Day celebrations at the National Parade Ground in Dhaka on Tuesday morning. He was received by Liberation War Affairs Adviser Faruk-i-Azam upon arrival at around 11:15 a.m. The event, organized under the supervision of the Armed Forces Division with support from the Ministry of Liberation War Affairs, featured a special exhibition including a fly-past, parachute jumps, and aerobatic displays.

Thousands of spectators gathered at the old Tejgaon Airport to witness the air show, marking Bangladesh’s 54th Victory Day. Security was heightened, with visitors allowed entry only after thorough screening. The Armed Forces also performed a coordinated band presentation, showcasing military discipline and national pride.

The Victory Day celebrations commemorate Bangladesh’s triumph in the 1971 Liberation War. Dr. Yunus’s presence at the event underscored the caretaker government’s emphasis on honoring the nation’s independence and unity. Officials indicated that similar programs would continue throughout the day across the country.

Environmental and climate adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan has strongly criticized the use of violence and assassination attempts as political tools in Bangladesh. Speaking to reporters at the National Martyrs’ Memorial in Savar on Tuesday, she said there is no heroism in trying to eliminate opponents through violence, calling such acts cowardly and unacceptable in a democratic society.

Hasan emphasized that true political strength lies in facing the public through democratic means, not in silencing dissent. Reflecting on Bangladesh’s post-independence aspirations, she lamented that the nation has yet to achieve a fully democratic and equitable society, which has led to repeated uprisings and unrest. She expressed hope that the upcoming February election and concurrent referendum could mark a renewed journey toward genuine democracy and reform.

Her remarks come amid heightened political tensions, as parties prepare for the national polls and debate the scope of proposed constitutional and governance reforms.

Sharif Osman Hadi, spokesperson of Inquilab Mancha and independent candidate for Dhaka-8, is currently receiving treatment at Singapore General Hospital following gunshot injuries. His brother Omar Faruk reported early Tuesday that Hadi’s breathing and heartbeat have returned to normal, and his heart function has improved. Doctors have declared his condition stable after intensive monitoring and medication.

According to hospital sources, Hadi’s condition deteriorated during his transfer to Singapore as his heart rate and breathing increased sharply. Upon arrival, he was immediately admitted to the ICU, where doctors administered intravenous medication and kept him under close observation for two hours. After responding positively to treatment, his vital signs stabilized.

A specialized medical team has been formed to oversee Hadi’s continued care. The team is expected to review his test results and determine the next phase of treatment later Tuesday. Hadi remains under intensive observation as his recovery progresses, with family members expressing cautious optimism about his condition.

A 16-year-old school student named Siam was killed and another person injured when a truck struck a battery-run rickshaw in Dhaka’s Shyampur Shmashan Ghat area late Monday night. The accident occurred around 11:45 p.m. as Siam and three friends were out riding to celebrate Victory Day. Siam, a sixth-grade student and son of Jahangir Hossain from Cumilla, lived with his family in Gendaria.

Police confirmed that the truck involved in the collision was seized and its driver, Abdul Kader, was detained shortly after the incident. A case has been filed at Shyampur Police Station, and Siam’s body was sent to Dhaka Medical College Hospital for autopsy around 2:30 a.m. Authorities are investigating the cause of the crash.

The fatal accident highlights ongoing concerns about road safety in Dhaka, where reckless driving and poor enforcement frequently lead to casualties. Officials said further legal action will follow once the investigation report is complete.

A private aircraft traveling from Acapulco to Toluca crashed on Monday, December 15, killing at least seven people and injuring four others, according to ABC News. The crash occurred in San Mateo Atenco, just five kilometers from Toluca International Airport. Officials said the plane carried eight passengers and two crew members.

Adrián Hernández, coordinator of the Mexico State Civil Protection, reported that the aircraft appeared to attempt an emergency landing on a football field but struck the roof of a nearby factory, igniting a fire. Local mayor Ana Muñiz confirmed that around 130 residents were evacuated from the area as a precaution. Emergency services quickly responded to contain the blaze and assist survivors.

Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the crash, while urging the public to avoid the surrounding area. Preliminary findings suggest mechanical failure or pilot error could be factors, though no official cause has yet been confirmed.

Jamaat-e-Islami organized a large youth rally in Satkania, Chattogram, on Bangladesh’s Victory Day, December 16, 2025. Thousands of party and Islami Chhatra Shibir activists joined the procession carrying national flags. The rally began at Keranihat Sea World Restaurant and concluded several kilometers away at Hasmat’s Shop area along the Chattogram–Cox’s Bazar highway.

Addressing a brief assembly before the march, Jamaat central executive member and former deputy speaker Shahjahan Chowdhury said Victory Day represents the foundation of national identity and unity against injustice. He emphasized that despite 54 years of independence, many citizens still face inequality and lack of justice. Chowdhury urged the establishment of accountability and moral governance to fulfill the true spirit of liberation.

Highlighting the role of youth, he stated that Bangladesh’s young population could transform the nation into a welfare state if guided by honesty and discipline. The event was chaired by Chattogram South District Jamaat chief Advocate Anwarul Alam Chowdhury, with leaders from district and sub-district levels in attendance.

A major road accident occurred on the Delhi-Agra Expressway near Mathura, India, on Tuesday morning due to dense fog that severely reduced visibility. According to local reports, seven buses and three cars collided in a chain reaction, leaving at least four people dead and 25 others injured. Several vehicles caught fire following the collision, causing panic among passengers and complicating rescue operations.

Senior Superintendent of Police Shlok Kumar confirmed that emergency teams were deployed immediately to clear the expressway and transport the injured to nearby hospitals. Authorities cited poor visibility as the primary cause of the accident, which occurred during early morning hours when fog was at its thickest. Traffic movement on the expressway was temporarily halted as rescue and cleanup efforts continued.

Officials have urged motorists to exercise caution amid worsening winter fog conditions across northern India. The incident highlights recurring safety challenges on major highways during the fog season, prompting renewed calls for improved road safety measures and better fog-warning systems.