In an effort to strengthen regional stock market cooperation, the Dhaka Stock Exchange, Colombo Stock Exchange, and Pakistan Stock Exchange recently signed an agreement in Colombo. The agreement aims to facilitate joint initiatives in digital transformation, development of new financial products, market oversight, investor protection, human resource development, and cross-exchange training programs. Additionally, long-term plans will explore cross-border listings, brokerage partnerships, and institutional connectivity.

BNP leader Shahid Uddin Chowdhury Annie declared that lasting and genuine democracy in Bangladesh would be realized under Tarique Rahman’s leadership. He reiterated the demand for a general election to establish a people’s government. Annie warned against conspiracies to undermine democracy and defame BNP, urging all party members to strengthen Tarique Rahman’s position and work towards their shared vision. He also called on former and current leaders of the BNP’s student wing to remain vigilant against threats to democracy.

Shamsur Rahman Shimul Biswas, Special Assistant to the BNP Chairperson, emphasized the need for unity among party leaders and activists to counter conspiracies. He stated that democracy was restored through student and public sacrifices, and now, a people’s government must be established through elections. He urged all party members to follow Tarique Rahman’s directives and remain united against any obstacles. He also stressed the importance of grassroots-level service to ensure the benefits of the uprising reach every household.

Sarjis Alam, a leader of the Nationalist Centrist Party (NCP), held a meeting with government officials in Atwari, Panchagarh, in the absence of the Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO). As he left the meeting, he was confronted by Motiur Rahman, a member of the Upazila BNP’s convening committee, who questioned the legitimacy of Alam attending such meetings despite not being an elected representative. In response, Alam clarified, “This was not a government meeting. As a resident, I wanted to understand the local issues. If I can contribute to resolving them, it will benefit the people.” A video of their exchange has since gone viral.

In a statement, the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) claimed that BNP's central leadership has lost control over its local branches, leading to political instability. The statement condemned frequent internal clashes within BNP and its affiliated organizations. It cited a March 30 incident in Ramganj where Mahbub Alam Mahi’s father, Azizur Rahman Bachchu Molla, was severely injured in a clash between local BNP factions. Another attack on March 24 in Hatiya targeted NCP leader Abdul Hannan Masud during a public meeting. Despite BNP’s condemnation and expulsion of accused members, violence persists. NCP leaders urged BNP to take effective action against extortionists, terrorists, and land grabbers within the party.

Families of those martyred in the recent mass uprising were excluded from a banquet hosted at the Magura District Commissioner's residence on Eid night. This exclusion sparked negative reactions from BNP, Jamaat-e-Islami, and civil society. The District Commissioner responded by stating that there is no official directive mandating the invitation of martyrs' families. The event, attended by over 300 guests, included three rounds of hospitality for invitees. Political parties criticized the decision, arguing that the ten martyrs from Magura, who contributed to the new Bangladesh, deserve recognition and respect.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi may hold a meeting with Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser, Dr. Muhammad Yunus, on the sidelines of the BIMSTEC summit, according to Dr. Khalilur Rahman, the Chief Adviser’s special envoy. Delhi has officially informed Dhaka about the possibility of this meeting. Dr. Rahman stated that since Dr. Muhammad Yunus is set to become the next chairman of BIMSTEC, discussions with the leaders of all member states on the organization’s future course are a standard practice. As part of this process, Modi may also participate in a meeting with the BIMSTEC chairman. Local diplomatic sources have confirmed that preparations for the Chief Adviser’s visit to Bangkok on April 3-4 are in their final stages.

On Tuesday, in Kachua, Bagerhat, local BNP leaders led an attack on the police in an attempt to free a detained individual. The attack resulted in injuries to at least four police officers. In response, joint forces of the police and army conducted overnight operations, arresting 17 BNP activists involved in the attack. The arrested individuals have been charged and sent to court. The detainees include Md. Riaz Sheikh (25), Md. Aminul Haque (28), Md. Hemayet Molla (52), Md. Sabbir Sheikh (19), Md. Sohag Sheikh (23), Md. Robiul Islam (27), Amirat Hossain Lijon (20), Md. Sakib Sheikh (18), Md. Ibadul Sikdar (26), Md. Abul Khair Sweet (41), Md. Omar Faruq (39), Md. Shawon Akin (21), Md. Jony Sheikh (18), Md. Rafi Sikdar (21), Md. Iyar Hossain (32), and Md. Riazul Islam (29). All of them are affiliated with the BNP's local chapter.

Despite strong opposition, Indian Minister of Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju has introduced the controversial Waqf Amendment Bill in the lower house of parliament (Lok Sabha). Following an eight-hour debate in both houses, a vote will be held on the bill. Opposition parties argue that the amendment undermines minority rights and allows the government to exert direct control over Waqf properties. The ruling BJP government claims the bill aims to curb illegal land occupation and ensure administrative transparency. Previously, the Waqf Board had sole authority over Waqf property declarations, but the new bill transfers this power to district administrators. Additionally, it mandates the inclusion of non-Muslims and Shia representatives in the Waqf Board.

Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar recently informed the parliament that there were 2,400 attacks on minorities in Bangladesh in 2024 and 72 such incidents in 2025. In response, economist Dr. Debapriya Bhattacharya said these figures are exaggerated. He emphasized that before commenting on Bangladesh's minority situation, India should acknowledge the impact of its own treatment of minorities. He further stated, "Many religious minorities in Bangladesh have historically supported the Awami League. It is difficult to distinguish whether attacks on Hindus are due to their religious beliefs or their political affiliation with the ruling party."

Families of those martyred in the recent mass uprising were excluded from a banquet hosted at the Magura District Commissioner's residence on Eid night. This exclusion sparked negative reactions from BNP, Jamaat-e-Islami, and civil society. The District Commissioner responded by stating that there is no official directive mandating the invitation of martyrs' families. The event, attended by over 300 guests, included three rounds of hospitality for invitees. Political parties criticized the decision, arguing that the ten martyrs from Magura, who contributed to the new Bangladesh, deserve recognition and respect.

Chief Prosecutor Tajul Islam has announced that the investigation agency has submitted a draft report on the July genocide case against Sheikh Hasina to the International Crimes Tribunal's prosecution. He claimed that the report contains extensive evidence and documentation proving Sheikh Hasina's role as the mastermind behind the genocide. According to Tajul, she issued orders for shootings both directly and via telephone and even explicitly instructed helicopter gunfire. Under legal terminology, she holds "Superior Command Responsibility" for the genocide. The final report is expected to be submitted to the tribunal soon.

Professor Muhammad Yunus, Chief Adviser of Bangladesh’s interim government, will be the next chairman of BIMSTEC. The announcement was made by his special envoy, Dr. Khalilur Rahman, at a press briefing in Dhaka. Yunus will attend the 6th BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok on April 3, where he may meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He will participate in a youth conference, deliver a speech, and hold meetings with various leaders. The summit will see the signing of three agreements and MoUs.

BNP leader Fazlur Rahman has asserted that the national election must take place within the next six months, and candidates under the ‘Sheaf of Paddy’ symbol will secure 80% of the vote. Speaking at a street rally in Itna, he dismissed comparisons between the Awami League’s ‘Boat’ symbol and the BNP’s ‘Sheaf of Paddy,’ stating, “Sheikh Hasina and Khaleda Zia are not the same. We will accept whoever the people elect.” Drawing a historical parallel, he remarked, “Yahya Khan did not honor the election results, which led to the deaths of three million people. Bangladesh still lacks true democracy.” Fazlur Rahman also criticized the government for continuously delaying the election, alleging that excuses are being made to push back the polls indefinitely. He further accused Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus of influencing statements through Rizwana Hasan, stating, “What Yunus himself cannot say, he makes Rizwana say on his behalf.”

Information Adviser Mahfuz Alam has confirmed that the Chief Adviser has set the election timeline between December 2025 and June 2026. The timing will depend on the extent and process of electoral reforms. “There is no ambiguity—elections will take place within this timeframe. The government has no aspirations beyond this,” he assured. Addressing the potential ban on the Awami League, Mahfuz stated that such a decision cannot be made unilaterally without consulting political parties, local and international stakeholders, and development partners. He acknowledged public demand for banning the party but emphasized that the government will make a decision after thorough discussions.