A 32-year-old Japanese woman known as Kano has held a symbolic wedding ceremony with an artificial intelligence persona she created using ChatGPT, highlighting Japan’s evolving relationship with virtual companionship. The ceremony, held in Okayama, featured traditional elements such as vows, rings, and wedding photos, with the AI groom 'Klaus' appearing through augmented reality. Kano developed emotional attachment to the chatbot after a broken engagement, shaping its personality through daily interactions. The event was organized by specialists in symbolic marriages to fictional or digital characters, reflecting a growing acceptance of non-human unions in Japan. The story has sparked national debate about loneliness, emotional connection, and the psychological implications of AI relationships in a society increasingly shaped by technology and social isolation.

Bangladesh police have arrested 39 leaders and activists from the ruling Awami League and its affiliated organizations, including the Jubo League, Chhatra League, and Swechchhasebak League, on charges related to sabotage, violence, and anti-terrorism cases. The arrests were made between Friday and Saturday in multiple districts, including Bogura, Nilphamari, Dhaka, Kurigram, Chandpur, Faridpur, Lakshmipur, Shariatpur, and Sirajganj. Authorities allege that the detainees were involved in attempts to incite unrest following the verdict against Sheikh Hasina in a case concerning crimes against humanity. Police officials confirmed that the arrests were part of ongoing operations to prevent further violence and maintain law and order. Those detained include several local-level leaders such as union presidents, secretaries, and joint conveners from various party wings. Law enforcement agencies have stated that investigations are underway and that more arrests may follow if further evidence emerges.

A hand bomb exploded on Saturday night in front of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) building in Agargaon, Dhaka, according to police reports. The incident occurred around 8:20 p.m., but no injuries or fatalities were reported. Sher-e-Bangla Nagar Police Station Officer-in-Charge Imaul Haque confirmed that law enforcement has launched an investigation to identify those responsible. The explosion comes amid a series of recent violent incidents in the capital, including arson attacks on buses and other small explosions. These disturbances are reportedly linked to protests surrounding the verdict in a war crimes case and allegations of suppressing movements against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Authorities have increased security measures in key areas of Dhaka as tensions continue to rise.

BNP Standing Committee member Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury announced that the party will not pursue large-scale mega projects if it comes to power, instead focusing on skill development and private sector growth. Speaking at a business exchange meeting in Faridpur on Saturday, he emphasized that BNP aims to simplify business operations and ensure that economic benefits reach all citizens rather than a select few. Khasru argued that Bangladesh’s future development model should move away from state-dominated mega projects toward initiatives that empower individuals and expand private enterprise. He highlighted the importance of private sector participation in driving national progress and reducing economic dependency on specific groups. The meeting, chaired by BNP divisional organizational secretary Shama Obaed, was attended by academics, party leaders, and business representatives from various districts.

Dhaka College Science Club (DCSC) organized the ‘Intra Science Festival 2025 & Freshers’ Orientation’, bringing together new and senior students in a lively celebration of creativity and scientific spirit. The event was sponsored by Dhaka College Principal Professor A. K. M. Elias and attended by BUET Professor Dr. Mostafa Akbar as chief guest. Special guests included Professor Ehsan Haque from the University of Rochester, Associate Lecturer Nabi Newaz Khan Shomin from BRAC University, and A. K. M. Rafiqul Alam, Secretary of the Dhaka College Teachers’ Council. The festival featured diverse competitions such as Rubik’s Cube solving, sci-fi writing, photography, gaming, calculus combat, IQ tests with criminal case solving, sudoku races, science olympiad, and event design contests. Winners received awards and certificates. The event venue was filled with enthusiasm and innovation as students showcased their talent and creativity. Principal Elias expressed hopes for an even grander festival in the future to inspire students toward creativity and national contribution.

Dr. Tasnim Jara, senior joint member secretary of the National Citizen Party (NCP), has criticized Jamaat-e-Islami for its inconsistent position on reducing women’s working hours. Speaking at a discussion titled 'Women in Building Democracy: What Have We Achieved?' held at the Bijoy Auditorium in Dhaka on November 15, she said such debates are disappointing when the focus should be on empowering women in the workforce. Jara noted that after the mass uprising, there was an opportunity to reform the reserved seats for women in parliament, but political parties failed to reach consensus. She emphasized the need to ensure equal participation of urban and rural women in policymaking and questioned why women would join politics if the environment remains unsafe. Another NCP leader, Samanta Sharmin, added that Bangladesh’s political process is dominated by money, muscle, and male power, leaving little room for marginalized women to participate in decision-making.

At least 35 female workers fell ill due to an oxygen shortage at the Haizington China Hair Company located in the Ishwardi Export Processing Zone (EPZ) in Pabna, Bangladesh. The incident occurred around noon on Saturday, November 15, after the air conditioning system on the factory’s fourth floor remained off for an extended period, causing oxygen levels to drop significantly. According to company officials, 34 workers became seriously ill and were initially taken to the BEPZA Hospital, while others were admitted to the Ishwardi Upazila Health Complex. Later, all 15 workers from BEPZA Hospital were transferred to the Upazila Health Complex for further treatment. The company’s administration stated that the oxygen drop triggered panic among workers, worsening the situation. Health officials confirmed that all patients are receiving treatment and that no major casualties are expected.

Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser’s Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam has dismissed as entirely false and malicious recent media reports claiming that Lamia Morshed, Lutfe Siddiqui, and his sister Husna Siddiqui were being considered for ambassadorial appointments. In a Facebook post, Alam criticized the report published by the newspaper Manabzamin, calling it unprofessional, irresponsible, and defamatory. He said the report lacked credible sources and used offensive language that insulted the dignity of diplomatic positions. Alam urged the newspaper to withdraw the report and issue a formal apology. Lamia Morshed also denied expressing any desire to join the diplomatic service, stating she remains committed to her current responsibilities and has no plans to seek government positions beyond her current role. The controversy arose after Manabzamin reported that the interim government was planning to appoint several individuals, including Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor Dr. Niaz Ahmed Khan, as ambassadors to various countries.

BNP central leader and former minister Advocate Ruhul Kuddus Talukder Dulu claimed that a rival political party has begun conspiring after realizing the likely victory of the BNP’s election symbol, the 'Sheaf of Paddy'. Speaking at a campaign rally in Natore Sadar’s Panditgram Sabina Yasmin Chhobi High School field, Dulu said the nation is waiting for a free and fair election after nearly two decades of limited voting rights. He asserted that if people are allowed to vote freely, the BNP would return to power with a large majority. Dulu urged party activists to remain vigilant against any conspiracies aimed at undermining the electoral process. The rally, organized by the local BNP, was chaired by local leader Zainal Abedin and attended by several district BNP, Jubo Dal, and Chhatra Dal leaders, including Rahim Newaz, Saiful Islam Aftab, and former Natore mayor Kazi Shah Alam.

The Emirates Astronomical Society has announced the projected dates for Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr in 2026. According to the society’s chairman, Ibrahim Al Jarwan, the crescent moon marking the start of Ramadan is expected to be visible on February 17, 2026, though viewing conditions may be difficult. Based on these forecasts, Ramadan is likely to begin on February 19 and last for 30 days. If the month completes 30 days, residents of the United Arab Emirates could enjoy a four-day holiday from March 19 to March 22. Eid al-Fitr, marking the first day of Shawwal, is expected to fall on March 20, 2026. However, the final confirmation will come from the UAE’s official moon-sighting committee closer to the date. The announcement provides an early indication for planning religious observances and public holidays in the country.

Students at Dhaka University staged a protest on Saturday evening demanding strict disciplinary action against Professor Dr. Ershad Halim of the Chemistry Department, who was arrested on allegations of sexually harassing male students. The demonstrators gathered in front of the Vice-Chancellor’s office, giving the university administration a 15-minute ultimatum to respond to their demands. The students insisted that the accused professor be permanently dismissed and that the administration publicly clarify what measures have been taken. Dr. Halim was detained from his residence in Shewrapara, Dhaka, on Thursday night following multiple complaints. The protest reflects growing frustration among students over how the university handles sexual misconduct cases, with calls for greater accountability and transparency within the institution’s disciplinary process.

A local BNP leader, Abul Kalam Zohir, 50, was hacked to death by unidentified assailants in Chandraganj, Lakshmipur, on Saturday night. The attack occurred around 8:30 p.m. in West Latifpur village under Chandraganj Union. Zohir, who served as the general secretary of ward no. 8 BNP, was found dead at the scene with severe injuries, and bullet shells were recovered nearby. Police confirmed the incident but have not yet identified the attackers or the motive. Locals suspect the killing may be linked to a power struggle or past enmities, as Zohir had previously been involved in drug and soil trading before returning to a normal life. Chandraganj BNP president Belal Hossain said he was unaware of the details but was investigating the matter. The murder has sparked tension in the area, and police are continuing their investigation.

A passenger bus traveling from Gazipur to Dhaka caught fire suddenly on Saturday night near the Hurricane area under Gacha Police Station along the Dhaka-Mymensingh Highway. According to Gazipur Chowrasta Modern Fire Service Senior Station Officer Iqbal Hasan, two fire service units reached the scene and brought the blaze under control within 20 minutes. The bus was nearly 80 percent burned, but no casualties occurred as passengers managed to exit quickly. Witnesses said the fire appeared to start from the engine, and both the driver and helper were not found after the incident. Police suspect a mechanical fault caused the fire. Authorities are investigating the exact reason behind the blaze, which caused significant damage but no loss of life.

Jahangirnagar University (JU) authorities have announced a ban on all types of events on campus after 10 PM, citing the need to maintain peace, order, and security. The decision was communicated through a press release issued by the university’s Public Relations Office on Saturday, November 15. According to the statement, the restriction follows a resolution adopted in a previous syndicate meeting and will remain in effect until further notice. The university also warned that any event held beyond the permitted time would lead to disciplinary action against the organizers under existing university rules and regulations. Additionally, the notice instructed that sound levels during events must be kept within tolerable limits to avoid disturbance. The move aims to ensure a safe and peaceful environment for students, faculty, and staff on campus.

Former President Donald Trump has signaled a shift in his immigration stance, acknowledging the importance of H-1B visas for specialized labor just months after his administration imposed a $100,000 one-time fee per visa. In a Fox News interview, Trump said the U.S. workforce lacks certain technical skills, despite his earlier claims that foreign workers depress American wages. The fee, introduced in September, has drawn criticism from tech leaders like Y Combinator CEO Gary Tan, who warned it would harm startups. Nearly 400,000 H-1B visas were approved in fiscal 2024, double the number in 2020. Economists caution that Trump’s restrictive immigration policies could shrink the U.S. labor force by 15.7 million and reduce GDP growth by one-third over the next decade. Trump also referenced a recent ICE raid on a Hyundai plant in Georgia, which detained hundreds of South Korean workers and delayed production, admitting that such actions might have unintended economic consequences for U.S. manufacturing and innovation.