United News of Bangladesh

The undergraduate (Honours) first-year admission test of Jahangirnagar University (JU) for the 2025–26 academic session will begin on Sunday with the examination of ‘C’ unit. The university authorities have issued nine important instructions for candidates appearing in the admission test, Syed Mohammad Ali Reza, member secretary of the university’s Admission Management Committee and deputy registrar (education), said on Saturday evening. 1.      Candidates must fill in the OMR answer sheet properly using a black ballpoint pen. Any incorrectly filled OMR sheet will be considered invalid. The form must not be folded, torn, stained, stapled or pinned. 2.      Candidates are required to write their roll number, shift and question set code in English. Both the OMR sheet and question paper must be submitted to the invigilator at the end of the examination. 3.      Information regarding exam centre and seat can be found on the downloaded admit card. 4.      Candidates must reach the centre at least 10 minutes before the examination begins. 5.      No bags, books, mobile phones, watches, calculators or any electronic devices will be allowed inside the examination hall. A wall clock will be available in the hall for time management. 6.      Only candidates and concerned officials will be permitted to enter the examination centre. 7.      The results of the admission test will be published within seven days after the completion of the examination on the website: ju-admission.org. Jahangirnagar University suspends 16 students over ragging of freshmen 8.      Candidates must bring the original Secondary School Certificate (SSC) registration card along with the admission test admit card. 9.      As the JU campus is located about 30 kilometres away from Dhaka city, candidates have been advised to arrive at the centre well in advance, considering possible traffic congestion. According to university sources, a total of 219,399 applications have been submitted this year against 1,844 seats in seven units, meaning an average of 119 applicants are competing for each seat.    

The two-day Hason Raja Folk Festival–2025 will begin in Sylhet on Sunday, marking the birth anniversary of renowned Sufi poet Hason Raja. Organised by the Hason Raja Folk Literature and Culture Council, the festival will be held at the Central Shaheed Minar premises in Chowhatta area of the city. Programmes will run daily from 3:30pm to 10:00pm. The festival will showcase various aspects of Hason Raja’s life, philosophy and folk heritage through discussions, cultural performances, recitations and renditions of his songs. Dr Jahirul Islam Achinpuri, president of the central committee of the Hasan Raja Folk Literature and Culture Council, said Hasan Raja’s birthday falls on December 21. He said the council has been working to revive Bengal’s traditional Sufi culture with the aim of promoting a non-violent, intellectual, creator-centred and afterlife-centred society. Researchers, artists, litterateurs and cultural activists from different parts of the country are expected to participate in the festival, he added, noting that enthusiasm has already been created in Sylhet’s cultural arena surrounding the event. 56 migratory birds freed from poachers and released in Sylhet Dr Achinpuri also said the festival was originally scheduled to begin on Saturday, December 20, but was deferred by a day in observance of the National Mourning Day announced by the government for the demise of Shaheed Sharif Osman Bin Hadi. The organisers urged people from all walks of life to attend the festival with their families.  

Hollywood actor and former professional wrestler Dwayne Johnson has dedicated his latest film, The Smashing Machine, to the memory of 15 friends he lost to addiction and suicide over the past two decades. In an interview with Variety, the 53-year-old actor said the biopic, which portrays the life of legendary UFC fighter Mark Kerr, reflects not only Kerr’s journey but also the struggles of countless people battling mental health issues. “In a way, The Smashing Machine is a love letter to the men and women who struggle, who have made it on the other side, and who didn’t,” Johnson said. Johnson, who has been open about his own battles with depression, revealed that losing friends over the years deeply influenced the project. “Over the past two decades, I lost exactly 15 friends to addiction and suicide, who just couldn’t handle the pressure,” he added. The actor also recalled his personal experiences with mental health challenges, including suffering from depression at the age of 23 after failing to qualify for professional football, and witnessing his mother attempt suicide when he was 15. He stressed the importance of support, encouraging people to talk openly about their struggles and reminding them that they are not alone. Johnson has previously spoken about helping those facing depression. In 2018, he advised on social media to support loved ones by listening and guiding them through difficult times. “Everybody is fighting demons, and a lot of people keep it in. A lot of people don’t talk about it,” he said, reflecting on lessons learned over the years. The Smashing Machine is set to reach audiences worldwide while Johnson continues to work on upcoming projects, including the live-action Moana, an untitled Jumanji sequel, and Fast X: Part 2.   With inputs from NDTV

Russian President Vladimir Putin has said there would be no further wars after Ukraine if Western countries treat Russia with respect and acknowledge its security interests, dismissing claims that Moscow plans to attack Europe as “nonsense”. Speaking during his annual televised “Direct Line” question-and-answer marathon on Friday, Putin told the BBC that Russia would not launch any new military operations if the West respected Russian interests and stopped what he described as deception over Nato’s eastward expansion. He again accused Western leaders of breaking promises made to the former Soviet Union in the early 1990s, a claim previously denied by the late Mikhail Gorbachev. Putin said Russia was ready to work with Europe, the United States and the United Kingdom as equals and expressed willingness to end the war in Ukraine, provided Russia’s long-term security was guaranteed. However, he reiterated demands previously outlined in June, including Ukraine withdrawing forces from four partially occupied regions and abandoning its bid to join Nato. The nearly four-and-a-half-hour event, broadcast live from Moscow, combined questions from the public and journalists, with organisers claiming more than three million submissions. While the programme was largely choreographed, some critical comments about rising prices, internet outages and public services were shown on screen. Putin also addressed economic challenges, including inflation and a VAT increase set to take effect in January, as Russia’s central bank announced a cut in interest rates to 16%. Hours after the broadcast, Ukrainian officials reported that a Russian missile strike in the southern Odesa region killed seven people and injured 15 others. Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Putin maintained that Russian forces were advancing on the battlefield and rejected Western intelligence warnings that Moscow could attack Nato countries in the coming years. He insisted that responsibility for prolonging the conflict lay with Kyiv and its Western backers, while praising US President Donald Trump’s efforts to broker peace.   With inputs from BBC

The US Department of Justice (DOJ) released the first batch of highly anticipated documents related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein on Friday, offering a glimpse into thousands of pages of investigative records, photographs, and videos. The release follows a law passed by Congress requiring the Justice Department to make the files public in their entirety, although officials said they could not meet the full deadline. The initial tranche of documents includes numerous high-profile figures, such as former US President Bill Clinton, Prince Andrew, and entertainers including Mick Jagger, Michael Jackson, Diana Ross, and Chris Tucker. However, legal experts and authorities emphasize that being mentioned or pictured in the files does not imply any wrongdoing. Many of those named in the documents have consistently denied any involvement in Epstein’s criminal activities. Bill Clinton appears in multiple images Several photographs released feature former US President Bill Clinton. Some images show him swimming in a pool, while others depict him reclining in a hot tub with his hands behind his head. Clinton had multiple documented interactions with Epstein during the 1990s and early 2000s, before Epstein’s first arrest. Survivors of Epstein’s abuse have not accused Clinton of wrongdoing, and he has consistently denied any knowledge of Epstein’s criminal acts. Clinton’s spokesperson, Angel Ureña, commented on the photos, describing them as decades old and reiterating that the former president was not involved in Epstein’s crimes. “They can release as many grainy 20-plus-year-old photos as they want, but this isn’t about Bill Clinton. Never has, never will be,” Ureña said on social media. Trump mentioned in files The documents also reference current US President Donald Trump, though the mention is limited. Court filings suggest that Epstein allegedly introduced a 14-year-old girl to Trump at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida during the 1990s. The documents claim Epstein “playfully asked” Trump, in reference to the girl, “this is a good one, right?” According to the filing, Trump smiled and nodded, and both men laughed, leaving the girl feeling uncomfortable. The alleged victim did not accuse Trump of any wrongdoing in the filing. Following the release, Trump’s political team highlighted the photographs of Clinton rather than addressing the allegations involving the president. Trump has previously stated that he was a friend of Epstein but said their relationship ended around 2004, years before Epstein’s arrest. He has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing in connection with Epstein. Prince Andrew and other high-profile figures One photograph in the files appears to show Prince Andrew lying across the laps of several people, with convicted Epstein associate Ghislaine Maxwell standing nearby. Andrew has faced years of scrutiny for his past association with Epstein, although he has consistently denied witnessing or participating in any criminal activity related to Epstein. The newly released documents also feature multiple celebrities. Epstein is shown posing with Michael Jackson, Diana Ross, and Mick Jagger. In some images, Clinton is pictured alongside Jackson and Ross. Other photos include Chris Tucker sitting next to Clinton at a dining table or standing near a private jet with Maxwell. The DOJ has not provided details regarding when or where these photographs were taken, or the nature of Epstein’s association with those pictured. Ghislaine Maxwell and Downing Street A photograph released shows Ghislaine Maxwell alone in front of 10 Downing Street. There is no accompanying context regarding the timing or reason for her visit. Maxwell, who was convicted in connection with Epstein’s crimes, has been a recurring figure in previous file releases. Accuser statements and historical reports The files include early reports from Epstein’s accusers. Artist Maria Farmer, who worked for Epstein, reported to the FBI in 1996 that Epstein had stolen photographs of her 12- and 16-year-old sisters and allegedly threatened to burn her house if she disclosed the theft. Farmer said Epstein asked her to photograph young girls at swimming pools. Her name is redacted in the released documents, though she has confirmed the account belongs to her. “I feel redeemed,” Farmer said, reflecting on nearly 30 years since the incident. Redacted pages and pending releases Many of the documents released on Friday are heavily redacted. Some files, including more than 100 pages from a grand jury investigation, are completely blacked out. The DOJ has said that redactions are necessary to protect the identities of victims or details of ongoing investigations. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche stated that the department is reviewing hundreds of thousands of pages, with many more expected to be released in the coming weeks. Blanche emphasized that each page is being vetted to ensure that all victim information is fully protected. The delay in releasing all documents has drawn criticism from lawmakers. Democrats, including Congressman Ro Khanna, have threatened action against DOJ officials, citing potential impeachment or prosecution. Khanna, together with Republican Congressman Thomas Massie, pushed for the Epstein Files Transparency Act to ensure full disclosure, despite opposition from former President Donald Trump. Legal and public context The Epstein files shed light on a vast network of social, political, and entertainment connections that the late financier maintained over decades. While many photos and documents raise questions, officials stress that inclusion in the files is not evidence of criminal behavior. The ongoing public and legal scrutiny surrounding Epstein and Maxwell continues to generate global attention, with hundreds of thousands of pages still under review.   With inputs from BBC

Bangladesh’s capital market extended its losing streak over the past week, with market capitalisation on the Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) shrinking by more than Tk 10,500 crore amid a broad-based decline in share prices. The market opened the week on Sunday with a capitalisation of Tk 6,86,368 crore, which fell to Tk 6,75,866 crore by Thursday, marking a weekly erosion of Tk 10,501 crore. The sharp fall was driven by price declines in the majority of listed companies. Over the week, prices rose for only 32 companies, while 335 saw declines. Prices of 22 companies remained unchanged and 24 companies did not participate in trading. All indices on the DSE dropped by more than 2 percent during the week. The benchmark DSEX index, which started at 4,963 points, closed at 4,831 points. Due to the Victory Day holiday on December 16, trading took place for four sessions, during which the DSEX lost 132 points, or 2.67 percent. Year-on-year, the DSEX has fallen 7.38 percent. At the same time last year, the benchmark index stood at 5,216 points. Among other indices, the blue-chip DS30 lost 43 points; 2.28 percent in a week, while the Shariah-based DSES fell 33 points; 3.25 percent. The SME index, DSMEX, shed 24 points-- 2.77 percent. The average daily turnover also weakened alongside the decline in market capitalisation and indices. Weekly average turnover dropped by more than 7 percent, falling from Tk 417 crore at the beginning of the week to Tk 387 crore by the final session. Out of the DSE’s 21 sectors, only seven recorded price gains, while the rest witnessed declines. The banking sector posted a 6 percent fall, while prices of non-bank financial institutions plunged by nearly 32 percent. Among the two insurance sectors, general insurance gained more than 19 percent, but life insurance suffered a steep 38 percent decline. In addition to general insurance, prices also gained in the ceramic, corporate bond, food, mutual fund, real estate and textile sectors. Sector-wise turnover also deteriorated, with trading volume declining in almost all sectors except life insurance, corporate bonds, mutual funds and textiles. The non-bank financial institution sector saw its turnover fall by an average of about 52%. Top Gainers Of the top 10 gainers on the DSE, five were ‘A’ category companies that regularly pay dividends of 10 percent or more, two were ‘B’ category firms, and three were ‘Z’ category companies that do not pay dividends. Most of the top gainers belonged to the mutual fund sector. B-category Bangas Ltd topped the gainers’ list, posting a return of nearly 15 percent over four sessions. Its share price rose from Tk 113.50 to Tk 130.50. Reliance One: The First Scheme of Reliance Insurance Mutual Fund ranked second, gaining 14.71 percent, with unit prices rising from Tk 13.60 to Tk 15.60. CAPM IBBL Islamic Mutual Fund secured the third position, with a return of more than 13 percent, as its unit price climbed from Tk 6.80 to Tk 7.70. Z-category Bangladesh Welding Electrodes Ltd stood fourth, gaining over 8 percent, with its share price rising from Tk 12.20 to Tk 13.20. Union Insurance Company Limited ranked fifth, posting an 8 percent return as its share price increased from Tk 32.50 to Tk 35.10. Top Losers Most of the top losers were Z-category companies, except one A-category and one B-category firm. The top two decliners were both from the sugar industry. Shyampur Sugar Mills Ltd suffered the steepest fall, with its return plunging by nearly 21 percent. Its share prices fell by over Tk 40 within a week. Another Z-category sugar mill, Zeal Bangla Sugar Mills Ltd, ranked second, losing over 17 percent as its share price fell by nearly Tk 30 over four sessions. AFC Agro Biotech Ltd placed third with a decline of around 17 percent, followed by Khan Brothers PP Woven Bag Industries Limited, which fell 16.64 percent. FAS Finance & Investment Limited ranked fifth, shedding more than 16 percent. CSE’s Sharp Fall Like the DSE, the Chittagong Stock Exchange (CSE) also witnessed a significant downturn, with all indices falling by more than 1.5 percent over four trading sessions. The overall CASPI index dropped 247 points, or 1.78 percent, while the blue-chip CSE30 lost 217 points, or 1.76 percent. The CSCX index, comprising dividend-paying A and B category companies, fell 148 points, or 1.72 percent. Another blue-chip index, CSE50, declined 19 points, or 1.77 percent, while the Shariah-based CSI lost 17 points, or 2.02 percent. Out of 250 traded companies on the CSE, prices fell for 159, rose for 71 and remained unchanged for 20. Bangas Ltd also topped the gainers’ list on the CSE, followed by GQ Ball Pen Industries Limited. On the losing side, Apex Spinning & Knitting Mills recorded the sharpest fall, shedding more than 19 percent. Its share price dropped from Tk 220 at the start of the week to Tk 177 by the end. Emerald Oil Industries Limited ranked second among the losers, with its share price falling by more than 17 percent, or Tk 3 per share, over the week.      

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Saturday expressed deep shock over the death of AK Khandker Bir Uttam, a key hero of the Bangladesh Liberation War and former planning minister. In a condolence message, Fakhrul said, “I deeply sympathise with the bereaved family of AK Khandker over his demise.” He recalled that late AK Khandker, who served as Deputy Chief of Staff of the Liberation Forces, was the first Chief of the Bangladesh Air Force and played a brave and heroic role during the Liberation War of 1971. For his exceptional contribution to the war, Fakhrul said AK Khandker was awarded the ‘Bir Uttam’ title and the Independence Award in 2011. “He will always be remembered by the nation for his outstanding contribution to the Liberation War and the freedom of our motherland. His devoted role in protecting the country’s sovereignty and independence will remain an exemplary legacy,” the BNP leader said. Mirza Fakhrul falls ill “I am deeply saddened by his passing and pray to Almighty Allah to grant him a place in Jannah and give patience to his grieving family,” he added. The BNP Secretary General also prayed for the eternal peace of AK Khandker’s soul and expressed profound sympathy to his family, admirers and well-wishers.    

The bodies of six Bangladeshi peacekeepers who were killed in a drone attack by separatist forces in Sudan arrived at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka on Saturday (December 20, 2025). A flight of Emirates Airline, carrying the bodies of the Bangladeshi peacekeepers landed at the Airport on Saturday morning, according to a media release from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). The Chief of General Staff of the Bangladesh Army, Lieutenant General Mizanur Rahman Shamim, received the bodies. Read more: Bangladeshi peacekeepers killed in Sudan: Condolences keep pouring in from international community After a namaz-e-janaza at the Central Mosque of Dhaka Cantonment, the peacekeepers’ bodies will be sent to their respective villages by helicopter and they will be buried with full military honour. Six Bangladeshi peacekeepers were killed and nine others were injured in a drone attack on the Kadugli logistics base under the UN mission in the Abeï area of Sudan on December 13. The injured personnel are receiving treatment at Aga Khan University Hospital in Nairobi, Kenya. One of them has already been discharged, while the remaining peacekeepers are reported to be out of danger, the ISPR said. Read more: Another Bangladeshi peacekeeper injured in Sudan drone attack

Abu Bakar Siddique, the elder brother of Inquilab Moncho Sharif Osman Hadi, on Saturday (December 20, 2025) questioned the failure to arrest the killers even after seven to eight days of the shooting. “If criminals can open fire after Jum’a prayers in the heart of Dhaka and escape, there can be no greater disgrace for us as a nation,” he said while addressing thousands of mourners before the namaz-e-janaza of Hadi at Manik Mia Avenue in the capital. He also demanded a quick and public trial of those responsible for the killing. Read more: Hadi laid to rest beside National Poet’s grave at DU Siddique said his younger brother had devoted his life to protecting Bangladesh’s independence and sovereignty and left behind a message for the country’s people on how to safeguard the freedom. Hadi is survived by an eight-month-old child who will never know his father, he said, adding, “When the child was born, my brother asked me to choose a name reflecting revolutionary spirit and courage. I named him Firnas.” He said the family has been shattered by the loss, with their mother repeatedly losing consciousness and other siblings suffering severe trauma. He urged people to pray for Hadi’s wife and child, for his injured brother Omar Faruk who was with him during the attack and for his sister Masuma, who is undergoing treatment for severe trauma. Siddique led the janaza prayers around 2:30 pm. ‘Hadi, you’ll never be lost; no one will ever be able to forget you’: Prof Yunus Religious Affairs Adviser AFM Khalid Hossain described Hadi as a poet and cultural activist who co-founded the Inquilab Cultural Center to help shape a new cultural narrative for the country. Inquilab Moncho Member Secretary Abdullah Al-Jaber alleged that the killing was the result of a planned conspiracy involving multiple actors. He demanded that the killers, planners and facilitators be brought to justice and urged the Home Affairs Adviser and other officials to publicly explain within 24 hours what steps have been taken so far. He also called on supporters to refrain from violence and warned against acting on any propaganda outside Inquilab Mancha’s directives, saying future programmes would be announced by the platform. Read more: Bangladesh mourns death of Osman Hadi

BNP senior leader Salahuddin Ahmed on Saturday urged vigilance to prevent the killing of Inquilab Moncho spokesperson Sharif Osman Hadi from being politically exploited to create chaos. “We have strongly condemned this brutal killing. But fallen fascist forces or anyone trying to disrupt the election must not be allowed to use this incident for political gain. Everyone must remain vigilant,” he said. Salahuddin, a BNP Standing Committee member, made the remarks while talking to reporters before attending Hadi’s namaz-e-janaza. He also called upon the people of the country to remain alert to prevent any conspiracy aimed at delaying or disrupting the upcoming election. Later, on behalf of BNP, Salahuddin along with party Vice Chairman Abdul Awal Mintoo, Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, and many other leaders and activists attended the janaza of martyr Osman Hadi. Hadi’s namaz-e-janaza was held at the South Plaza of Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban on Saturday afternoon. Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, advisers, leaders and activists of BNP, Jamaat-e-Islami, Inquilab Moncho, National Citizens Party (NCP), and chiefs of the three services were, among others, present. Mirza Fakhrul falls ill Osman Hadi, also a prospective candidate for the Dhaka-8 constituency, was shot in the head on December 12 while travelling in a rickshaw on Culvert Road in Puratan Paltan. He was airlifted to Singapore for advanced treatment, where he succumbed to his injuries on the night of December 18.  

Inquilab Moncho leader Sharif Osman Hadi was laid to rest beside the grave of National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam near the Dhaka University Central Mosque. Hadi was buried beside the mosque beside Kazi Nazrul Islam’s grave at around 3:30 pm. Read more: Hadi’s brother questions failure to arrest killers After the namaz-e-janaza at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad, his body was brought to Dhaka University in a procession for burial. For security reasons, all entry points to Dhaka University were kept closed.  

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir suddenly fell ill on Friday night and is currently receiving treatment at home. “The BNP Secretary General developed a viral infection (fever) late Friday night. Following doctors’ advice, he is receiving treatment at home,” BNP Media Cell member Sayrul Kabir Khan said on Saturday. He also said Fakhrul is resting as per his doctor’s instructions. BNP pays homage to Osman Hadi Fakhrul attended an emergency meeting of the party’s Standing Committee on Friday night and later briefed journalists on the decisions taken at the meeting at the BNP Chairperson’s Gulshan

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Saturday said martyr Sharif Osman Hadi would never be forgotten, stressing that he will remain alive through the lessons he left for the nation. “Dear Hadi, you wanted to take part in the election. In expressing your desire to contest, you also taught us how elections should be conducted. Let us all accept that process,” Prof Yunus said while speaking before the namaz-e-janaza of Hadi, spokesperson of Inquilab Moncho. He said Hadi demonstrated how to run an election campaign and how to connect closely with people. “By embracing the lessons you gave us, we ensure that you remain alive in our memories. Hadi, you will never be lost. No one will ever be able to forget you. You will remain with us for decades,” Prof Yunus added. The Chief Adviser also said they would continue walking on the path of national progress while remembering Hadi. Thousands of people from different walks of life joined the Janaza at Manik Mia Avenue near the Jatiya Sangsad. Many arrived in processions, chanting slogans demanding justice for Hadi and vowing that his death would not go in vain. The Chief Adviser, in his recent televised speech said, Hadi was an enemy of the defeated forces and fascist terrorists. “The evil attempt to intimidate revolutionaries by silencing his voice will be completely thwarted. No one can stop the journey to democracy of this country through fear, terror or bloodshed. Shaheed Hadi was an integral part of this process. His sole desire was to contest the upcoming elections and play an active role in the next phase of building a new Bangladesh,” he said. The Chief Adviser said the government will take responsibility for Hadi’s wife and his only child. The nation is observing a one-day state mourning today (Saturday) following Hadi’s death. On this occasion, the national flag was flown at half-mast at all government, semi-government and autonomous institutions, educational institutions, as well as government and private buildings across the country and at Bangladesh missions abroad. At the same time, special prayers and munajat were held at every mosque across the country after Jum’a prayers on Friday for the eternal peace of martyr Hadi. Hadi’s janaza held at Manik Mia Avenue amid huge turnout Expressing deep sorrow and grief at Hadi’s untimely death, Prof Yunus said the loss is irreparable for the country’s political and democratic landscape. “I pray for the eternal peace of his soul and express my deepest condolences to his bereaved wife, family members, relatives and colleagues,” he added.    

The namaz-e-janaza of Inquilab Moncho spokesperson Sharif Osman Hadi was held at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban on Saturday afternoon. Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus, advisers and leaders and activists of BNP, Jamaat-e-Islami, Inquilab Moncho, National Citizens Party (NCP) and the chiefs of the three services, among others, attended the namaz-e-janaza. Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus, Religious Affairs Adviser AFM Khalid Hossain and an Inquilab Moncho leader spoke before the namaz-e-janaza. Amnesty urges accountability over Hadi murder, mob violence Hadi’s brother Abu Bakar Siddique administered the janaza around 2:30 pm. Earlier, thousands of people gathered at Manik Mia Avenue in small processions to attend the janaza. Mourners chanted various slogans, including “We will all be Hadi for ages, we will fight” and “We will not let Hadi Bhai’s blood go in vain.” Osman Hadi, also a prospective candidate for Dhaka-8, was shot in the head on December 12 while travelling in a rickshaw on Culvert Road in Puratan Paltan. For advanced treatment, he was airlifted to Singapore, where he succumbed to his injuries on the night of December 18. People from different parts of the capital were seen using the Metro Rail from early morning to reach the janaza venue, resulting in heavy passenger pressure at key stations. Thousands gather at Manik Mia Avenue to attend Hadi’s janaza Additional police personnel and members of Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) have been deployed at key points in the capital to maintain law and order during the namaz-e-janaza. Police personnel equipped with around 1,000 body-worn cameras have been deployed to ensure overall security and prevent any untoward incident. Besides, 20 platoons of BGB have been deployed in and around important areas of the capital including the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban to strengthen security, said Shariful Islam, public relations officer of BGB. Hadi will be buried beside the grave of national poet Kazi Nazrul Islam on the Dhaka University campus in line with the wishes of his family, according to a Facebook post from Inquilab Moncho’s official page.  

Iran executed a man on Saturday who was convicted of spying for Israeli intelligence and military, state media reported. The executed individual, identified as 27-year-old Aghil Keshavarz, was accused of closely cooperating with Mossad and photographing Iranian military and security sites. He was arrested in May while taking pictures of a military headquarters in Urmia, about 600 kilometers northwest of Tehran. Authorities said he carried out more than 200 similar missions across Iran, including in the capital. Keshavarz was sentenced to death by a court ruling upheld by the Supreme Court. Reports indicate he had studied architecture. Since June, Iran has executed at least 11 people for espionage following a 12-day conflict with Israel that left nearly 1,100 dead in Iran and 28 in Israel. Trials of suspected spies in Iran are often conducted behind closed doors, with limited access to evidence for the accused.  

Taiwanese authorities said Saturday that the suspect behind knife and smoke-grenade attacks in Taipei, which killed three people and injured 11 others on Friday, had planned the assaults and set fires at multiple locations earlier in the day. The 27-year-old suspect, identified as Chang Wen, fell to his death from a department store building following the attacks. Taiwanese police said he began his assault at 3:40 p.m., setting fires to roads, vehicles, and his residence, and later targeting crowds with smoke grenades and a knife near Taipei Main metro station and outside the Eslite Spectrum Nanxi department store. Authorities said the suspect acted alone and purchased the smoke grenades online. Chang had previously served in the military but was discharged for drunk driving and had been wanted since July for failing to report to service. Investigators are still probing his motive. Six of the injured remain hospitalized, two in stable condition in intensive care. President Lai Ching-te has called for a full investigation into the suspect’s background, motives, and possible assistance.  

Eight people were killed and 27 injured in a Russian missile strike on port infrastructure in southern Ukraine’s Odesa late Friday, Ukraine’s Emergency Service reported Saturday. Some of the wounded were on a bus near the strike’s epicenter. Trucks and cars in the parking area were also damaged, and fires broke out, according to a Telegram post by the service. Odesa regional head Oleh Kiper confirmed the attack involved ballistic missiles. In a separate development, Ukraine said its forces targeted a Russian warship and other facilities using drones. The warship “Okhotnik” was patrolling near an oil and gas platform in the Caspian Sea, while a drilling platform at the Filanovsky oil and gas field operated by Russian company Lukoil was also struck. Ukrainian drones reportedly damaged a radar system in Crimea, which Russia annexed in 2014.  

Bondi Beach reopened on Friday as residents gathered to remember the 15 people killed in a mass shooting at a Hanukkah celebration earlier this month. Thousands of people formed a large circle in the ocean, observed a minute’s silence, and stood near remnants of the crime scene, paying tribute to the victims and those who helped during the attack. Armed officers were stationed at synagogues and mosques to ensure public safety. Life gradually returned to the beach and boardwalk as people walked, jogged, and surfed, while community members acknowledged acts of bravery, including that of Ahmed al Ahmed, who helped disarm one of the attackers despite being injured. A menorah was projected onto the Sydney Opera House, and record numbers of blood donations were reported. Authorities and community leaders continue to discuss ways to address antisemitism and prevent similar incidents in the future.  

A large number of mourners thronged the Metro Rail on Saturday to attend the namaz-e-janaza of Inquilab Moncho spokesperson Sharif Osman Hadi. People from different parts of the capital were seen using the Metro Rail from early morning to reach the janaza venue, resulting in heavy passenger pressure at key stations. The namaz-e-janaza of Hadi will be held at 2 pm at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban. Hadi was shot in the head on December 12 while travelling in a rickshaw on Culvert Road in Puratan Paltan.He initially underwent surgery at Dhaka Medical College Hospital and was later admitted to Evercare Hospital. For advanced treatment, he was airlifted to Singapore, where he succumbed to his injuries on the night of December 18. His body arrived in Dhaka on Friday evening.  

Former Chief of Air Staff of Bangladesh Air Force, Air Vice Marshal AK Khandker (Bir Uttam), passed away on Saturday due to complications related to old age. He was 95. AK Khandker, who served as Deputy Chief of Staff of the Mukti Bahini during the Liberation War, breathed his last at around 10:35am, according to an ISPR press release.  

Former U.S. President Bill Clinton featured prominently in the first set of documents released Friday by the Justice Department from its investigation into convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The files include several photos of Clinton, some showing him on a private plane with a woman whose face was redacted, and others depicting him in a pool and a hot tub with Epstein associate Ghislaine Maxwell and unidentified individuals. The timing and location of the images remain unclear. Clinton, 79, has never been accused of wrongdoing in connection with Epstein. His spokesman, Angel Ureña, said the White House was attempting to deflect attention and stressed that the issue “is not about Bill Clinton.” Republicans have seized on Clinton’s association with Epstein. The House Oversight Committee had subpoenaed Bill and Hillary Clinton earlier this year, seeking depositions, but the couple offered written statements instead. Committee Chair Rep. James Comer has threatened contempt proceedings if they fail to testify in person. Clinton’s connections with Epstein, including multiple flights on Epstein’s private jet and White House visits during his presidency, have long been documented. The newly released files, part of hundreds of thousands tied to the investigation, underscore the complex network surrounding Epstein and Maxwell, complicating both Democratic and Republican narratives in the ongoing political debate.  

The United States military carried out strikes in Syria on Friday targeting Islamic State (IS) fighters and weapons sites in retaliation for an ambush that killed two American soldiers and a U.S. civilian interpreter last week. U.S. officials described the operation as “large-scale,” hitting around 70 IS targets across central Syria. More strikes are expected, they added. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said on social media that the action was “not the beginning of a war” but “a declaration of vengeance,” emphasizing that the U.S. would protect its personnel under President Donald Trump’s leadership. President Trump earlier pledged “very serious retaliation” and described the operation as a “massive strike” against IS fighters attempting to regroup in Syria. He also warned terrorists against attacking U.S. personnel again, saying they would face unprecedented consequences. The strikes involved F-15 Eagle jets, A-10 Thunderbolt attack aircraft, AH-64 Apache helicopters, F-16 jets from Jordan, and HIMARS rocket systems. U.S. Central Command said over 100 precision munitions were used against IS targets. Syria’s foreign ministry condemned last week’s attack, underlining the need for international cooperation against terrorism, and confirmed its commitment to continue fighting IS. Syrian state media reported that U.S. strikes hit IS facilities in Deir ez-Zor, Raqqa, and Jabal al-Amour near Palmyra. The ambush that prompted the retaliation killed Sgt. Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar, 25, Sgt. William Nathaniel Howard, 29, and U.S. civilian interpreter Ayad Mansoor Sakat. Three other American troops and Syrian security personnel were injured. The gunman, who had recently been reassigned as a security guard over suspected IS links, was killed during the attack. Trump met with the families of the slain Americans before attending the dignified transfer ceremony at Dover Air Force Base, honoring the fallen service members.  

People have started gathering at Manik Mia Avenue adjacent to the Jatiya Sangsad to attend the namaz-e-janaza of Inquilab Moncho spokesperson Sharif Osman Hadi. People have been arriving on Manik Mia Avenue in small processions to attend the janaza. The namaz-e-janaza of Hadi will be held at 2 pm at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban. People were chanting slogans various slogans including “We will all be Hadi for ages, we will fight” and “We will not let Hadi Bhai’s blood go in vain.” Additional police personnel and members of Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) have been deployed at key points in the capital to maintain law and order during the namaz-e-janaza. An adequate number of police personnel equipped with around 1,000 body-worn cameras have been deployed to ensure overall security and prevent any untoward incident, said DMP Deputy Commissioner (Media) Talebur Rahman. Besides, 20 platoons of BGB have been deployed in and around important areas of the capital including the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban to strengthen security, said Shariful Islam, public relations officer of BGB. The government has requested those wishing to attend the janaza not to carry any bags or heavy objects. It also said that flying drones in and around the parliament complex will remain strictly prohibited during the funeral prayers. Bangladesh mourns death of Osman Hadi Hadi will be buried beside grave of national poet Kazi Nazrul Islam on the Dhaka University campus in line with the wishes of his family, according to a Facebook post from Inquilab Moncho’s official page. Hadi was shot in the head on December 12 while travelling in a rickshaw on Culvert Road in Puratan Paltan. He initially underwent surgery at Dhaka Medical College Hospital and was later admitted to Evercare Hospital. For advanced treatment, he was airlifted to Singapore, where he succumbed to his injuries on the night of December 18. His body arrived in Dhaka on Friday evening.  

UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called for calm and urged all concerned in Bangladesh to refrain from violence, reduce tensions and exercise maximum restraint in order to preserve a peaceful electoral environment as the country heads to elections in February. The UN Secretary-General condemned the killing of Sharif Osman Bin Hadi and extended his condolences to his family. The UN Chief called on the authorities to conduct a prompt, impartial investigation, in line with international human rights standards. Amnesty urges accountability over Hadi murder, mob violence "I have been asked about the current situation in Bangladesh, and I can tell you that the Secretary-General condemns the killing of a youth protest leader, Sharif Osman Bin Hadi, and extends his condolences to his family," said Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesman for the Secretary-General, during a regular briefing at the UN Headquarters on December 19.

The National Cyber Security Agency (NCSA) on Saturday urged people to directly report social media posts that incite terrorism or violence through WhatsApp and email. It said such posts can be reported via WhatsApp at 01308332592 and by email to [email protected]. Complaints received through WhatsApp and email will be initially verified by the NCSA and then reported to the relevant platforms through the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC), according to a PID handout. The agency also called on people to refrain from using social media as a tool to create violence and to remain conscious about ensuring the safety of the country as well as the lives and property of citizens. According to the National Cyber Security Ordinance 2025, hate speech that directly causes violence or calls for violence is a punishable offence, it said. It said the government cannot directly take down social media posts but it can report posts related to violence to the concerned platforms by presenting logical and justified reasons.  

The Human Rights Watch (HRW) on Saturday said Bangladesh authorities should now take urgent steps to prevent the ‘mob attacks’ that have taken hold in the country since the Hasina government was ousted last August, and should ensure conditions for ‘free, fair, and participatory’ elections in February. "The attacks on the offices of Prothom Alo and The Daily Star are an alarming assault on freedom of expression," said Meenakshi Ganguly, deputy Asia director at Human Rights Watch. Ganguly said incitement to violence by some political actors, including on social media, is contributing to an environment in which journalists, political and social activists, and even artists and singers, are deliberately placed in danger. The attacks followed the killing of an election candidate, Sharif Osman Hadi, who came to prominence during the 2024 student movement that overthrew the previous authoritarian government in 2024, said the New York-based rights body. Bangladesh is engaged in a fraught struggle to re-establish democracy and respect for human rights after the autocratic rule of Sheikh Hasina, it said. The interim government has announced elections for February 12, 2026, but political violence and failures to uphold the rule of law severely threaten civic space and risk further rights abuses, said the HRW. "The assassination of the youth leader Osman Hadi was a terrible act," said Ganguly.

Miscreants set fire to the office of the Senior District Election Officer in Kushtia sadar upazila on Saturday morning. Office staff said the fire was set around 8:30 am by pouring inflammable materials through a rear window of the office building. On information, Deputy Commissioner Iqbal Hossain visited the election office around 9:30 am. He later held a closed-door meeting with the officers and employees at around 10:00 am. Election office security guard Razzak said, “Sensing smoke and the smell of fire, I rushed downstairs and saw the fire.” District Election Office accountant Md Asaduzzaman said the room where the fire broke out was the store room of the Sadar upazila election office where all voter-related information is kept. He said it was not immediately clear whether any documents or materials were damaged. Superintendent of Police Mohammad Jasim Uddin said police visited the spot. “We are investigating how the fire started and who might be behind it,” he said.  

Zubaida Rahman, wife of BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, left for London on Saturday morning (December 20, 2025), aiming to return to Bangladesh Thursday with her husband and daughter. BNP Media Cell member Atiqur Rahman Rumon said Zubaida departed Dhaka at 8:30am on Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight BG-201 from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport. “She has gone back to London. InshaAllah, she will return to the country on Thursday with Tarique Rahman and their daughter Barrister Zaima Rahman,” Rumon said. Zubaida came to Dhaka on December 5 from London to stay beside BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia who has been undergoing treatment at Evercare Hospital. Read more: Zubaida visits gun-attack victim Hadi's family As a member of Khaleda’s medical board, Zubaida remained at the hospital round the clock and supervised treatment activities. The BNP chief was admitted to Evercare Hospital on November 23 due to her deteriorating health. As her condition worsened, she was shifted to the Critical Care Unit under a medical board made up of local and foreign specialists, led by Professor Shahabuddin Talukder. Medical board member Dr AZM Zahid Hossain on Friday said Khaleda Zia’s physical condition became much more stable and expressed hope that she would gradually recover. Following the encouraging improvement in Khaleda’s condition, Zubaida has decided to return to London to prepare to come back to Bangladesh permanently with her family after 17 years abroad. Read more: Zubaida visits Evercare Hospital to monitor Khaleda’s condition On September 11, 2008, Zubaida travelled to London with her daughter Zaima to support Tarique Rahman’s advanced medical treatment abroad.

A seven-year-old girl was burned to death in a deliberate arson attack on the house of a local BNP leader in Bhabaniganj of Lakshmipur’s Sadar upazila, turning a quiet night into a scene of horror and loss. The deceased, Ayesha Begum, was the youngest daughter of Md Belal, assistant organising secretary of the Bhabaniganj union unit BNP. Three other members of the family sustained burn injuries in the attack. NDF president Anisul's house set on fire in Chattogram Police and family members said Belal was sleeping in the house with his wife and children when unidentified attackers locked the two doors from outside, poured petrol around the house and set it on fire. The flames spread quickly, leaving little chance to escape. Ayesha Begum Binti, 7, was burned to death on the spot. Belal and his two daughters—Smriti, 18, and Bithi, 13—suffered burn injuries. Neighbours rushed to the house and rescued the injured, taking them to Lakshmipur Sadar Hospital. As their condition deteriorated, Smriti and Bithi were later shifted to the Burn Institute in Dhaka. Smriti’s condition was reported to be critical. Belal is currently receiving treatment at Lakshmipur Sadar Hospital. Udichi central office set on fire Officer-in-charge of Lakshmipur Sadar Police Station Wahid Parvez said police visited the scene after being informed. “One child died and three others were injured in the fire. The incident is being investigated,” he said. Fire Service Sadar station official Ranjit Kumar Saha said firefighters rushed to the spot after receiving the information and brought the fire under control after about one hour of effort. The attack has left a family devastated and raised serious concerns over violence targeting homes at night, as investigators work to identify those responsible, locals said. Read more: Dhaka may see shift in crime patterns ahead of national election: DB

Additional police personnel and members of Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) have been deployed at key points in the capital to maintain law and order during namaz-e-janaza of Inquilab Moncho spokesperson Osman Hadi. An adequate number of police personnel equipped with around 1,000 body-worn cameras have been deployed to ensure overall security and prevent any untoward incident, said DMP Deputy Commissioner (Media) Talebur Rahman. Besides, 20 platoons of BGB have been deployed in and around important areas of the capital including the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban to strengthen security, said Shariful Islam, public relations officer of BGB. The namaz-e-janaza of Hadi will be held at 2:00pm at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban. Read more: DU journalism students demand justice for Hadi, attacks on media The government has requested those wishing to attend the janaza not to carry any bags or heavy objects. It also said that flying drones in and around the parliament complex will remain strictly prohibited during the funeral prayers. Meanwhile, a decision has been taken to bury Hadi beside national poet Kazi Nazrul Islam on the Dhaka University campus in line with the wishes of his family, according to a Facebook post from Inquilab Moncho’s official page. Read more: Amnesty urges accountability over Hadi murder, mob violence Hadi was shot in the head on December 12 while travelling in a rickshaw on Culvert Road in Puratan Paltan. He initially underwent surgery at Dhaka Medical College Hospital and was later admitted to Evercare Hospital. For advanced treatment, he was airlifted to Singapore, where he succumbed to his injuries on the night of December 18. His body arrived in Dhaka on Friday evening. Read more: Bangladesh mourns death of Osman Hadi

Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) has detained seven suspects in connection with the lynching of a Hindu youth in Bhaluka upazila of Mymensingh,  said the Chief Adviser’s press wing. They are  Md Limon Sarker, 19, Md Tarek Hossain, 19, Md Manik Mia, 20, Ershad Ali, 39, Nijum Uddin, 20, Alamgir Hossain, 38, and Md Miraj Hossain Akon, 46. Members of RAB-14 detained the suspects during drives conducted in different areas in the district.

Bangladesh is observing the National Mourning Day on Saturday (December 20, 2025) over the death of Inquilab Moncho spokesperson Sharif Osman Hadi. The national flag has been kept at half-mast at all government, semi-government and autonomous institutions, educational institutions, as well as government and private buildings across the country and at Bangladesh missions abroad. The namaz-e-janaza of Hadi will be held at 2:00pm on Saturday at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban. Amnesty urges accountability over Hadi murder, mob violence The government requested those wishing to attend the janaza not to carry any bags or heavy objects. It also said that flying drones in and around the parliament complex will remain completely restricted during the funeral prayers. Meanwhile, a decision has been taken to bury Hadi beside national poet Kazi Nazrul Islam on the Dhaka University campus, in line with the wishes of his family, said a separate Facebook post from Inquilab Moncho’s official page. Hadi was shot in the head on December 12 while travelling in a rickshaw on Culvert Road in Puratan Paltan. He initially underwent surgery at Dhaka Medical College Hospital and was later admitted to Evercare Hospital. Read more: Jamaat calls for restraint, unity after Hadi’s death For advanced treatment, he was airlifted to Singapore, where he succumbed to his injuries on the night of December 18. The body of Hadi arrived in Dhaka on Friday evening.

Miscreants set the house of Barrister Anisul Islam Mahmud, president of National Democratic Front (NDF), on fire in Hathazari upazila of Chattogram district on Friday night. Witnesses said some unidentified people swooped on the residence of Anisul around 11:40 pm and carried out vandalism. Later, they exploded crude bombs and set the house on fire. Meanwhile, the miscreants also set a private vehicle, owned by Akbar Haidar Chowdhury, paternal uncle of the NDF leader, on fire. On information, a firefighting unit rushed to the spot and extinguished the blaze. Kazi Md Tarek Aziz, additional superintendent (Hathazari circle) of Chattogram Police, said police are trying to arrest the arsonists. The fire gutted valuables including furniture, said Zahidul Islam, officer-in-charge of Hathazari Police Station.    

Each year, children call in with wide-ranging concerns: some hang up quickly after being reminded that Santa won’t arrive unless they’re asleep, while others worry whether he’ll be able to locate their homes. Plenty of adults also follow Santa’s progress, staying loyal to the legendary gift-giver said to travel the globe in a single night. For seven decades, the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD)—a joint U.S.-Canadian organization responsible for monitoring airspace threats—has upheld the annual tradition of tracking Santa on Christmas Eve. This year, more than 1,000 volunteers will answer calls to the NORAD Tracks Santa hotline, 1-877-HI-NORAD, from 4 a.m. until midnight Mountain Standard Time. For the first time, callers can also connect through the program’s website, a change designed to make access easier for people outside North America. The website allows users to follow Santa’s route in nine languages, including English and Japanese. Last Christmas Eve, roughly 380,000 calls poured into a festively decorated hangar at Peterson Space Force Base in Colorado Springs, where NORAD is headquartered. Although Santa poses no danger, NORAD can still track his travels using the same radar systems, satellites and fighter jets it relies on throughout the year, said Col. Kelly Frushour, a NORAD spokesperson. According to her, Rudolph’s glowing nose gives off a heat signature similar to that of a missile, which allows satellites to detect Santa’s sleigh. “Faster than starlight” Frushour recalled a call from last year in which a young girl became distressed after hearing Santa was headed toward the International Space Station, where two astronauts were stranded at the time. “By the end of the call, Santa had already moved on, and she was reassured that he wasn’t stuck in space and would still visit her home later that night,” Frushour said. Michelle Martin, a NORAD employee and Marine veteran, shared another memorable call from a man with special needs named Henry, who phones in every year. He once asked whether the jet escorting Santa could pass along a note saying he was already in bed and ready for Santa’s visit. Martin said she explained that Santa moves “faster than starlight,” making it impossible for the pilot to catch up. “He just waves as Santa zooms by,” she recalled telling him. A tradition born from a mistake The tradition began in 1955, during the Cold War, when NORAD’s predecessor—the Continental Air Defense Command (CONAD)—was focused on detecting potential nuclear attacks from the Soviet Union. According to NORAD, a child accidentally dialed the operations center and asked to speak with Santa Claus. Rather than disappointing the child, the commander on duty, Air Force Col. Harry Shoup, instructed his team to track Santa and answer children’s calls. The call may have been triggered by a misprinted or misdialed phone number in a Sears newspaper advertisement that encouraged children in Colorado Springs to call Santa. Over time, the story evolved, suggesting the call reached a top-secret hotline reserved for emergencies. However, in 2015, The Atlantic questioned that version, noting that a public number was more likely and pointing out Shoup’s reputation for embracing publicity. In a 1999 interview with The Associated Press, Shoup recalled going along with the situation once he realized what was happening. “Ho, ho, ho, I am Santa,” he told the first caller. “My crew thought I’d lost my mind,” he said, adding that he soon explained the situation and asked his staff to play along. The exact date of the first call remains uncertain, but by Dec. 23 of that year, the AP reported that CONAD was officially tracking Santa. CONAD later became NORAD and for years operated from the fortified Cheyenne Mountain complex, where tunnels carved into solid granite were designed to protect personnel in the event of a nuclear attack.

Janhvi Kapoor won the Female Actor of the Year award at the NDTV Indian of the Year ceremony held in New Delhi on Friday. Accepting the honour, Janhvi delivered an emotional and thoughtful speech, reflecting on her career journey, the influence of her film Homebound, and the growing sense of responsibility that comes with recognition and success. While acknowledging the film’s measurable achievements—such as awards, global attention and international exposure—Janhvi said its deeper impact on her personal and artistic growth mattered most to her. “There are visible milestones like awards, recognition and the incredible journey the film has taken,” she said. “But more importantly, it has helped me understand the kind of person and artist I want to be, and made me more aware of the fractures within our society.” “Extremely grateful,” says Janhvi She explained that working on the film sharpened her sensitivity to human emotions and contrasts. “It opened my eyes to the hope, goodness, beauty, fear, division and also the unity that exists in the world. For all these reasons, I feel deeply grateful to be part of this journey. I’m truly honoured,” she added. Praise for director Neeraj Ghaywan Janhvi expressed heartfelt appreciation for filmmaker Neeraj Ghaywan, thanking him for believing in her abilities. “I’m incredibly thankful to Neeraj sir for seeing potential in me that I often struggle to see in myself,” she said. According to her, the heart of the film lies in empathy and acknowledgment. “The film is about truly seeing people and feeling seen. That’s what we hope audiences take away from it—and that’s what it gave me as well,” she shared. On success and responsibility Speaking about the pressure that comes with being named Indian of the Year, Janhvi admitted that nervousness never really fades. “My hand is shaking while holding this mic because I’m surrounded by such inspiring people. The pressure never really goes away,” she said honestly. However, she noted that success has reshaped that pressure. “It’s turned into a sense of responsibility, and I’m much more aware of it now.” Lessons from her parents Janhvi also spoke about how her parents’ relationship influenced her values, emphasising respect, trust and personal freedom. “More than anything, it’s about respecting each other’s opinions, space and individuality—allowing people around you to grow without restricting them,” she said. She added that compassion plays a key role in personal growth. “When you’re surrounded by people who genuinely love and support you, you’re free to become your best self instead of being defined by others’ perceptions.” A lighter moment Bringing humour into the conversation, Janhvi joked about her lack of singing talent. “I was told everyone here has been singing—but that’s one thing I absolutely shouldn’t do. If I start singing, the hall will empty in seconds,” she quipped, drawing laughter. Reflecting on her childhood in a film family, she shared that performing came naturally to her. “I was very enterprising—I’d direct, act and organise little shows. People even had to pay to watch me perform,” she said with a grin, adding that they jokingly had to “pay to leave” as well. NDTV launched the Indian of the Year awards in 2003 to honour individuals who represent India’s progress and spirit. Through a rigorous selection process, the platform recognises excellence across 14 categories, including business, innovation, philanthropy, governance, sports, entertainment, culture and science.

A live video stream from a YouTube creator discussing investments briefly appeared on an official White House webpage, sparking uncertainty over whether the site had been compromised. For at least eight minutes late Thursday, the livestream was displayed on whitehouse.gov/live, a page typically reserved for live broadcasts of presidential remarks. It remains unclear whether the incident was the result of a cyber intrusion or a simple error linking the wrong video. In a statement, the White House said it was aware of the situation and was investigating the cause. The video shown on the site was part of a longer livestream by Matt Farley, known online as @RealMattMoney, during which he answered viewers’ questions about personal finance and investing. Farley told The Associated Press on Friday that he was surprised by the incident and only learned about it afterward. He said no one from the government had contacted him and that he had no explanation for how his content appeared on the White House website. Joking about the situation, Farley said he hoped President Donald Trump and his youngest son, Barron Trump, might have been tuning in and taking notes. “If I’d known it would be shown on the White House website, I probably would have chosen different topics than personal finance,” he said. Laughing when asked what else he might have discussed, Farley remarked that he is simply “a guy making YouTube videos about stocks” and questioned what anyone would talk about if given a few minutes of global attention. The incident comes amid a series of recent digital security issues affecting Trump’s administration and campaign. Earlier this year, officials launched an investigation after lawmakers, business leaders and other prominent individuals received calls and messages from someone posing as Susie Wiles, the president’s chief of staff. In a separate breach last year, hackers linked to Iran infiltrated Trump’s campaign, stealing and distributing internal documents, including background materials on Vice President JD Vance compiled before he was chosen as Trump’s running mate.

Amnesty International has said the interim government of Bangladesh must take immediate steps to hold perpetrators of acts of violence and killings accountable in a fair trial without recourse to the death penalty. It called on the interim government to ensure prompt, thorough, independent and impartial investigations into the killing of youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi, and the subsequent mob violence which led to the burning of the offices Prothom Alo and Daily Star and Chhayanaut, and the harassment of New Age editor Nurul Kabir. Osman Hadi's body arrives in Dhaka "Furthermore, we are alarmed by the lynching of Hindu garment worker Dipu Chandra Das following allegations of blasphemy," said the rights body in a statement. The Amnesty International condemned the mob violence which has resulted in injuries, destruction of property, and even death. Protests continue at Shahbagh demanding justice for Hadi’s killing

State lawmakers heading into next year’s legislative sessions will face a key decision: whether to exempt tips from taxation. The Trump administration is pressing states to mirror new federal tax reductions by approving a range of tax breaks for individuals and businesses. These include deductions for tips, overtime pay, interest on car loans, and purchases of business equipment. In some states, federal tax changes automatically flow through to state income taxes unless lawmakers choose to block them. In many others, however, state tax laws require legislatures to explicitly approve such changes before they appear on state tax returns. As a result, workers in states that do not adopt the new provisions could avoid federal taxes on tips or overtime pay but still owe state taxes on those earnings. States that fully align with Trump’s tax cuts could deliver hundreds of millions of dollars in yearly savings to residents and businesses. However, doing so could strain state budgets, particularly as states face rising expenses tied to new Medicaid and SNAP food assistance requirements included in the same federal law. Most state legislatures convene in January. To apply the tax changes retroactively to 2025, lawmakers would need to act quickly so tax forms can be updated in time for filing season. Alternatively, states could choose to implement the changes starting in 2026. So far, only a handful of states have taken action. “States are generally taking a cautious approach,” said Carl Davis of the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy. Treasury pushes for rapid compliance The tax legislation Trump signed on July 4 includes roughly $4.5 trillion in tax cuts spread over a decade. The law introduces temporary deductions for tips, overtime pay, and interest on loans for U.S.-assembled vehicles, expands tax breaks for older Americans, and raises the cap on state and local tax deductions from $10,000 to $40,000. It also offers businesses major incentives, such as allowing immediate deductions for the full cost of equipment and research. Individual income taxes are levied on wages and salaries in 41 states, while 44 states impose corporate income taxes. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has urged states to “immediately conform” to the federal changes, criticizing some Democratic-led states for what he described as political resistance. However, many Republican-led states also have yet to decide whether to adopt the tax breaks. Bessent argued that states declining to follow suit are leaving residents with higher tax bills and denying them meaningful financial relief, particularly for low- and middle-income households. Some experts say the decision is more complicated. For example, a proposed IRS rule would extend the tip tax break to nearly 70 occupations, but many low-wage workers would still be excluded, according to Jared Walczak of the Tax Foundation. Lawmakers, he said, must weigh whether the benefits justify the cost. Limited adoption of tip and overtime exemptions Under existing state tax laws, the federal exemptions for tips and overtime would have automatically applied in only seven states: Colorado, Idaho, Iowa, Montana, North Dakota, Oregon and South Carolina. Colorado, however, opted out of the overtime exemption before the federal law took effect. Michigan became the first—and so far only—state to approve the tip and overtime tax breaks through legislative action, with implementation set for 2026. State officials estimate the overtime exemption will cost nearly $113 million this budget year, while the tip exemption will cost about $45 million. To offset those losses, Michigan lawmakers rejected several federal corporate tax changes that the state treasury estimated would have reduced revenue by $540 million. Republican state Rep. Ann Bollin said Michigan could not afford to adopt all the federal tax cuts while still funding infrastructure, public safety and education. Arizona may be next to act. Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs has urged lawmakers to adopt tax breaks for tips, overtime, seniors and vehicle loans, as well as increase the state’s standard deduction. Republican leaders in the state House have said they are prepared to pass the measures when the session begins Jan. 12. Some states block corporate tax cuts Beyond Michigan, lawmakers in Delaware, Illinois, Pennsylvania and Rhode Island have moved to prevent some or all of the federal corporate tax changes from taking effect at the state level. In Illinois, a new law separating the state from part of the federal corporate tax provisions could save nearly $250 million, according to Democratic state Sen. Elgie Sims. He said the savings would help maintain funding for education, health care and other essential services. Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker cited similar budget concerns in opposing the corporate tax breaks, noting that states are already facing financial pressure from other elements of Trump’s legislation, including higher costs for administering food assistance programs. He said the decision to block the tax cuts was aimed at protecting state-funded programs amid what he described as growing financial demands from the federal government.

The Trump administration carried out military attacks in Syria on Friday, aiming to destroy Islamic State fighters and weapons facilities after an ambush last week killed two U.S. soldiers and an American civilian interpreter. U.S. officials said the operation was extensive, striking about 70 Islamic State targets across central Syria, including weapons depots and infrastructure. One official noted that additional strikes are likely in the coming days. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the action was not the start of a broader conflict but a forceful response meant to protect Americans, emphasizing that the U.S. would act decisively against threats to its personnel. The strikes come as the administration has emphasized shifting U.S. military attention closer to the Western Hemisphere, including expanded operations in the Caribbean and pressure on Venezuela. In line with that shift, significant military assets have been moved out of the Middle East, including the redeployment of an advanced aircraft carrier to South America. Trump promises strong response President Donald Trump vowed a “very serious retaliation” after the attack in the Syrian desert, which U.S. officials attributed to Islamic State. The victims were part of the U.S. military presence in eastern Syria supporting an international coalition against the militant group. Trump said the strikes targeted Islamic State strongholds and reiterated his support for Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa, stating that the Syrian leader backed the U.S. operation. He also issued a stark warning to Islamic State, threatening even harsher consequences for any future attacks on Americans. The operation involved F-15 and F-16 fighter jets, A-10 attack aircraft, AH-64 Apache helicopters, and HIMARS rocket artillery. U.S. Central Command said more than 100 precision-guided munitions were used. Syria’s reaction The strikes tested improving relations between Washington and Damascus following the removal of former president Bashar Assad a year ago. Trump said Syrian forces were cooperating closely with the U.S. and that President al-Sharaa was deeply angered by the attack on American troops. Syria’s foreign ministry said the incident highlighted the need for stronger international cooperation against terrorism and reaffirmed the country’s commitment to eliminating Islamic State and denying it safe havens. Syrian state media reported that the strikes hit locations in Deir ez-Zor, Raqqa, and areas near Palmyra, targeting weapons caches and command centers. Islamic State has not claimed responsibility for the attack on U.S. personnel but has acknowledged carrying out recent assaults on Syrian security forces. The group has condemned al-Sharaa’s government, despite his past ties to al-Qaida and long-standing hostility toward IS. Victims of the attack Trump met privately this week with the families of those killed at Dover Air Force Base, attending the dignified transfer ceremony honoring the fallen. The U.S. service members killed were Sgt. Edgar Brian Torres-Tovar, 25, of Des Moines, and Sgt. William Nathaniel Howard, 29, of Marshalltown. Ayad Mansoor Sakat, a civilian interpreter from Macomb, Michigan, also lost his life. The shooting near Palmyra injured three additional U.S. troops and members of Syrian security forces. The attacker, who was killed during the incident, had recently joined Syria’s internal security forces and was under suspicion of Islamic State ties. He opened fire during a joint meeting between U.S. and Syrian officials after a confrontation with Syrian guards.     

Dhaka has ranked sixth on the list of cities worldwide with the worst air quality with an AQI score of 202 at 8:54 am this morning. Dhaka’s air this morning was classified as 'unhealthy', according to the air quality index. Afghanistan’s Kabul, India’s Delhi, Bahrain’s Manama, India’s Kolkata and Pakistan’s Karachi occupied the first five spots in the list of cities with worst air quality with AQI scores of 495, 393, 264, 226 and 203 respectively. ‘Unhealthy’ air quality persists in densely populated Dhaka When the AQI value for particle pollution is between 50 and 100, air quality is considered ‘moderate’, between 101 and 150, air quality is considered ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups’, between 150 and 200 is ‘unhealthy’, between 201 and 300 is said to be 'very unhealthy', while a reading of 301+ is considered 'hazardous', posing serious health risks to residents. The AQI, an index for reporting daily air quality, informs people how clean or polluted the air of a certain city is and what associated health effects might be a concern for them. The AQI in Bangladesh is based on five pollutants: particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), NO2, CO, SO2, and ozone. No relief of Dhaka as air quality still ‘unhealthy’ Dhaka has long been grappling with air pollution issues. Its air quality usually turns unhealthy in winter and improves during the monsoon. As per World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution kills an estimated seven million people worldwide every year, mainly due to increased mortality from stroke, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, and acute respiratory infections.      

As winter settles in Jashore, Gadkhali, Bangladesh’s flower capital, bursts into vibrant blooms, drawing visitors and boosting both the local economy and tourism. With the festive season approaching, including the New Year, flower growers and traders here are brimming with optimism for a flourishing season of sales. Nestled in Jhikargachha upazila, Gadkhali and its surrounding villages—Panisara, Navaran and nearby areas—are now carpeted with blossoms, heralding the start of a vibrant flower season. Business waiting to bloom in ‘Flower Capital’ Gadkhali Farmers have already begun harvesting a rainbow of blooms, while traders rush to dispatch them across the country. According to Agriculture Department officials, the region boasts around 7,000 flower growers cultivating approximately 1,200 hectares, of which nearly 650 hectares are dedicated to flowers. Eleven varieties thrive here, from the elegant gladiolus and fragrant tuberose to roses, gerbera, marigold, gypsy, rodstick, calendula and chrysanthemums.

Dhaka University Journalists’ Association (DUJA) has expressed deep concern, strong anger, and outrage over the attacks, vandalism, and arson at the offices of the national dailies Prothom Alo and The Daily Star in the capital, as well as the assault on New Age Editor Nurul Kabir. At the same time, the organization has demanded the swift identification, arrest, and exemplary punishment of those involved in these incidents. In a statement sent to the media on Friday, DUJA expressed its condemnation and anger. The statement said that the attacks on the offices of Prothom Alo and The Daily Star, and the assault on Editor Nurul Kabir, are blatant attacks on independent journalism. Those who fear the power of the pen resort to such acts of terror. The truth cannot be silenced by intimidating journalists. The statement further said that attacks on media offices and the physical harassment of a senior editor are not isolated incidents; rather, they constitute a direct and explicit assault on independent journalism, freedom of expression, and the public’s right to know. Such attacks aimed at silencing the media prove that the perpetrators are staunch enemies of democracy, transparency, and accountability. DUJA also said that newspaper offices can never be legitimate targets of attack. Ensuring the safety of journalists and editors is a fundamental responsibility of the state. Attacks on media houses and journalists with the intent to suppress dissent, stifle critical journalism, and create fear are an alarming sign that pushes society and the democratic system toward uncertainty.

Students of the Department of Mass Communication and Journalism at Dhaka University on Friday demanded exemplary punishment for those involved in the killing of Inqilab Moncho convenor Sharif Osman Hadi, attacks on the offices of Prothom Alo and The Daily Star, and the assault on New Age editor Nurul Kabir. In a statement, the students expressed deep concern and outrage over the incidents. They offered condolences to Hadi’s bereaved family, praying for his soul, and urged immediate arrest and legal action against the perpetrators. The statement highlighted that a vested extremist group exploited Hadi’s killing to carry out vandalism, arson, and looting at leading media outlets and the cultural institution Chhayanaut. The assault on Nurul Kabir was also strongly condemned. The students said such attacks directly threaten press freedom, freedom of expression, and are contrary to the spirit of the July uprising. They criticized the interim government, noting that nearly a week after Hadi was shot, the perpetrators have yet to be arrested, with reports suggesting they fled to India. The students called on citizens to maintain peaceful protests and avoid violence while urging the government to take strict and effective measures to ensure the safety of people, media, cultural institutions, and public and private property.

The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) and ARTICLE 19 have expressed grave concern over violent attacks on leading Bangladeshi media houses and cultural institutions following recent unrest in the capital. The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) said it is alarmed by reports that crowds vandalised and set fire to the offices of Prothom Alo and The Daily Star, trapping journalists inside before they were rescued. In a statement on Friday, CPJ said it is monitoring the situation closely and urged Bangladeshi authorities to ensure the safety of journalists and news outlets and to hold those responsible accountable. CPJ also shared safety guidance for journalists covering political rallies and protests, outlining measures to reduce risks in situations involving crowd violence. Meanwhile, ARTICLE 19 strongly condemned the attacks on the offices of The Daily Star and Prothom Alo, the assault on New Age Editor and Editors’ Council President Nurul Kabir, and vandalism of the cultural institution Chhayanaut. ARTICLE 19 said the violence erupted on Thursday, December 18, in the aftermath of the death of Sharif Osman Hadi, a key figure of the July 2024 uprising and convenor of Inqilab Moncho. The organisation noted that both Prothom Alo and The Daily Star have faced sustained threats from extremist groups in recent times. According to multiple reports, mobs vandalised and torched the Prothom Alo building in Karwan Bazar before attacking the Daily Star office in Farmgate, where staff were trapped until firefighters and security personnel intervened. Both newspapers were forced to suspend their Friday print and online editions. ARTICLE 19 said the attacks reflect a growing climate of impunity and urged the interim government to ensure immediate protection for media and cultural institutions, deploy adequate security, and take swift legal action against the perpetrators to safeguard freedom of expression ahead of the 2026 national elections.

The half-decomposed body of a missing police constable, Akhtaruzzaman (46), a resident of Chougachha upazila in Jashore, was recovered from Panchagarh, police said. The body was found on Thursday, December 18 in a sugarcane field at the Nine Mile area of Satmora Union in Panchagarh Sadar upazila. Family members were informed of the recovery on Friday. Akhtaruzzaman had been missing for about 22 days. He was initially identified from police-logo underwear found on the body. Later, the victim’s wife identified him after being shown photographs of the clothes — trousers, shirt and shoes — he was wearing. According to police, local residents informed the authorities after a foul smell spread in the area. Police recovered the body and completed legal formalities. With no immediate identification available, investigators relied on the police-logo underwear as the first clue. Panchagarh Sadar Police Station Sub-Inspector Belal Hossain, the investigating officer, said the body has been kept at the police station and will be sent for autopsy once family members arrive, after which it will be handed over to them. Akhtaruzzaman’s brother-in-law Mamunur Rashid Mamun said the family left for Panchagarh on Friday night after receiving the news. Akhtaruzzaman was serving at Rampal Police Station in Bagerhat district under the Khulna Range (BP No. 8403024644). He was the son of late Anichur Biswas of Jamlata village under Singhojuli Union in Chougachha upazila. Family sources said he lived with his wife and children in a rented house in Ichhapur area of Chougachha town. His wife, Shahina Akhtar Shima, filed a general diary with Chougachha Police Station on November 30, stating that he had left home on November 27 saying he was going to Maheshpur. He left behind his two mobile phones at home and never returned. Chougachha Police Station Officer-in-Charge Rezaul Karim confirmed the recovery of the body.

The Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) on Friday issued seven traffic directives ahead of the Janaza of Inqilab Moncho spokesperson Sharif Osman Hadi, scheduled to be held on Saturday (Dec 20) after Zohr prayers at the South Plaza of the National Parliament. In a press release issued Friday night, DMP Deputy Commissioner (Media) Muhammad Talebur Rahman said a large gathering is expected, which will restrict vehicular movement on Manik Mia Avenue. For the convenience of the Janaza, traffic from Khejur Bagan Crossing to Manik Mia Avenue will remain closed during the event. To ensure smooth traffic management, city residents and drivers have been requested to follow the following alternative routes: Mirpur Road to Farmgate via Manik Mia Avenue: Vehicles coming from the north toward Farmgate or Sonargaon should proceed via Ganabhaban Crossing–Lake Road–Urojahaj Crossing–Bijoy Sarani Crossing, then turn right toward Farmgate. Farmgate to Manik Mia Avenue via Indira Road: Vehicles should move from Farmgate to Khejur Bagan Crossing, turn right toward Urojahaj Crossing, then turn left onto Lake Road and proceed toward Ganabhaban Crossing. Dhanmondi to Farmgate: Vehicles from Dhanmondi-27 should go via Asad Gate–Ganabhaban Crossing, make a U-turn to Lake Road–Urojahaj Crossing–Bijoy Sarani Crossing, then turn right toward Farmgate. Asad Gate to Farmgate Crossing: Vehicles should turn left at Asad Gate, then right at Ganabhaban Crossing, proceed via Lake Road–Urojahaj Crossing–Bijoy Sarani Crossing, and turn right toward Farmgate Crossing. Elevated Expressway or Indira Road to Dhanmondi: Vehicles should turn right at Khejur Bagan Crossing, proceed to Urojahaj Crossing, turn left to Lake Road, then left again at Asad Gate and continue toward Dhanmondi. Mirpur Road to Dhanmondi-27: As the blockade on Manik Mia Avenue will be lifted for this route, southbound vehicles from Mirpur Road should use Shyamoli–Shishu Mela–Ganabhaban–Asad Gate and proceed straight toward Dhanmondi-27. Vehicles using the Elevated Expressway: During the Janaza, vehicles are requested to use the FDC (Hatirjheel) exit ramp instead of the Farmgate exit ramp. The DMP has urged all drivers to avoid the Manik Mia Avenue area from Saturday morning until the completion of the Janaza and burial, and to strictly follow the prescribed traffic instructions. For security reasons and to avoid inconvenience, attendees have also been requested not to carry any bags or heavy items. The DMP sought the full cooperation of city residents to ensure orderly traffic management and overall security.

Jagannath University (JnU) authorities have arranged transportation for students, teachers, and all concerned to attend the funeral of martyred Sharif Osman Hadi. In a message sent by the university’s Public Relations, Information and Publication Office, it was stated that buses will depart from the Jagannath University campus to Manik Mia Avenue at 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, December 20. Those wishing to attend the funeral have been requested to be present on campus on time. Earlier, on December 12 in the afternoon, Sharif Osman bin Hadi,an independent candidate from the Dhaka-8 constituency and spokesperson of the ‘Inqilab Mancha’ was seriously injured after being shot by assailants while returning from election campaigning. He was initially admitted to Dhaka Medical College Hospital and later transferred to Evercare Hospital for advanced treatment. As his condition deteriorated, he was flown by air ambulance to Singapore General Hospital on December 15. He passed away while undergoing treatment there yesterday, Thursday. His funeral will be held tomorrow at 2:00 p.m. at Manik Mia Avenue.

Strongly denouncing the wave of violent attacks at different parts of the the country, including those targeting media houses, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Friday night alleged that a long-identified vested quarter is deliberately trying to push Bangladesh into chaos to establish 'a new form of fascism'. Speaking at a press conference after an emergency meeting of the BNP Standing Committee at the party chairperson’s Gulshan office, he also condemned the killing of Inquilab Moncho spokesperson Sharif Osman Hadi and urged the pace-loving political and social forces to unite to foil all attempts to obstruct the democratic transition. “Inquilab Moncho Chief Sharif Osman Hadi died prematurely while undergoing medical treatment in Singapore. We strongly condemn and express our deep abhorrence over this cowardly killing. We once again demand the immediate arrest of the perpetrators and that they be brought to justice without delay,” Fakhrul said. Following this tragic death, Fakhrul said, a group of unruly people carried out arson attacks late last night on the offices of several newspapers, including Prothom Alo and the English daily The Daily Star. The BNP leader said these attacks seriously endangered the lives of journalists who were on duty at the two newspaper offices. He also said an attack was carried out on Nurul Kabir, editor of New Age and president of the Editors’ Council, describing him as a prominent and courageous journalist involved in the anti-fascist July movement and other democratic movements in the country. Besides, Fakhrul said, various cultural institutions, including Chhayanaut, were also attacked. “We strongly condemn and express our deep hatred for these heinous acts. These incidents prove that a long-identified vested quarter wants to push the country towards anarchy in a planned manner. They are trying to create a new form of fascism by destroying our voting and democratic rights earned through immense bloodshed,” he said. Fakhrul lamented that these activities are being carried out openly, right under the nose of the government. “People also believe that the government’s role has not been satisfactory. As a result, the country’s image abroad is being damaged,” he said. The BNP leader said almost all political parties have protested against Hadi’s killing and are putting pressure on the government to arrest the killers and ensure justice. “In this situation, we believe that these disgraceful attacks are part of a conspiracy to create uncertainty around the upcoming national election and to obstruct the process of democratic transition,” Fakhrul said. On behalf of the peace-loving people of the country, he said BNP wants to warn those despicable conspirators that it will not allow anyone to destroy the country won at the cost of so much blood. The BNP leader urged all democratic, political and social forces to remain united against anarchy created by vested quarter. “This evil force must be resisted through unity. There is no alternative now but for all political and social forces opposed to chaos to unite in order to resist this conspiracy. Through such unity, we ensured the fall of fascism and secured an interim government and a national election. In continuation of that struggle, we once again call upon all patriotic forces to unite,” he said. Fakhrul cited a series of violent incidents following Hadi’s death, including attacks on the Indian High Commission office and its staff residences in Khulna and Chattogram, arson and vandalism at Prothom Alo and The Daily Star offices in Dhaka and Rajshahi, vandalism and arson at Dhanmondi 32, the Chhayanaut office and the Indira Gandhi Cultural Centre, the destruction of shops in Uttara, attacks on the house of an Awami League leader, the killing of a Hindu youth in Mymensingh over allegations of religious desecration, vandalism and arson at the residence of late Chattogram mayor Mohiuddin Chowdhury and the house of former minister Bir Bahadur, and the attack on New Age Editor Nurul Kabir. Hadi, a prospective candidate for the upcoming 13th national parliamentary election from the Dhaka-8 constituency, was shot in the head on December 12 while travelling in a rickshaw on Culvert Road in Puratan Paltan, Dhaka. He initially underwent surgery at Dhaka Medical College Hospital and was later admitted to Evercare Hospital. For advanced treatment, he was airlifted to Singapore, where he passed away on Thursday night.

The Editors’ Council and the Newspaper Owners’ Association of Bangladesh (NOAB) on Friday expressed deep concern and strong condemnation over attacks, vandalism, and arson at the offices of leading dailies Prothom Alo and The Daily Star. In a joint statement, Editors’ Council President Nurul Kabir and NOAB President A.K. Azad said the attacks are not just assaults on the media but on society and democratic values. They noted that significant infrastructure was damaged and journalists’ lives were put at risk. The statement said the incidents are part of a disturbing trend of mob violence, reflecting the interim government’s failure to maintain law and order. Law enforcement agencies failed to act effectively to prevent the crime. Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus called Prothom Alo editor Matiur Rahman and The Daily Star editor Mahfuz Anam, assuring them of their safety. The Editors’ Council and NOAB, however, held the government responsible for failing to control the situation. The bodies demanded the perpetrators be swiftly identified, arrested, and punished as an example. They also called on professionals, business leaders, civil society, political parties, and journalists’ organizations to stand in solidarity.

Former organizational secretary of Mymensingh Metropolitan Awami League, Kazi Manzur Morshed Raju, died Friday afternoon after sustaining critical injuries while trying to evade arrest by jumping from the second floor of his house. The incident occurred Thursday around 8:00 pm when a team from Kotwali Police Station visited Raju’s residence looking for him. Sensing the police presence, he attempted to escape by jumping from the balcony but struck an adjoining boundary wall, suffering severe head and body injuries. Locals later found him unconscious and bleeding and informed his family. He was admitted to a private hospital in Charpara, where he underwent brain surgery but was pronounced dead at 3:30 pm on Friday. Following the killing of Osman Hadi, Mymensingh police launched an operation targeting Awami League leaders and activists, including Raju. Police said he was not involved in any recent criminal cases and had not been active in politics for the past 8–10 years. Kotwali Model Police Station Officer-in-Charge Nazmus Sakib said police regularly conduct arrest operations. He added that the police team left the scene after Raju did not open the gate, and they are unaware of what occurred afterward. Raju’s wife, Sathi, confirmed that he had been living a normal life since August 5 and had no pending legal cases.

Sylhet Metropolitan Police (SMP) recovered 422 stolen mobile phones during raids at Karimullah Market and other locations in the city, arresting four individuals allegedly involved in mobile phone theft. The operations were conducted throughout Thursday, Dec 18, by the SMP Detective Branch (DB), said Sylhet Metropolitan Police Commissioner Abdul Quddus Chowdhury at a press conference on Friday afternoon. He identified the four arrested as key figures in the city’s mobile phone theft network. During the raids, police recovered 38 phones from Tanvir’s residence in Mominkhala, South Surma. Tanvir and several others fled, but one suspect, Md. Sujjad, was later apprehended. Another major operation at Abdus Shahid’s house in Jainpur, South Surma, yielded 204 stolen phones, while 154 more phones were recovered from a smartphone gallery on the third floor of Karimullah Market. The Commissioner said the recovered phones included various smartphone brands, many of which had their IMEI numbers altered for illegal resale. Preliminary interrogations revealed the suspects had been collecting stolen phones from different areas of Sylhet for resale, supplying them to other districts. Along with the phones, police seized accessories, technical equipment, pen drives, and DSLR cameras. Abdus Shahid, the mastermind of the network, faces eight cases, including murder. The other three arrested are Md. Ayub Ali (Shahid’s father-in-law), Akram Ali (his nephew), and Md. Sujjad from Mominkhala. Authorities are verifying IMEI numbers to identify the phones’ rightful owners. Legal actions have been taken against the suspects, and further operations are ongoing to apprehend others involved in the theft ring.

A protest meeting was held at Chuadanga Press Club on Friday evening condemning attacks on the offices of leading newspapers Prothom Alo and The Daily Star, as well as harassment, torture, and killings of journalists. The meeting strongly denounced similar attacks on media offices across divisional and district levels. Participants demanded the arrest and exemplary punishment of those involved in the killing of Inqilab Moncho convenor Sharif Osman Hadi, as well as justice for the assault on New Age editor Nurul Kabir. The event, presided over by Press Club president Rajib Hasan Kochi, described Hadi’s killing as a premeditated and brutal act, targeting a courageous activist of the July Movement. Speakers emphasized that such attacks undermine democratic movements and freedom of expression. The protest also condemned vandalism at Prothom Alo and The Daily Star offices, calling for swift identification and legal action against the perpetrators. Participants urged the formation of an impartial investigation committee, immediate arrest of the real culprits, and strict measures to ensure media personnel safety. They warned of tougher programs if demands are not met. Speakers at the meeting included Nazmul Haque Swapan, editor of Shomoy, NTV district correspondent Rafiqul Islam, Bangladesh Pratidin reporter Jaman Akhtar, Shomoy TV reporter Mahfuz Mamun, Naya Diganta district reporter Husain Malik, Star News district correspondent Zahir Raihan Shohag, and Jonbani district reporter Samsujjoha Rana. The session concluded with prayers for Hadi’s departed soul and condolences to his bereaved family.

Brent Christensen, confirmed by the US Senate as the next Ambassador to Bangladesh, is likely to arrive in Dhaka next month to take up his responsibility and lead the Embassy team to build strong ties with both the current interim government and its democratically elected successor to advance the Bangladesh-US relationship. “I am honored to be confirmed by the United States Senate and deeply grateful to President Trump for the opportunity to serve as the next United States Ambassador to Bangladesh,” he said on Friday in a message from his Linkedin account. During his nomination hearing at the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, Ambassador Christensen said the United States supports Bangladesh in its journey toward a bright and democratic future. He said the people of Bangladesh will go to the polls early next year – the country’s most consequential election in decades – to choose a new government and a new path forward. Ambassador Christensen also referred to his “over twenty years of experience working on US policy towards Bangladesh” across his Foreign Service career, including a prior tour in Dhaka. He served as Counselor for Political and Economic Affairs at the US Embassy here from 2019-2021, according to his official profile on the State Department’s website. Early on in his career, he also served as Bangladesh Country Officer in the Office of Pakistan and Bangladesh Affairs, which no longer exists under that name, at the State Department. His other appointments include Deputy Director, Office of Regional Security and Arms Transfers, Bureau of Political-Military Affairs at the Department of State (2016-2019), and as a Pearson Fellow on detail to the majority staff of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific (2015-2016). He has also been Special Assistant to the Special Representative for North Korea Policy, Bureau of East Asia and Pacific Affairs Cyber Coordinator, Deputy Counselor for Economic Affairs at the US Embassy in Manila, Deputy Economic Counselor at the US Embassy in San Salvador, Economic Officer at the US Embassy in Riyadh, and Vice Consul at the US Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. The US Embassy in Dhaka has been running without an ambassador since Peter Haas wrapped up his tenure in the summer of 2024. Since then, a series of charge de affaires or CDAs have filled the role.

Two teens met a tragic end as their motorcycle crashed into a truck from behind after being chased by police in Chapainawabganj Sadar upazila on Friday afternoon.  The deceased were identified as Rifat Ali, 18, son of Shah Alam, and Sohag Ahmed, 19, son of Ashraful Islam, of Azaipur-Pochapukur and Chandlai-Jorbagan areas respectively of the district town. According to witnesses, patrolling police signalled the motorcycle to stop at the Mor on the Chapainawabganj-Shibganj road on Friday afternoon. Ignoring the signal, they tried to speed away but the bike lost control and hit the truck from the behind, leaving Rifat dead on the spot and Sohag critically injured. Locals initially took Sohag to Chapainawabganj General Hospital but he succumbed to his injuries on way to Rajshahi. Sohag’s father Ashraful Islam alleged that the duo was hit by the truck and thrown onto the road when police chased them, leading to the fatality. Enraged by this, locals blockaded the road at the Mor with one of the bodies, disrupting the traffic movement. The agitators carried out vandalism at a police box at Bishwaroad Mor and damaged furniture by setting fire on those after dragging out. Besides, the angry people vandalised a police outpost in the nearby Shantibagh area and set fire to a motorcycle there. Though police tried to bring the situation under control, the mob chased them, triggering tension in the area. Youth stabbed to death in Chapainawabganj The road blockade continued until 7:30 pm while normalcy returned after Army personnel had arrived at the scene. Additional Superintendent of Police NM Wasim Firoz said, “Situation is under control now. The bodies of the deceased have been handed over to the families.” He said action will be taken if police members are found guilty of performing duty.    

UN Human Rights Chief Volker Türk on Friday urged the authorities to conduct a ‘prompt, impartial, thorough, and transparent’ investigation into the attack that led to Sharif Osman Bin Hadi’s death, and to ensure due process and accountability for those responsible. Türk said he was deeply troubled by the killing of Hadi, a prominent leader of last year’s protests in Bangladesh, who died of his injuries after being shot last week. Türk called for calm and for everyone to refrain from violence. “Retaliation and revenge will only deepen divisions and undermine the rights of all,” he said. Several protests erupted at various locations around the country after Hadi’s death was announced on Thursday, six days after he was shot. Some buildings were torched and vandalised, and a number of journalists have reportedly been assaulted. Udichi central office set on fire With the parliamentary elections scheduled for February, Türk said it was vital to ensure an environment in which all individuals can participate safely and peacefully in public life, and freely express different views. “I urge the authorities to uphold the rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and security of journalists at this critical time, and prevent further escalation of unrest,” Türk said. The High Commissioner said his Office stands ready to work with the authorities and all stakeholders to support efforts that uphold human rights and prevent further violence.  

Jagannath University Journalists’ Association (JnUJA) has strongly condemned and protested the attack, vandalism, arson, and looting at the offices of Prothom Alo and The Daily Star. At the same time, the association has demanded the swift identification of those involved in these heinous acts and that they be brought under the law. In a statement issued today, Friday, JnUJA President Imran Hossain and General Secretary Mahtab Limon expressed this protest in a joint statement. Condemning the incident, they said that a planned attack on media offices is a direct assault on independent journalism. Such violence is unacceptable under any circumstances in a democratic state. They further stated that the journalistic community is currently living under extreme insecurity. Alongside journalists, their families are also spending their days in deep concern and anxiety. An attack on media institutions is essentially an attempt to suppress truth and freedom of expression. The harassment of Editor’s Council President and New Age Editor Nurul Kabir while he was on duty in front of The Daily Star building during the attack is extremely alarming. Harassing a senior editor in this manner sets an insulting and frightening precedent for the journalistic community. Additionally, expressing deep sorrow and anger over the killing of journalist Imdadul Haque Milon in Khulna, JnUJA leaders said that if impunity for the murder of journalists continues, professional security will face even greater threats. They called for those involved in this killing to be brought to justice without delay. The Jagannath University Journalists’ Association expects the state to take effective measures immediately to ensure the safety of media workers and to play a responsible role in protecting freedom of expression. JnUJA President Imran Hossain said, “We had hoped that in the present time the media would become more independent, but the reality is different. Attacking the media means plundering freedom of speech. We urge that fascist behavior not be directed toward the media.”  

UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi on Friday welcomed former Iraqi president Barham Salih for being elected as the head of the UN refugee agency (UNHCR). Salih was elected by the UN General Assembly in New York through a competitive selection process involving candidates from several countries. He will assume office on January 1, 2026, with Geneva as his duty station. Grandi said Salih has been engaged in high-level public service for more than three decades and possesses resolute leadership qualities and thoughtful diplomatic judgment. “He comes from a country that has experienced conflict, persecution and displacement in recent years, which gives him a direct understanding of the challenges facing refugees today,” Grandi said. He added that Salih’s experience and background make him well suited to lead UNHCR at a time when global displacement has reached unprecedented levels. Grandi’s 10-year tenure as UN High Commissioner for Refugees will end on December 31. He took office in January 2016 and has since led the agency through major global displacement crises, including those in Syria, Ukraine and Sudan. Despite significant cuts to humanitarian funding this year, UNHCR continues to operate in 128 countries worldwide. Earlier this month, UNHCR marked 75 years of service dedicated to the protection of forcibly displaced people across the globe.

Turkish authorities have launched an investigation into an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) that crashed in northwest Turkey, just days after another drone was shot down after entering the country’s airspace from the Black Sea, local media reported Friday. Residents in Kocaeli province discovered the damaged drone in a field, prompting official inquiries into its wreckage. The origin of the UAV remains unclear, though some reports suggest it may be Russian-made. Turkish officials have not yet provided comments on the incident. Earlier this week, Turkish F-16 jets intercepted and destroyed what officials described as an “out of control” drone after it violated Turkish airspace. The defense ministry said the drone was taken down in a safe location to protect civilians and air traffic. Following the incident, Turkey warned both Russia and Ukraine to exercise caution over Black Sea security amid escalating regional tensions. The ministry added that the downed drone likely broke into fragments, making identification and technical analysis challenging, with investigations ongoing.    

Udichi Shilpigosthi’s central office has been set on fire on Topkhana Road in the capital on Friday evening. The blaze originated around 7:42pm on the first floor of the building adjacent to the BMA Building. Four units of Fire Service and Civil Defence rushed to the spot to douse the fire. Rozina Khanom, duty officer at the Fire Service and Civil Defence Headquarters Control Room, said the cause of the fire could not be confirmed immediately. Suraiya Parvin, Music and Dance Affairs Secretary of the central committee of Udichi Shilpigosthi alleged that miscreants set fire to the office and fled the scene immediately. Witnesses said the incident occurred inside the lane opposite to the Jatiya Press Club where additional police, BGB and Army members have been deployed due to huge crowd. Due to the congestion, traffic movement from Kadam Foara crossing toward Paltan has been suspended on one side of the road, police said.

NASA has provided answers to common questions about the interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS, which is set to make its closest approach to Earth on December 19, 2025. 3I/ATLAS, the third confirmed interstellar object to enter the Solar System after ‘Oumuamua in 2017 and 2I/Borisov in 2019, was discovered on July 1, 2025, by the ATLAS telescope in Chile. NASA confirmed that the comet approached from the direction of the Sagittarius constellation, moving at around 137,000 miles per hour (221,000 km/h) and accelerating to 153,000 miles per hour (246,000 km/h) near the Sun. The comet is believed to have originated from the thick disk of the Milky Way, with an estimated age of 7.6 to 14 billion years. It follows a hyperbolic trajectory, meaning it is passing through the Solar System only once and will continue into interstellar space. Scientists say 3I/ATLAS poses no threat to Earth, maintaining a distance of at least 170 million miles (270 million km) at closest approach. Observations show the comet is active, with a nucleus diameter estimated between 1,400 feet and 3.5 miles (440 meters to 5.6 km), composed of water ice, carbon dioxide, and other gases. Its reddish hue is similar to D-type asteroids and previous interstellar object 2I/Borisov. Though not visible to the naked eye, 3I/ATLAS can be observed using telescopes. Its passage offers scientists a rare chance to study material from another star system, revealing insights into the composition and history of interstellar objects. ESA’s XMM-Newton telescope has also captured the comet in X-ray light, showing a massive debris cloud and typical cometary activity.   With inputs from NDTV

American rapper Wiz Khalifa has been sentenced to nine months in prison by a Romanian court for smoking cannabis during a live performance. The Constanța Court of Appeal ruled that Khalifa, whose real name is Thomaz Cameron Jibril, must serve the sentence in custody after overturning an earlier fine of 3,600 Romanian lei (£619; $829) for drug possession. The court described the act as “ostentatious” and said the rapper sent a message normalising illegal conduct, potentially encouraging drug use among young people. The incident occurred at the Beach, Please! festival in Costinesti last year, where Khalifa smoked a joint on stage. Police had briefly detained Jibril after the concert on July 13, 2024, and prosecutors charged him with possession of “risk drugs” for personal use. Investigators said he possessed more than 18 grams of cannabis and consumed some in front of the audience. Khalifa, who was sentenced in absentia, was performing in California earlier this week and shared clips from home on social media. He apologised for offending Romania and said he would avoid using cannabis on stage in future. Romanian criminologist Vlad Zaha told UNB that extradition from the US is unlikely, calling the sentence “unusually harsh” given Khalifa’s wealth and the legal status of cannabis in the United States. The rapper, known for hits like Black and Yellow and See You Again, also runs a marijuana brand launched in 2016. While cannabis is legal in some US states, it remains illegal under federal law.   With inputs from BBC

Families of Ukrainian soldiers who died by suicide during the war face stigma and lack of recognition, raising concerns about the mental health of troops on the front lines. Kateryna, mother of 25-year-old Orest, said her son died in Donetsk in 2023 from a “self-inflicted wound,” according to official reports. She doubts the claim and said the army had deemed him fit for service despite poor eyesight. Orest was sent to the front as a communications specialist and became increasingly withdrawn before his death. Ukraine officially mourns more than 45,000 soldiers killed since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, but there is no formal record of suicide among soldiers. Officials call such deaths isolated, yet families and human rights groups believe the numbers could be in the hundreds. Many families say soldiers who die by suicide are denied military honors, compensation, or public recognition. Kateryna said, “Some died the right way, and others died the wrong way. The state took my son, sent him to war, and brought me back a body in a bag.” Mariyana, whose husband Anatoliy died by suicide after being wounded at Bakhmut, said officials refused him a military burial. She described feeling abandoned by the state and criticized the stigma from others in the community. Viktoria from Lviv also lost her husband Andriy, a reconnaissance unit driver, to suicide in 2023. She said official investigations were inconsistent, and she continues to fight for the truth about his death. Oksana Borkun, who runs a support group for widows of soldiers who died by suicide, said about 200 families are part of the network. She and military chaplain Father Borys Kutovyi argue that these soldiers should be recognized as heroes, noting the psychological vulnerability of many recruited troops. Ukraine’s Commissioner for Veterans’ Rights, Olha Reshetylova, said she receives reports of up to four military suicides each month. She acknowledged the system needs reform and urged the government to provide truth and recognition to bereaved families. The ongoing crisis highlights the hidden mental health toll of war and the need for broader support for soldiers and their families.   With inputs from BBC

An unruly mob, incited by ex-journalist Elias Hossain, attacked and set fire to the office building of The Daily Star, Bangladesh’s leading English-language daily, early Friday, creating panic in the area following the death of Sharif Osman Hadi, a frontliner of the July Uprising. Soon after news broke that Hadi, spokesman of Inquilab Moncho, had died from gunshot wounds sustained on December 12, Elias Hossain — who commands a large following on social media — posted on Facebook instructing his followers to set fire to the offices of Prothom Alo and The Daily Star. Prothom Alo was attacked first, and Hossain later posted again urging supporters to target The Daily Star, after which the mob moved to its office and carried out the arson. According to the Fire Service and Civil Defence Headquarters, duty officer Md Shahjahan said they received information about the fire at around 12:40am, following which a fire service unit was dispatched to the scene. Members of law-enforcement agencies, particularly personnel of the Bangladesh Army, reached the spot soon after the attack and took position to restore order. Firefighters began operations to douse the flames upon arrival. During the incident, the disorderly crowd also set fire to the adjacent road, further worsening the situation. Army personnel later assisted the fire service in bringing the fires under control.

European Union leaders have agreed to provide Ukraine with a €90 billion (£79 billion; $105 billion) loan, while failing to reach a decision on using frozen Russian assets worth €210 billion. The deal comes as Russian President Vladimir Putin told the BBC that Western leaders are “making Russia the enemy.” He made the comments during his year-end press conference. Most of Moscow’s frozen assets are held in Belgium, which has refused to release the money without guarantees it would be protected if Russia takes legal action. The EU loan covers about two-thirds of the €135 billion Kyiv is estimated to need over the next two years. During his annual news conference, Putin blamed Ukraine for starting the war and claimed Kyiv refuses to resolve the conflict peacefully. He also defended Russia’s political system and criticized “fake news” in the West. Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky visited Warsaw on Thursday and met Polish President Karol Nawrocki. He said the trip marked a “new and meaningful stage” in relations between the countries and highlighted the importance of cooperation to defend freedom in Europe. Meanwhile, the UK’s Chief of Defence Staff, Sir Richard Knighton, said Russian claims of rapid advances in eastern Ukraine are “nonsense.” He added that Ukrainian forces continue to fight hard and inflict heavy losses on Russian troops. The EU loan has drawn mixed reactions in Ukraine. Some citizens welcomed the financial support, while others expressed concern about corruption and doubts that the funds would reach the military or civilians. Kyiv’s Security Service also claimed its forces struck a Russian “shadow fleet” tanker in the Mediterranean Sea using a drone, targeting vessels used to bypass Western sanctions on Russian oil. Hungary, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic are exempt from paying for the EU loan. Their leaders said their countries would not bear the cost of financing Ukraine’s war.   With inputs from BBC

Overseas Correspondents Association Bangladesh (OCAB), a platform representing international media based in Dhaka, on Friday strongly condemned the violent attacks against journalists, editors, and media outlets carried out on Thursday night. Such brazen violence is intolerable and a direct threat to journalism as it strikes at the pillars of a free press and an informed citizenry, OCAB said in a statement. The platform demanded that authorities take concrete steps to ensure the safety of media professionals and launch a credible investigation without any delay to bring the culprits to justice. "The ability of journalists to work without fear and intimidation by both state and non-state elements is non-negotiable. Their protection is a prerequisite for upholding democratic values and the rule of law in the country," the statement reads. OCAB President Nazrul Islam and General Secretary Julhas Alam issued the statement.

Violent protests broke out in Habiganj on Friday over the killing of Sharif Osman Hadi, convener of Inquilab Moncho, with demonstrators blocking roads, staging rallies and attacking an Awami League office and a local newspaper office. The protesters demanded the arrest of those involved in the killing and the resignation of the home adviser.Panic spread across the town as the protests escalated. After Jumma prayers, the Anti Discrimination students group announced a blockade and effigy burning programme at the Court Mosque area.Protesters blocked the main road in front of the mosque and burned an effigy of the home adviser. They later brought out a large protest march. When the march reached the Chiriakandi area, protesters attacked and vandalised the office of the local daily Amar Habiganj, owned by Awami League leader and blogger Sushanta Das Gupta. Some locally made weapons were found at the office and later handed over to police.The newspaper has remained closed for the past month on the order of the district magistrate, as its editor Sushanta Das Gupta has been staying in London for a long time without following due procedures.Protesters alleged that from the time Hadi was shot until his death, Sushanta Das Gupta had been posting obscene and abusive comments about Hadi on Facebook. On the way back, the protesters attacked the already damaged Habiganj district Awami League office. and set fire to a mural of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. The protesters then gathered in front of the residence of the Habiganj superintendent of police and continued their demonstration. They demanded quick arrests and security for protest leaders and July fighters. nThe programme was withdrawn after the police superintendent assured action and security. Hadi’s namaz-e-janaza at 2:30pm Saturday Student leader Ashraful Islam Sujon said, “Hadi was shot dead in a most brutal manner. Even seven days after the incident, no accused has been arrested. We are giving the administration a 24 hour ultimatum. If the suspects are not arrested within this time, we will shut down the country.” Another student leader Mahdi Hasan said, “If the accused are not brought back from India quickly and given the highest punishment, we will demand the severing of diplomatic relations with them.” Regarding the matter, Dolowar Hossain, Officer in Charge of Habiganj Sadar Model Police Station said, “The situation is currently calm.”    

The three-day housing fair organised by real estate company JCX Developments Limited began in the capital on Thursday, offering discounts and facilities for buyers. JCX Developments Limited Managing Director Iqbal Hossain Chowdhury and the company’s brand ambassador, popular actress Bidya Sinha Mim inaugurated the fair at the JCX Business Tower on Japan Street in Block I of Bashundhara Residential Area. Among others present at the inauguration were JCX Developments Limited CEO Siddiquar Rahman, Operations Director Asif Mahmud Chowdhury, Director Mirza Golam Rahman Shubho, COO Col (retd) ABM Mizanur Rahman, Executive Director Col (retd) Md Ariful Haque, and Star Connector COO Neel Hurer Jahan. JCX is offering customers discounts of up to Tk 10 lakh on flat bookings during the fair. Buyers will also enjoy a range of complimentary benefits, including a 100 percent discount on interior design services, free kitchen cabinets, and home movers’ services. The fair will remain open to visitors every day from 10am to 7pm and will continue until December 20. Speaking on the occasion, Iqbal Hossain said JCX currently has multiple ongoing projects in Bashundhara, Jolshiri and Niketan areas. Customers booking flats in these projects will receive a cash discount of up to Tk 10 lakh along with shopping vouchers from JCX Gold. Bidya Sinha described JCX Developments as a symbol of trust, saying she has been living in a JCX apartment for more than a decade. “I can confidently say that buyers will benefit by purchasing flats from JCX,” she added. At the event, it was also disclosed that under JCX Developments’ 65 ongoing residential projects, buyers will have the opportunity to choose their preferred flat or office space from more than 5.081 million square feet of space. In addition, construction is underway on JCX Grand Residences, a luxury condominium project being developed on 92 kathas of land in Bashundhara Residential Area. A commercial building named Icon Hundred is also being built on two bighas of land, with 50 percent of the total area kept as open space. Iqbal Hossain also said that JCX ensures visually appealing designs and international-standard, earthquake-resistant housing by combining Japanese and local top engineers. He added that all JCX projects are handed over to customers within the scheduled timeframe.

Following the death of Inqilab Mancha spokesperson Sharif Osman Hadi, journalists of the country’s leading vernacular daily Prothom Alo have demanded the identification, arrest and exemplary punishment of those involved in the attack on the newspaper’s office at Karwan Bazar in the capital late Thursday night. The demand was made from a human chain formed in front of the organisation’s office on Friday afternoon in protest against the attack carried out on Thursday night. Speaking on behalf of the institution, poet and writer Sajjad Sharif,  who is also the paper's executive editor, said: “We demand justice for this incident and we protest against it. There must be a proper investigation. Those involved must be identified and given exemplary punishment.” He further said that an attack was carried out on the Prothom Alo office late Thursday night, at a time when the newspaper’s journalists were working at night to prepare the next day’s edition. Sazzad Sharif further said, “A vested interest group carried out the attack in a planned manner, centring on the death of Sharif Osman Hadi. Our journalists were at risk of their lives. They were forced to leave their work and go away without publishing the newspaper.” Prof Yunus talks to Prothom Alo, Daily Star editors He also said that for the first time in 27 years, the newspaper could not be published, and its online platform has also remained shut since last night. “This is a severe attack on freedom of speech, freedom of expression and the freedom of the media in Bangladesh,” he added. At the same time, not only Prothom Alo but also The Daily Star has been attacked, he said. “We want to state clearly that this is a black day for the media and for freedom of speech.”  

BNP on Friday paid tributes to Inquilab Moncho spokesperson Sharif Osman Hadi as his body arrived at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport from Singapore in the evening. On behalf of the party, BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed and Acting Chairman’s adviser Dr Mahdi Amin paid the tributes to Hadi by placing a wreath on his coffin at the airport, said BNP Media Cell member Sayrul Kabir Khan. Earlier, the duo along with some interim government advisers and senior leader from different parties received the mortal remains of Hadi, who passed away in a Singapore hospital on Thursday. The Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight BG-585 carrying Hadi’s body landed at 5:48 pm, having departed from Singapore’s Changi International Airport at 2:03 pm, Bangladesh time. Hadi, a prospective candidate for the upcoming 13th national parliamentary election from the Dhaka-8 constituency, was shot in the head on December 12 while travelling in a rickshaw on Culvert Road in Puratan Paltan, Dhaka. He initially underwent surgery at Dhaka Medical College Hospital and was later admitted to Evercare Hospital. For advanced treatment, he was airlifted to Singapore, where he passed away on Thursday night.

More than 450,000 expatriate Bangladeshi voters from different countries across the world registered through a mobile app, ‘Postal Vote Bd’, in the last one month to vote in the upcoming national election and the referendum, scheduled to be held simultaneously on February 12, 2026. The Election Commission (EC) on November 19 opened the ‘Postal Vote Bd’ app for the expatriates to complete the registration process by December 25 next. Though the postal balloting system has been in the laws for a long time, it was never practiced in the previous elections. This is the first time the Election Commission has introduced an effective IT-supported hybrid postal balloting system, enabling expatriates, government staff who are posted outside their respective constituencies, polling personnel, and the persons who will be in the legal custody to exercise their franchise through a combination of digital registration and manual voting. Alongside the expatriates, more than 61,000 voters from inside Bangladesh have also registered to vote through the postal ballots in the 13th parliamentary election. As of 6:30 pm on Friday, a total of 450,226 expatriates, including 28,765 females, registered through the app from 122 foreign countries throughout the world. Among the registrants, the highest number came from the Saudi Arabia (127,844) followed by Qatar (47,263),Oman (34,439), Malaysia (33,379), UAE (26,123), USA (23,389), UK (17,835), Kuwait (17,813), Singapore (16,980), Italy (13,269), Canada (10,939), South Korea (9,912), Australia (8,778), Bahrain (7,611), Japan (7,308), Maldives (6,294), South Africa (5,081) and Portugal (5,033). The registration process for In-Country Postal Voting (ICPV) started after the recent announcement of the election schedule. As of Friday evening, 61,511 voters from inside Bangladesh registered to vote through the postal ballots. With them, a total of 511,737 persons registered through the ‘Postal Vote Bd' app. Among the registered ones, the highest 53,308 will vote in Cumilla district, while 45,532 in Dhaka district, 44,271 in Chattogram, 30,859 in Noakhali, 22,389 in Sylhet, 20,652 in Chandpur, 19,673 in Feni, 17,185 in Brahmanbaria, 16,300 in Lakshmipur and 12,258 in Cox’s Bazar. In terms of parliamentary seats, the highest 8,269 registered ones will vote in Feni-3 constituency, while 7,670 in Chattogram-15 constituency, 7,411 in Noakhali-1 constituency, 7,157 in Cumilla-10 constituency, 6,869 in Noakhali-3 constituency. ‘In-Country Postal Vote’ registration to continue till Dec 25: EC There are some 12.76 crore voters under 42,761 polling stations in the country's 300 constituencies. Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin on December 11 last announced the schedule to arrange the 13th parliamentary election and the referendum on the July National Charter (Constitutional Reform) Implementation Order simultaneously on February 12 next. According to the election schedule, the deadline for the submission of nomination paper is December 29, while the last date for the withdrawal of candidature is January 20. The election campaign will start on January 22 and continue till 48 hours before the balloting period (7:30am on February 10).    

The namaz-e-janaza of Inquilab Moncho spokesperson Sharif Osman Hadi will be held at 2:30pm on Saturday at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban, said the Chief Adviser’s press wing on Friday night. The government requested those wishing to attend the janaza not to carry any bags or heavy objects. It also said that flying drones in and around the parliament complex will remain completely restricted during the funeral prayers. Meanwhile, a decision has been taken to bury Hadi beside national poet Kazi Nazrul Islam on the Dhaka University campus, in line with the wishes of his family, said a separate Facebook post from Inquilab Moncho’s official page. Earlier, the body of Hadi, who died at a hospital in Singapore on Thursday, arrived in Dhaka on Friday evening. A Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight (BG-585) carrying his body landed at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at 5:48pm, officials said. They said the flight had departed Singapore’s Changi International Airport at 2:03pm (Bangladesh time). Hadi was shot in the head on December 12 while travelling in a rickshaw on Culvert Road in Puratan Paltan. He initially underwent surgery at Dhaka Medical College Hospital and was later admitted to Evercare Hospital. For advanced treatment, he was airlifted to Singapore, where he succumbed to his injuries on the night of December 18.

BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia’s physical condition became more stable on Friday after a small medical procedure was successfully carried out on her, said her personal physician Dr AZM Zahid Hossain. “Alhamdulillah. As I told you yesterday (Thursday), by the mercy of Allah and everyone’s prayers, her condition was stable. I would like to add that compared to her previous condition, she is now much more stable following the treatment of the medical board,” he said. The BNP leader made the remarks while briefing reporters about Khaleda’s health condition outside Evercare Hospital. Dr Zahid said a small medical procedure was carried out on the former prime minister on Friday in the operation theatre of the hospital. “She was able to receive it very successfully. The procedure went smoothly.” He said Khaleda is now receiving treatment at a Critical Care Unit cabin that has ICU facilities, under a medical board made up of specialist doctors from home and abroad. “At this moment, her condition is stable. This means her condition has not deteriorated,” the BNP leader said. Khaleda Zia integral to an important chapter in Bangladesh history: Prof Yunus Dr Zahid said BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman, his wife Dr Zubaida Rahman and the wife of late Arafat Rahman Koko Syeda Shameela Rahman and other family members urged the country’s people to pray to Allah so that Khaleda continues to remain stable and moves towards full recovery with the treatment being provided by the medical board. The BNP chief was admitted to Evercare Hospital on 23 November with several health complications. Three days later, she was moved to the Critical Care Unit after a lung infection was detected. Her treatment is now being supervised by a medical board led by Professor Shahabuddin Talukder, with the involvement of both local and foreign specialists.    

Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami on Thursday urged patience, responsibility and national unity following the death of Sharif Osman Hadi, spokesperson of Inquilab Moncho and a July Movement activist, who died on Wednesday while receiving treatment in Singapore. In a statement, Jamaat Ameer Dr Shafiqur Rahman said the nation is mourning Hadi’s death amid public anger over the failure to ensure his safety. He said while grief and anger among students and the public are understandable, no group should exploit the situation for political gain, warning that such actions could derail the movement from its proper course. Osman Hadi no more Dr Rahman underscored the need for safeguarding media freedom, describing attacks on journalists as attacks on democracy and the rule of law, and stressed that protests must remain peaceful and lawful. He also demanded quick identification and exemplary punishment of those responsible for Hadi’s killing, urging citizens and students to act with restraint and responsibility, adding that national unity and democratic processes are the only way forward during this critical period.

Thousands of students and people are still holding a sit-in at busy Shahbag intersection, demanding justice for the killing of Sharif Osman Hadi, spokesperson of Inquilab Moncho and a pioneering leader of last year’s July uprising. Following the news of Hadi’s death on Thursday night, students began gathering at Shahbag from around 10:30pm and continued their demonstration since then.  Vehicular movement in the surrounding areas remained suspended. Earlier, late Thursday, Dhaka University Central Students’ Union (DUCSU) Vice President Shadik Kayem announced an 'anti-hegemonic rally', in which thousands participated on Friday at 3pm. Prior to that, special prayers were offered for Hadi after the Jumm'a prayers at the Dhaka University Central Mosque. On the ground, students from schools, colleges, madrasas, and universities, along with people from various walks of life, were seen chanting slogans at the Shahbag demanding justice for Hadi’s murder. Meanwhile, a post from the official Facebook page of Inquilab Moncho stated that the aircraft carrying 'martyr Osman Hadi' is scheduled to land at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at around 6pm. The post called upon people to stand in an orderly manner on both sides of the road from the airport to Shahbag to receive 'the fearless hero who dedicated his life to the spirit of July and the protection of independence and sovereignty'. Osman Hadi's body arrives in Dhaka From there, it said, the body of Shaheed Hadi will be taken to the Dhaka University Central Mosque for the public to pay their last respects. Fatima Tasnim Zuma, one of the organisers of the platform, said, “Martyr Osman Hadi will be brought to the Dhaka University Central Mosque. The students will continue to occupy the streets and keep raising slogans demanding justice.” “Do not follow any instructions from anyone other than Inquilab Moncho and any provocation. We will soon announce tougher programmes. We will not return home until justice for our martyred brother is ensured, Insha’Allah," she added.   

An aircraft carrying the body of Inquilab Moncho spokesman Sharim Osman Hadi, who died at a Singapore Hospital on Thursday, landed at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport in Dhaka on Friday evening.   The Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight BG-585 carrying the body landed at the airport at 5:48 pm on Friday, officials said. They said the flight had departed from Singapore’s Changi International Airport at 2:03 pm, Bangladesh time. Meanwhile, security measures have been tightened at the airport to avoid any unwanted incident. Religious Affairs Ministry calls for special prayers for Hadi According to a post on Inquilab Moncho’s official Facebook page, the body is now being taken to the cold storage of the National Institute of CardioVascular Diseases (NICVD) to preserve it.   On Saturday, the body will be taken to Manik Mia Avenue where his namaz-e-Janaza will be held followed by Zuhr prayer, according to the post.   Later, the body will be transported to the central mosque of Dhaka University and will be laid to rest beside National Poet Kazi Nazrul Islam, as demanded by his family, the post reads. The organisation urged supporters to pay tributes to the ‘fearless hero who sacrificed his life to protect justice, freedom and sovereignty’ by maintaining disciplined positions along both sides of the road from the airport to Shahbagh. On December 12, Hadi was shot in the head while moving in a rickshaw on Culvert Road in Puratan Paltan. He underwent surgery at Dhaka Medical College Hospital and was later admitted to Evercare Hospital. For advanced treatment, he was airlifted to Singapore where he passed away on the night of December 18.

The Media Freedom Coalition in Bangladesh on Friday strongly condemned the attacks carried out Thursday night against journalists, editors, and media houses. "Such acts of violence and intimidation are unacceptable and strike at the heart of press freedom and the public's right to be informed," said the MFC in a statement. The MFC called for the safety of all media professionals to be ensured and for swift, impartial investigations so that those responsible are held to account. "Journalists must be able to carry out their work without fear," it said. The MFC said protecting them is essential to upholding the rule of law, democratic values, and an open, informed society. DCAB strongly condemns attacks on Prothom Alo, The Daily Star, harassment of Nurul Kabir Meanwhile, the US Embassy in Dhaka joined the people of Bangladesh in mourning the loss of youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi and offered their deepest condolences to his family, friends and supporters. Besides, the High Commission of Canada in Dhaka said it stands with its Media Freedom Coalition partners in condemning attacks on media professionals in Bangladesh.  "The safety of media professionals is essential to democracy," said the High Commission.    

Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar on Friday accused neighboring India of “weaponizing water” by releasing water from Indian dams without prior notice, claiming the move violates the World Bank-brokered Indus Water Treaty and threatens peace and stability in the region. Dar’s remarks followed Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry writing to New Delhi seeking clarification over irregular releases from the Chenab River. He alleged that India was manipulating water flows during a critical stage of Pakistan’s agricultural cycle, endangering livelihoods as well as the country’s food and economic security. “Such illegal and irresponsible conduct has the potential to trigger a humanitarian crisis in Pakistan,” Dar said, noting that similar actions in September worsened flooding that devastated hundreds of villages. There was no immediate comment from New Delhi. The Indus Water Treaty, signed in 1960 and overseen by the World Bank, allocates the eastern rivers Ravi, Sutlej, and Beas to India, and the western rivers Jhelum, Chenab, and Indus to Pakistan. Despite wars and border skirmishes, the treaty has generally survived. Dar said Pakistan has informed U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres and the president of the U.N. General Assembly, urging their intervention. He stressed that any attempt to divert or stop the flow of water to Pakistan would be considered an “act of war.” Source: AP 

President Donald Trump’s blockade of sanctioned Venezuelan oil tankers off the country’s coast is raising new concerns about the legality of U.S. military operations in Latin America and fears that the United States could be edging closer to war. The administration insists the measure targets only sanctioned vessels and not civilians, but legal experts warn that such actions without congressional approval may breach international law and risk provoking a Venezuelan military response. “The concern is that we are bootstrapping our way into armed conflict,” said Claire Finkelstein, a national security law professor at the University of Pennsylvania. Trump’s campaign against Venezuela is part of a broader effort to pressure President Nicolás Maduro, accused of narcoterrorism and using oil revenue to fund drug trafficking. U.S. forces have attacked 28 suspected drug-smuggling boats since September, killing over 100 people, and the president has threatened land strikes. Venezuelan authorities condemned the blockade. Maduro’s son, Nicolás Maduro Guerra, called for dialogue while warning of the threat posed by the world’s most powerful military. The Pentagon prefers to describe the operation as a “quarantine” rather than a blockade, noting that an international law blockade constitutes an act of war. Critics argue the selective targeting of oil shipments resembles a wartime maneuver without formal authorization, leaving questions about the legal and strategic implications of Trump’s campaign. Source: AP 

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday expressed confidence that Moscow’s military objectives in Ukraine would be achieved, nearly four years after he ordered troops into the neighbouring country. Speaking at his annual year-end news conference, Putin said Russian forces were advancing along the front line, with progress varying across sectors. “Our troops are advancing all across the line of contact, faster in some areas or slower in others, but the enemy is retreating in all sectors,” he said, asserting that Moscow has “fully seized strategic initiative” and will make further gains by year-end. Putin reaffirmed that Russia is open to a peaceful settlement addressing what he called the “root causes” of the conflict, though his conditions include recognition of Russian control over territories captured in four eastern regions, the Crimean Peninsula, and parts of eastern Ukraine still under Kyiv’s control — demands rejected by Ukraine. He also reiterated that Ukraine must abandon its NATO ambitions, limit the size of its army, and grant official status to the Russian language. Putin warned that any NATO troop deployment in Ukraine would be considered a “legitimate target.” Observers noted the conference was closely watched for remarks on Ukraine and the peace plan proposed by U.S. President Donald Trump. Putin used the event, a mix of news briefing and nationwide call-in show, to consolidate domestic support and outline Russia’s positions on global and regional issues. Source: AP 

Students and general people blocked Dhaka-Barishal highway for several hours demanding arrest of killers of Inquilab Moncho spokesman Osman Hadi on Friday afternoon. The disruption caused immense suffering of commuters and transport workers.   The protesters gathered at Nathullabad Bus Terminal around noon and began a sit-in on the highway. Hundreds of demonstrators offered prayers on the street and later marched to Ashwini Kumar Town Hall area on Sadar Road where another protest rally was held. Calling the killers ‘fascist Awami League,’ the protesters threatened that they would launch tougher movement if the killers were not arrested immediately. After the programme, the protesters withdrew from the road and ended the blockade. ‘Long March to Border’ for Hadi held at Benapole Hadi, who wished for contesting the upcoming national election from Dhaka-8 seat as an independent candidate, was shot by miscreants, suspected to be followers of the ousted Awami League, on Culvert Road in Puratan Paltan of Dhaka on December 12, breathed his last while undergoing treatment at a Singapore Hospital on Thursday. As the news of death spread, people, particularly students, burst into protest across the country and carried out vandalism.     

On the first full day since reopening following a mass shooting that killed 15 people at a Hanukkah celebration at Bondi Beach, thousands of Australians gathered Friday at the iconic waterfront to mourn, reflect, and stand in solidarity with the Jewish community. In a spontaneously organized event, people lined the crescent of sand shoulder to shoulder and formed a massive circle in the ocean, observing a minute of silence for the victims, the injured, and those who risked their lives to save others. Many embraced and wept near the remnants of crime scene tape and abandoned shoes. Police reopened parts of the beach Thursday, and armed officers stood guard outside synagogues and mosques amid concerns over antisemitism and potential backlash against Muslims. Life slowly returned to the sand and boardwalk, with joggers, dog walkers, and coffee drinkers reclaiming the area. Stories of heroism resonated across the nation. Ahmed al Ahmed, an Australian Muslim store owner, disarmed one gunman before being shot by the other, calling for unity and human solidarity from his hospital bed. Residents also honored Reuven Morrison and Boris and Sofia Gurman, three Jewish victims who confronted the shooters. Nearly 35,000 blood donations have been made since Monday, demonstrating national resolve. Community leaders said the gatherings reflect Australians’ desire to connect and support one another while grappling with grief and outrage. Bondi Beach lifeguards are set to return Saturday, restoring another symbol of normalcy to the shore. Source: AP 

Canada and the United States are set to begin formal talks to review their free trade agreement in mid-January, according to the office of Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. Carney informed provincial leaders that Dominic LeBlanc, Canada’s lead official on U.S. trade relations, “will meet with U.S. counterparts in mid-January to initiate formal discussions,” the Prime Minister’s office said Thursday. The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), negotiated by U.S. President Donald Trump during his first term, is scheduled for review in 2026, under a clause allowing potential renegotiation. Canada, heavily reliant on trade, exports more than 75% of its goods to the United States, although many exports currently benefit from USMCA exemptions. Tensions in trade talks arose in October after Ontario ran an anti-tariff ad in the U.S., prompting Trump to suspend certain discussions. Carney said Canada and the U.S. were close to agreeing on sectoral tariff relief covering steel, aluminum, autos, and lumber. He noted that U.S. concerns over Canadian dairy, alcohol, and digital services will be part of broader continental trade discussions. The Prime Minister and provincial leaders plan to meet in Ottawa early next year to further address trade issues. Source: AP 

Diplomatic Correspondents Association, Bangladesh (DCAB) on Friday expressed deep concern and strongly condemned the violent attacks, vandalism and arson at the offices of daily Prothom Alo and The Daily Star, as well as the harassment of the President of the Editors’ Council and Editor of New Age, veteran journalist Nurul Kabir. In a statement, DCAB said it believes that independent and responsible journalism is one of the main foundations of a democratic state. "Violence, intimidation, attacks, or harassment aimed at silencing the media are in no way acceptable. Such actions are completely contrary to media freedom, the constitutional right to freedom of expression, and the rule of law," said the statement. The harassment of veteran journalist and editor Nurul Kabir, in particular, is a matter of grave concern, DCAB said, noting that this incident is not only an attack on professional dignity but also raises serious questions about the personal safety of journalists. DCAB strongly demanded that the perpetrators be identified and brought to justice through a fair, impartial and speedy investigation into these incidents. At the same time, DCAB expects effective and visible measures from the government and the relevant authorities to ensure the safety and security of media professionals. Besides, DCAB expressed deep concern and strongly condemned the arrest of its former president Anis Alamgir and expressed solidarity with the statements issued by the Editors’ Council and other organisations regarding his arrest. Prof Yunus talks to Prothom Alo, Daily Star editors DCAB also expressed solidarity with the national mourning, to be observed on Saturday, following the tragic death of Inquilab Moncho spokesperson Sharif Osman Hadi, who passed away on Thursday while undergoing treatment in Singapore after being shot and injured. DCAB President AKM Moinuddin and General Secretary Md Arifuzzaman Mamun jointly issued the statement.    

Students and general people staged a protest march titled ‘Long March to Border’ at the Benapole international checkpost zero point on Friday, demanding the arrest of the killers of Iquilab Moncho spokesperson Sharif Osman Hadi. The protest procession began around 11am from Benapole municipal market area and ended at the Benapole checkpost zero point, where a brief rally was held. During the rally, protesters chanted slogans for Hadi and his platform, vowing to remain on the streets until the dreams of Hadi are fulfilled. The programme was led by former teacher Abdur Mannan, local convenor of the student movement. Speakers at the rally included Dhaka University student Mushfiqur Rahman Sakib, Benapole municipal unit Anti-Discrimination Student Movement convenor Asadullah Al Galib, member secretary Sajedur Rahman Shipu, Jashore district Islami Chhatra Shibir member Rezwan Rahman Akash, and Sharsha upazila Chhatra Shibir president Mehedi Hasan, among others. The speakers said Hadi had continued his struggle against the Awami League, hegemonic forces and what they termed Indian aggression, and vowed that the movement would continue until the goals are achieved.

BNP on Friday postponed two scheduled programmes of its Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir and Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, considering the overall situation in the country. The party has also called an emergency meeting of its Standing Committee tonight at 8:30pm at the BNP Chairperson’s political office in Gulshan, said BNP Media Cell member Sayrul Kabir Khan. “The two pre-announced programmes have been postponed, and an emergency standing committee meeting has been called for tonight at 8:30pm,” he said. Sayrul said BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman will join the meeting virtually and preside over it. He said the programme of Fakhrul, which was scheduled to be held at 3pm at Sech Bhaban in the Sangsad Bhaban area, has been postponed. Another programme of the party’s Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi, planned for 4pm in front of the WASA Bhaban at Karwan Bazar, has also been postponed,” Sayrul added. BNP sources said the two programmes were postponed after Inquilab Moncho convener Sharif Osman bin Hadi, who was shot and injured earlier, died on Thursday in Singapore and violence broke out afterwards in Bangladesh. They also said the Standing Committee meeting has been convened to discuss the country’s latest political situation, organisational matters, and to work out the party’s next course of action.

The admission test for Dhaka University’s Science Unit (Ka Unit), scheduled to be held on Saturday has been postponed. Dhaka University authorities in a media release said the university will observe a day of mourning on Saturday as part of the state mourning following the death of Sharif Osman Hadi, spokesperson of Inqilab Moncho and a DU alumnus. “As a tribute to the brave July warrior Sharif Osman Hadi and all the July fighters and martyrs who took part in the July Mass Uprising, the admission test for the first-year undergraduate programme of the Science Unit for the 2025–2026 academic year, scheduled for December 20 (Saturday), has been postponed,” the statement said. A new date for the postponed admission test will be announced soon, it added.

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus has spoken over phone with the editors of Prothom Alo and The Daily Star following attacks on the two media outlets on Thursday night. In separate conversations with Prothom Alo Editor Matiur Rahman and The Daily Star Editor Mahfuz Anam, Prof Yunus expressed deep sympathy, saying the unexpected and reprehensible attacks on the institutions and their journalists had deeply saddened him. He said the government stood firmly beside the two media houses during this difficult time. Resist all forms of mob violence committed by fringe elements: Govt urges all Describing the incidents as assaults on press freedom, the chief adviser warned that such actions posed a serious threat to independent journalism and Bangladesh’s democratic progress. Prof Yunus assured the editors of full security and all necessary government support, adding that he hoped to meet them in person soon.

Miscreants carried out an attack and vandalised the Prothom Alo office in Kushtia town early Friday. The incident took place around 1:30am at the newspaper’s office located at Majampur Gate, where an agitated mob damaged the office signboard, doors and windows of a room, along with various pieces of furniture. Following the incident, police intensified patrolling across the district to maintain law and order. According to witnesses, agitated students and local residents brought out protest processions in Kushtia following the death of Inquilab Moncho spokesperson Sharif Osman Hadi in Singapore on Thursday night. Later, the protesters blocked the Dhaka-Kushtia Highway by setting tyres on fire. Normal traffic resumed around midnight after the hour-long blockade was withdrawn. Around 1:30am, a group of people suddenly carried out attacks and vandalism at the newspaper office and at the residences of several Awami League leaders in different parts of the town. Officer-in-charge of Kushtia Model Police Station Kabir Hossain Matubbar said police have heard about the incidents but have not yet received any written complaint. Police are on alert to prevent any further disorder, he added.

The government on Friday urged all the people of Bangladesh to resist mob violence in its all forms committed by a 'few fringe elements'. "We strongly and unequivocally condemn all acts of violence, intimidation, arson, and destruction of properties," said the interim government in a statement. The government said this is a critical moment in nation’s history when they are making a historic democratic transition. At this critical hour, the government called upon every citizen to honour Shaheed Hadi by rejecting and resisting violence, incitement and hatred. "We cannot and must not allow it to be derailed by those few who thrive on chaos and reject peace," the statement reads. The upcoming elections and referendum are not merely political exercises, the government said. "They are a solemn national commitment. This promise is inseparable from the dream for which Saheed Sharif Osman Hadi gave his life. Honouring his sacrifice and memory demands restraint, responsibility, and abiding commitment to reject hatred," the statement says. Fakhrul condemns attacks on media, calls for unity, justice "To the journalists of The Daily Star, Prothom Alo and New Age: we stand with you. We are deeply sorry for the terror and violence you have endured. The nation has witnessed your courage and tolerance in the face of terror. Attacks on journalists are attacks on truth itself. We promise you full justice," the government said. The government said they wholeheartedly condemn the lynching of a Hindu man in Mymensingh. "There is no space for such violence in new Bangladesh. The perpetrators of this heinous crime will not be spared," it said.

The Ministry of Religious Affairs has urged people and religious institutions across the country to offer special prayers and duas on Friday for the repose of the soul of Inqilab Moncho spokesperson Sharif Osman Hadi. In a press release issued at midnight on Thursday, the Ministry said the government has decided to organize prayers in all mosques after Jumma prayers and corresponding prayers in other religious places of worship according to their respective faiths to seek blessings for the soul of martyr Sharif Osman bin Hadi, a courageous fighter at the forefront of the July Uprising. The Ministry requested that special prayers be arranged in every mosque and in temples, churches, and pagodas at appropriate times. It has instructed the Director General of the Islamic Foundation, as well as the secretaries of the Hindu Religious Welfare Trust, Buddhist Religious Welfare Trust, and Christian Religious Welfare Trust, to take the necessary measures to implement this directive. Hadi’s body,  who died at a Singapore hospital on Thursday a week after a gun attack on him, will be brought back to Bangladesh on Friday. His body is scheduled to arrive in Dhaka around 6:05pm, according to Inqilab Moncho. Hadi’s namaz-e-janaza will take place on Saturday after Zohr prayers at Manik Mia Avenue in the capital, the platform said.

The tragic demise of Sharif Osman Bin Hadi, a frontline activist of the July Uprising and spokesperson of Inquilab Moncho, is an irreparable loss to the country and its people, Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan said on Friday. In a condolence message, Rizwana, also Adviser to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting expressed deep sorrow over Hadi’s untimely death. She described Hadi as a fearless voice and a courageous organiser of the July Uprising, saying his uncompromising stand against injustice and oppression inspired democracy-loving people. “The firmness, clarity and sense of responsibility with which he conveyed the movement’s message will be remembered in history. His role in awakening the youth and shaping public opinion on human rights and justice is undeniable,” she said, adding that Hadi’s life of struggle, ideals and courage would continue to inspire future generations to stand against injustice. The adviser prayed for the eternal peace of the departed soul and extended heartfelt condolences to Hadi’s bereaved family, fellow activists, colleagues and well-wishers. Hadi died at a hospital in Singapore on Thursday, a week after being critically injured in a gun attack. According to Inquilab Moncho, his body will be brought back to Bangladesh on Friday by a Biman Bangladesh Airlines commercial flight scheduled to depart Singapore at 3:50 pm (local time) and arrive in Dhaka around 6:05 pm. His namaz-e-janaza will be held on Saturday after Zohr prayers at Manik Mia Avenue in the capital.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir’s verified Facebook account has been temporarily deactivated due to repeated hacking attempts. “Attempts were being made to hack the account since morning. That is why it has been kept deactivated for now,” said BNP Media Cell member Sayrul Kabir Khan. In the early morning, Fakhrul issued a statement on his verified Facebook account condemning the attacks on several media houses and the assault on New Age Editor Nurul Kabir. “While the grieving nation was praying for the (departed) soul of martyr Sharif Osman Hadi, shameful attacks were carried out on media organisations, including The Daily Star and Prothom Alo, as well as on respected journalist Nurul Kabir and several others,” he said in the post. Fakhrul also said those who wait for national crises to take advantage of them are enemies of the country. “They wait for moments of crisis. Today, they turned this tragic moment into an act of destruction. I strongly condemn this act of terror.” “We urge all parties to work together responsibly and in unity. The government must take action immediately,” he said. Soon after the post, attempts were reportedly made to break into his account, prompting its temporary deactivation.

Inquilab Moncho on Friday shared the coffin of Sharif Osman Bin Hadi, spokesperson of the platform, who passed away while receiving treatment in Singapore on Thursday. Posting a photo of the coffin wrapped with the flag of Bangladesh on its official Facebook page, the platform quoted Hadi, "I haven't gotten so fat from eating haram (earned from illegal sources) that I need a special coffin! I will appear before my Allah in a very ordinary coffin with a smile of halal blood." Earlier, Inquilab Moncho said that a Biman Bangladesh Airlines commercial flight is scheduled to depart Singapore at 3:50 pm (local time) and is expected to arrive in Dhaka at around 6:05 pm. His namaj-e-janaza (funeral prayer) will be held on Saturday after Zohr prayers at Manik Mia Avenue in the capital, the platform added. Hadi, a fiery face of the July Uprising and a prospective candidate for the upcoming 13th national parliamentary election, passed away at 9:45 pm (BST) on Thursday at Singapore General Hospital. He was critically injured on December 12 when assailants opened fire on him while he was travelling in a rickshaw near the water tank in Bijoynagar, Dhaka. Two individuals on a motorcycle approached his rickshaw, and one of them shot him at close range before fleeing the scene.  

Travis Head scored an unbeaten half-century to guide Australia to 119 for two in its second innings Friday, a lead of 204 at tea on Day 3 of the third Ashes cricket test against England. The Australians went in to bat after dismissing England for 286 just before lunch on Day 3. Ben Stokes inspired a revival in England’s Ashes campaign in the morning session with a record 106-run ninth-wicket stand alongside Jofra Archer. Their partnership helped cut Australia’s first-innings lead to 85. Stokes walked off the field yelling at himself and shaking his head after being bowled for 83 by Mitchell Starc, bringing an end to a defiant, 198-ball innings that dragged his team back ino the contest. Australia lost the wicket of Jake Weatherald, adjudged lbw to Brydon Carse in a decision he should have reviewed, to reach lunch on Day 3 at 17-1. Manus Labuschagne (13), well caught at ground level by Harry Brook in the slips off Josh Tongue's bowling, was the only wicket to fall in the middle session when Australia added 102 runs. Head scored 68 from 94 delivieres, including six boundaries and a six, and shared an unbroken 66-run stand with Usman Khawaja (27 not out). England's revivalAfter losing the first two tests in Perth and Brisbane by eight wickets and allowing Australia to post 371 in the first innings here, England's chances of keeping the series alive seemed remote when Stokes went to the crease on Day 2 with the total at 71-4. But he batted for almost two full sessions in the heat and was 45 not out from 151 deliveries by stumps Thursday, sharing a pivotal stand with No. 10 Archer after England was on the verge of collapsing at 168-8. He resumed Friday with England at 213 for eight, still 158 behind. Australia wanted to clean up the last two wickets quickly but Stokes and Archer, who took a five-wicket haul when England was bowling, dug in. Stokes stepped down the wicket to Scott Boland for a driven boundary to bring up the 50 partnership off 89 balls, then raised his half-century with a single off 159 deliveries. It was his slowest 50 in test cricket — his 37th — but vital for his team. Then the England pair started counterpunching against the old ball, with Archer lofting veteran spinner Nathan Lyon's half-volley for six over long-on. Stokes hits a perfect cover drive to the boundary off Boland in the 73rd over, trying to accumulate as many runs as possible before the new ball arrived. When it did, Archer was lucky to survive on 48 when Starc beat the edge and somehow missed the stumps. Archer took a single off Cummins to reach his first test half-century off 97 balls, bringing England's deficit under 100. But the innings ended relatively quickly after Starc bowled Stokes with a delivery from over the wicket that angled back. The Stokes-Archer partnership was the highest ever for the ninth wicket for England at Adelaide. England is capable of chasing a big target in the fourth innings, chasing 370-plus against India twice in the last three years, so Bazball won't be completely dispensed with despite Stokes' stoic first innings.  

A group of unruly people set fire to the building of cultural organisation Chhayanaut in the capital’s Dhanmondi area in the early hours of Friday as violence spread in the country  over the death of Inqilab Moncho spokesperson Sharif Osman Hadi. “The incident took place around 2:15am,” said Khaleda Yasmin, duty officer at the Fire Service and Civil Defence Headquarters control room. She said two firefighting units rushed to the spot and doused the blaze around 3:50am.  No injuries were reported. Witnesses said a group of assailants wearing helmets and face coverings entered the building, damaged valuables and set fire to those both inside and outside the premises. Sharif Osman Bin Hadi, a prominent figure of the July Uprising, convenor of Inqilab Moncho and a prospective candidate for the upcoming 13th national parliamentary election, passed away on Thursday at 9:45pm while receiving treatment at Singapore General Hospital. Hadi was critically injured on December 12 when assailants opened fire on him while he was traveling in a rickshaw near the water tank in Bijoynagar, Dhaka. Two individuals on a motorcycle approached his rickshaw, and one of them shot him at close range before fleeing the scene.

BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Friday strongly condemned the attacks on The Daily Star, Prothom Alo, New Age Editor Nurul Kabir and other media professionals, saying those who carried out such violence are “enemies of Bangladesh”. “While the grieving nation was praying for the soul of martyr Sharif Osman Hadi, shameful attacks were carried out on media organisations, including The Daily Star and Prothom Alo, as well as on respected journalist Nurul Kabir and several others,” he said In a Facebook post early Friday, Fakhrul said Bangladesh is a sovereign and independent country, and the government is responsible for ensuring the safety and security of every citizen. He said those who wait for national crises to take advantage of them are enemies of the country. “They wait for moments of crisis. Today, they turned this tragic moment into an act of destruction. I strongly condemn this act of terror!” The BNP leader also said Hadi was a candidate in the upcoming national election and had gone to people seeking votes. “The election will be held, and a democratic government elected by people will be formed in Bangladesh, InshaAllah.” He said the assailants of Hadi must be brought to justice and every act of mob violence must also be punished. Fakhrul said the country has witnessed various mob attacks for over a year, which have divided the nation. After the fall of the autocratic Awami League regime, he said, the first and foremost responsibility of the interim government is to unite the nation and build a democratic, stable and inclusive society. “We urge all parties to work together responsibly and in unity. The government must take action immediately,” he said.

Protesters demolished the Rajshahi Metropolitan Awami League office in the city using a bulldozer during protests on Thursday night over the death of Sharif Osman Bin Hadi, spokesperson of Inqilab Moncho. The protesters first gathered at Saheb Bazar Zero Point before marching to the Awami League office around 11:30pm under the banner ‘Students Against Hegemony’, witnesses said. They brought out a procession from Joha Chattar in front of Rajshahi University’s administrative building.  Leaders and activists of Rajshahi University Central Students’ Union (RUCSU), Islami Chhatra Shibir and general students participated in the march which paraded through the campus before reaching the city centre. From the rally, speakers demanded exemplary punishment for those responsible for Hadi’s killing and warned of evicting the Indian Assistant High Commission from Rajshahi. RUCSU Vice-President and Rajshahi University Islami Chhatra Shibir President Mostaqur Rahman Zahid reiterated the demand for justice for Hadi. During the demonstration, protesters chanted various slogans against the Awami League and India, witnesses said. Meanwhile, the body of Hadi, who died while undergoing treatment in Singapore, is expected to arrive in Dhaka around 6:05pm on Friday.

Inqilab Moncho on Friday urged people to refrain from any form of violence over the death of its spokesperson Sharif Osman Bin Hadi who died at a Singapore hospital on Thursday a week after a gun attack on him. In a Facebook post, the socio-cultural platform—formed in the wake of the July Revolution in 2024—called on people to hold protest marches in their respective areas demanding the arrest and trial of those responsible for the killing. The platform also sought prayers for the departed soul of Hadi, a prominent figure of the July Uprising, spokesperson of Inqilab Moncho and a prospective candidate for the upcoming 13th national parliamentary election. Meanwhile, Hadi’s body will be brought back to Bangladesh on Friday. A Biman Bangladesh Airlines commercial flight is scheduled to depart Singapore at 3:50pm (local time) and arrive in Dhaka around 6:05pm, according to Inqilab Moncho. The first Namaz-e-Janaza will be held at Angullia Mosque in Singapore at 10:00am on Friday. In Bangladesh, his Janaza will take place on Saturday after Zohr prayers at Manik Mia Avenue in the capital, the platform said.

At least four people, including two police personnel, were injured in a clash between protesters and police outside the Indian Assistant High Commission in Chattogram following death of Sharif Osman bin Hadi, spokesperson of Inqilab Moncho. The protesters gathered outside the mission’s office in the city’s Khulshi area on Thursday night and pelted bricks and vandalised the office premises around 1:00am, said police. When police intervened, a chase and counter-chase ensued between law enforcers and the protesters, said Chattogram Metropolitan Police (CMP) Commissioner Hasib Aziz. The injured were admitted to Chittagong Medical College Hospital, he said. Police detained 12 people from the spot and they would be shown arrested under the Anti-Terrorism Act, the CMP Commissioner added. Meanwhile, a section of the protesters remained in front of Khulshi Police Station until late at night demanding the release of the detainees. Earlier, students and activists under the banner of Inqilab Moncho staged a protest rally at Soloshahar No. 2 Gate, demanding punishment for those involved in Hadi’s killing. Officer-in-Charge of Panchlaish Police Station Md Solaiman said around 200 protesters gathered in Soloshahar and No. 2 Gate areas to protest the killing of Osman Hadi. They later marched toward Mayor Goli and set a motorcycle on fire at the house of former education minister and Awami League leader Mohibul Hasan Chowdhury Naufel, he said.

The body of Sharif Osman bin Hadi, spokesperson of Inqilab Moncho, who died while undergoing treatment in Singapore, will be brought back to Bangladesh on Friday.  In a Facebook post on early Friday, Inqilab Moncho said a Biman Bangladesh Airlines commercial flight is scheduled to depart at 3:50 pm (local time) and is expected to arrive in Dhaka at around 6:05 pm. The first Namaz-e-Janaza of Hadi will be held at Angullia Mosque in Singapore at 10:00 am on Friday. In Bangladesh, his Janaza will take place on Saturday after Zohr prayers at Manik Mia Avenue in the capital, Inqilab Moncho said. Hadi, the fiery face of the July Uprising and a prospective candidate for the upcoming 13th national parliamentary election, passed away on Thursday at 9:45 pm while receiving medical treatment at Singapore General Hospital. Expressing deep sorrow and grief at Hadi’s untimely death, Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus said the loss is irreparable for the country’s political and democratic landscape.“I pray for the eternal peace of his soul and express my deepest condolences to his bereaved wife, family members, relatives and colleagues,” he added. He also called for calm, unity and steadfast progress towards establishing democracy, justice and the rights of the people, without falling into the trap of those seeking to destabilise the country. “This will be our true tribute to martyr Hadi,” he said in a televised address to the nation.Meanwhile, Political parties and leaders, including the BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami have expressed deep condolences over the death of Sharif Osman bin Hadi. Following his death, widespread outrage erupted across the country.  Protesters began gathering in Dhaka’s Shahbagh area on Thursday night after his death was announced. Hadi was critically injured on December 12 when assailants opened fire on him while he was traveling in a rickshaw near the water tank in Bijoynagar, Dhaka.  Two individuals on a motorcycle approached his rickshaw, and one of them shot him at close range before fleeing the scene.