Police recovered the body of a man in the Shahbagh area of Dhaka on Saturday noon. The deceased was identified as  Md. Kalam Hossain, 55. According to Shahbagh police, the man was found unconscious near Gate 3 of Suhrawardy Udyan at around 1:30pm. Narsingdi clash leaves 2 UP members killed    Later, local residents informed the police and took him to the Emergency Department of Dhaka Medical College Hospital around 3:30 PM, where doctors declared him dead. The body has been sent to the hospital morgue for autopsy, said Sub-Inspector Asaduzzaman Jewel of Shahbagh Police Station.

Chief Justice Dr. Syed Refaat Ahmed on Saturday said judicial efficiency is not merely an administrative objective but a moral imperative, emphasising the judiciary’s responsibility to ensure fairness, equity and access to justice for all. “This role is not just a position of leadership; it is a solemn trust entrusted by the people of this nation to uphold to uphold fairness, equity, and ensure access to justice for all, irrespective of their status,” the Chief Justice told a seminar on judicial independence and efficiency at a hotel in the capital. He said the Constitution mandates an independent judiciary but effective separation of the judiciary remains incomplete in the current political reality. Looking forward to next year with hopes for a better Bangladesh: Foreign Secretary Syed Refaat said he unveiled a comprehensive ‘Roadmap for Judicial Reform’ on September 21, 2024 to strengthen the judiciary to serve people with integrity and efficiency. As part of these reforms, the Chief Justice said decisive steps are underway to establish a separate secretariat for the judiciary, ensuring the institutional independence essential for true separation of power. He also proposed the formation of a Judicial Appointment Council to institutionalise transparency and meritocracy in appointing apex court judges. Efforts are also being made to prepare posting and transfer guidelines for district judges to foster fairness and consistency in judicial postings, Dr Refaat added. Regarding the restoration of the Supreme Judicial Council he said, "We have restored and strengthened the Supreme Judicial Council following the disposal of the 16th Amendment review case in reinforcing the judiciary's independence from the legislative branch. This vital move effectively eliminates the provision for Parliament to impeach Supreme Court judges, ensuring that the judiciary remains free from undue political influence." Indian Foreign Secretary arrives Monday for key talks amid strained ties Syed Refaat said that upon his assuming the office he instructed the Supreme Court Registry to adhere to the 12-point directive, which include the maintenance of an unblemished code of conduct, the eradication of corruption, the provision of swift and seamless services, and the assurance of a hassle-free experience for all.  “Judicial independence must be complemented by efficiency. A justice system that is delayed or inaccessible is a justice system denied,” he added.  Dr Refaat said he is aware of the challenges posed by case backlogs, delays, and procedural inefficiencies. The Chief Justice called for the support of development partners to achieve these transformative initiatives. “Developing partners like UNDP can play a pivotal role as a catalyst, facilitating capacity-building programs, technological advancements, and policy development tailored to the judiciary's unique needs.” “I envision a judiciary that operates as a model of accountability, where every litigant, regardless of their status or circumstances, feels assured that their case will be heard and resolved impartially. I envision a judiciary that bridges the gap between the legal system and the people it serves, making justice more accessible through technology, legal aid, and procedural reforms," he mentioned. The seminar started with the welcome address of Resident Representative of UNDP Bangladesh Stefan Lilier. Bangladesh sees no major change in Dhaka-Washington ties with Trump's return In his speech, Stefan said the roadmap for the judiciary initiated by the Chief Justice was a timely initiative. The promotion and protection of human rights and freedom, the efficiency and integrity of judiciary is crucial, he said and hoped that the implementation of Roadmap introduced by the Chief Justice can play an important role in this regard. He said UNDP is ready to provide expertise and the best practice guidelines in this regard. 

Dhaka, the overcrowded capital city of Bangladesh, has ranked the first on the list of cities with the worst air quality with an AQI score of 242 at 9am this morning (December 06, 2024). Today’s air was classified as 'unhealthy’, according to the AQI index. When the AQI value for particle pollution is between 50 and 100, air quality is considered ‘moderate’, usually sensitive individuals should consider limiting prolonged outdoor exertion, 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. Vietnam’s Ho Chi Minh City, Pakistan’s Karachi and Lahore respectively occupied the second, third and fourth spots on the list, with AQI scores of 190, 186 and 186 respectively. 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. Read: Dhaka's air continues to be world's most polluted this morning The AQI in Bangladesh is based on five pollutants: particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), NO2, CO, SO2, and ozone. 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.

Dhaka has again topped the list of cities around the world with the worst air quality this morning (December 05, 2024). With an air quality index (AQI) score of 392 at 9:00 am, Dhaka ranked first in the list of cities with the most polluted air. Dhaka’s air most polluted in the world Wednesday morning An AQI between 151 and 200 is said to be ‘unhealthy’ while 201 and 300 is considered ‘very unhealthy’, and 301 to 400 is considered 'hazardous', posing serious health risks to residents. Mongolia's Ulaanbaatar, India's Kolkata and Pakistan's Lahore occupied the second, third and fourth places with AQI of 229,215 and 206 respectively. In Bangladesh, the AQI is based on five criteria pollutants — Particulate Matter (PM10 and PM2.5), NO2, CO, SO2 and Ozone. Winter settles over Bangladesh: Cooler days and nights ahead Dhaka has long been grappling with air pollution issues. Its air quality usually turns unhealthy in winter and improves during the monsoon. As per the World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution kills an estimated seven million people worldwide every year, largely as a result of increased mortality from stroke, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer and acute respiratory infections.

The Department of Narcotics Control (DNC) has arrested three individuals during anti-drug operations in Dhaka's Gulshan and Paltan areas. The arrestees are Kazi Maruful Islam (26), Md. Ismail Bepari (30), and Sakib Naeem (27). A team of the DNC, led by the Ramna Circle Enforcement Team and Assistant Director Rahul Sen, conducted the raids in Dhaka’s Gulshan and Paltan areas on Wednesday and arrested them, said Shamim Ahmed, deputy director of DNC's Dhaka Metro Office (North). The operation also resulted in the seizure of various drugs and cash. Preliminary interrogation revealed that the drugs were smuggled from Thailand and Canada and were being distributed discreetly through app-based groups, he added. Private institution teachers to get transfer opportunity: Education Adviser The seized items include: Tetrahydrocannabinol-infused kush (1.040 kg), Tetrahydrocannabinol-infused candy (60 grams), Liquid cannabinoids (38 grams), Magic mushrooms (18 grams), Foreign liquor (8.5 liters), Cash from drug sales (Tk 105,000). The narcotics were reportedly sold to affluent young adults in areas like Gulshan and Banani. In addition, a case was filed against the suspects under the Narcotics Control Act, 2018.  

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain on Wednesday said Bangladesh wants good relations with India on a reciprocal basis, hinting that Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) between the two countries might take place a day ahead instead of December 10.        “It is very clear that we want good relations but it should be reciprocal. We need to work to that end,” he told reporters while responding to a question at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Asked about the FOC, Hossain said it may take place one day ahead of the schedule, or it will be held on December 10 in Dhaka. Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri is likely to be in Dhaka on December 9 or 10 accordingly as both Bangladesh and India are preparing for the Foreign Secretary-level meeting. Once finalised, this is going to be the first visit to be paid by a senior Indian government official to Bangladesh since the interim government, led by Nobel laureate Prof Muhammad Yunus, came to power in August 8, a diplomatic source told UNB on Wednesday. Global problem-solving must rely on cooperation, not conflict: Prof Yunus However, there has been no official announcement yet regarding his visit to hold the Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) with Bangladesh Foreign Secretary Md Jashim Uddin. The discussion is likely to cover a range of bilateral issues, including the potential extradition of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who is currently in India and visa issues. At the Foreign Ministry's weekly briefing on November 21, Director General of the Public Diplomacy Wing Toufique Hasan confirmed that an inter-ministerial meeting has already taken place to coordinate preparations for the upcoming talks. India should recognise July uprising, democratic struggle: Mahfuj “There is a scope for discussion on the matter (extradition of Sheikh Hasina),” Hasan said at a weekly media briefing. Sheikh Hasina, who fled Dhaka on August 5 and has been residing in India since then, is facing trial in Bangladesh’s International Crimes Tribunal for alleged involvement in mass killings during the July-August uprising. While the government intends to bring her back, Hasan emphasised that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has not yet received any formal directive to initiate the extradition process. “We will engage with Delhi and begin the formal process in accordance with the existing extradition treaty once we receive the necessary instructions,” he clarified in response to queries. Regarding the review of existing agreements and memorandums of understanding (MoUs) between the two countries, Hasan said that these fall under the jurisdiction of various ministries in Bangladesh.

Dhaka, the overcrowded capital of Bangladesh, has topped the list of cities worldwide with the worst air quality with an AQI score of 259 at 9:00 am on Wednesday. Dhaka’s air was classified as 'very unhealthy', according to the air quality and pollution city ranking. An AQI between 151 and 200 is considered 'unhealthy' while 201-300 is 'very unhealthy', and 301-400 is considered 'hazardous', posing severe health risks to residents. Winter settles over Bangladesh: Cooler days and nights ahead Egypt's Cairo, Iraq's Baghdad and Uganda's Kampala occupied the second, third and fourth spots in the list, with AQI scores of 241, 189 and 187, respectively. 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. Dhaka’s air quality 7th worst this morning Dhaka has long been grappling with air pollution issues. Its air quality usually turns unhealthy in winter and improves during the monsoon.

Dhaka, the overcrowded capital city of Bangladesh, has ranked the 7th on the list of cities with the worst air quality with an AQI score of 184 at 8:55 am Tuesday. Today’s air was classified as 'unhealthy’, according to the AQI index. When the AQI value for particle pollution is between 50 and 100, air quality is considered ‘moderate’, usually sensitive individuals should consider limiting prolonged outdoor exertion, 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. Iraq's Baghdad, India's  Delhi and Pakistan’s Karachi occupied the first, second and third spots respectively on the list, with AQI scores of 246, 244 and 221 respectively. Dhaka's air quality 5th worst in the world this morning 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. 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.

Dhaka, the overcrowded capital city of Bangladesh, has ranked the fifth on the list of cities with the worst air quality with an AQI score of 183 at 9am this morning (December 02, 2024). Today’s air was classified as 'unhealthy’, according to the AQI index. When the AQI value for particle pollution is between 50 and 100, air quality is considered ‘moderate’, usually sensitive individuals should consider limiting prolonged outdoor exertion, 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. India’s Delhi’s, Pakistan’s Lahore and again Pakistan’s Karachi occupied the first, second and third spots respectively on the list, with AQI scores of 260, 241 and 193 respectively. 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. Read: Dhaka’s air quality ‘unhealthy’ this morning 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.

Amid intensified diplomatic tensions between the two neighbours, Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain on Saturday said they expect to establish a good relationship with India accepting the reality in the context of the post-August 5 changed situation. “We want to remain optimistic that we would be able to establish a good relationship with India making sure that both sides’ interests are protected,” he said, flagging issues of water sharing and border killings which remain unaddressed. The Adviser was speaking at a roundtable titled “Bangladesh-India Relations: Expectations, Barriers and Future.” The South Asian Institute of Policy and Governance (SIPG) and the Department of Political Science & Sociology (PSS), North South University hosted the event at the syndicate hall of NSU. Hossain said Bangladesh had some concerns and there are still some concerns that remain unaddressed while the previous government tried its best to address the concerns of India. He believes that India will proceed realising the changed situation but acknowledged that there are barriers which are normal in any relationship. “There is a change in the relations after August 5. This is reality.”    India closely monitoring situation related to minorities in Bangladesh: Jaishankar tells Lok Sabha Talking about water-sharing issues, Hossain said there has been no progress over the Teesta water-sharing treaty. “We would want to see progress there.” Regarding border killings, the adviser said they always spoke strongly about such incidents and he even talked about it face to face with the Indian officials. “This (border killing) is no way acceptable.” Hossain said this is the only border (Bangladesh-India border) in the world where people are shot to death despite the fact that the two countries are not involved in a war. “It’s not seen anywhere in the world." He said India has to fix it and if anyone commits crimes, they can be tried in court. “Why should they be killed?" Hossain said the Indian media dangerously and aggressively engaged against Bangladesh since August 5 and the role they have played is in no way conducive to maintaining a normal relationship between Bangladesh and India. “They (Indian media) know why they are doing this. Here, our media has a role to play,” said the adviser, highlighting the importance of fact-checking and bringing up the facts as well as proper coverage of the foreign ministry statements. India urges Bangladesh to ensure safety of Hindus, other minorities “It’s absolutely your decision (Bangladesh media’s coverage on MoFA statements). I am not saying that you have to do this but I am talking about people’s desire,” Hossain said. The adviser highlighted the importance of national consensus on foreign policy and noted that Bangladesh could not gain much due to lack of national consensus. He said India needs to address Bangladesh's concerns and would help improve the relations between the neighbours. Hossain said Bangladesh also needs to enhance its capacity both domestically and internationally with skilled human resources, and questioned the quality of education in some rural institutions from where many are getting degrees without learning anything. According to him, at least five percent of the GDP should go to the education sector consistently. "Bangladeshis working in the Middle East are paid much less than that of the other countries just because of the lack of adequate skills and English communication ability," he added. The panelists of the roundtable were Barrister Asaduzzaman Fuaad, joint member secretary, AB Party, Saquib Ali, former diplomat, Lt Gen (retd) Mohammad Mahfuzur Rahman, former Principal Staff Officer, Armed Forces Division, Prof Dr Mohammad Abdur Rob, Vice-Chancellor, Manarat International University, and Dr SM Asaduzzaman Ripon, Vice Chairman, Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). The roundtable was chaired by Prof Abdul Hannan Chowdhury, Vice-Chancellor, North South University, and moderated by Dr M Jashim Uddin, Associate Professor, Department of Political Science & Sociology (PSS), North South University.