United News of Bangladesh

No police officer with a controversial background will be assigned to leadership roles in the upcoming national election, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Baharul Alam said on Saturday (November 15). “Although the list of controversial officers has not been prepared yet, SPs and DIGs of the respective districts are in the process of identifying them,” he told reporters at a press briefing at the Khulna Metropolitan Police (KMP) lines. Earlier, the IGP attended an internal training programme aimed at preparing police personnel to conduct the next election in a fair and peaceful manner. He said people across the country are eagerly waiting to cast their votes, while the current interim government is committed to ensuring a free, impartial and credible election. Read more: Over 48,000 police officers complete election training: Police HQ Referring to controversies surrounding the last three national elections, the IGP said the police are undergoing extensive training to ensure that past mistakes are not repeated. “Some members of Bangladesh Police deviated from their duties or were compelled to make mistakes in the last three elections. This time, the training is focused on correcting those mistakes. Our members are motivated to help deliver a successful election.” He mentioned that the previous elections in 2014, 2018 and 2024 had drawn various forms of criticism. “Unfortunately, we were also subjected to that criticism because we were involved. We made mistakes—or were forced to make them. This time, we aim to avoid all bad practices, malpractices and biases, and fulfill the interim government’s promise of holding the most credible election.” On the issue of countering terrorism, the IGP said, they do not want to suppress terrorism through crossfire. “We want to maintain the rule of law by ensuring criminals are brought before the court. Every individual in society is a source of our strength. Policing cannot succeed through police efforts alone,” he added. Addressing concerns over cyber threats in the upcoming election, he admitted that law enforcement remains vulnerable. “Some people are making anything viral on social media using AI in the name of freedom of expression. We first inform the BTRC, which then notifies Meta. Sometimes Meta removes about 40 percent of such content, but not all. The police have limitations in this area.” Khulna Metropolitan Police Commissioner Zulfiqar Ali Haider, Khulna Range DIG Md. Rezaul Karim, and senior officials from various units of the Khulna Division Police were present at the event. Read more: Effective election management foundation of credible democracy: CEC

Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) AMM Nasir Uddin has highlighted the importance of building institutional readiness, stressing that effective election management is the foundation of a credible democracy. The EC, with support from the United Nations, has launched a nationwide series of regional trainings aimed at strengthening the capacity of election officials in preparation for the upcoming national elections. “Through these training programmes, we are building not only skills but also the confidence and commitment needed to ensure free, fair and transparent elections,” said the CEC. He said this training marks a milestone in our preparation for the upcoming elections. “The practical modules will enable our officials to replicate lessons across the country, enhancing capacity and confidence at every level.” Next election to determine Bangladesh’s future direction: CEC The first of 10 three-day regional trainings concluded on November 7 in Dhaka, bringing together election officials from the region for hands-on sessions focused on crisis management, cybersecurity, gender equality, human rights and media and elections, said UNDP on Sunday. Senior Secretary of the Election Commission Akhtar Ahmed and Head of Office and Representative of UNESCO Dr Susan Vize, UN Women Representative Gitanjali Singh, UNDP Resident Representative, Sonali Dayaratne, were present. The training is part of the UN Electoral Assistance BALLOT and DRIP projects, implemented jointly with UNDP, UN Women and UNESCO. The nationwide training series will continue in nine other regions over the next several weeks, reaching hundreds of EC officials. The initiative, UNDP said, reflects the Election Commission’s strong commitment to professionalism, inclusion, and transparency in the electoral process, ensuring that every vote counts and every voice matters. BNP to meet CEC Thursday to raise concerns over EC’s neutrality

With the national election around the corner in Bangladesh, 48,134 police officers have completed important training to safeguard voters and polling stations. A 'Training of Trainers' course was held from August 31 to September 2 as part of the programme, said sources at the Police Headquarters. The Inspector General of Police (IGP) of Bangladesh Police has issued special instructions to all unit heads to ensure close supervision of the ongoing election training programme. On November 2, the IGP visited Rajshahi and Bogura to review the election training sessions in the field. Bangladesh Police have taken all necessary preparations to ensure that the upcoming national parliamentary election is conducted in a free, fair, impartial, and festive environment. Read more: EC seeks round-the-clock police deployment for Nirbachan Bhaban ahead of election Earlier, Home Affairs Adviser Lieutenant General (Retd.) Md Jahangir Alam Chowdhury on September 7 inaugurated the training programme at the Bangladesh Police Auditorium in Rajarbagh Police Lines. The ongoing election training will continue until mid-January. This is the first time such training has been organised for police personnel ahead of a national election. Around 1,50,000 police personnel are expected to serve on the ground during the upcoming parliamentary election. Read more: Ex-Northern Ireland Police Ombudsman Nuala to visit Bangladesh Nov 5-7

Chief Election Commissioner AMM Nasir Uddin on Monday (3rd November 2025) said the country’s transition from the current critical time depends on the next parliamentary election. “Bangladesh now stands at a very critical moment. Which direction we will move towards as a nation and as a country and how we will walk along the path of democracy -- these things depend on the next election,” he said after inspecting a training programme of Ansar-VDP members in the city’s Bhatara area. The programme was held as part of a nationwide mock drill on polling centre security for the upcoming national election and the 4th phase of the 2025–26 basic training for Ansar members. Nasir Uddin said he is not only the Chief Election Commissioner, but also a citizen of Bangladesh. “As a citizen of Bangladesh, I also have a responsibility. What or what kind of Bangladesh we should leave for the future or in what position we should keep Bangladesh -- these thoughts keep me thinking all the time,” he said. Read more: Working seriously to fight abuse of AI, social media during election: CEC Describing the mock drill as a ‘comforting’ sign for polling centre security, the CEC called upon the Ansar and VDP members to utilise their extensive grassroots network to counter misinformation and propaganda during the election. Terming the ongoing training an ‘investment’, he said, “The Ansar-VDP force will carry one of the biggest responsibilities in the coming election. Training is an investment — the more they train, the more confident and efficient they will become in performing their duties.” The CEC warned that artificial intelligence (AI) can be used to spread false information on social media. “Do not share anything without verifying it. Ansar members can play a crucial role in raising this awareness at the grassroots level,” he said. Highlighting new voting facilities, Nasir Uddin said this time even polling officials and staff engaged in election duties will be able to cast their votes. Read more: EC making strong progress to ensure free elections: CEC “To make this possible, the EC will launch a ‘Postal Voting App’ on November 16, through which officials on duty can register to vote via postal ballot,” he said. The CEC also said the Commission is taking a special step to ensure voting rights for expatriate Bangladeshis and citizens under legal custody (detainees in jails). He expressed the hope that trained Ansar-VDP members would perform their duties with responsibility and play a vital role in the country’s journey towards democracy. Ansar and VDP Director General Major General Abdul Motaleb Sazzad Mahmud also spoke at the function. Read more: Bangladesh voter count hits 12.76 crore

With the rising incidents of violence against young girls to aged women, learning self-defense has become essential. Dhaka hosts several martial arts training centers where girls and women can learn practical techniques of judo, karate, kung fu, etc. These disciplines are effectively aligned with real-life self-defense scenarios. Let’s take a closer look at the leading institutes that provide a supportive environment for women to learn essential safety skills. Top 10 Martial Arts Training Centers for Women in Dhaka . KO Fight Studio The Bangladesh branch of the world-renowned Karate Organization, ShinKyokushinKai, operates under the name of this institute. The training center prioritizes mastering the Japanese Kyokushin Karate style. Shihan Abdullah Mohammad Hossain, a 4th Dan black belt (4th degree black belt holder), is the organization’s executive director and head instructor. KO Fight Studio’s curriculum includes master striking, escape techniques, and de-escalation skills, all of which are crucial for real-life situations. The sessions span a minimum of 8 weeks, consisting of 16 classes, each lasting 2 hours. The admission fee is BDT 2,000, with a monthly fee of BDT 4,000. Address: Level-4, Building No. 19-20, Road-113/A, Gulshan (next to Shahabuddin Medical) Contact Link: https://www.facebook.com/KOFSDhaka/ Read more: Martial Arts Belts: Everything You Need to Know About Their Color and Significance Chinese Kung Fu and Wushu School This school focuses on the traditional Chinese martial arts of Wushu and Kung Fu, with an emphasis on modern adaptations such as Sanda, Taolu, and Wing Chun. The school was founded by Master Abdullah Al Monsur, a highly skilled martial artist. Chinese Kung Fu and Wushu School offers training in striking, grappling, weaponry, and hybrid martial arts. Students are taught techniques from boxing, karate, Muay Thai, Kenpo, judo, Aikido, Sumo, and wrestling, alongside weapons training in Kendo, fencing, and Iaido. The courses emphasize physical strength, mental health, focus, and discipline. An online option for Kung Fu classes is also available for students participating from home. Main Branches: Bhaban-58, Road-5, Block-F, Aftabnagar, Badda. Additional branches are located in Dhanmondi, Gulshan, Banani, Bashundhara, and Uttara. Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/wushubd Sobhan Karate Academy Catering to trainees aged 5 to 65, this academy boasts a membership where over 80% are women. The training features the globally recognized Shotokan Karate style. The admission fee is BDT 5,000 for all, while the monthly fee is BDT 3,000 for students and BDT 4,000 for professionals. Sobhan Karate Academy features a specialized 9-month defensive tactics course, which costs BDT 40,000, including the admission fee. The initial month’s fee is BDT 10,000 for students and BDT 11,000 for professionals. Address: Russian Cultural Center, House No. 510, Road 7, Dhanmondi Website Link: https://www.sobhankarateacademy.com/ Read more: Best Martial Arts for Women: Know the purposes, risks, requirements Martial Art BD This training institute is led by internationally certified experts, including Sensei Nazmun Sahadath. He is a 4th Dan and national karate judge affiliated with the Bangladesh Karate Federation. Martial Art BD offers programs in general karate and bodybuilding, promoting long-term health. Updated details about course schedules and fees are available on its website. Website Link: https://martialartbd.com/ Address: 15/G Jigatola, Dhanmondi, (Sundarban Courier Building). Additional branches are located in Lalmatia and Shonir Akhra. HORDE MMA & Martial Arts Academy Founded by 4th Dan Black Belt holder Sensei Kim Yanez, HORDE MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) & Martial Arts Academy specializes in combining karate with kickboxing. It incorporates the world-famous No-Gi Submission Grappling technique to overcome the opponent. Classes are offered from 9 AM to 8 PM, and course details can be obtained through their Facebook page. Link: https://www.facebook.com/HordeMMA/Main Branch Address: House-34, Sonarganj Janpath, Sector-11, Uttara, (Opposite Zamzam Tower) Read more: Best Martial Arts For Fitness Martial Arts Stars Academy Established in 1992, Martial Arts Stars Academy focuses on Judo, Karate, and Jiu-Jitsu, with defensive weapons training as part of the curriculum. Head coach Shamsher Alam, a national referee, is affiliated with both the Bangladesh Judo and Karate Federations. Trainings are conducted in two batches: one starting at 6 AM and the other at 4:30 PM. Address: Bari-13, Road-14, Block-D, Section-6, Mirpur. Practice Venue: Shaheed Suhrawardi Indoor Stadium, Mirpur. Visit their Facebook page for further information on course fees. Page Link: https://www.facebook.com/p/Martial-Arts-Stars-Academy-100062993752856/ Jacky Martial Art Academy The institute was initiated in 1990 by Kamal Uddin Jacky. A gold medalist from Korea and extensively trained in Japan, Jacky is now a 7th Dan Black Belt Athlete. Jacky Martial Art Academy is renowned for its black belt course lasting two years. The curriculum includes karate, kung fu, judo, taekwondo, chain stick, and long stick training. The monthly fee for the course is BDT 1,000. Additionally, a separate batch for girls is available on Fridays and Saturdays from 10 AM to 12 Noon. Address: Chandan Kotha Center, Shahid Faruk Road, Nabi Nagar, West Jatrabari, Dhaka Contact Link: https://www.facebook.com/JackyMartialArtAkademy Read more: Best Free Personal Safety Android, iOS Apps for Women Bangladesh Wadokai Karate Do Founded in 1999, Bangladesh Wadokai Karate Do is a prestigious karate school in the country. The head coach is sensei Abdul Shukkur Ali Shikder. The school has a branch in Gulistan and multiple locations across Rampura and Banasree. Training at the National Sports Council Building in Gulistan is held from 7 AM to 9 AM. On the contrary, classes at the Rampura and Banasree branches are typically conducted from afternoon to evening. More details on the curriculum, admission, and course fees are available on their official Facebook page. Link: https://www.facebook.com/bangladeshwadokaikaratedo Contact Address: 377/1, East Rampura, D.I.T Road, Rampura. Royal Taekwondo Dojang Bangladesh The Korean defensive combat style Chang Moo Kwan Taekwondo is widely appreciated all over the world. Royal Taekwondo Dojang Bangladesh serves as the official representative of this discipline in the country. The institute conducts training programs five days a week, from 4 PM to 7 PM (except Friday and Saturday). Comprehensive details on admission and courses are accessible through their official Facebook page. Page link: https://www.facebook.com/royaltkdbangladesh Address: House No. 77/B, 7A Dhanmondi. Read more: 7 Types of Strength Training And Their Benefits Shotokan Karate Bangladesh Originating in Japan, Shotokan is one of the world-famous styles of self-defense. It is also widely practiced in karate clubs in Bangladesh. Approved by the National Karate Federation, Shotokan Karate Bangladesh proudly carries the spirit of Shotokan. The center offers courses on Fridays, Saturdays, and Mondays. Morning classes are from 8 AM to 9:30 AM, and afternoon classes are held from 4 PM to 5:30 PM. Course fees and other relevant details can be found on their Facebook page. Link: https://www.facebook.com/shotokankaratebangladeshAddress: 8/C, West Chowdhury Para, Dhaka. Summing Up These self-defense training institutes in Dhaka, dedicated to empowering women, present a unique approach tailored to their distinct martial arts styles. KO Fight Studio, Sobhan Karate Academy, Bangladesh Wadokai Karate Do, and Shotokan Karate Bangladesh emphasize traditional karate training. Chinese Kung Fu & Wushu School preserves the essence of Wushu, while Royal Taekwondo Dojang Bangladesh is dedicated to Taekwondo. Horde MMA & Martial Arts Academy blends karate with kickboxing, whereas Martial Arts Stars Academy integrates judo and karate. Jacky Martial Art Academy provides a well-rounded approach, incorporating multiple disciplines. Martial Art BD combines personal protection techniques with bodybuilding programs. Beyond physical strength, these institutes foster mental resilience, making self-security a holistic practice for women. Read more: Homemade Pepper Spray for Self-Defense: Ingredients, process, efficiency, precautions

Twelve Vietnamese soldiers tragically lost their lives in an accidental explosion during a military training exercise in Dong Nai province, southern Vietnam, on Monday night. According to state media, the incident occurred at a shooting range of the 7th Military Region. The soldiers were reportedly transporting explosives when a lightning strike during a severe storm triggered an electronic detonator, leading to the fatal explosion. Read: Fireworks explosion at Indian temple injures over 150 people A local military newspaper reported that most of the bodies have been recovered, but authorities are continuing the search for any missing personnel. An urgent investigation into the incident has been initiated by the Ministry of Defence, as confirmed by the Vietnam News Agency. The tragedy unfolded just a day after Defence Minister Phan Van Giang had delivered a speech inaugurating the combat exercise, according to the state-run Nhan Dan newspaper. Source: With inputs from agencies

The United States Secret Service will train the officials of six Bangladeshi agencies to enhance their ability to tackle money laundering and terror financing. Around 60 officials of the Bangladesh Financial Intelligence Unit (BFIU), four units of Bangladesh Police including the Criminal Investigation Department, the National Board of Revenue (NBR), the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), the Department of Narcotics Control, and Bangladesh Securities and Exchange Commission (BSEC) will get the trainings in two phases. Among them, 20 officials of BFIU will take part in the training. A delegation of the American Secret Service will come to Bangladesh soon to conduct the training. In the first phase, a five-day training programme will begin at the Police Staff College in the capital from November 10, followed by another five-day training session from November 17. Another two sets of follow-up training for the second phase will begin respectively on February 2 and February 9 next year. After the political changeover, all agencies responsible for tackling money laundering have become active.

Training on 'Quality control, quality assurance system and lab test procedures for salt iodization' for the officials of Bangladesh Small and Cottage Industries Corporation (BSCIC) is going at Cox`s Bazar. The training started on Friday (February 16, 2024) will end on Tuesday in two phrases. Read more: Industries Minister invites SMEs to invest in BSCIC facilities This training was jointly organized by Salt cell, BSCIC and Institute of Food Science and Technology (IFST) of Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (BCSIR). Chairman of Sanjay Kumar Bhowmik inaugurated the training. Habibur Rahman Bhuiyan director of IFST, BCSIR presided over this training while Akil Ranjan Tarofder, GM of Extension division in BSCIC, Sarawor Hossain AGM of Extension division and Head of Salt Cell, BSCIC and , officials of IFST, BCSIR and Nutrition International were present. Read more: 12 types of salt used in cooking, baking and seasoning

The American Council of Exercise outlines seven diverse forms of strength training, each catering to distinct functional applications. While each type enhances physical fitness, athletic abilities, or overall well-being, their stark differences explain why a track runner and a bodybuilder, both labeled "strong" and "fit," frequently exhibit contrasting appearances and training routines. What is Strength Training? Strength training, also called weight or resistance training, involves doing exercises to get stronger and last longer. It's not just about lifting weights; you can use your body weight or try different exercises like isometrics and plyometrics. The goal is to make your muscles stronger over time.  Strength training is mainly a type of exercise that doesn't require a lot of air, but some forms like circuit training also get your heart pumping. It helps make your muscles, tendons, and bones stronger, boosts metabolism, and reduces the chance of getting hurt. Athletes and older people can benefit from it to improve their joints, hearts, and lower their injury risk. Many sports and activities include strength training in their practice to make people better at what they do. Read more: How Does Physical Activity and Exercise Affect Testosterone Levels? Benefits and Risks of Different Types of Strength Training  Agile Strength Training Agile Strength Training is a fitness approach that blends traditional strength exercises with practical movements for daily activities. It emphasizes adaptability and flexibility, incorporating dynamic workouts like weightlifting, bodyweight exercises, and flexibility drills. The primary goal is to enhance overall strength, flexibility, and agility, adapting to individual needs and progress. Benefits of Agile Strength Training This approach improves overall strength, flexibility, and the ability to move with precision in different directions. It's valuable for daily tasks, promoting quick and controlled responses to your surroundings, ultimately aiding injury prevention. Read more: Why You Should Try Walking Backwards

Bangladesh's Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment Minister Imran Ahmad on Sunday (June 11, 2023) said currently there is no market for unskilled labourers abroad but demand for skilled manpower has increased. He said this while addressing as the chief guest at the inaugural programme of newly built Technical Training Centre (TTC) in Raninagar upazila of Naogaon on Sunday. The minister said Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has taken an initiative to set up TTCs across the country to create employment opportunities and earn foreign currencies through developing skills of people. Also Read: Italy to take skilled workers from Bangladesh, contain illegal migration He said the government has also taken measures to send skilled farmers abroad but the farmers must have certificates on their skills. As per the directive of the prime minister, such training centres are being set up and the government has a plan to establish training centres in each upazila in phases for people’s skill development, he said. The minister said the training centres will have to be taken to a stage so that trained workers can be sent abroad immediately after they get training. Also Read: Malaysia and Bangladesh discuss expansion of labour market and worker safety A total of 880 people will be able to take six-month long training on 6 trades at the Raninagar’s TTC built at the cost of Tk 34.71 crore. Chaired by Bureau of Manpower Employment and Training General Director Md Shahidul Alam, local lawmaker Md Anowar Hossain Helal, Project Director Saiful Haque Chowdhury and additional deputy commissioner Md Zakir Hossain, among others were present. Also Read: 14 dead as truck collides with pickup van carrying construction workers in Sylhet