United News of Bangladesh

Battery-run autorickshaw pullers blocked the Dhaka-Aricha Highway in Savar on Saturday, demanding an end to alleged police harassment and extortion and calling for alternative employment if authorities bar them from operating on the roads. “If the government does not allow us to drive auto-rickshaws, then it should also provide us with jobs so that we can support our families,” several protesters said during the demonstration. Hundreds of drivers gathered at Pakija More around noon and parked their rickshaws across the highway, disrupting traffic for nearly two hours and causing long tailbacks on both sides of the busy route. The protesters alleged that despite restrictions on three-wheelers on highways, many are forced to operate for their livelihoods and are regularly stopped by highway police, who allegedly compel them to pay Tk 2,600 without receipts. Drivers said they often earn only Tk 600 to Tk 700 a day after working long hours in the heat and are forced to borrow money to secure the release of seized vehicles. “We want relief from this harassment. If rickshaws are not allowed on the roads, then the factories producing them should also be shut down, or we should be given alternative employment,” one protester said. The blockade caused severe traffic congestion from Savar Bazar bus stand to Genda and Hemayetpur, leaving passengers stranded in intense heat. Ambulances and emergency vehicles were also caught in the gridlock. Around 1:45pm, the protesters withdrew the blockade after Savar Model Police Station Inspector (Operations) Helal Uddin assured them that the issue would be discussed with highway police authorities. Responding to the allegations, Officer-in-Charge Sheikh Shahjahan of Savar Highway Police Station denied claims of extortion, saying police were enforcing existing laws that prohibit the movement of three-wheelers, CNG-run vehicles and e-bikes on highways. He said the Tk 2,600 collected was part of the legal process for releasing seized vehicles, including a Tk 2,500 fine and a Tk 100 bank charge under Section 39 of the law.

The government will continue to support cable operators, internet service providers (ISPs) and broadcasting-related institutions that play a significant role in creating employment and supporting the livelihoods of millions of people across the country, said Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology, and Science and Technology Adviser Faqir Mahbub Anam. He said ensuring the sustainability of this sector and modernising it in line with emerging technological developments remain important responsibilities of the government. The adviser made the remarks while addressing the closing ceremony of the International Cable TV, Broadcasting and Communication (ICBC) Expo 2026 as the chief guest at the International Convention City Bashundhara on Saturday. He said Bangladesh’s cable television, broadcasting and telecommunications sectors are entering a new era amid rapid technological transformation. According to him, the expansion of smart technologies, fibre-optic networks, IPTV services and digital content management systems has turned the sector into a major driving force for national development, job creation and the country’s ICT-based economy. Faqir Mahbub Anam said the government is giving top priority to infrastructure development, policy support, skilled human resource development and technological innovation to modernise the sector. He acknowledged the long-standing contribution of cable operators in strengthening the country’s information and entertainment industry and assured continued government support. The adviser also stressed the ethical use of technology, protection of customer data privacy and the need to ensure quality services. He called for stronger international partnerships and encouraged the development of high-quality local content. The three-day expo, which began on May 7, concluded on Saturday. A total of 67 local and international companies showcased their latest cable television, broadcasting and communication technologies and services at the event. The programme was chaired by ABM Saiful Hossain Sohel, President of the Cable Operators Association of Bangladesh (COAB). Among others present were Md. Shafiqul Islam Khan, Administrator of Dhaka North City Corporation; Md. Abdus Salam, Administrator of Dhaka South City Corporation; ATCO General Secretary and Chairman of Ekushey Television Abdus Salam; and COAB leaders and members, said PID handout. Following the closing ceremony, the Minister visited various stalls at the expo.  

Chief Whip Md Nurul Islam on Saturday said the poetry of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore has long served as a source of inspiration for the people of Bangladesh, including during their struggle against autocracy. Speaking at a programme marking the 165th birth anniversary of Tagore at the National Theatre Hall of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy in the capital, he said people of the country fought for 17 years, drawing strength from the poet’s words and ideals. “The people of Bangladesh loved the hard truth and endured a long struggle. That struggle did not betray them; rather, it brought them a new dawn,” he said, quoting Tagore’s famous line: “Truth is hard, but I have loved the hard, and it never deceives.” The four-day event has been organised by Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy with support from the Ministry of Cultural Affairs. Nurul Islam said Tagore’s writings remain deeply relevant to Bangladesh’s national life and social movements. Referring to Tagore’s poem “Ore Nobin, Ore Amar Kancha”, he said the poet always believed in the power of youth to break social stagnation and lead society forward. “During our Liberation War too, Tagore’s poems and songs inspired our people,” he added. The Chief Whip described Tagore as a versatile literary figure who enriched Bengali literature, music and culture through poetry, songs, novels and acting. He said Rabindra Sangeet carries a unique appeal that remains closely linked to the growth of Bengali language, culture and education. Calling on the younger generation to read Tagore’s works, he urged them to contribute to building a culturally enriched and progressive Bangladesh. He also expressed concern over the growing influence of “distorted and foreign cultures” and stressed the need to create a society free from drugs, evil forces and autocracy. At the beginning of the programme, the Chief Whip was presented with a commemorative crest and honoured with a traditional shawl. Among others, Director General of Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy Rezauddin Stalin, officials of the Ministry of Cultural Affairs and media personnel were present at the event.

Speakers at a discussion on Saturday emphasized an urgent shift toward imported Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), solar power, and energy-efficient technologies to sustain industries and employment as domestic gas production declines by 100 MMCF per year. They made the remarks at a roundtable discussion titled ‘The Future of Energy in Bangladesh,’ organized by Bangladesh Chamber of Industries (BCI) on Saturday (May 9) at its Motijheel office. The event was held in collaboration with Bangladesh Sustainable and Renewable Energy Association (BSREA) and the Greentech Foundation. “The era of cheap labor and inexpensive gas, once the primary drivers of Bangladesh’s industrial growth, has come to an end. With domestic gas production declining at a rate of 100 MMCF (million cubic feet) per year, an urgent shift toward imported LNG, solar power, and energy-efficient technologies is needed,” they opined. Speaking as the chief guest, Dr. Hossain Zillur Rahman, Executive Chairman of the Power and Participation Research Centre (PPRC) and former advisor to the caretaker government, emphasized the need to move beyond traditional thinking to ensure energy security. "We must embrace innovative ideas, particularly land-based FSRUs (Floating Storage and Regasification Units) and the use of energy-efficient machinery," Dr. Rahman said. He further identified a lack of coordination as a major hurdle and proposed the formation of a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Monitoring Cell to observe and manage the energy situation effectively. BCI President Anwar-ul Alam Chowdhury Parvez highlighted that since 2022, the advantage of low-cost energy has vanished. He stressed that energy remains the most critical factor for maintaining industrial operations and creating jobs. "Neither the businesses nor the government wants industries to shut down," Parvez noted. He urged stakeholders to present specific technical proposals to the government to find a sustainable path out of the current crisis. The keynote paper was presented by Shafiqul Alam, Lead Analyst at the Institute for Energy Economics. The discussion also featured insights from: David Hasanat, President of the Bangladesh Independent Power Producers Association (BIPPA), Enamul Haque Khan, Senior Vice President of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), Mostafa Al Mahmud, President of BSREA, among others, spoke in the event. The speakers collectively agreed that a collaborative approach between the government and the private sector is essential to implement sustainable energy solutions and protect the nation's economic backbone.

Speakers at a discussion organised by Quantum Foundation on Friday highlighted the extraordinary life, scientific contributions and enduring legacy of renowned ornithologist Dr Salim Ali, widely known as the “Birdman of India.” The event, titled “Renowned Ornithologist of the Subcontinent Dr Salim Ali: Life and Works,” featured reflections from wildlife researchers, conservationists and bird experts on the life and influence of the legendary naturalist. Among the speakers were Prof Dr Md Anwarul Islam, wildlife and biodiversity researcher, former professor of Dhaka University and Jahangirnagar University, and Chief Executive Officer of WildTeam, and Enam Ul Haque, adventurer, bird researcher, writer, founder of Bangladesh Bird Club and chairman of WildTeam. Prof Anwarul Islam described Dr Salim Ali as a towering figure in ornithology whose influence shaped generations of bird researchers across South Asia. He recalled his long-held dream of meeting Dr Ali and shared how he narrowly missed seeing him during the ornithologist’s visit to Bangladesh in 1980 due to an overwhelming crowd. Later, through his teacher Dr Ali Reza Khan—the first Bangladeshi student of Dr Salim Ali—he got the opportunity to work directly under the legendary ornithologist. Prof Anwar recounted his journey by train to meet Dr Ali, saying a three-hour delay had felt like “agony” because of his eagerness to meet the scientist. Upon arrival, Dr Ali assigned him to study specific bird species in the Himalayas and South India and instructed him to conduct detailed observations of bird behaviour throughout the day. “He told me to spend one hour and one minute observing birds carefully, noting where they stayed in the morning, noon and evening,” he said. Following those instructions, Prof Anwar said he spent countless hours in forests and natural habitats, often under harsh conditions, building makeshift hides to observe birds closely. He documented nesting behaviour, feeding patterns and roosting habits, describing the experience as a transformative period that deepened his connection with nature and scientific research. He also recalled how Dr Ali insisted on strict discipline, requiring reports to be submitted by the seventh day of every month and refusing to tolerate delays.  

A member of the United People's Democratic Front (UPDF of Prasit Bikash Khisa) was shot dead by unidentified armed men in the remote Shuknachhara area of Sajek Union in Baghaichhari upazila of Rangamati early Saturday. The deceased was identified as Hegera Chakma 50. According to local sources, the incident took place around 6:50 am on the Marishya-Dighinala road when several armed men opened fire on him. He died on the spot. Locals said Hegera was known as a collector for the UPDF-Prasit group in the area. Superintendent of Police Muhammad Abdur Rakib said police and army personnel were heading to the spot and details would be known after they reached the remote area. In protest against the killing, the UPDF-Prasit group announced a half-day road blockade on the Dighinala-Sajek-Baghaichhari road on Monday. The programme was announced at a protest rally at Ujo Bazar in Sajek on Saturday noon, where leaders demanded immediate arrest and punishment of those responsible.

The body of Bangladeshi worker Murad Sheikh, 34, who was killed in a road accident in Jubail area of Dammam city in Saudi Arabia, arrived in the country on Saturday morning, 15 days after his death. The body reached his village home at Daraper Dangi in Uzanchar union of Goalanda upazila in Rajbari around 9:15am. Earlier, the flight carrying his body landed at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at around 4:30am. His elder brother Golam Mostafa received the body at the airport around 6:00am and later departed for the village home. The funeral prayer was held at Dudukhankandi Hafizia Madrasa field at 11:00am, after which he was buried at a local graveyard. According to family sources, Murad died on April 23 at around 4:30pm while returning from work. His microbus had broken down in the Jubail area of Dammam, and he was hit by a speeding vehicle while attempting to cross the road. He died on the spot. His body was later kept at the morgue of a general hospital in Dammam. Murad, son of Abdul Khaleq of Daraper Dangi village, had gone to Saudi Arabia about 14 months ago in search of better livelihood opportunities. His wife Anjuara Khatun, said Murad had planned to return home soon after completing his work permit process. “He used to say our younger daughter is like my mother, take care of him,” she said in tears. Murad is survived by his wife, a 10-month-old son and two daughters aged 13 and 6. Relatives said the children have now become orphaned. Murad’s younger brother Kausar Hossain, a Kuwait expatriate, said Murad had previously worked locally in a private organisation but went to Saudi Arabia through his brother-in-law due to financial hardship. He added that the employer did not provide any assistance after his death. Murad’s elder brother Golam Mostafa said the family has lost its sole earning member. “If government or private assistance is provided, it would help ensure the future of his three children,” he added.

Industries and Commerce Minister Khandakar Abdul Muktadir on Saturday said the current government is determined to reopen the closed state-owned sugar mills. “But in this (reopening) process, decisions will be made with utmost importance to the factors – the interests of sugarcane farmers and workers, and the long-term profitable operation of the mills,” he said. The minister made the remarks while addressing a view-exchange meeting with sugarcane farmers, arranged by Panchagarh Sugar Mills Limited in Panchagarh, said a PID handout. He said the mills are assets of the people of Bangladesh. "So, it is the responsibility of the government to ensure effective operation of the mills," he said. “We want closed industrial mills and factories to return to production, create jobs, and bring new momentum to the local economy,” Muktadir added. He said several sugar mills are now out of production, while many operational ones are facing various limitations. The minister pointed out that most of these mills are 50 to 70 years old, making effective revival difficult without modernisation, renovation, and the integration of new technology. He said some sugar mills would need to be restarted by installing new machinery, others require structural reforms, and even in the case of some mills, alternative plans must be considered. “However, in all cases, the interests of sugarcane farmers, employment for workers, and profitable management will be ensured,” Muktadir said. He said the reopening of the closed mills is crucial for the country’s overall economic activity and poverty reduction. Panchagarh Sugar Mills Limited was established between 1966 and 1969 with a daily crushing capacity of 1,016 metric tons. It had gone into final production in the 1969-70 fiscal year and currently operates under the BSFIC. Barrister Nawshad Zamir, MP for Panchagarh-1, and Industries Secretary Obaidur Rahman also spoke at the event presided over by Chairman of the Bangladesh Sugar and Food Industries Corporation (BSFIC) Jahangir Alam.

Education Minister Dr ANM Ehsanul Hoque Milon on Saturday said a plan has been adopted to gradually allocate 5 percent of the country’s GDP to the education sector. He made the statement, while speaking as the chief guest at the China-Bangladesh Education Cooperation Forum-2026, organised by the Chinese Embassy in Dhaka and the China-Bangladesh Education and Cultural Exchange Association at the International Mother Language Institute in the city. The minister said there is no alternative to improving the education sector in a bid to sustain the country’s development. Putting emphasis on modernisation of the education system, he said the current government has given the highest priority to the education sector. “Initiatives are being taken to revise the syllabus, curriculum, and academic calendar to improve the quality of education,” he added. Milon said improving the quality of teachers is essential for enhancing the standard of education. To this end, Bangladesh and China have jointly undertaken initiatives to provide training for general and technical education teachers, he said. He further said Bangladesh wants to further strengthen its relations with China, and education will act as the key foundation. The minister also said students are the future leaders and so, they must be developed as worthy citizens to take on the country’s leadership. At the event, several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) were signed between various institutions of Bangladesh and China to enhance cooperation in the education sector. After the event, an exhibition on education and technology was inaugurated. Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen chaired the event, while Prime Minister’s Adviser on Education and Primary & Mass Education, Mahdi Amin, Secretary of the Secondary and Higher Education Division Abdul Khaleque and Chairman of the University Grants Commission (UGC) Dr Mamun Ahmed, Vice-Chancellor of Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology (BUET) Prof Abu Borhan Mohammad Badruzzaman and Director General of the Directorate of Secondary and Higher Education Prof Khan Moinuddin Al Mahmud Sohel, among others, were present, said a PID handout.

Police Week 2026 will begin on Sunday under the theme, “Amar Police, Amar Desh, Sobar Age Bangladesh.” The annual event will be held from May 10 to 13, with the opening ceremony featuring the annual police parade at the Rajarbagh Police Lines in the capital. Prime Minister Tarique Rahman will inspect the parade, receive the salute and deliver a speech to members of the force. On the occasion, President Mohammed Shahabuddin, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, Home Minister Salahuddin Ahmed, Senior Secretary of the Ministry of Home Affairs Manjur Morshed Chowdhury and Inspector General of Police (IGP) Md Ali Hossain Fakir issued separate messages. In his message, the President said the country's stability, good governance and development largely depend on the integrity, professionalism and discipline of the police force. He said police members must be equipped with advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, data analytics, CCTV surveillance and digital forensics, to tackle increasingly complex crimes such as cybercrime, financial fraud, militancy, drug trafficking and human trafficking. In his message, the Prime Minister said restoring public confidence in the police and improving the law-and-order situation are among the government's top priorities. He said police must play a more effective role in preventing mob violence, juvenile gangs and the spread of narcotics. The Home Minister said every police member should become a symbol of service and trust and ensure that victims receive proper legal support, while innocent people are not harassed. The Senior Secretary said Bangladesh Police has been playing a commendable role with dedication, professionalism and sacrifice in maintaining law and order and ensuring public safety. The IGP said the force is committed to making policing more people-friendly, dynamic and accountable through increased technological capacity and modernisation. The annual parade will be led by Deputy Commissioner of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police Hasan Mohammad Naser Rikabdar. At the ceremony, Bangladesh Police Medal (BPM), President Police Medal (PPM), BPM-Service and PPM-Service will be awarded to police personnel in recognition of gallantry, bravery, professionalism and distinguished service in 2025. The Prime Minister will hand over the medals. Ministers, lawmakers, diplomats, senior police officials, metropolitan police commissioners, range deputy inspectors general and district superintendents of police will attend the parade. Other key events during the week include the Prime Minister's visit to the stall of the Bangladesh Police Women Welfare Association, welfare parade, IG's Badge, shield parade, awards for arms and drug seizures and conferences with police officers. During the working sessions, police officials will review activities of the past year and set priorities for the coming year. Police Week 2026 will conclude on May 13.