A 17-year-old college student, Noor Hossain, was stabbed to death allegedly over a football match in Jashore town last night. After an altercation between two groups during the match, the accused forcibly took Noor to a house and stabbed him. Locals rushed him to a hospital, but he succumbed to his injuries on the way. A case has been filed against several named and unnamed accused. The body was sent for autopsy as police investigate the murder over the football match dispute. source:thedailystar
Category: Archive
Dhaka’s air is now so bad it is causing cancer
A study found Dhaka’s air has nearly double the WHO-approved limit of carcinogenic elements like arsenic and lead from industries, brick kilns and unfit vehicles. Despite the severe cancer risk, especially to children, the government has done little to enforce environmental laws. Urgent action like closing polluting kilns near homes, proper e-waste management and strict vehicle emission standards is needed. source:thedailystar
Reserves fall below $19 billion, first time since 2023’s July
Bangladesh’s foreign exchange reserves have dropped below $19 billion for the first time this fiscal year, hitting $18.26 billion after the central bank settled $1.63 billion in import bills through the Asian Clearing Union. The country’s gross forex reserves stood at $19.82 billion on May 8 as per IMF calculation, while Bangladesh Bank’s method puts the current reserves at $23.71 billion, down from $25.27 billion on May 8. source:thedailystar
Rock n’ Rhythm 4: Mired in chaos, overcome with emotion
The “Rock N’ Rhythm 4.0” concert in Dhaka witnessed the highly anticipated reunion of Black’s original lineup after two decades, amidst logistical issues and crowd mismanagement. Despite barricades being broken and a near-stampede, the legendary band comprising Tahsan, Jon, Meraz, Khademul, and Tony enthralled fans with iconic performances of hits like “Aamra” and “Ekhono.” The emotional reunion overshadowed the organizational glitches, leaving fans ecstatic to witness Bangladeshi rock royalty’s performance of a lifetime. Photo: Apu Nazrul
UNGA vote: A symbolic win for Palestinians
The UN General Assembly overwhelmingly voted to grant Palestinians additional rights and backed their bid for full UN membership, currently blocked by the US. The resolution allows Palestinians to participate in debates, propose agenda items, and have representatives elected to committees, though not to vote. Israel’s UN ambassador reacted angrily, while the Palestinian ambassador hailed it as historic amid efforts by some European nations to recognize a Palestinian state.
China consumer prices rise at faster rate in April
China’s inflation rate quickened in April, with the consumer price index rising 0.3% year-on-year, higher than expected and marking the third straight month of positive territory. However, factory gate prices remained in deflationary territory, with the producer price index sinking 2.5% year-on-year. The data reflects the government’s efforts to boost spending and consumption in the world’s second-largest economy, which is grappling with challenges such as a real estate debt crisis and high unemployment weighing on demand. Photo: Reuters
First ‘extreme’ solar storm in 20 years brings spectacular auroras
An extreme solar storm, the strongest in over two decades, struck Earth on Friday, triggering spectacular auroras visible from Tasmania to Britain. The coronal mass ejections (CMEs) from the Sun pose potential threats to satellites, power grids, and communication systems. Authorities have alerted relevant agencies to take precautionary measures as more CMEs are expected in the coming days. The event provides a rare opportunity to witness the celestial light shows, prompting experts to advise going outside and capturing the auroras with cameras. Photo: AFP
Djokovic struck with bottle from stands after winning Rome opener
Novak Djokovic was struck by a plastic water bottle on the back of his head after his third-round win over Corentin Moutet at the Rome Open on Friday. The world number one was left crouched on the ground in pain as he was signing autographs. It’s unclear if the bottle was thrown intentionally or fell accidentally from the stands. Djokovic, who advanced to face Alejandro Tabilo, was then escorted off the court by security. Tournament organizers did not provide an update on his condition. Photo: AFP
Endrick in Brazil’s Copa America squad but no Neymar
Brazil’s coach Dorival Junior named his squad for the upcoming Copa America, including teen sensation Endrick but excluding Neymar due to injury. Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo were included, along with newcomer Evanilson from FC Porto. Notable omissions were Casemiro, Thiago Silva, and Neymar, who is recovering from a knee injury sustained in October. The squad features a mix of experienced and young talents as Brazil aims to reclaim the Copa America title. PHOTO: REUTERS
Trump’s son Barron, 18, pulls out of political debut
Barron Trump, the 18-year-old youngest son of former President Donald Trump, has withdrawn from being a delegate at the upcoming Republican Party convention in July. Initially, Barron’s planned participation as part of the Florida delegation made global headlines, but a statement from his mother Melania Trump’s office cited “prior commitments” as the reason for his withdrawal. Barron has largely been shielded from the public eye, unlike his siblings who have been actively involved in Trump’s political endeavors. Photo: AFP
Former Union Parishad chairman shot dead in Narail
A former Union Parishad chairman and Awami League leader, Sikder Mostafa Kamal, was shot dead by miscreants in Narail’s Lohagara upazila last night around 7:30 pm while returning home from the local bazaar. He sustained bullet wounds to the chest and died on the way to Dhaka around 10:30 pm. The incident triggered clashes between rival groups, leaving two injured, one with a bullet wound. Police have taken the two injured into custody as suspected perpetrators of the murder. Photo: Collected from Facebook
2 killed, 6 injured by lightning in Bagerhat
In a tragic incident, two people lost their lives, and six others were injured due to a lightning strike in the Bandakata canal area of Sarankhola, Bagerhat, this morning around 10:30 am. The deceased were on a trawler in the canal, while the injured were in a nearby shop when the lightning struck. The identities of the victims are yet to be disclosed. The Sarankhola Police Station is investigating the matter.
Commuters suffer as heavy rain inundates parts of Dhaka
Heavy rain and thunderstorms in Dhaka on Saturday morning caused severe waterlogging in various parts of the capital, creating immense difficulties for commuters. The Meteorological Department recorded 87mm of rainfall between 6am and 9am, categorized as “heavy” rainfall. Residents reported knee-deep water on streets, hampering transportation and forcing many to wade through murky waters, causing delays and inconvenience. Photo: Chaitanya Halder
Putin reappoints Mishustin as Russia’s PM
Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed reappointing Mikhail Mishustin as Prime Minister, signaling stability in his government amid the Ukraine war and Western sanctions. Mishustin, a technocrat with no political ambitions, has helped keep the Russian economy afloat despite sanctions. With virtually no opposition in parliament, Mishustin’s approval is almost certain. Putin is expected to retain key ministers like Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu and Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, sending a message of continuity in his team’s approach at home and abroad. Photo: Reuters
Kejriwal gets SC interim bail till June 1
India’s Supreme Court granted interim bail till June 1 to Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, allowing him to campaign for the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. Kejriwal, arrested in a money laundering case linked to the alleged excise policy scam, will have to surrender on June 2. The court rejected his plea to extend the interim bail till June 5, a day after vote counting. Kejriwal is challenging his arrest by the Enforcement Directorate in the case related to alleged corruption in Delhi’s now-scrapped excise policy for 2021-22. Delhi goes to polls on May 25 for its 7 Lok Sabha seats.
Rain likely in next 72 hours
Rain or thundershowers accompanied by gusty or squally wind is likely to occur at many places over Dhaka, Mymensingh, Khulna, Barishal and Sylhet divisions, and at a few places over Rajshahi, Rangpur and Chattogram divisions with the possibility of hail at isolated places in the next 72 hours. The maximum temperature recorded on Thursday was 34.8°C at Jashore, and the minimum temperature today was 21.5°C at Faridpur and Rangpur. The highest rainfall in the last 24 hours was 24mm at Tetulia.
Pilot Asim Jawad laid to rest in Manikganj
Pilot Asim Jawad, who tragically lost his life when a Bangladesh Air Force trainer jet crashed into the Karnaphuli river in Chattogram, was laid to rest at Seota graveyard in Manikganj after three janazas. The 32-year-old pilot is survived by his wife, a daughter, and a son. People from all walks of life paid their last respects to the brave pilot, who died during a routine training flight when the YAK130 jet crashed while returning to base. Photo: Star
Man rescued 2 days after abduction, 4 held
In a successful rescue operation, police arrested four kidnappers and rescued a man abducted two days ago from Cumilla’s Monoharganj upazila. The victim, Md Hasan, 39, was found tied up in a room during a raid in Chattogram city. The arrested kidnappers are Alauddin Subuj, Md Liton, Rubel Hossain Badsha, and Abdur Rahman Badol. They had demanded a ransom of Tk 5 lakh from Hasan’s wife after abducting him from Chattogram on Wednesday.
Chinese companies hit with US trade restrictions over spy balloon incident
The Biden administration added 37 Chinese entities to a trade blacklist, including some linked to the Chinese spy balloon incident last year, escalating tensions with Beijing. The move aims to restrict China’s access to U.S. technology due to national security concerns over its military modernization efforts and quantum computing capabilities. China denounced the action as “economic coercion” and vowed to safeguard the rights of its firms. The entities were also accused of attempting to obtain American tech for military drones and shipping controlled items to Russia. Photo: Reuters
FIFA may face legal action over packed schedule
FIFA has been urged by global players’ union FIFPRO and the World Leagues Association to review plans for a 32-team Club World Cup next year, citing concerns over an overcrowded calendar and player welfare. They have threatened legal action if FIFA doesn’t address the issues before its council meeting on May 17, claiming the expanded competitions are “inherently abusive” and jeopardizing national leagues and players’ health. Photo: Reuters
Be sincere to enhance agriculture production, alleviate poverty: PM
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today stressed the need for establishing cooperatives across the country to boost agricultural production, alleviate poverty, and facilitate micro-savings. She urged leaders to sincerely promote cooperatives while highlighting her government’s initiatives like “My House, My Farm,” start-up programs, universal pension schemes, and collateral-free loans for self-employment. Hasina appreciated the revival of the Dariarkul Gram Unnayan Samity cooperative society built on her donated land and reiterated her call to bring all land under cultivation to increase food production. Photo: BSS
National Rabindra Sangeet Festival kicks off, honours Kalim Sharafi and Sadi Mohammad
The 35th National Rabindra Sangeet Festival, a three-day event celebrating the timeless melodies of Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, commenced yesterday at the International Mother Language Institute auditorium. Organized by Bangladesh Rabindra Sangeet Shilpi Sangstha (BRSS), the festival honors notable figures like Kalim Sharafi and pays tribute to Tagore’s compositions through performances by over 300 artists from various cultural groups across the country. Photo: Sheikh Mehedi Morshed
IMF prescription to raise energy prices is anti-people, illogical
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is set to provide a $4.7 billion loan to Bangladesh, but with conditions that prioritize privatization and commercialization, leading to increased prices for gas, electricity, and transport. Critics argue that the IMF’s reforms protect corporate interests over public welfare and fail to address root causes of economic issues, ultimately burdening the general population. VISUAL: SHAIKH SULTANA JAHAN BADHON
Dhaka’s air quality ‘worst in the world’ this morning
Dhaka topped the list of cities with the worst air quality worldwide with an AQI score of 203 (very unhealthy) today morning. Lahore, Jakarta, and Kathmandu followed Dhaka on the list. The AQI measures air pollution levels and potential health risks. Dhaka has long struggled with air pollution issues, with air quality typically worsening in winter. Air pollution is a major global health concern, causing an estimated 7 million premature deaths annually according to the WHO.
US provides $30.5m additional assistance for Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh
The U.S. is providing an additional $30.5 million in assistance for Rohingya refugees in Cox’s Bazar, Bhasan Char, and the region. The funding includes support for healthcare, nutrition, water, shelter, and self-reliance initiatives. The announcement was made by U.S. Ambassador Jeffrey Prescott during his visit to Bangladesh. With this, the total U.S. funding for the Rohingya crisis since 2017 has reached nearly $2.4 billion, of which over $1.9 billion has been provided for refugees and host communities in Bangladesh. Representational image:
Modi skips election in Kashmir as critics dispute integration claims
For the first time since 1996, India’s ruling BJP is not contesting elections in Kashmir, where powerful local parties like National Conference and PDP are the main contenders. Analysts say the BJP decided to skip as the outcome may contradict the government’s narrative of normalcy in Kashmir after revoking its semi-autonomous status in 2019. Local leaders allege continued discontent and alienation in the heavily militarized region.
US revokes some licenses for exports to China’s Huawei
The U.S. has revoked some export licenses that allowed companies like Qualcomm to supply Chinese tech giant Huawei, adding pressure amid fears Huawei could be used for Chinese espionage. The move came after Republican lawmakers urged blocking all exports to Huawei following its release of a new Intel-powered computer. China vowed to safeguard the rights of its firms, calling the U.S. restrictions “economic coercion.”
India interested to finance Bangladesh’s Teesta project: Hasan Mahmud
India has expressed interest in financing Bangladesh’s Teesta river project, said Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud after meeting Indian Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra. They discussed PM Hasina’s upcoming visit to India after the Indian elections. Border killings, non-lethal weapons use, easing visa regimes, and regional connectivity including hydropower import from Nepal/Bhutan via India were also discussed. Hasan praised the excellent Bangladesh-India ties under Hasina and Modi’s leadership.
Israel says Biden threat to stop arms ‘very disappointing’
Israel’s UN ambassador expressed disappointment at US President Joe Biden’s threat to stop supplying certain offensive weapons to Israel if it invades the crowded Gaza city of Rafah. Biden warned that civilians have been killed by Israeli bombs in Gaza, calling it “wrong.” The ambassador said Biden’s comments give hope to Israel’s enemies and questioned how Israel can achieve its goals if restricted from entering areas like Rafah with Hamas militants. Heavy shelling was reported in Rafah on Thursday. Photo: AFP
Derailment in Pabna: Dhaka’s rail link with northern and southern regions restored after 5hrs
Rail communication between Dhaka and the northern and southern districts was restored after over five hours, following the derailment of two bogies of the Burimari Express at Muladuli Railway Station in Pabna around 3am today. Services of seven intercity trains were delayed due to the incident. A two-member probe committee has been formed to investigate the cause of the derailment and submit a report within three working days. Photo: UNB
Something magical’: Ancelotti relishes Real’s incredible comeback
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti hailed their “magical” 2-1 comeback win over Bayern Munich in the Champions League semifinals. Trailing 3-2 on aggregate, substitute Joselu scored two late goals to send Real to their sixth final since 2013-14. Ancelotti praised the team’s never-say-die spirit and the impact of Joselu, who remained professional despite limited playing time. Real will face Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League final on June 1. Photo: Reuters
Sohel Chowdhury murder: 3 get life term, 6 acquitted
A Dhaka court sentenced Aziz Mohammad Bhai, Adnan Siddiqui, and Afakul Islam to life imprisonment for the murder of actor Sohel Chowdhury in 1998. Six others were acquitted due to lack of evidence. Sohel was shot dead by unidentified criminals at Trumps Club in Banani. The case had been ongoing since 1998, with charges framed in 2001 and proceedings stayed in 2003 until the recent verdict.
Shakib, Soumya, Mustafizur return for last two T20Is
Shakib Al Hasan, Soumya Sarkar, and Mustafizur Rahman were recalled for the last two T20Is against Zimbabwe in Mirpur on May 10 and 12. The trio missed the first three matches which Bangladesh won. Parvez Hossain Emon, Afif Hossain, and Shoriful Islam were dropped to accommodate them. Shakib had skipped the Chattogram phase, Soumya was injured, while Mustafizur joined after the IPL. Bangladesh announced a 15-member squad led by Najmul Hossain Shanto for the remaining two games.
Avoid doing anything that hurts religious sentiments: PM
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina described Islam as a religion of peace while inaugurating the Hajj 2024 program. She urged people to avoid acts like alcohol, gambling, corruption, terrorism, and militancy that hurt religious sentiments. Islam ensures rights for all, she said, condemning how a few tarnish its image through militancy. She assured equal religious freedom and asked pilgrims to pray for Bangladesh during Hajj. This year, 85,257 Bangladeshis, including 4,562 under government management, will perform Hajj expected on June 15. Photo: Prabir Das
Over 80 Air India Express flights cancelled after 300 crew members go on sick leave
Air India Express, owned by Tata Group, canceled over 80 flights after around 300 cabin crew members called in sick abruptly, switching off phones. The airline stated the crew protested against new employment terms through this “mass sick leave.” It apologized for the disruption and is trying to minimize inconvenience. The Civil Aviation Ministry took cognizance of the sudden cancellations spanning Tuesday and Wednesday. Impacted passengers will receive refunds or free rescheduling. The airline advised flyers to check flight status before heading to the airport. Representational Image/The Statesman
Bangladesh Bank hikes policy rate by 50 basis points to 8.5%
Bangladesh Bank raised its policy rate by 50 basis points to 8.5% to combat persistent high inflation above 9%. This contractionary move aims to reduce demand and control prices, following multiple rate hikes since May 2022. The central bank also increased the Standing Lending Facility rate to 10% and the Standing Deposit Facility rate to 7% to refine liquidity management. The World Bank warned that high inflation likely pushed 500,000 people into extreme poverty.