Category: Bangladesh

The UN has expressed deep concern over recent violence in Bangladesh, calling for transparent investigations and accountability. UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric emphasized the importance of peaceful demonstrations and authorities’ responsibility to protect this right. The UN acknowledged concerns about mass arrests, killings, and the use of live ammunition against protesters. Regarding Bangladesh’s role in UN peacekeeping, Dujarric highlighted the UN’s screening policy for personnel, stressing member states’ responsibility to ensure nominated personnel have not been involved in human rights violations. Prothom Alo

In Dhaka’s Palashi area, police dispersed quota reform protesters using tear gas and sound grenades as they attempted to march from Azimpur. Chhatra League and Jubo League members subsequently attacked the dispersing protesters with bamboo sticks and iron rods near Chapra Mosque. The number of casualties is unknown. Police maintained their position in Palashi after the protesters scattered, while Chhatra League and Jubo League members stationed themselves at various points in Azimpur and Palashi areas. Daily Star

All Indian Visa Application Centres (IVAC) in Bangladesh will be closed today due to the ongoing student movement demanding quota reform in government jobs. The decision was made in response to the unstable situation surrounding the protests. IVAC announced the closure through a press release, stating that applicants will be informed of the next available application date via SMS. This temporary closure affects visa services for Bangladeshis planning to travel to India. Source Daily Star

BNP has announced full support for the nationwide ‘complete shutdown’ scheduled for Thursday, called by the Anti-discrimination Student Movement. The protest is in response to attacks on university students that resulted in at least six deaths. BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi made the announcement during a virtual press briefing on Wednesday night. The party’s standing committee decided to back the students’ programme, urging people from all walks of life to participate in the shutdown. BD Pratidin

Miscreants set fire to the Hanif Flyover toll plaza in Dhaka’s Jatrabari on Wednesday night amid ongoing quota reform protests. Earlier, demonstrators clashed with police and ruling party activists for hours. Four people were shot and injured. Police, RAB, and BGB were deployed to control the situation. Protesters burned tires and hurled bricks at law enforcement. The area remains tense with protesters and security forces maintaining their positions. Six more individuals were injured in subsequent clashes. BD Pratidin

Violent clashes erupted between police and quota reform protesters at Dhaka University. The conflict began when police dispersed a coffin procession near VC Chattar with tear gas and sound grenades. Protesters retaliated by throwing bricks from Masterda Surja Sen Hall. Police claim they acted with the VC’s permission, while protesters allege an attack on their peaceful demonstration. The university has been indefinitely closed, with students ordered to vacate halls by 6 PM. However, protesters have rejected this decision and refuse to leave, escalating tensions on campus. Prothom Alo

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is set to address the nation this evening at 7:30pm regarding the ongoing students’ quota reform movement and its consequences. The speech will be broadcast live on Bangladesh Television, Bangladesh Betar, and various private TV channels and radio stations. This address comes in the wake of widespread protests and clashes across the country related to the quota reform demands in government jobs. The Prime Minister’s speech is expected to address the current situation and potentially outline the government’s stance on the issue. Daily Star

Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) has been deployed in multiple cities including Dhaka, Chattogram, Rajshahi, Rangpur, Faridpur, Bogura, and Cox’s Bazar to maintain law and order amid ongoing clashes related to the quota reform movement. This deployment follows yesterday’s escalation of violence, which resulted in at least six deaths, including three students, and hundreds of injuries in clashes between quota protesters, Chhatra League activists, and police across the country. The BGB’s presence aims to stabilize the tense situation and prevent further unrest. Daily Star

The National Institute of Cancer Research & Hospital (NICRH) of Bangladesh and Belgium’s Bordet Cancer Institute signed an MoU in Brussels. The agreement focuses on joint research, capacity building, and infrastructure development in cancer care. It aims to foster collaboration in various aspects of cancer research and treatment. The partnership, facilitated by the Bangladesh Embassy in Brussels, is seen as a significant step forward in cancer treatment and research for Bangladesh, aligning with the country’s vision of becoming a knowledge-based society by 2041. Daily Star

The UN has urged Bangladesh to ensure the safety of students participating in the quota reform protests. During a press briefing, UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric expressed concern over the situation, emphasizing the universal right to peaceful protest. He called on the government to protect demonstrators from threats or violence, particularly vulnerable groups like young people, children, and those with disabilities. Dujarric stressed that peaceful demonstration is a fundamental human right that governments should safeguard. Daily Star

Students protesting for quota reform in public service jobs blocked the Dhaka-Aricha highway, demanding withdrawal of the Prime Minister’s speech and condemning attacks by Chhatra League. The blockade, starting at 3:30 PM Tuesday, followed a march from university halls. About 10,000 students from various institutions participated. Protesters vowed to continue until their demands are met. As of 4:30 PM, they were still holding a sit-in on the highway. BD Pratidin

A student from Begum Rokeya University in Rangpur was killed during clashes between protesters, police, and Bangladesh Chhatra League members. The incident occurred as students demonstrated for reforms in the government job quota system. Police used rubber bullets and tear gas, resulting in over 100 injuries. The deceased was identified as Abu Saeed, 22, a student from the English Department. The university proctor confirmed the student’s identity as tensions escalated on campus. Prothom Alo

State-sponsored venture capital fund Startup Bangladesh has cancelled its Tk 50 million investment proposal for 10 Minute School, a leading online Edtech startup in Bangladesh. The announcement was made on Startup Bangladesh’s Facebook page and confirmed by State Minister Zunaid Ahmed Palak. This decision comes shortly after 10 Minute School’s CEO, Ayman Sadiq, publicly supported ongoing student protests for quota reform in government jobs and criticized Bangladesh Chhatra League’s attack on protesters at Dhaka University. Startup Bangladesh declined to comment further on the matter. Prothom Alo

Students from several private universities in Dhaka, including North South, Brac, Independent, and United International, have blocked major roads to protest attacks on students and demand quota reform. The blockades at Merul Badda and in front of Jamuna Future Park have caused significant traffic disruptions, forcing vehicles to use alternative routes. The protests began around 10:30 am, with students initially blocking one side of the road before expanding to both sides. Police officials report ongoing traffic jams and road closures in affected areas. BD Pratidin

Over 100 students were injured in attacks by Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL), the ruling party’s student wing, on Dhaka University campus during a quota reform protest. At least 91 injured students received treatment at Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH) by 5:00 pm. The attacks began around 3:00 pm near Bijoy Ekattor Hall and spread across the campus. BCL members later chased protesters from DMCH, leading to further clashes and brick-throwing outside the hospital. Prothom Alo

Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina criticized anti-quota protesters for chanting “Who are you? Who am I? Razakar. Razakar.” She called it regrettable, stating they don’t understand the atrocities committed by Pakistani forces and Razakars during the Liberation War. Hasina emphasized the importance of upholding the spirit of the Liberation War and remembering the sacrifices made. She also mentioned her government’s actions against war criminals, including trials and executions, to bring justice to the victims. Bd-pratidin

Students protesting for quota reform in Bangladesh faced alleged attacks by Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL) at Eden Mohila College. The incident occurred as students attempted to join a demonstration at Raju Sculpture. Several student leaders were reportedly injured. Protests spread to multiple universities, including Dhaka University, where internet services were shut down. The movement, demanding changes to the quota system in government jobs, has been ongoing since July 1st. Prothom Alo

BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia’s health has deteriorated further at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka, according to doctors. Her liver condition has worsened since Friday night, raising alarm. Zia was readmitted on July 8 after recent treatment, including pacemaker placement on June 23. She has been battling multiple health issues, including arthritis, diabetes, kidney problems, and liver cirrhosis, with repeated hospital admissions in recent months.Source:Jagonews

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina announced that China will provide $2 billion in various loans and grants following her meeting with President Xi Jinping. The leaders discussed strengthening bilateral relations, particularly in research, education, and technology. China reiterated support for Rohingya repatriation. Hasina emphasized Bangladesh’s foreign policy of “friendship to all, malice to none” and expressed optimism for continued mutual support at regional and international levels.Source:Jagonews

Public university teachers in Bangladesh continue work abstention and sit-ins, demanding the scrapping of the Universal Pension Scheme ‘Prottoy’. Despite a meeting with Minister Obaidul Quader, who claimed misunderstandings were resolved, the Federation of Bangladesh University Teachers’ Association maintains their stance. The protests, which began on July 1, will persist until their three-point demands are met, including the cancellation of the pension scheme.Source:Jagonews

Hundreds of students from several public universities, including Dhaka University, took to the streets around midnight to protest what they said was a “disparaging comment (Razakar)” by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina earlier in the evening.The protesters, who have been staging demonstrations across the country demanding reformation of the quota system for the last two weeks, brought out the processions on their respective campuses around 11:00pm. Source Daily Star

Quota reform protesters in Bangladesh presented a memorandum to President Shahabuddin, demanding rational changes to the government recruitment quota system. They want visible action within 24 hours on their demand for a 5% maximum quota for certain groups. The protesters, mainly students and job seekers, held a procession and sit-in in Dhaka before a delegation visited the presidential palace. They hope the president will take necessary measures to implement their demands. Prothom Alo

Habiganj Municipality Mayor Ataur Rahman’s plan to fill two ponds for a multi-storey market has sparked controversy. Residents and environmentalists oppose the move, citing water scarcity and the Water Conservation Act. Protests and legal actions have been initiated. The mayor defends the plan as a revenue-generating measure but says they’ll try to build without completely filling the ponds. The decision highlights tensions between development and environmental conservation in the town.Source:Daily Star

A Dhaka court ordered the confiscation of properties belonging to former NBR official Matiur Rahman and his family amid graft allegations. The seized assets include over 2,300 decimals of land, four flats, and Tk 13.44 crore in bank accounts. The Anti-Corruption Commission requested the action to prevent asset transfer and money laundering. Earlier, the court imposed a travel ban on Rahman and his family. Source UNB

The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Road Transport and Bridges Ministry recommended psychological tests for BRTC drivers and increased monitoring of licensing. They discussed BRTC’s operations, finances, and challenges. The committee also reviewed road construction progress in Kishoreganj district, urging swift completion of the Morichakhali-Mithamain express-road and Kishoreganj-Dhaka connecting roads. Additionally, they advised making ferry services more affordable to reduce public inconvenience. These recommendations aim to improve transportation safety and efficiency in Bangladesh. Daily Star

Protesters clashed with police in Dhaka during a “Bangla Blockade” against job quota reinstatement. Students marched from Dhaka University to Shahbagh, where police were positioned. Bangladesh Chhatra League gathered separately, with their president warning against politicizing the movement. The protest follows a High Court decision overturning a 2018 circular that abolished job quotas. Despite the Supreme Court’s recent four-week stay on the ruling, some protesters continue their campaign against quota reinstatement in government jobs.

Biman Bangladesh Airlines faces significant flight delays, with over 30% of flights departing late. International flights are more affected, with up to 60% delayed in some months. The airline’s on-time performance (OTP) averages 69.37% for departures and 66% for arrivals. Reasons for delays include weather, maintenance issues, and aircraft shortages. Biman is implementing measures to improve punctuality, but experts say more action is needed to enhance the airline’s reputation and performance. Prothom Alo

Students in Bangladesh blocked major railway lines, disrupting train services across the country, to protest the reinstatement of the quota system in government jobs. Demonstrations occurred in Dhaka, Chattogram, and Gazipur, with protesters occupying rail tracks and staging sit-ins. The actions follow a Supreme Court decision upholding a High Court verdict that declared the 2018 circular abolishing the quota system illegal. Protests have been ongoing for seven days. Daily Star

Students in Bangladesh’s capital blocked key intersections, including Shahbagh, demanding legislation to revoke discriminatory quotas in government jobs. The protest began at 11:15 am, halting traffic at Shahbagh, Agargaon, Science Laboratory, and Farmgate. A procession from Dhaka University joined the blockade at 11:50 am under the banner of ‘anti-discriminatory student movement’. Protesters are calling for minimal quotas for people from backward areas. Prothom Alo

Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina received a red-carpet welcome at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing for her meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang. She was greeted with a guard of honor, gun salute, and the playing of both national anthems. After the ceremonial reception, the two leaders began bilateral talks, with Hasina leading the Bangladesh delegation and Li Qiang representing China.Source:Jagonews

Student protesters in Bangladesh have announced a nationwide blockade of highways and railways tomorrow, resuming their campaign against the quota system in government jobs. The demonstration, set to run from 10:00am until dusk, will be coordinated by students at various colleges and universities. Nahid Islam, a Dhaka University student and movement organizer, made the announcement at a press conference, stating that students will block highways near their institutions. Daily Star

The Bangladesh Meteorological Department forecasts light to moderate rainfall with gusty winds across all divisions in the next 24 hours. Rangpur, Mymensingh, Chattogram, and Sylhet may experience heavy downpours. The monsoon trough runs through central Bangladesh, with an associated trough extending to the North Bay. Rajshahi recorded the highest temperature at 36.4°C, while Tetulia had the lowest at 24.9°C. Day and night temperatures are expected to remain stable nationwide. BSS

Today marks the 9th death anniversary of Major General (Retd) Amjad Khan Chowdhury, founder of PRAN-RFL Group. A doa mahfil is organized at Pran Center. Chowdhury, who passed away in 2015, was a pioneer in Bangladesh’s agricultural products processing industry. After retiring from the army, he established PRAN-RFL, now a leading manufacturer exporting to 145 countries. He also contributed to various business associations and social causes, significantly impacting Bangladesh’s economic development.Source:Jagonews

A tragic accident occurred in Lakshmipur Sadar upazila, Bangladesh, when a bus ran over a man and his granddaughter. Nasir Molla, 65, and Mimi Akhter, 4, were crossing the Dhaka-Lakshmipur highway when they were struck by a Jamuna Paribahan bus. Mimi died instantly, while Nasir succumbed to his injuries at Lakshmipur Sadar Hospital. The incident took place around 9:00am near Siam Petrol Pump in Purba Hajipara area.Source:Daily Star

A five-member committee has been formed to investigate the electrocution deaths of five people during a Rath Yatra procession in Bogura, Bangladesh. The incident, which also injured 43 others, occurred when the chariot contacted a high-voltage wire. The local administration has provided financial assistance to the victims’ families and ensured treatment for the injured. The investigative committee has been given 10 working days to submit their report.Source:Daily Star

Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, 79, was readmitted to Evercare Hospital in Dhaka early today due to illness. The BNP Chairperson, who suffers from multiple health issues including liver cirrhosis, had just returned home on July 2 after a 10-day hospital stay for pacemaker implantation. Her doctors have been recommending treatment abroad since her liver cirrhosis diagnosis in 2021. Zia has been receiving frequent medical care since her conditional release from prison in 2020. Source:Daily Star