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CA Yunus calls for empowering youth to unlock their potential
Chief Adviser Dr Muhammad Yunus has emphasized the need to create opportunities for young people, asserting that Bangladesh’s large population is not a burden but a valuable resource.
"With the advancement of technology, no human being is a burden. Every individual is a resource —whether in innovation, entrepreneurship, or invention. These are our strengths," he said.
Speaking at a program hosted by the Bangladesh Administrative Service Association (BASA) at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Centre on Sunday night, Dr Yunus described the youth of Bangladesh as a formidable force.
"Our youth have the potential to conquer the world," he said, highlighting their capabilities and the importance of providing them with opportunities.
The Chief Adviser noted that the younger generation of Bangladesh is distinct and that doors must be opened for them to thrive.
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He pointed to the power demonstrated by the country's youth during the July uprising, calling it a remarkable example for the world.
Dr Yunus also emphasized Bangladesh’s growing role in the global workforce, mentioning that the country, now the eighth most populous in the world, is a sought-after source of skilled manpower for many nations.
He called upon all sectors of society to work together in building an honest and corruption-free Bangladesh.
The event was also attended by Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed, Law Adviser Dr Asif Nazrul, Information and Broadcasting Adviser Md Nahid Islam, Cabinet Secretary Dr Sheikh Abdur Rashid, and BASA President and LGRD Secretary Md Nazrul Islam.
The programme concluded with a cultural performance.
1 hour ago
Boi Mela: Free distribution of sanitary napkins to continue but sales to shut, says Bangla Academy
In response to public outrage over the closing of stalls selling sanitary napkins, Bangla Academy has reaffirmed its commitment to guaranteeing the free distribution of sanitary napkins during the Amar Ekushey Book Fair 2025, according to its Director General Professor Mohammad Azam.
After rumors circulated on Sunday that vendors selling diapers and sanitary napkins had been forced to close, the problem gained widespread attention. Concerned netizens on social media expressed their displeasure, prompting the Bangla Academy to clarify the matter via a press statement on Sunday night.
Earlier in the afternoon, two stalls operated by the women’s health brand 'Stay Safe' in the Suhrawardy Udyan section of the fair, were shut down. The fair authorities stated that the decision was made due to the sale of ‘unauthorised products’.
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Amar Ekushey Book Fair 2025 Committee Secretary Sarkar Amin confirmed the closures, stating that, only books and food items are permitted for sale, according to the fair’s regulations. He emphasized that the decision was not specific to sanitary napkins but applied to all unauthorized products.
In the statement signed by Bangla Academy Director General Prof Mohammad Azam, the Academy explained that while it organizes the traditional fair, the overall event management is handled by an external firm. This year, event management firm Dreamer Donkey was appointed to manage logistics and sponsorships; however, the Academy accused the firm of violating multiple fair regulations, including setting up unauthorized sales points.
“The event management firm initially informed us that sanitary napkins and diapers would be provided free of charge near the washrooms for women and children. However, we later discovered that these products, along with some other products, were being sold; as a result, we ordered the stalls to be closed,” the statement read.
The Academy stated that despite repeated warnings, the event management firm failed to comply with fair policies. Over three days, the Academy took the initiative to shut down the unauthorized stalls; and eventually, permission was granted for the sale of select children's stationery items in the designated kids' corner.
The event management firm later cited contractual obligations with sponsors as a challenge in discontinuing sales. They requested permission to inform sponsors about halting the sale of sanitary napkins, and in response, Bangla Academy Director General Dr Mohammad Azam signed a letter acknowledging the issue.
However, the Academy clarified that it did not issue the letter itself or receive any directive to halt the free distribution of sanitary napkins.
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“We want to make it clear that Bangla Academy has no reservations about the promotion and use of sanitary napkins. The misrepresentation of our stance has turned a commercial issue into an unnecessary controversy; and as a goodwill gesture, we have instructed the event organizers to ensure that sanitary napkins remain available free of charge near the washrooms,” the statement added.
The Academy expressed regret over the confusion via the press statement and reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring uninterrupted access to essential hygiene products at the Amar Ekushey Book Fair 2025.
2 hours ago
Interim government won't name establishments after any person: Wahiduddin Mahmud
Education and Planning Adviser Wahiduddin Mahmud has said that no establishment will be named after those in charge of the interim government.
“Those in government will not even go anywhere to lay foundation stone,” he told reporters after the working session of the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Planning on the first day of the District Commissioners' Conference at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium on Sunday.
He said the interim government's main task is to transition to a well-governed democratic system, not to fulfill everyone’s demands.
The adviser added that an election is coming and the main job is to move forward on the path of a good election and work on how to make that election fair. "District Commissioners can be our most powerful tool in achieving a fair election,” he added.
He also advised commissioners to leave a lasting legacy in their cities, such as a pond, stadium, school, or park, so that people would remember them as administrators of their cities.
He noted that while many projects were once attributed to District Commissioners, today everything is done in the name of politicians.
3 hours ago
Edible oil refiners assure to end soybean oil crisis
Bangladesh Vegetable Oil Refiners' and Vanaspati Manufacturers' Association (BVORVMA), an organization of edible oil suppliers, has assured that the soybean oil crisis in the market will end in a short time.
The organization said in a statement on Sunday that considering the rising demand for edible oil in the market ahead of the holy month of Ramadan, the organizations affiliated with the association are supplying more edible oil than usual.
Considering the amount of edible oil supplied and imported, there is no chance of a crisis. If there is a crisis due to the tendency of some traders to stock up, the price and supply during Ramadan is enough and there is no need to be panicked, according to a press release.
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The organization also said that there is no chance of abnormal profits as the prices of crude soybean and palm oil are stable in the international market. In addition, the country's top local edible oil producers City Group, Meghna Group, TK Group, and Bangladesh Edible Oil Limited have imported much more edible oil than the demand, which will enter the market within the next 7-10 days.
The BVORVMA further said that the recent news of a shortage in the supply of edible oil has created concern among the general consumers.
Therefore, “We request the consumers and edible oil traders not to panic and buy edible oil in excess of the requirement. The association is maintaining regular communication with the concerned ministries and departments of the government to deal with this crisis so that this crisis can be resolved quickly.”
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In such a situation, BVORVMA would like to assure the edible oil traders and consumers that the organization is making every effort to overcome this crisis. In addition, to ensure that this crisis does not hurt the supply and price of edible oil, it is highly desirable to increase market monitoring by the government, and the cooperation and patience of consumers.
5 hours ago
Women demand justice and ban on Awami League for July atrocities
The women who actively participated in the July movement on Sunday demanded that Sheikh Hasina and the Awami League be banned, accusing them of committing mass killings during the uprising.
They also called for a swift trial of those responsible.
The demand was made at a rally held under the banner of 'Women of July' in front of the National Museum at Shahbagh in the capital.
The event was organised to push for the trial of Sheikh Hasina and the Awami League for the alleged killing of students and civilians during the July-August uprising.
Starting from 2 pm, female leaders from various universities, participants in the July Movement, and families of martyrs gathered at Shahbagh.
Sadia Farzana Dinar, Women’s Cell Secretary of the National Citizens’ Committee, moderated the programme, while speakers included the committee’s convener Nasiruddin Patwari, member secretary Akhtar Hossain, spokesperson Samantha Sharmin, and members Sarwar Tushar, Salehuddin Sifat, Dr. Mahmud Mitu, Arpita Shyama Dev, Tajnubha Jabin, Umama Fatema, Nusrat Tabassum, Tuhin Khan and Akram Hossain.
The organisers emphasised the pioneering role of women in the July movement, noting that they broke the locks of halls and took to the streets.
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Recalling how women stood in front of prison vans to protect their fellow activists, they lamented that despite their contributions, women continue to face neglect and humiliation. They stressed that women must be encouraged to enter politics and shape the country’s history.
Nusrat Tabassum, coordinator of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement, highlighted the extensive participation of women in the July Movement.
“But after July, I keep hearing questions about where the women of July have gone. Women still face social bullying about their image and bodies,” she said.
She accused Sheikh Hasina of making women’s participation in Bangladeshi politics increasingly difficult, stating that disappearances, murders, and the establishment of secret torture cells like Ayanaghor over the past 16 years have undermined trust in women's leadership.
“We are all suffering the consequences of Sheikh Hasina’s sins. If we want to bring women back into politics, the first step is to ensure Sheikh Hasina’s trial,” she added.
Arpita Shyama Das, a participant in the movement, said that the women’s march in July had its roots in the 2018 quota reform movement and reached its culmination in 2024.
“In this movement, women have stood against autocratic forces with sticks in their hands. Their contribution has become symbolic—not only do women know how to protest, but they can also lead,” she said.
National Citizens’ Committee spokesperson Samantha Sharmin pointed to Bangladesh’s 53-year history of struggle, stressing that women have played a role at every stage.
“In the political party that emerges after July, we want to see women’s leadership at the local level. Women must be ensured a place in policymaking,” she said.
Akhtar Hossain, member secretary of the National Citizens’ Committee, acknowledged the widespread participation in the uprising.
He highlighted the role of women in supporting the movement, from active participation to providing food and tending to the wounded.
“If those responsible for the barbaric massacre in July are not brought to justice, ensuring safety for anyone in this country will be impossible,” he said, adding that justice must be established and Awami League politics must be banned.
5 hours ago
Garment workers block road at Ashulia for 6hrs
Workers of a garment factory blocked Bishmail-Jirabo road at Amtola in Ashulia of Savar for six hours on Sunday, demanding their outstanding salaries.
According to Industrial Police-1 Superintendent of Police Md Mominul Islam Bhuiyan, the workers staged the protest from morning until 3pm, disrupting traffic movement in the area.
“We attempted to contact the factory owner, but they are currently out of the country. We have also informed the BGMEA [Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association]. After the workers received assurances from either the owner or BGMEA and then they withdrew the blockade, and traffic returned to normal,” he said.
Tarequl Islam, marketing and merchandising director of the factory, said that the workers' salaries was paid regularly in the past.
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However, due to financial constraints there has been a delay in disbursing wages.
Workers, including Maleka Akhtar and Suhel Hossain, said their January salaries were supposed to be paid in the first week of February.
Since their wages remained unpaid, they started protesting from February 9.
The workers found the factory closed upon arrival in the morning and blocked the road in front of the factory, they said.
6 hours ago
HC issues rule on unused mobile data, minutes, and SMS carryover
The High Court (HC) on Sunday issued a rule asking the authorities concerned why unused mobile internet data, minutes, and SMS should not be carried over to the next purchased package.
The High Court bench of Justice Fatema Najib and Justice Sikder Mahmudur Razi issued the order following a preliminary hearing of a writ filed in public interest.
The posts and telecommunications secretary, the chairman of the BTRC, and other authorities concerned have been asked to respond within four weeks.
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Lawyer Md Mizanur Rahman Kayes represented the petitioner at the court.
Lawyer Kayes said that Bangladesh has nearly 1.31 crore mobile internet users. According to the law, unused mobile data should be added to the next purchased data package, but mobile operators do not allow unused data, minutes, and SMS to carry over.
He added that one of the mobile operators is following BTRC regulations. They are doing whatever they want.
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The lawyer mentioned that he sent a legal notice on January 13 to the relevant authorities, including the BTRC and mobile operators, demanding action against these practices. Since no action was taken, he filed a writ petition at the High Court last month.
6 hours ago
VOICE organises dissemination event on study into 'Recent Incidents of Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence'
With the increasing use of the internet and digital devices, women's access to education and employment is expanding. New opportunities in various professions, businesses, and income-generating fields are contributing significantly to women's empowerment.
However, a concerning downside is the rise in sexual harassment and violence against women through the use of the internet and mobile networks. Victims of such cyber violence include women political activists, actresses, women poets and writers, women sports personalities, as well as marginalised women.
In this context, Voices for Interactive Choice and Empowerment (VOICE), a research-based advocacy organization, organized a dissemination event titled “Case Findings on Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence (TFGBV) in Bangladesh.”
The event was held on 15 Saturday at VOICE headquarters in Dhaka, as part of VOICE’s POWER: Promoting Women’s Equality and Rights project, with the presence of journalists.
In her keynote, Promiti Prova Chowdhury, Project Manager at VOICE, demonstrated 13 cases of TFGBV tracked since October 2024. She said: “Women engaged in ideological or professional roles, such as journalists and human rights activists, are more vulnerable to cyberattacks and bullying. Women coordinators of anti-discrimination movements and ordinary women who actively participated in protests have faced severe online harassment, significantly impacting their lives. Consequently, after the change in government, many have refrained from engaging in online political discourse or exercising their freedom of expression.”
She further emphasized that online discrimination against women manifests in various ways, including targeted misinformation campaigns, shaming based on personal beliefs, lifestyle, or profession, and the intentional spread of defamatory content.
The discussion revealed that in the three and a half years leading up to May 2024, the Police Cyber Support for Women unit received 60,808 complaints from women seeking redress for cybercrimes. Among these victims, 41% were subjected to doxxing, 18% reported Facebook account hacking, 17% faced blackmail, 9% experienced impersonation, and 8% suffered from cyberbullying.
Notably, following the government's fall in August last year, the highest number of cybercrime complaints against women were filed in September and October with the Police Cyber Support for Women unit.
Journalists of different newspapers, television channels, and online newspapers took part in the discussion. They suggested doing investigative stories on TFGBV in bulk to raise awareness on the matter. Moreover, they stressed the importance of training programmes on gender sensitivity for those working at the cyber support cell of police to serve the victims of TFGBV.
Speakers at the event highlighted that women are increasingly becoming primary targets of cybercriminals. Various forms of online violence include misinformation campaigns, hate speech, AI-generated explicit images and videos, cyberstalking, and threats—tactics used to humiliate and harass women in digital spaces.
Other violations include cyberstalking, morphing (manipulating women's photos, creating fake profiles, sending sexually explicit messages), financial fraud, email hacking, impersonation or catfishing (deceiving victims through false identities), and doxxing (leaking personal information like addresses, phone numbers, and family details online).
Due to the fear of social stigma and legal complexities, many victims refrain from seeking help from law enforcement agencies. Most survivors initially struggle to understand how to respond or where to seek redress, often hesitating to inform family members or close acquaintances. Those who do file cases frequently face obstacles in obtaining justice, leading some to extreme actions such as suicide.
The event was chaired by Ahmed Swapan Mahmud, Executive Director of VOICE, who stated, “Raising public awareness is a crucial tool in combating technology-facilitated sexual harassment. Awareness campaigns, workshops, and outreach activities on social media should focus on educating people about different forms of online violence, its impacts, and relevant laws. It is essential to amplify victims’ voices and raise awareness about the harmful effects of online sexual violence. Additionally, making necessary support and information easily accessible for victims is vital.”
6 hours ago
Over 1.4 million taxpayers filed returns online: NBR
Over 1.4 million taxpayers have filed their income tax returns online this fiscal year and over 1.8 million have registered for the National Board of Revenue's (NBR) e-return system.
The National Board of Revenue's online income tax return filing system has received a huge response from taxpayers, according to a NBR press release.
NBR also announced that the online filing service will remain available round the year even after the Income Tax Day on February 16.
Taxpayers filing returns after the deadline will not be eligible for investment tax rebates or exemptions under Section 76 of the Income Tax Act, 2023, it said.
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Besides, a 2% monthly penalty (up to 24 months) will be imposed on unpaid taxes as per Section 174 of the Act.
The NBR expressed gratitude to taxpayers who submitted their returns online and encouraged them to continue using digital services for filing returns and obtaining income tax certificates.
6 hours ago
5,000 doctors to be recruited: CA’s spl assistant Sayedur
The Health Ministry has taken an initiative to recruit 5,000 doctors to fill vacant posts and ensure quality healthcare services.
Professor Dr. Md Sayedur Rahman, Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser, disclosed this while talking to reporters on Sunday after the second session of the first day of the Deputy Commissioners' (DC) Conference at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium in the capital.
“The ministry has identified the need for over 5,000 doctors in entry-level positions along with the need for specialists in modern hospitals. The process of creating these positions has already begun including addressing shortages at union levels and in medical colleges, he said.
“We are making every effort to fill the vacant positions, both locally and through the Public Service Commission where necessary. This remains our top priority,” he added.
Health Adviser Nurjahan Begum was also present during the session with DCs.
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“The DCs have raised various issues particularly those related to hospitals, medical colleges, and other challenges in the health sector, which we are aware of and are working to address,” said the health adviser.
She stressed the need for preventing diseases such as hypertension and diabetes, increasing public awareness, and tackling the growing use of e-cigarettes among children.
Dr. Md Sayedur Rahman said DCs pointed out the shortage of manpower despite infrastructural developments, overcrowding in hospitals, and the demand for establishing and operationalising Institutes of Health Technology in various districts.
He said DCs should work alongside law enforcement agencies to regulate unauthorised hospitals and clinics and ensure better healthcare services.
7 hours ago