SECOND EDITION

DHA K A MONDAY FEBRUA RY 10, 2025

Regd. No. DA 781 Vol. XXXV No. 28 Magh 27, 1431 BS Shaban 10, 1446 Hijri 16 Pages : Tk 15.00

OPERATION DEVIL HUNT

It will go on until all

‘devils’ rooted out
Says home adviser; 1,308 held on first day; central
command centre set up to bring all forces together
STAFF CORRESPONDENT destabilise the country, break the law, and
engage in criminal activities.”
Joint forces detained 1,308 people across During a briefing on the operation
the country between Saturday evening, yesterday afternoon, Nasimul Ghani, senior
when Operation Devil Hunt began, and secretary at the home ministry, said, “This
yesterday afternoon. is a police-led operation, with the army
The interim government launched the and other forces providing assistance.”
operation on Saturday to restore law and “They [the joint forces] will have
order following Friday night’s attack on the same authority as the police and

The operation will target those who attempt

to destabilise the country, break the law, and
engage in criminal activities.
Lt Gen (retd) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, Home Adviser

“students and people” in Gazipur. magistrates within the legal framework.

The operation will continue until all the The operation began yesterday [Saturday]
“devils are rooted out”, said Home Adviser and will continue for as long as necessary,”
Lt Gen (retd) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury he said.
yesterday. The government yesterday evening
When asked about the objective of launched a central command centre for
the operation, Jahangir said, “What does the operation, said Chief Adviser’s Press Police disperse demonstrating students of Medical Assistant Training School near Shikkha Bhaban yesterday afternoon. Several protesters were
‘devil’ mean? It refers to evil forces. The Secretary Shafiqul Alam, adding that injured. Under the banner “General MATS Students’ Unity Council”, they were going towards the Secretariat from Shahbagh with a four-point
operation will target those who attempt to SEE PAGE 2 COL 4 demand, including recruitment to vacant positions. Story on page 3. PHOTO: PRABIR DAS

Economic BNP to resist

proposal that
INTE RV IE W 66% people think
growth lowest may hinder With the interim government having completed
six months in office, the calls for a national civil servants
fair election
in 4 years election have intensified. Meanwhile, several

behave like rulers

reform commissions have submitted reports to the
Says BNP leader government. Regarding these developments and
Nazrul Islam Khan more, Akhter Hossen, member secretary of Jatiya
GDP grew 4.22% in fiscal 2023-24 after talks with EC Nagorik Committee, a civic platform formed in the
STAFF CORRESPONDENT STAFF CORRESPONDENT aftermath of the uprising, recently spoke to ’s Shows reform commission’s online
Bangladesh’s economy grew by 4.22 percent in fiscal The BNP will oppose any
Ashik Abdullah Apu and Sirajul Islam Rubel.
survey covering over 1 lakh people
2023-24 fiscal year, the lowest in four years, marking
the second consecutive year of deceleration due to
proposal of the Election
Reform Commission if it Students’ party STAFF CORRESPONDENT
69% 46% 52%

weak consumption and exports. believes the proposal would An overwhelming 80 percent of the believe it’s impossible
to get services without
The final growth estimate by the Bangladesh Bureau
of Statistics is 1.6 percentage points lower than the
provisional estimate, which was 5.82 percent.
obstruct the holding of a
fair election.
BNP Standing
by end of Feb people think the administration is not
friendly to the general public, finds a
survey by the Public Administration
paying bribes
According to the final growth figures, the size of Committee member Nazrul report that they faced
the GDP stood at $450 billion in FY24, Chief Adviser’s Islam Khan said that they,
Says Akhter of Nagorik Committee Reform Commission.
Press Secretary Shafiqul Alam said at a press briefing
Besides, 66 percent of people feel that harassment while
after discussions with TDS: When the Jatiya Nagorik civil servants behave like they are the seeking services
yesterday. It was $459 billion as per the provisional the Election Commission Committee was formed, you rulers, according to the survey of over 1
estimate. yesterday, have understood described it as a pressure group lakh people.
In FY24, people saw their purchasing power erode that the EC would be ready Thirty-one percent of the respondents
say there was a lack of
against the government. How would
amid persistent inflation and sluggish merchandise by May or June this year to you evaluate the past six months say they have experienced discourteous
neutrality in admin in
exports and imports. hold the polls. since the government took office? behaviours from government employees, last 15 years
Because of the revision and devaluation of A three-member BNP Akhter: Six months in, there’s been 42 percent believe receiving services is
Bangladesh’s taka against the dollar, per capita income delegation met the chief no significant improvement in the impossible without paying bribes, and 46
fell to $2,738 last fiscal year, the lowest in three years, election commissioner and law-and-order situation. However, percent report facing harassment while
from $2,749 in the previous year. its report with around 200
four other commissioners. the government appears committed seeking services. recommendations to Chief Adviser Prof
SEE PAGE 2 COL 6 SEE PAGE 2 COL 4 to reforms across various sectors, aligning with public The reform commission led by Abdul Muhammad Yunus on Wednesday.
expectations. Muyeed Chowdhury conducted the The full report of the commission
The investigation and prosecution of those responsible survey on 105,000 people online to along with other reports were uploaded
for the numerous killings by Awami terrorist forces have gather opinions on various issues related on the Cabinet Division website on
yet to make substantial progress. Many perpetrators to public administration reforms. Saturday.
remain unaccountable, highlighting a major failure of The survey questionnaire also featured According to the commission’s survey,
the government. a section for open comments. 56 percent of the respondents consider
SEE PAGE 2 COL 1 The reform commission submitted SEE PAGE 2 COL 1

Mob beats
mentally
challenged
man to death
He was caught on
suspicion of theft
OUR CORRESPONDENT,
Noakhali

A mentally challenged
man was beaten to
death on suspicion of
committing theft in
Kabirhat upazila of
Noakhali early Friday.
The victim, Zahir
Uddin Bechu, 40, was
reportedly apprehended
by a group of people
and attacked near
Dhumchar Chhamirpaik
Government Primary
School around 4:00am.
His mother filed a
case with Kabirhat Police
Station yesterday against
eight named individuals
and 20-25 unidentified
persons.
Police have arrested
three suspects: Habib
Ullah, 45, and his
SEE PAGE 2 COL 4
 City

NEWS
DHAKA MONDAY FEBRUARY 10, 2025

2 MAGH 27, 1431 BS

Teenager shot during

BNP factional clash
MY DHAKA OUR CORRESPONDENT, Savar

A 16-year-old boy suffered bullet injuries during a

THE DECLINE OF TOMTOMS clash between two groups of BNP over the control of
the local jhut trade (wasted scraps of fabric) in Ashulia
on the outskirts of the capital yesterday afternoon.
The injured is Kaptan Mia, 16, son of Md Dalim

Old Dhaka’s historic carriages fade into history of Habiganj district, and a salesman at a local shop.
Another person, Sheikh Abu Jafar, was also
injured during the clash after being hit by a brick.
MD TAREK References to Dhaka’s carriages were The incident took place on the Jamgara-Bagbari
documented in the Calcutta Review in regional road adjacent to Jamgara intersection
The centuries-old charm of Old 1844. around 3:00pm, said police.
Dhaka’s horse-drawn carriages, locally On the business side, a tomtom HM Asaf Uddaula Rizvi, assistant manager of
known as “tomtoms”, is gradually earns between Tk 1,500 and Tk 2,000 Ashulia Women and Children Hospital, told The
disappearing. These carriages have per day, while the coachman typically Daily Star that a teenager named Kaptan Mia is being
been part of the city’s streets for nearly earns Tk 400 to Tk 500. However, the treated in their hospital. He was shot in the back.
200 years, but are slowly fading away costs associated with maintaining Locals said Bakul Bhuiyan, vice-president of
with time. these are high, including feeding the Ashulia Thana Tati Dal, had been taking jhut (scrap
At one point, there were 35 to 40 horse (hay, husk) and buying stainless fabrics) from Preeti Composite Textile Limited, a
horse-drawn carriages operating in steel horseshoes to protect its hooves. concern of the Preeti Group, in Jamgarh area of
areas such as Bangabazar, Fire Service Despite their charm, cruelty Ashulia for a long time.
Hospital, Bakshibazar, Narinda, towards horses is also increasing. Each Recently, former Jubo Dal leader Sharif
Siddiq Bazar, and Keraniganj. tomtom carries 8 to 10 passengers, Chowdhury, a follower of ex-BNP MP (Dhaka-19)
On the Sadarghat to and the horses must navigate heavy Dewan Md Salahuddin Babu, was trying to take
Gulistan route alone, loads and muddy roads. Horseshoes control of the trade.
33 carriages were in typically last only a day, and since Yesterday, when Bakul’s men were collecting
operation. However, replacing them daily is expensive -- the fabrics from the factory, Sharif’s men tried to
with the advent of PHOTOS: RASHED SHUMON one kilogramme of horseshoes costs snatch a jhut-laden truck resulting in a chase and
modern vehicles such Tk 500 to Tk 600 -- many owners delay clash between the two sides.
as buses, microbuses, He explained groom’s house instead of using a replacements. This leaves horses in Several rounds of gunfire were exchanged at
and rickshaws, these that many palanquin. immense pain, unable to run properly, the time.
iconic carriages owners have Today, however, the demand for and subject to harsh treatment from Salahuddin Babu and Sharif Chowdhury were
are on the brink of had to abandon tomtoms has significantly declined, the coachman’s whip. called several times on their mobile phones for
extinction. the trade although they are still sought-after for In today’s era of mechanical comments but they did not pick up.
Babu, the owner of because it is no special occasions like weddings during advancements, horse-drawn carriages Locals claimed although the factory had an
a horse-drawn carriage longer financially the Boishakh season and other festive are outdated and inhumane. Despite agreement with Bakul Bhuiya, his son Rony
in Bangabazar, said, “A few viable. events. the availability of alternative modes Bhuiya, a local Jubo League leader, basically
years ago, we had 40 carriages, In the past, locals Horse-drawn carriages were first of transportation, the continued use controlled the jhut trade.
but due to the rising costs of kheil used horse-drawn carriages popularised in our city by an Armenian of these carriages highlights a cruel Rony’s men were also present during the clash.
[bran], gram [chickpeas], and grains, for various grand events -- including businessman named Shircore. reality. The suffering of these helpless Contacted, Bakul told The Daily Star, “I have
we have been forced to reduce the weddings, gaye holud ceremonies, His company, G M Shircore and animals, caused by economic pressures been engaged in the jhut trade of the factory
number of carriages. We are struggling religious processions, movie shoots, Sons, commercialised horse-drawn and outdated practices, serves as a for the last six months. This morning, Sharif
to pay the salaries of the operators and and election campaigns. Brides would carriages as a mode of transportation reminder of the cost of preserving such Chowdhury’s people started gathering in front of
employees.” often travel in these carriages to the around the mid-nineteenth century. traditions in a modern society. the factory. Later, I informed police and my men
SEE PAGE 6 COL 7

Students’ party by end of Feb It will go on until all ‘devils’ rooted out
FROM PAGE 1 changes or restructuring? non-negotiable -- they must face trial. For FROM PAGE 1 activists of the banned Bangladesh before. “We must uphold the spirit of
On a positive note, there’ve been no Akhter: After the formation of the those in the latter, if they acknowledge the command centre would include Chhatra League in Guimara upazila, the law. Our goal is to establish a better
major financial crimes, such as money interim government, there were some the crimes committed by Awami League, the members of the police, Border said OC Enamul Haque Chowdhury of system, keeping human rights and
laundering, reported over the past six internal changes, with new advisers the public might forgive them. Guard Bangladesh (BGB), Rapid Action Guimara Police Station. environmental concerns in mind. We
months. added. However, considering the scale TDS: There’s mounting pressure from Battalion (Rab), and the armed forces. WHY THE OPERATION? don’t want to create another ‘Aynaghar’.
Overall, there’s been no situation of the government’s responsibilities, I political parties for the government “We hope this initiative will further Briefing reporters at the home Instead, we want to leave behind a better
that needed the imposition of military believe additional advisers are needed. to hold an election. Meanwhile, the improve law and order in Bangladesh, ministry, Senior Secretary Nasimul environment for the future.”
rule, even though there could’ve been TDS: Do you think this government government has initiated several allowing quick response in any area … said the army was deployed after the A workshop focusing on human
-- I see this as a great success of this is struggling to connect with rural reforms. What should its priority be? ,” he added. fall of the autocratic regime amid rights and environmental concerns
government. people? Akhter: While most parties are focusing WHO ARE BEING HELD? an uprising. During that time, the will be held tomorrow where 150 police
TDS: Why do you think the law-and- Akhter: The advisory council is relatively on polls, those who actively participated Analysing reports from some districts, police force suffered significant blows, officials from Dhaka and Gazipur will
order situation hasn’t improved? Were small, which presents challenges. in the uprising want systemic reforms. this newspaper found that the arrestees institutionally, and psychologically. take part, he said.
the government’s measures adequate? If Like previous administrations, this The interim government must present are mostly members of the Awami Many police stations were burnt When asked why people still feel
not, what else could’ve been done? government is entangled in bureaucratic a clear roadmap for reforms and begin League and its associate bodies. down. This necessitated the continued insecure even six months after the
Akhter: During the protests, the police constraints. To truly connect with the implementing them before an election, Many of them are accused in cases deployment of the army under the “In uprising, Nasimul said, “In countries
turned against the people, leading to a people, the interim government must and the next elected government filed after the fall of the Sheikh Hasina- Aid to Civil Power” provision, he said. where there have been revolutions, the
sense of guilt and moral distress within overcome these barriers and engage should continue these reforms. led government on August 5. “In response to the situation, we devised defeated forces are not allowed to stay.
the force that has yet to be overcome. As a more effectively with the public. TDS: In the past, numerous reform For instance, joint forces raided multiple strategies. Some [measures] are But we could not be that inhumane.
result, the police lack the moral strength TDS: How far along is the formation of initiatives were undertaken but never Hatia of Noakhali and arrested seven AL already in place, while other initiatives are Some officers engaged in wrongdoings
to ensure significant law enforcement your political party? What will be its core fully implemented. What do you think men, including a former union council being implemented. Operation Devil Hunt out of fear and pressure, while die-hard
improvements. principles and ideology? is the future of the current initiatives? chairman, on Saturday night. is one of them,” he added. loyalists of the previous regime have fled.
While the government has initiated Akhter: Since the uprising, we’ve been Akhter: Past failures have raised Officer-in-Charge AKM Ajmal About the name of the operation, he Actions are being taken against them.”
some reforms within the police force and discussing the formation of a new concerns. This is why we strongly Huda of Hatia Police Station told The said, “Every operation has a code name He said police morale has been
other law enforcement agencies, these political party. We’re hopeful of officially demand that the implementation of Daily Star that the operation involved to maintain focus.” significantly damaged. “We are making
are insufficient. We recommend strict launching it by the end of February. reforms begin under this government, members of the navy, the coast guard, The home secretary said that the a sincere effort to bring about genuine
departmental and legal action against We’ve already consulted with people ensuring the next one cannot deviate naval police, and Hatia Police Station. objective of the operation is to apprehend reform in the police. That’s why they are
officers involved in the killings during the across the country regarding the party’s from this responsibility. We urge all The Chattogram Metropolitan Police those attempting to destabilise the being actively counselled,” he added.
protests. Apart from structural reforms name, symbol, ideology, and manifesto. parties to align with the people’s held 19 leaders and activists of the AL, Jubo country and bring them to book. After the fall of the Hasina-led
in the force, large-scale recruitment of Over 100,000 people have shared their aspirations and avoid disappointing League, and the banned Chhatra League. On Saturday, Gazipur Metropolitan regime, mobs looted firearms and
new police personnel is required. opinions online. We’re now working them. As a pressure group, we’ll remain Law enforcement agencies also Police Commissioner Nazmul Karim bullets from different police stations
On another note, the military has on drafting the party’s constitution, active on the streets and, if necessary, detained four AL members from Khan said, “Operation Devil Hunt across the country.
been given magistracy power. Some declaration, and agenda, while also take tougher steps to translate these different upazilas in Rajshahi as part will be conducted to combat Awami Joint forces, comprising the armed
unfortunate incidents have already consulting with experts and seasoned aspirations into reality. of Operation Devil Hunt, said Rajshahi fascism.” forces, BGB, coast guards, Police, Rab,
occurred. The army has struggled to political observers. TDS: You had initiated the Additional Police Superintendent Asked whether individuals accused and Ansar, were deployed on September
show its effectiveness against criminal TDS: Reports suggest your party aims announcement of the July uprising Rafiqul Alam. in cases filed after August 5 would be 4 to recover firearms and maintain law
syndicates and extortion rackets. to contest the next national election. proclamation. Why couldn’t you In Kushtia, 13 individuals, all leaders the target of the operation, Nasimul and order.
TDS: What actions of the government do Which voter groups are you targeting, announce it? and activists of the AL and its associated said, “You will know when the police On September 17, the interim
you consider positive, and where do you and what’s your approach towards Akhter: We wanted the proclamation bodies, were detained between Saturday take action.” government gave the power of
believe they’ve failed or need to focus in Awami League supporters who weren’t to be based on a consensus among all night and yesterday afternoon. He said law enforcement cannot magistracy to commissioned army
the future? involved in crimes? political parties, which is why Students In Khagrachhari, police held four be carried out in the same manner as officers.
Akhter: The government has provided Akhter: Our primary focus is Against Discrimination chose to step
a liberal and democratic environment Bangladesh’s youth. We also aim to back to avoid division. The government
for political parties, allowing anti- attract voters who’ve been dissatisfied has taken up the responsibility to
fascist forces to operate freely. The
freedom of expression has largely been
with the bipolar politics of Awami
League and BNP, and are seeking a new
announce the proclamation with
consensus among all parties, and we’re
BNP to resist proposal Economic
upheld, and despite criticism, there’s
been no widespread arrest, torture,
alternative.
We also want the support of senior
hopeful of it fulfilling this responsibility.
TDS: Attacks on shrines and places of
FROM PAGE 1
The hour-long meeting began at
by May or June, a national election
can be held quickly.”
growth lowest
or persecution of dissenters, as was
common under the previous regime.
citizens and long-time political observers
who’ve witnessed the country’s political
worship of religious minorities have
been reported. The government claims
3:30pm at the Nirbachan Bhaban in
the capital’s Agargaon.
Asked whether they got any
indication of the election date, Nazrul
in 4 years
However, the government has trajectory. these reports are exaggerated by the Two other members of the BNP Islam said, “As I have said before, they FROM PAGE 1
struggled to control syndicates that Regarding traditional Awami League Indian media. How does your platform delegation are Salahuddin Ahmed and [EC] cannot announce it ....” Despite encouraging signs of
monopolise essential commodities, supporters, there are two groups: one respond to such incidents? Selima Rahman. Responding to a query, the BNP stability amid record remittance
leading to rising prices. Additionally, has supporters who’ve been involved Akhter: The Jatiya Nagorik Committee Nazrul Islam said their talks leader said they did not propose any
its efforts to rehabilitate the families
inflows and rising exports, the
in corruption, vote-rigging, extortion, has expressed concern over the attacks. focused solely on election-related election date. “The responsibility for
of martyrs and the injured have been and even violent crimes, and another While some arrests have been made, economy continues to struggle from
issues, including the EC’s activities announcing the election date lies sluggish private sector investment.
inadequate. has those who’ve historically voted for the threat of further incidents remains. and preparations for the polls. with the government. The Election Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad
TDS: Previous governments often Awami League but weren’t involved in However, certain reports by the Indian Talking to reporters after the Commission will then declare the
reshuffled the Cabinet. Do you think the criminal activity. media about attacks on minorities are meeting at the Nirbachan Bhaban, he Yunus has recently said getting the
current advisory council requires any
polls schedule.”
For those in the first group, justice is not only exaggerated but outright false. said the EC does not have the authority He added that his party has a wheel of the economy rolling again
right now to decide the election date. meeting with Chief Adviser Prof is his top priority as multilateral

66% people think As per the constitution and

conventional rules, the BNP leader
said if a government resigns, an
Muhammad Yunus today, and this
issue will be discussed there.
From the EC side, the meeting was
lenders predict another year of slow
growth.
Last month, the World Bank said
FROM PAGE 1 BRIBERY respondents expressed dissatisfaction election must be held within 90 days, attended by CEC AMM Nasir Uddin, Bangladesh’s economy might grow
political interference as the main obstacle The reform commission conducted with health services with 46 percent but the country is not being run in election commissioners Anwarul by 4.1 percent in FY25, owing to
to making public administration officials another survey on 5,233 citizens who terming it substandard. line with the law. Islam Sarkar, Abdur Rahmanel Masud,
people friendly while 42 percent deem
subdued investment and industrial
took services from Tehsildar Office, WHAT SHOULD BE DONE “A request must come from Begum Tahmida Ahmad, and Brig
corruption as the main impediment. Assistant Commissioner (Land) Office, The reform commission reviewed activity amid heightened political
the government based on political Gen (Retd) Abul Fazal Md Sanaullah,
Ninety-six percent believe the public Sub-Registry Office, Settlement Office, the findings and analysed various consensus, and only then will the and EC Secretary Akhtar Ahmed. uncertainty. A month earlier,
administration lacks transparency and police precincts, Income Tax Office, documents and books on the public Election Commission hold the election. This was the first official meeting the International Monetary Fund
accountability, 84 percent feel reforms Municipal/City Corporation Office, and administration to identify the problems “But we can realise that if the between the BNP and the new EC, predicted a 3.8 percent economic
in the administration are necessary, and service providers for electricity, gas, and like corruption, political interference, Election Commission is fully prepared which was formed on November 21. growth for the ongoing fiscal year,
69 percent say the administration lacked water bills, as well as healthcare. inefficiency, bureaucratic attitudes, lack citing output losses caused by the
neutrality in the last 15 years. Half the respondents say it is not of transparency, poor accountability, July uprising, floods, and tighter
Only 4 percent think raises and perks
would lower corruption and bribery, 52
percent say the administration’s main
possible to receive services from police
without paying bribes, 42 percent
limited public participation, and lack of
proper coordination. Mob beats mentally policies.
According to the forecasts of
experienced bribery and corruption at “The public administration needs
task is to ensure accountability, and 36
percent think the main reform priority
the income tax office, and 10 percent
faced harassment there, 43 percent had
to be restructured to be more people-
oriented, accountable, efficient, and
challenged man to death the two multilateral agencies,
Bangladesh’s economic growth for
should be to eliminate corruption. to pay bribe at Tehsildar Office, Assistant impartial, as well as effective,” says the FROM PAGE 1 online shows Zahir tied to a tree, visibly FY24 and the current fiscal year
The respondents were also asked Commissioner (Land) Office, Sub- commission report. brother Ajiullah Liton, 40, and Abdur injured in presence of onlookers. would be the lowest since FY20, when
about the effectiveness of union Registry Office and Settlement Office. Making an efficient administration Rob Khan Saheb, 65. He suffered multiple stab wounds, the Covid-19 pandemic wreaked
parishad, municipality, upazila parishad At municipalities and city corporations, would require training, capacity building, Kabirhat Police Station OC Shahin including to his eyes, face, hands, havoc on the global economy. In
and zila parishad. 32 percent of the service seekers report and development of strategic leadership. Mia confirmed the arrests to The Daily and feet. He was left tied to the tree the July-September quarter of the
Around 68 percent say zila parishad facing misbehaviour and 28 percent had The commission recommends that Star. until 9:00am and died while being
is ineffective, 76 percent believe upazila current fiscal year, Bangladesh’s
to pay bribes, said the survey. the goals of public administration The suspects were presented transported to the hospital an hour
parishad could serve citizens better At the offices providing electricity, should be to become people-oriented, before the Noakhali Chief Judicial economy grew by 1.81 percent, the
later.
if those are strengthened, 47 percent water and gas, 42 percent were transparent and accountable, Magistrate Court in the afternoon and Kabirhat Upazila Social Services lowest since the second quarter of
say union parishad and municipalities dissatisfied and 18 percent did not get enhancement of efficiency and capacity, subsequently sent to jail, according to Officer Hafizur Rahman said that Zahir FY21, when the ripple effects of the
should be integrated into the water regularly. impartial, proficiency in public services, Court Police Inspector Shahidul Islam. had been receiving disability allowance pandemic continued to severely
administration. Almost 100 percent of the and effective. The video of the incident circulating since 2020. impact the economy.
 2nd Edition

DHAKA 3
DHAKA MONDAY FEBRUARY 10, 2025
MAGH 27, 1431 BS

Be cautious NATIONAL UNIVERSITY

of ‘Hasina’s Government mulls
traps’: Fakhrul
STAFF CORRESPONDENT
reducing bachelor’s
B N
Secreta ry
P course to 3 years
General STAFF CORRESPONDENT
M i r z a
Fakhrul The interim government is planning to reduce the
I s l a m duration of the four-year bachelor’s course under the
Alamgir National University to three years, said Prof M Aminul
has urged everyone to be Islam, special assistant to the education adviser.
cautious of what he called Speaking at an event at the International Mother
“Sheikh Hasina’s traps,” Language Institute in Dhaka yesterday, marking
blaming the country’s International Education Day, Prof Aminul Islam said the
instability and unrest on revised three-year bachelor’s programme would include
the former prime minister’s an additional year of extensive technical education.
“fascist regime”. “In the remaining one year, students will receive
“We must proceed specialised training in technical subjects. Upon
with caution. To sustain completion, they will be awarded two certificates – one for
our achievements, we a bachelor’s degree and the other for a widely recognised
must advance gradually. diploma,” he said.
Darkness cannot be Prof Aminul explained that this initiative would allow
overcome by more students to achieve a bachelor’s qualification while
darkness; it requires light. enhancing their employment prospects. “This will be an
We must move forward by innovative and extraordinary decision,” he added.
kindling that light,” he said. The professor said there is a stigma surrounding
He made the remarks diplomas and technical education, which many view as
while talking to journalists inferior or embarrassing. “We are planning an initiative in
after arriving at Dhaka the near future to break this mindset,” he said.
airport from the United He also highlighted significant gaps in resources
States yesterday. within the education system.
He said the students and Some families of July Uprising martyrs met Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus at the State Guest House Jamuna yesterday. They Only 18 per cent of the required teachers are available,
people of Bangladesh had discussed the trial of mass killings, the formation of a July Uprising Directorate, state recognition for injured and martyr families, and and despite the inclusion of practical and theoretical
SEE PAGE 4 COL 7 financial assistance and rehabilitation. PHOTO: PID SEE PAGE 4 COL 3

Female worker TO STREAMLINE RECRUITMENT

MATS students
migration in
steady decline
Reform commission proposes demonstrate
since 2023 separate PSC for health at Shahbagh
Shows BMET data AHMED DEEPTO the law, as detailed in Chapter Thirteen,
titled “Special Recommendations for the
20 injured as police disperse
STAFF CORRESPONDENT The Public Administration Reform
OTHER RECOMMENDATIONS Reform of Bangladesh Health Service”. protesters charging batons
Commission has proposed renaming the Rename BCS (Health) cadre to This chapter also highlights the need
The migration of Bangladeshi female BCS (Health) cadre as the Bangladesh for workforce development, reforms in STAFF CORRESPONDENT
workers abroad has been declining over Health Service, alongside the establishment
Bangladesh Health Service health management, and findings from
the past two years since 2023. of a separate Public Service Commission surveys on the healthcare sector. Medical Assistant Trainee Students (MATS) staged
The decline has been caused primarily (Health) to oversee recruitment,
Track Doctors’ Attendance Digitally LONG-TERM AND a sit-in at Shahbagh yesterday for over five hours
by reduced recruitment by Saudi Arabia, promotions, and related activities. STRUCTURAL REFORMS with four-point demand, including recruitment
the largest overseas job market for Automate Hospital Services to vacant 10th-grade positions and the creation of
The commission, in its report The sole long-term proposal prioritises
Bangladeshi migrant workers. submitted to Chief Adviser Dr establishing specialised healthcare more employment opportunities.
According to the Bureau of Manpower,
Formulate Health Protection Law Later, around 4:45pm, police dispersed them
Muhammad Yunus on February 5, institutions outside Dhaka to
Employment and Training (BMET), suggested reforms aimed at streamlining Build Specialised Hospitals Outside decentralise services. Rationalising the with baton charges and sound grenades as
1,05,466 female workers migrated abroad healthcare services and enhancing number of medical colleges and students they reached in front of Shikkha Bhaban while
for jobs in 2022, with 70,279 of them efficiency. Abdul Muyeed Chowdhury,
Dhaka based on resources, population, and attempting to march towards the Secretariat. At
going to Saudi Arabia. chairman of the commission, presented geography was also recommended. least 20 students were injured, eyewitnesses said.
In 2023, women’s migration dropped Rationalise Medical Colleges The commission called for improving At the time of the incident, a five-member MATS
the report with 23 recommendations,
by 28 percent to 76,108, including 50,254 categorised into one long-term, 18 mid- the quality of existing medical colleges and delegation was in a meeting at the Secretariat.
to Saudi Arabia. The decline continued
Address Teacher Shortages Md Faruk, in charge (inspector) of the police
term, and four short-term measures. addressing teacher shortages in medical
last year, falling by another 19.64 percent KEY PROPOSALS FOR REFORM Ensure Fair Postings of Doctors in education. It further proposed separating camp at Dhaka Medical College Hospital, said
to 61,158, with 40,315 going to the Among the short-term plans, the healthcare services and medical education several injured students were brought to the hospital
kingdom. Rural Areas into two distinct divisions under separate and were receiving treatment in the emergency
creation of a separate PSC for health
BMET statistics also revealed was emphasised, with a focus on management structures. department. So far, 20 have been admitted.
that Jordan was the second-highest
Remove Hospital Middlemen ADDRESSING RURAL The students’ other demands include abolishing
renaming services to reflect their specific
destination for Bangladeshi female characteristics, moving away from the HEALTHCARE GAPS the Health Professionals Board and forming a new
workers last year, receiving 13,772 existing BCS cadre system. hospitals, alongside the full automation The report noted that the absence of regulatory body named the Medical Education
migrants, followed by Qatar (2,331), the To improve governance, the of hospital operations. Daily admission guidelines for government doctors Board of Bangladesh, ensuring higher education
United Kingdom (1,483), and the United commission recommended numbers for each department should pursuing higher education complicates opportunities in clinical subjects aligned with
Arab Emirates (1,036). strengthening in-person supervision and be displayed on information boards to retaining them in rural areas. Introducing a the MATS curriculum, and renaming MATS to
In recent years, Saudi employers introducing digital attendance tracking. ensure transparency. digital e-logbook system for fair deputation Medical Institute.
have shifted their focus to hiring female Disciplinary actions would be enforced HEALTH PROTECTION LAW policies, postings, and promotions based Earlier in the day, around 11:00am, nearly
foreign workers from other countries, for unauthorised absences. A proposed health protection law seeks to on rural service tenure was recommended. 300 students gathered in front of the National
including several African nations, The commission also suggested balance the interests of doctors, healthcare Strategic workforce planning, policy Museum under the banner of the General MATS
said Ali Haider Chowdhury, secretary prioritising initiatives to uphold the providers, and patients. The report calls reforms, and technological solutions Students’ Unity Council for a long march towards
SEE PAGE 4 COL 6 dignity of both government and private for a high-level task force to deliberate on SEE PAGE 4 COL 8 SEE PAGE 4 COL 5

DHANMONDI-32 119 ‘deprived’

officials
Basement space was promoted to
for elevator shaft secretary
STAFF CORRESPONDENT
Finds fire service after draining water The public administration
STAR REPORT typical of many others. ministry has issued
The site continued to attract large a gazette granting
Fire service officials yesterday drained crowds as curious onlookers gathered retrospective promotions
water from the basement of a building around the demolished building, eager to 764 retired officials
adjacent to the demolished residence to glimpse the area speculated to be who were deprived during
of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur “Aynaghar”. their tenure between
Rahman at Dhanmondi-32, addressing 2009 and August 2024
speculation about the existence of under the Awami League
secret detention centres, commonly government.
referred to as Aynaghar. These promotions
They confirmed that the space cover the ranks of deputy
was intended for an elevator in the secretary, joint secretary,
basement. additional secretary, grade
“A fire engine began pumping water 1 officer (equivalent to
from the area around 10:00am, but no that of a secretary), and
items or hidden structures were found secretary.
after drainage,” Mizanur Rahman, Yesterday, the ministry
station officer of Mohammadpur Fire issued five gazettes
Station, told The Daily Star. Forty-year-old Moina Begum, a formalizing these
“The space, about five feet deep, house help, travelled from Ashulia to promotions.
is designated for an elevator in Dhanmondi-32 around 10:00am and According to the
basement-2. It had partially filled with waited for hours, hoping to witness the notifications, 119 officials
rainwater due to the absence of a roof unearthing of the supposed detention have been promoted to
in that area,” he said. site. secretary, 41 to grade 1
The building’s basement layout was SEE PAGE 4 COL 1 SEE PAGE 4 COL 5
 2nd Edition

NEWS
DHAKA MONDAY FEBRUARY 10, 2025

4 MAGH 27, 1431 BS

Shah Abdul Badiul Alam’s

Traditional wooden Karim Loko anniversary of
toys gaining popularity Utshob held death today
in Sunamganj STAR REPORT

STAR REPORT Today is the

22nd death
The two-day Shah Abdul anniversary
Karim Loko Utshob-2025 of Badiul
recently celebrated the Alam, a
timeless melodies of Baul freedom
Samrat Shah Abdul Karim, fighter,
including Bondhe Maya lawyer, politician, and social
Lagaise, Gari Chole Na, and activist, said a press release.
Bosonto Batase Soi Go, said On the occasion,
a press release. The two-day Shah Abdul Karim Loko Utshob-2025 recently celebrated the Advocate Badiul Alam
Held at Ujandhal field Memorial Foundation will
timeless melodies of Baul Samrat Shah Abdul Karim at the Ujandhal field in
in Derai, Sunamganj, the organise a doa mahfil in
festival was organised by Derai, Sunamganj. The festival was organised by Shah Abdul Karim Parishad
Chandanaish.
Shah Abdul Karim Parishad with support from bKash. PHOTO: COURTESY Born in 1926 in
with bKash’s support for Fatehnagar village,
the third consecutive year. Chandanaish, Chattogram,
SUZIT DAS, Faridpur

Abdur Rob is a popular name in Rajbari’s

two years, earning Tk 15,000-17,000 per
month.”
Another worker, Sima Akter, 22,
Presided over by Shah
Nur Jalal, son of Baul
Samrat, the event was
MATS students demonstrate Badiul Alam completed
his undergraduate degree
Indranarayanpur village, especially
FROM PAGE 3 taken, we had no choice but indefinite hunger strike. from Calcutta University
mentioned that she works in Rob’s factory inaugurated on Friday by the Directorate General of
among children who eagerly anticipate to march.” The announcement was in 1946 and later earned an
after finishing her household tasks, Dr Mohammad Ileas Mia, Health Services (DGHS).
the arrival of his wooden toys. Around 3:00pm, Tuhin made by Mujahidul Islam, LLB from Dhaka University.
earning Tk 350 daily for painting the toys. Deputy Commissioner of However, instead of
At 42, Rob has carved a niche for Farabi, personal officer to central coordinator of the During the Liberation
“There is a good demand for these Sunamganj, and Maj Gen marching, they took
himself as a craftsman, creating a vibrant the health adviser, escorted General MATS Students’ War, he served as the Awami
wooden toys across various districts, (retd) Sheikh Md Monirul position on the road.
array of toys. His home-based toy factory a five-member MATS Unity Council, at a press League’s regional president
including Magura, Kushtia, Faridpur, Islam, Chief External & They blocked the road
not only supports his family but also delegation to the Secretariat conference last night at the in Chattogram. Later, he
Gopalganj, Madaripur, and Barishal,” Corporate Affairs Officer of from Shahbagh towards
provides employment opportunities for for discussions with health Raju Memorial Sculpture took on the role of president
said Rob. bKash. Dhaka University, but
four other villagers. ministry officials. in the Dhaka University of the Socialist Party’s
Atiar Sheikh, 43, a resident of Atroshi Folk musicians and traffic movement on the
Rob’s journey began 15 years ago Earlier, Tuhin Farabi area. Chittagong South Division.
village in Sadarpur upazila in Faridpur, devotees from across the main Shahbagh road
in Bogura, where he learned the art of had arrived at Shahbagh Mujahidul said the In 1972, he was elected
said Rob’s wooden toys are in high country performed to remained uninterrupted,
crafting toys. Since then, he has developed to speak with the ministry has once again vice president of the
demand due to their durability and lower honour Karim’s legacy, said Shahbagh Police
a repertoire of around 40 different types protesters, assuring assured them of fulfilling Lawyers’ Association and
cost compared to plastic toys. attracting a diverse Station Officer-in-Charge
of wooden toys, including trucks, buses, them that a circular on their demands and later became its president
Ronjit Sarkar, 42, a resident of audience, including Khaled Monsur.
rickshaws, and cars, all crafted alongside the recruitment of Sub- requested three days to in 1981. Throughout his
Mahespur area in Magura, said he has locals, fans, and visitors Md Sakib Mahmud,
his wife. Assistant Community publish the recruitment life, he was actively involved
been buying wooden toys from Rob for from abroad. The venue coordinator of the General
After being painted, the toys are dried Medical Officers would be circular. However, no in various organisations,
two years, appreciating their superior buzzed with stalls selling MATS Students’ Unity
in the sun in the factory’s yard. issued soon. However, the resolution or specific including the Bangladesh
quality. traditional snacks, toys, Council, said, “Even after
Rob said he earns Tk 30,000-35,000 students refused to leave. timeline has been given for Red Crescent Society,
“Our toys are environmentally and household goods. the July Revolution against
monthly after deducting all expenses. Meanwhile, the MATS the other three demands. National Cancer Prevention
friendly and affordable for everyone, and bKash expressed pride discrimination, MATS
“I make 5,000-7,000 pieces of wooden students launched a sit- As a result, the students Society, Muslim Education
they remain in demand in the market in supporting the festival, students continue to face
toys monthly, depending on the demand. in at the Central Shaheed have decided to continue Society, Chittagong
despite the presence of plastic toys. If while Shah Nur Jalal discrimination. On January
Each toy is sold at Tk 100-300,” he added. Minar last night. their protest, he added. Society, and Patiya College
the government provides us with loans thanked the organisers and 22, the health ministry
Kamal Sheikh, 35, a worker in the They said they will Over 15,000 students Organising Society.
on easy terms, we could expand the community. The festival has promised in writing to
factory and a resident of the Kamaldia ontinue the demonstration are currently enrolled in 17
factory and create more employment been held on the banks of meet our demands within
area, said, “I have been working here for opportunities,” Rob added. the Kalni River since 2006. seven working days. Since
until 12:00pm today. If
their demands are not met
government and over 200
private MATS institutions
Alauddin
no sincere action has been by then, they will begin an nationwide. Bhuiyan
Basement space Government mulls reducing Female worker passes away
STAR REPORT
FROM PAGE 3 subsequent demolition FROM PAGE 3 be completely reformed,” on primary and mass
FROM PAGE 3 alternative job markets for
“I took leave from my lessons in the curriculum, general of the Bangladesh female workers has left few
of the Dhanmondi-32 he added. education; Prof Saidur Alauddin
employers and came here most students are only Association of International options for sending them
building began following Prof Aminul emphasised Rahman, a member of Bhuiyan,
to see Aynaghar, but I exposed to theoretical Recruiting Agencies. abroad.
an announcement that the need to ensure proper the University Grants former bill
found nothing,” she said. knowledge due to the lack As a result, their interest “So far, female workers
Sheikh Hasina would education, laboratory Commission (UGC); and collector
As in previous days, of laboratories, trainers, in recruiting female mostly migrate as
deliver a speech online on facilities, and qualified Kabirul Islam, secretary at the
scrap collectors were and practical facilities. workers from Bangladesh housekeepers or garment
February 5. trainers. “Students will be of the Technical and accounts
seen salvaging materials Protesters had created “Currently, students are has waned. This has workers, but with proper
trained to secure good jobs Madrasah Education section of
from the debris. This a Facebook event titled taught theoretical lessons, impacted Bangladesh training, they could also
even while they are still Division. Siddique Zobair, The Daily Star, passed away
correspondent visited “Bulldozer March,” calling followed by viva exams, and significantly, as there are qualify for jobs as caregivers,
studying,” he said. secretary of the Secondary on February 8. He was 70.
the site around 3:00pm for people to assemble at then awarded certificates few alternative overseas job drivers, or even construction
The event was also and Higher Education He left behind his wife, a
and observed no police Dhanmondi-32 at 7:30pm without any practical markets for female workers, workers,” she said.
attended by Bidhan Ranjan Division, presided over the son, and two daughters to
presence. that day. knowledge. This system will leading to the continued Jasiya also said female
Roy Poddar, adviser programme. mourn his death.
Kamal Hossain, a Large crowds gathered, decline, he added. workers are often deprived
In addition to seeking Alauddin worked for the
middle-aged man, was of fair wages abroad, which
using a hacksaw to cut rods
from chunks of concrete.
and by 9:30pm, the
building was set ablaze.
Shortly before midnight,
ICT issues arrest warrants skilled workers, Saudi
employers also urge
could discourage potential
migrants.
newspaper from 1999 to
2016. His family requested
all to pray for the salvation
He and three others from
FROM PAGE 5 with reporters after court crimes against humanity Bangladeshi recruiting “Many women still want
a crane and an excavator Of them, 35 accused are of the departed soul.
Mohammadpur have been proceedings. at Dhaka’s Chankhanapur, agencies to speed up to go abroad for jobs, but
arrived at the scene. currently in jail.
collecting saleable items Over the next few hours, Mentioning that the on one-day remand. the migration process. they don’t know the proper
from the rubble daily since The prosecution also ICT’s prosecution and Moreover, it sent However, due to multiple channels,” she said, urging
parts of the building were
the demolition began on
February 5.
razed to the ground. By
11:00am the following day,
expressed hope that the
investigation agency of
investigation agency are
working round the clock,
Muzibor Rahman, former
officer-in-charge of Uttara
procedural layers, many
agencies struggle to meet
the government to address
this gap.
Reform
“We are collecting rods ICT will complete ongoing Tamim said, “We are East Police Station, to jail the required deadlines, Ali FROM PAGE 3
the heavy equipment had investigations several cases
from the debris as no one
stops us,” Kamal said,
left the site. related to crimes against
hopeful that within this
month the investigators
after he was produced
before it shown arrested
Haider said.
A BMET official, seeking
Be cautious were also highlighted
as ways to balance rural
adding that they gather humanity committed will be able to submit in a case on charge of anonymity, said female FROM PAGE 3 healthcare demand and
nearly 15kg of rods each PRAYER during the July-August
uprising by the end of
several probe reports to the
chief prosecutor’s office.”
mass killing in Uttara area
during July-August mass
workers migrate based
on demand letters from
successfully ousted the
fascist Hasina through an
service delivery.
Tackling Middlemen and
day on average.
Several others, mostly TIMING February. The tribunal also placed uprising. foreign employers. uprising, urging everyone
to be cautious of “Hasina’s
Ensuring Transparency
low-income individuals, ICT’s prosecutor Gazi Sujon Hossain, a police Muzibor was arrested They also undergo To eliminate the
FEBRUARY 10 Monawar Hossain Tamim trap.”
were seen breaking parts of constable arrested in a from Dhaka University training programmes and influence of middlemen in
the pillars with hammers
Fazr Zohr Asr Maghrib Esha shared the information case filed over committing campus earlier in the day. receive certification upon “We must continue hospitals, the commission
to extract bricks and rods, AZAN 5-25 12-45 4-30 5-57 7-15 successfully completing our efforts to protect the recommended full
independence, sovereignty,
which they sell to recyclers.
The protest and
JAMAAT 6-00 1-15 4-45 6-01 7-45
SOURCE: ISLAMIC FOUNDATION Looted relief blankets 119 ‘deprived’
FROM PAGE 3
examinations, the official
added.
However, female workers
and stability of the country
and to establish democracy
automation of services.
It also urged displaying
daily patient numbers
FROM PAGE 5 sports equipment -- 6
Babu, however, denied the officer, 528 to additional are not favourably placed against the fascists in a on digital dashboards
cricket pads and 2 helmets
allegations, saying, “I did secretary, 72 to joint for market expansion due to united manner,” he said. for transparency in both
-- from the Bakulbariya
not go there, but I have secretary, and four to their low skill set and lack of When asked about government and private
canal.”
heard about an incident deputy secretary. access to multidimensional “Operation Devil Hunt,” hospitals.
“The owner of the house
involving the blankets.” Earlier, a review skills training programmes. Fakhrul expressed his Besides, the
where the items were committee examined gratitude.
Chandan Kor, assistant stored claimed that Helen Jasiya Khatoon, commission encouraged
commissioner (land) and the applications of the director of the Welfare “Seems like they (the pharmaceutical
had forced him to keep the retired officials who had government) have finally
executive magistrate in Association for the Rights companies to contribute
items. Legal proceedings claimed deprivation awakened, and for that, I
Sadar upazila, said, “Based of Bangladeshi Emigrants to government hospitals by
are underway, and a and recommended their express my thanks,” said
on a tip-off, we conducted Development Foundation, providing free medicines as
regular case is being filed promotion. the BNP leader.
a raid on February 8 at said the absence of new and part of their CSR initiatives.
against Helen on charges
a house near the former of misappropriating
lawmaker’s residence, government relief
suspecting the presence of materials,” he added.
government relief items. Efforts to reach
While the allegations former lawmaker Kazi
were verified, the items Kaniz Sultana Helen
were not found there. Later for a comment were
that night, we recovered unsuccessful as she has
25 government relief been in hiding since the fall
blankets and discarded of the AL government.
 2nd Edition

CITY 5
DHAKA MONDAY FEBRUARY 10, 2025
MAGH 27, 1431 BS

‘We want Mob torches house

to remain of double murder
neutral’
Says CEC Nasir Uddin suspect in Rangpur
BSS, Dhaka OUR CORRESPONDENT, Dinajpur

Chief Election An enraged mob set fire to the house of a double

Commissioner (CEC) AMM murder suspect in Pirganj upazila of Rangpur
Nasir Uddin yesterday yesterday morning, following his arrest for
said the commission does allegedly killing a woman and her 7-year-old
not intend to support or daughter.
oppose any political party. The attack took place around 11:45am in Boro
“We, in the commission, Badnapara village.
do not want to engage in The suspect, Atikul Islam, 35, had been arrested
politics. We do not want the previous day, according to police.
to stand for or against any Eyewitnesses said locals gathered near Atikul’s
political party,” he said, house, demanding exemplary punishment for the
adding, “We want to remain double murder. At one point, the mob torched his
neutral.” tin-shed home, reducing three rooms to ashes.
He made these remarks Firefighters and police rushed to the scene but
while addressing the were unable to save the house.
annual general meeting Atikul, who lived alone, was in police custody
and prize distribution at the time.
ceremony of the Reporters The investigation began on Friday when police
Forum for Election and recovered the headless body of an unidentified
Democracy (RFED) at woman from a chilli field in Boro Badnapara village.
Nirbachan Bhaban in the The following day, authorities confirmed the
capital. victim was Delowara Begum, 30, and arrested
Nasir Uddin stated that Atikul in connection with the murder.
political control over the During interrogation, Atikul confessed and led
Election Commission was police to the Karatoa River, where they unearthed
the main reason behind Delowara’s severed head. He then admitted to
criticism of its role. murdering her daughter about a month and a half
“This is the biggest earlier, stuffing her body in a sack, and burying it
reason why the Election behind his house.
Commission has been Activists protest the recent attacks and harassment against female footballers in the country, at a programme at the capital’s Shahbagh Yesterday morning, police exhumed the child’s
subjected to political yesterday. They demand an end to moral policing and the repression of women. PHOTO: PRABIR DAS body.
control. There may be Pirganj Police Station Officer-in-Charge M A
hundreds of reasons, but Faruk said, “Following the suspect’s arrest, angry
I believe political control locals set fire to his house. The situation is now
over the EC is the most
USING FORESHORE AREAS under control.”
significant factor,” he said. “The bodies of both victims were sent to
The CEC reaffirmed the
commission’s commitment
to conducting free, fair,
and credible elections.
BIWTA locks horns with Ctg Rangpur Medical College Hospital for autopsy. We
are continuing the investigation,” he added.

ICT issues shipbreakers over clearance Looted relief

blankets recovered
arrest SIFAYET ULLAH operating with permission from 17
warrants Despite repeated notices from
to 18 government agencies.
“We normally pay revenue
from canal
against 7 the Bangladesh Inland Water
Transport Authority (BIWTA),
to the Deputy Commissioner’s
Office for using land on the
OUR CORRESPONDENT, Patuakhali

STAFF CORRESPONDENT shipbreakers in Chattogram seashore. If the government now Relief blankets and sports equipment, previously
continue to dismantle scrap requires us to obtain permission stored at the residence of former AL lawmaker
The International Crimes ships and dredge sand without from BIWTA as well, we are willing Kazi Kaniz Sultana Helen, were recovered from a
Tribunal yesterday obtaining clearance, according to to comply -- once a complete canal in Jainkathi area of Patuakhali municipality,
issued arrest warrants BIWTA officials. guideline is provided.” 16 hours after it was looted.
against seven persons This violation not only results He added that shipbreakers Locals said following the fall of Hasina-
over allegations of their in significant revenue loss for the dredge sand from beaching zones government on August 5, 2024, Kazi Kaniz
involvement in crimes government but also causes severe at their own expense to facilitate Sultana Helen -- who served as the president
against humanity. damage to coastal biodiversity. operations. of Patuakhali District Women’s Awami League
A bench led by Justice Currently, Chattogram has 248 “If BIWTA takes over sand and a reserved seat lawmaker from 2018-2023
Md Golam Mortuza registered shipbreaking yards, extraction, we fear the process -- stored government-allocated blankets and
Majumder passed the order according to the Department areas within a river port without Shipbreakers typically extract will slow down. In that case, we cricket equipment at the house of her neighbour,
after a petition was filed in of Inspection for Factories and paying revenue to the government. sand from the area in front of their want the option to manage sand Jahangir Hossain.
this connection earlier in Establishments. However, only 30 Following these regulations, the yards to facilitate ship anchoring extraction ourselves,” he said. The items were kept in a room on the rooftop of
the day. to 40 of these yards are operational. BIWTA has repeatedly sent notices and maintain navigability. Regarding allegations that Jahangir’s four-storey house from August 6, 2024
However, the In 2020, the government urging shipbreaking yard owners Md Kamruzzaman, deputy some shipbreakers are engaging until February 7, 2025.
prosecution did not declared the area stretching to obtain licenses. However, most director of BIWTA Chattogram, in sand trading under the guise Early on Saturday, Asif Iqbal Mahmud Onik
disclose the names and from the Feni Muhuri project to shipbreakers continue to use the told The Daily Star, “Despite of dredging, Nazmul said, “Our alias Babu, member secretary of the Chhatra Dal
identities of individuals Rasmoni Ghat in Chattogram— foreshore and dredge sand without repeated requests, shipbreakers business is ship dismantling, not unit at Patuakhali Government College, allegedly
against whom the arrest where all these yards are located paying the required fees. are not seeking permission. As a sand trading. These allegations took the blankets forcefully from the house with
warrants were issued. -- as a river port. Since then, a Only a single shipbreaking yard result, the government is losing are false.” support from his associates.
The ICT so far issued dispute has been ongoing between authority took permission from a substantial amount of revenue. So far, the Sitakunda upazila Jahangir said, “When Helen left the area
arrest warrants against shipbreakers and the BIWTA. BIWTA for dredging sand and We have verbally informed higher administration has fined three on August 6, she forcefully left 7-8 sacks of
115 individuals in 18 cases Previously, shipbreakers breaking ships last December. authorities for further action.” shipbreaking yards -- OWW government blankets and some sports equipment
filed for crime against operated with permission from Currently, BIWTA collects Tk Contacted, Nazmul Hasan, Shipbreaking Yard, SL Steel at my house. These were stored in an open room on
humanity, genocide and the Ministry of Industries. 144 per decimal of river port land secretary of the Bangladesh Ship Shipbreaking Yard, and Mother the rooftop, but suddenly Babu and his associates
enforced disappearances. However, under the Port Rules of used in Chattogram and Tk 0.46 Breakers and Recycling Association Steel Limited -- for illegally took them away.”
SEE PAGE 4 COL 3 1966, no one can use foreshore per cubic foot of sand as revenue. (BSBRA), said, “We are currently extracting sand from the channel. SEE PAGE 4 COL 3

RADIOTHERAPY AT BARISHAL HOSPITAL

Machine has remained

nonfunctional for 10 years
Cancer patients forced to seek treatment in Dhaka at high cost
SUSHANTA GHOSH, Barishal private treatment,” Jewel said. Radiation and Oncology SBMCH is the only hospital
SBMCH offers facilities Department, approximately providing cancer treatment.
For the past ten years, the for chemotherapy, surgery, 1,000 cancer patients are With our lone radiotherapy
radiotherapy machine at and other cancer treatments, found per million people. With machine out of order, patients
Barishal Sher-e-Bangla Medical but without a functioning a population of 9.3 million in are left with no choice but to go
College Hospital (SBMCH) radiotherapy machine, patients Barishal division (as per the latest to Dhaka,” he said.
has been out of order, leaving must go to Dhaka, where Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics “Cancer treatment depends
thousands of cancer patients in treatment costs can be 25 to data), the estimated number of heavily on the stage of detection.
the region without access to a Early-stage treatment can
critical part of their treatment. lead to a cure, while late-
Without timely radiotherapy, stage cancer often results in
many patients are forced to inevitable death. Radiotherapy
abandon their treatment or travel is a crucial part of treatment,
to Dhaka at an exorbitant cost -- yet most patients in this region
both financially and physically. cannot access it on time due to
Jewel Mahmud, a section financial hardship. Many leave
officer in the Public Relations treatment incomplete, reducing
Department at Barishal their chances of survival,” Dr
University, is facing such an Moinul added.
ordeal. His father was diagnosed SBMCH installed a Cobalt-60
with throat cancer and received machine, costing Tk 10 crore, in
chemotherapy at SBMCH. 2002 to provide radiotherapy
However, for radiotherapy, to cancer patients. However,
he had to travel to Dhaka, 30 times higher. Many cannot cancer patients exceeds 9,000. after 13 years of operation, the
where long waiting times at afford the expense and are left However, in 2024, only 4,801 machine fell out of order in
public hospitals forced him to untreated, leading to a faster patients received treatment at 2015 and has remained non-
seek costly treatment at private deterioration of their condition. SBMCH. functional ever since.
facilities. Radiotherapy is essential Dr ANM Moinul Islam, Brigadier General AKM
“In Dhaka, the waiting time for nearly 60 percent of head of the Clinical Oncology Moshihul Munir, the hospital’s
for such therapy at public chemotherapy patients, and Department at SBMCH, director, said, “Four hospitals,
hospitals is around seven to treatment should ideally said 1,860 patients received including SBMCH, are set to
eight months. Many patients, start within a month after chemotherapy in 2024. receive new Cobalt-60 machines
including my father, are forced chemotherapy ends. “Among the 11 districts on for cancer treatment. We expect
to pay significantly more for According to SBMCH’s this side of the Padma river, the new machine to arrive soon.”
 CITY

6 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

DHAKA MONDAY FEBRUARY 10, 2025
MAGH 27, 1431 BS

Siam turns Warner Bros

Jay-Z and Eminem’s
‘Renegade’ contract
heads with releases 31 full-
length movies on
put on the market
The original 2001

striking new YouTube for free

contract
Jay-Z and Eminem
between

for their iconic collab,

‘JONGLI’ look Warner Bros Entertainment has

taken a new, more accessible
approach to monetising its extensive
Renegade, is now up
for grabs. Collectibles
company Moments In
Time is offering the
Siam Ahmed has unveiled a fresh more refined look for his
film catalogue by offering 31 full- 14-page document,
upcoming film Jongli, sparking excitement among fans. length movies to stream for free on featuring both
Previously, his rugged appearance with long, unkempt hair and its YouTube channels, marking a artistes’ real names—
a beard gave the film a vastly different vibe. departure from its previous attempts Shawn Carter and
Yesterday, Siam introduced his new look on his official to drive revenue through subscription Marshall Mathers—
Facebook page, writing, “I’m with Joni. You’ve met Jongli, now services. for $35,000.
it’s time to meet Joni. Joni is coming with Jongli this Eid-ul- The collection, which spans various Renegade, the sole song including
Fitr.” His announcement quickly gained attention, with fans genres and decades, includes classics a guest on Jay-Z’s album The Blueprint, was
expressing eagerness to see his transformation in the film. such as Mutiny on the Bounty, released on September 11, 2001.
This M Raahim directorial features an ensemble cast, Initially recorded by Eminem and Royce da
Jackie Chan’s Mr Nice Guy, and The
including Bubly, Dighi, Dilara Zaman, Shahiduzzaman Selim, 5’9”, the track was reworked for Jay-Z’s album.
Rashed Mamun Apu, Sohel Khan, and Arfan Mredha Shiblu.
Mission featuring Robert De Niro. The contract is considered a rare piece of hip-
Jongli’s soundtrack is composed by Prince Mahmud, with YouTube Premium subscribers can hop history, now sought after by collectors and
singer Tahsan Khan lending his voice to one of the tracks. enjoy an ad-free experience. enthusiasts alike.
This move reflects Warner Bros’
broader experiment with digital ad
Habib Wahid and wife revenue and increasing visibility of its
content. Additionally, the company Pritom Hasan,
WHAT’S THE HAPS? reunite on-screen for has expanded its partnerships
with platforms such as Roku and Tanjin Tisha pair up
Tubi, providing free, ad-supported
Amar Bhashar ‘Pagol Hawa’ streaming access to its films. for Valentine’s Day
Chalachitra special release
As February arrives with its crimson-hued palash Pritom Hasan and
blossoms, the spirit of resistance and remembrance Tanjin Tisha are set
will take centre stage at the 23rd edition of Amar to star together in
Bhashar Chalachitra. The event, set against the Ghumpori, a new
symbolic redness of palash flower, commemorates web-film directed by
the Bengali people’s historic resistance and sacrifices, Jahid Preetom.
honouring their struggle for language, autonomy, and While widely
freedom from oppressive forces. recognised for
Date: Saturday-Wednesday | February 15-19 his music, Pritom
Hasan has also
Time: 10am-10pm showcased his
Venue: TSC, Dhaka University Habib Wahid is set to surprise fans this Valentine’s Day acting talent
with Pagol Hawa, a romantic music video featuring in several web
his wife, Afsana Chowdhury Shifa. This marks their productions.
on-screen reunion after nearly four years. Meanwhile, popular small-screen actress Tisha
The song, written by Srabon and composed by has made her mark through a few web projects.
Habib himself, is poised to be a melodious experience, Now, the duo is coming together for Ghumpori,
with visuals shot in stunning locations across adding to their growing list of on-screen ventures.
Bangladesh and beyond. The cherished singer and his Chorki recently unveiled the film’s official
wife last appeared together in Romantic Lage (2021). poster on its Facebook page, announcing that the
The music video of Pagol Hawa, which has been project will be released on Valentine’s Day.
produced under HW Production House, will premiere The Chorki Original also features Parsha
on Habib’s YouTube channel during Valentine’s Day. Mahjabeen Purnee in a pivotal role.

COUNTRYWIDE
LATE BLIGHT DISEASE M’singh resists Urdu Former CEC Abdur Rouf
Potato farmers FROM PAGE 12
no more
of the Muslim League, a
student rally presided over by
Rafiquddin Bhuiyan was held
secretary of the Parishad.
A massive campaign was
carried out ahead of February
21, the main day of the FROM PAGE 12 Magura by-election in 1994 for voting rights, reforms,

struggle to save crops at Bipin Park in Mymensingh

city in favour of Bangla as a
state language in December
movement, as part of centrally
announced programmes
from Dhaka. Besides pasting
Eidgah ground on the
Supreme Court premises.
A third janaza will be
during the BNP’s regime.
Chief Adviser
Muhammad Yunus has
Prof
and democracy, and the
nation will always remember
him with respect.”
1947. posters on walls, the protesters held after Maghrib prayers expressed deep sorrow over Officials and staffers of
OUR CORRESPONDENT, Thakurgaon expected to improve with better weather
In February 1948, when in Mymensingh distributed at Dapunia High School the demise of Justice Rouf. the Election Commission
conditions, Sirajul said.
During visits to different villages in the proposal for Bangla as a leaflets. ground in Mymensingh He prayed for the eternal also expressed deep
Potato growers in Thakurgaon and
Thakurgaon Sadar and Panchagarh’s state language was opposed On February 21, a general Sadar, followed by his burial peace of the departed soul condolence over the death of
Panchagarh are struggling to protect
Boda upazila, farmers were seen spraying by the Muslim League in the strike was observed, with a beside his mother’s grave and conveyed his heartfelt Justice Rouf.
their crops as cold weather and dense fog
pesticides to save their crops, but Constituent Assembly, students shutdown of businesses and at the family graveyard, his sympathies to the bereaved SC JUDICIAL FUNCTIONS
have triggered an outbreak of late blight a boycott of classes. Students,
frequent usage of medicines is raising the and people launched protests son Additional Attorney family, the CA’s press wing SUSPENDED
disease this year. led by Syed Badruddin,
production costs. in Mymensingh, just like the General Mohammad said in a statement. Judicial functions of the
The fungal disease, locally known brought out a procession
Farmer Shariful Islam of Barunagaon demonstrations in Dhaka and Arshadur Rouf told The Recalling Justice Appellate Division and
as Patamora rog, is spreading very fast, from Ananda Mohan College
village in Thakurgaon Sadar upazila other parts of the country. Daily Star. Rouf’s contribution to the High Court Division of
causing deep concern among local and joined a rally at Bipin
cultivated potatoes on one acre of land, According to the book Justice Rouf is survived by restoration of democracy the Supreme Court were
farmers about possible financial losses. Park in violation of Section
spending about Tk 1 lakh. Bhasha Andolon Teknaf two sons and a daughter. after the fall of autocrat suspended for the last half
High price of fungicides, needed Theke Tetulia by Ahmed 144. The speakers demanded
to control the outbreak, is further Shariful said he is trying to save his He served as the country’s HM Ershad in December of yesterday in honour of
Rafiq, a campaign was held that Bangla be given the
increasing the production cost. crops, already affected by late blight, fifth CEC from late 1990 1990, the chief adviser Justice Rouf.
in Mymensingh ahead of status of a state language
Thakurgaon Department of by frequently spraying medicine as per to early 1995. He was also said, “Justice Rouf will The judicial functions of
a general strike slated for immediately.
As soon as the news chairman of Barakah always remain a symbol of the Appellate Division ran
March 11. Funds were raised
from public donations to of deadly police firing on Foundation. Bangladesh’s democratic until 11:00am and the High
meet the expenses of the student protesters in Dhaka While he was praised journey.” Court Division proceedings
movement. reached Mymensingh, the for overseeing the much- Prof Yunus further continued until 2:00pm.
On March 11, an all- entire city erupted in protests. anticipated 1991 general remarked, “Justice Rouf was The SC administration
out strike was observed in People gathered in front election, his tenure drew a towering figure in civil issued two separate
Mymensingh, with students of Rafiquddin Bhuiyan’s controversy due to the society. He worked tirelessly notifications to this effect.
marching around the city residence to know the next
in procession and chanting
the slogan “Rashtrobhasha
course of the movement. On
February 22, people from all Yunus to attend Teenager shot
FROM PAGE 2
Bangla Chai (We want Bangla walks of life took to the streets.
as a state language)”. Student A condolence meeting FROM PAGE 12 to help shape a brighter left the factory with police
leaders later spoke at a chaired by Rafiquddin was held political and business future. assistance.
rally organised by the local on the Town Hall premises, leaders attending the Rafiqul said this year’s “As the jhut
Renaissance Society at Bipin demanding Bangla as a state event.” summit will continue truck reached Sharif
Park. language, a fair investigation Vice President and to foster effective Chowdhury’s house, his
After Muhammad Ali into the killings of protesters Prime Minister of the partnerships between men started shooting from
Farmers spray pesticide at a potato field in an attempt to save the remaining Jinnah spoke in favour in Dhaka and the punishment UAE and Ruler of Dubai governments while the roof of the house and
of Urdu as the sole state of the perpetrators. A huge Mohammed bin Rashid enhancing global dialogue
plants from late blight disease. The photo was taken from Barunagaon village in procession of students led
at one point set the truck
language of Pakistan in Al Maktoum invited
Thakurgaon Sadar upazila. PHOTO: STAR by Ananda Mohan College’s and cooperation to on fire. Two of our people,
March, the Language
Movement gained pace in Tahmida Saida joined the rally. the chief adviser to the strengthen the connection including a labourer
Agricultural Extension (DAE) Deputy experts’ advice. Mymensingh like Dhaka and During a general strike summit through a formal between governments and named Manju, were shot.”
Director Sirajul Islam said if not Jahangir Hossain of Sahapara village, other parts of the country. at the college on February invitation on January 13, the people. Rakibul, deputy
controlled immediately, the disease who spent Tk 2.5 lakh on five bighas Police baton-charged 23, a decision was taken 2025. Bangladesh and the UAE general manager of Preeti
causes leaves to turn brown to blackish land, said about one-fourth of his crop is protesters during a student to form Rashtrobhasha The World Governments share a historically strong Composite Textile Limited,
and eventually die. already infected. rally at Bipin Park on March 25. Sangram Committees in Summit, introduced in and friendly relationship,
He is spraying medicine to save the said there was no trouble
The ongoing cold, fog and fluctuating On January 27, 1952, when every subdivision of greater 2013 under the leadership which has been further
temperatures have made the plants rest of his plants, following directives in their factory premises. “I
the government declared Mymensingh. of Mohammed bin Rashid
vulnerable to fungal attacks that starts at from the agriculture officials. strengthened through heard that there was trouble
Urdu as the state language According to the book
the leaf margins and spreads inward, with Farmers said spraying costs about Tk Bhasha Andolon Teknaf Al Maktoum, serves as economic cooperation outside the factory.”
of Pakistan, the students and
white fungal growth visible under leaves 1,800 per acre each time and is necessary public of Mymensingh took Theke Tetulia, on February 24, a global platform for and common political “A person named Bakul
in the morning. every five to six days during cold and to the streets. the city was entirely covered exchanging government interests. Bhuiyan has a contract
Dry conditions cause the leaves foggy weather. According to the book with posters and black flags. experiences and A significant with us,” he added.
to shrink, while humid conditions Many farmers are struggling to bear Bhasha Andolon Kosh Protesters wore black badges innovations. number of Bangladeshi Md Nur Alam
accelerate its decay, he said, adding that the expenses of protecting their crops Part 1 by M Abdul Alim, a and carried black flags during Over the past expatriates reside in the Siddiquee, officer-in-
if left untreated, the disease spreads to during the current adverse weather. Sarbodolyio Rashtrobhasha processions. decade, it has brought UAE, contributing to charge of Ashulia Police
the entire plant, leading to its death. According to the DAE, potatoes have Sangram Parishad (All-Party On the other hand, the together international Bangladesh’s economy Station, said police are
DAE officials recommend spraying been cultivated on 34,725 hectares of Language Struggle Council) Muslim League organised a
land in Thakurgaon this season, up from o r g a n i s a t i o n s , through remittances. trying to identify those
two grammes of Mencozeb or was formed with Ananda grand rally at the Town Hall
Metalexyl, mixed with one litre of 27,100 hectares last year. Mohan College teacher to show that the situation policymakers, thought Additionally, bilateral trade involved in the incident.
water, once a week to control the In Panchagarh, 14,870 hectares have Syed Badruddin Hossain in the city was normal. The leaders, and private is expanding in sectors “We have received video
fungal disease. been brought under potato cultivation, as president. Rafiquddin angry crowd of protesters sector representatives such as textiles, agricultural footage of the incident,” he
The situation is still manageable and compared to 9,857 hectares last year. Bhuiyan became the general later chased them away. from over 140 countries products, and energy. added.
 City

INTERNATIONAL 7
DHAKA MONDAY FEBRUARY 10, 2025
MAGH 27, 1431 BS

Thai hostages
freed from Gaza
arrive in Bangkok
AFP, Bangkok

The families of Thai farm workers held hostage in

Gaza for over a year wept with joy and hugged their
loved ones as they arrived in Bangkok yesterday.
The five Thais smiled as they walked into the
arrivals hall at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport
after being freed on January 30, as part of a
ceasefire deal aimed at ending the Gaza war.
The five -- Watchara Sriaoun, Pongsak Tanna,
Sathian Suwannakham, Surasak Lamnau and
Bannawat Saethao -- landed in Bangkok at 7:30am
and were met by a small group of overjoyed relatives
and officials from the ministry of foreign affairs.
Pongsak told reporters that he was at a “loss for
words” as he saw his family.

India’s statement
FROM PAGE 12 cautious.
against humanity. Dhaka Rafiqul said earlier,
also requested New Delhi Sulaiman Kabir, a
to prevent Hasina from Bangladeshi, was forced
issuing statements. to take part in the Russia-
Last week, Mofa Ukraine war. He later took
summoned Indian Acting shelter in the Bangladesh
High Commissioner in embassy in Moscow,
Dhaka Pawan Badhe which later arranged his
to lodge a protest over repatriation home.
Hasina’s comments. “If anyone in trouble
Displaced Palestinians cross the Netzarim corridor as they make their way to the northern parts of the Gaza Strip yesterday. The Israeli military completed its withdrawal On Feb 7, Indian MEA contacts the Bangladesh
from the Netzarim Corridor on a key highway in Gaza yesterday, as part of an ongoing ceasefire deal, a Hamas official told AFP. PHOTO: AFP summoned Bangladesh embassy, it will take
Acting High Commissioner measures to repatriate
to India, Nural Islam, them home.”

Palestinian state in
and conveyed that Asked if the foreign
“India desires a positive, ministry flagged it to the
constructive and mutually Russian government, the
beneficial relationship with spokesperson said this is
human trafficking, and the

Saudi territory?
Bangladesh.”
Regarding reports government has no role in
that a few Bangladeshis it. “We have alerted all the
were getting involved in agencies concerned.”
the Russia-Ukraine war, In the wake of a war in
Arab nations slam Netanyahu’s ‘racist’ remark Rafiqul said the foreign the Democratic Republic
of Congo, some structures
ministry has ordered
the Bangladesh mission have been destroyed by the
AFP, Riyadh corrected him. presence in the territory until 2005,
in Moscow to probe the bombing, but Bangladeshi
“Unless you want the Palestinian when it pulled out settlers and its peacekeepers were unhurt,
Saudi Arabia and other Arab state to be in Saudi Arabia,” the troops. matter.
According to he said.
countries yesterday condemned Israeli premier quipped. “They (the But the suggestion of a state
media reports, several Rafiqul said a cargo
Baltic nations link remarks by Israel’s PM who
appeared to suggest in an interview
that a Palestinian state could be
Saudis) have plenty of territory.”
Netanyahu went on to describe
the talks leading up to the so-called
for Palestinians outside the Gaza
Strip and the occupied West Bank
prompted an outpouring of regional
Bangladeshi victims of
human trafficking gangs
plane of Bangladesh Air
Force has been transferred
to Uganda and three
were involved in the war.
with EU power grid established on Saudi territory.
Benjamin Netanyahu’s
remarks, which some Israeli media
Abraham Accords, in which several
Arab countries normalised ties
with Israel, concluding: “I think we
condemnation, including from
Qatar, Egypt and the Palestinian
foreign ministry, which described
“We learned
an agency sent some
that helicopters have been
transferred to a different
location for safety.
Bangladeshis to Russia and
AFP, Vilnius characterised as a joke, came with should allow this process to take its the remarks as “racist”. forced them to be involved Except for the
the region already on edge after US course.” Jordan’s foreign ministry in the war. We asked the Bangladeshi peacekeepers,
The three Baltic states successfully connected to the President Donald Trump proposed In another interview with Fox condemned them as “inflammatory Bangladesh embassy in there are no Bangladeshi
European power grid yesterday after severing Soviet-era taking over the territory and News aired late Saturday and a clear violation of international Russia to investigate the citizens residing in Congo,
links with Russia’s network, a shift that EU chief Ursula displacing Gazans abroad. as the premier was law”, stressing that the matter,” the spokesperson he said.
von der Leyen hailed as “freedom from threats and Arab League chief Ahmed wrapping up a visit Palestinians have the said. The latest UN figures
blackmail”. Aboul Gheit said on Sunday that to Washington, “right to establish an Law enforcers also suggest 2,900 people have
Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania -- former Soviet states the thinking behind Netanyahu’s Netanyahu independent, sovereign arrested an agent in been killed since early
that are now EU and Nato members -- have been planning remarks “is unacceptable and defended state” alongside Israel. Bangladesh and were January as a result of the
the switch for years but had been particularly keen to do reflects a complete detachment instructed to take actions hostilities between rebel
Trump’s The foreign
so since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022. from reality”, adding that such against any travel or group M23 and armed
proposal, ministry of the forces of the DR Congo,
The small Baltic countries fear that they too could ideas “are nothing more than mere which has UAE denounced recruiting agents involved
be targeted. The staunch Ukraine supporters had also in such crimes. while around 700,000 are
fantasies or illusions”. sparked Netanyahu’s
The government estimated to have been
worried that Russia would weaponise the electricity grid The Saudi foreign ministry concern and comments as
instructed the airports displaced and thousands
against them. stressed its “categorical rejection to “reprehensible and more injured.
“Moments ago, I received great news,” Lithuanian and immigrations to be
such statements that aim to divert condemnation provocative” in a
President Gitanas Nauseda told reporters in Vilnius, attention from the continuous across the statement, calling them
alongside his Estonian, Latvian and Polish counterparts crimes committed by the Israeli Middle East and “a blatant violation of
and von der Leyen. occupation against the Palestinian the world. international law and the
“The synchronisation of the Baltic states’ electricity brothers in Gaza”. “I think that President United Nations charter”.
system with the continental European system has been A ministry statement welcomed Trump’s proposal is the first For Palestinians, any attempt
successfully completed... We have achieved full energy “the condemnation, disapproval fresh idea in years, and it has the to force them out of Gaza would
independence,” he said. and total rejection announced by potential to change everything in evoke dark memories of what
Nauseda also posted a video to X of the moment he the brotherly countries towards Gaza,” Netanyahu said, adding that the Arab world calls the “Nakba”
received confirmation of the grid connection. “Goodbye what Benjamin Netanyahu stated it represents a “correct approach” or catastrophe -- the mass
Russia, goodbye Lenin,” he said on the phone, before von regarding the displacement of the to the future of the Palestinian displacement of Palestinians during
der Leyen and others applauded. Palestinian people”. territory. Israel’s creation in 1948.
Von der Leyen told reporters ‘today history is made”. In a television interview on “All Trump is saying, ‘I want to In its statement, Saudi said “this
“Electricity lines with Russia and Belarus are being Thursday, right-wing Israeli open the gate and give them an extremist, occupying mentality does
dismantled. These chains of power lines linking you to journalist Yaakov Bardugo was option to relocate temporarily while not understand what the Palestinian
hostile neighbours will be a thing of the past,” she said. discussing with Netanyahu we rebuild the place physically’,” land means” to Palestinians. Such a
“This is freedom, freedom from threats, freedom from the prospect of diplomatic Netanyahu said. mindset, it added, “does not think
blackmail.” normalisation with Saudi Arabia Trump “never said he wants that the Palestinian people deserve
A total of 1.6 billion euros ($1.7 billion) -- mostly EU when he appeared to misspeak, American troops to do the job. to live in the first place, as it has
funds -- have been invested in the synchronisation project attributing to Riyadh the stance that Guess what? We’ll do the job,” completely destroyed the Gaza
across the Baltic states and Poland. there would be “no progress without Netanyahu declared. Strip” and killed tens of thousands
The Baltics integrated into the European grid via a Saudi state”. Israel seized the Gaza Strip in “without the slightest human
Poland. “Palestinian state?” Netanyahu 1967 and maintained a military feeling or moral responsibility”.

A woman jogs on a snowy day in Tehran yesterday. Authorities in Iran ordered schools and offices in at least 10 provinces to close yesterday to
conserve energy amid a severe cold snap and heavy snowfall, state media reported. PHOTO: AFP
8 EDITORIAL
DHAKA MONDAY FEBRUARY 10, 2025
MAGH 27, 1431 BS

FOUNDER EDITOR: LATE S. M. ALI

Not at the cost of
A show of force is not
enough to curb crime
Muktijuddho, no way
Tanim Ahmed the people of Bangladesh have, in a credit. But certainly not by belittling
is digital editor at The Daily Star.
historically persistent struggle for the the Liberation War; And yet, there has
Joint operation must be part of a Md Abbas emancipation of the masses of this been very little criticism amid the post
broader strategy to restore order is a journalist at The Daily Star. He can be reached at [email protected]. land, achieved independence through
a people’s war (jonojuddho) and built
uprising dispensation where Jamaat
and Shibir, having usurped significant
Given the turbulent events of the past week—marked by renewed a united resistance against autocratic sway, appear to influence much of the
anti-fascist protests, disruptions, and unanticipated pushback MD ABBAS and TANIM AHMED and fascist rule;” narrative post August 5.
at times—the Operation Devil Hunt, launched nationwide “We pledge, most respectfully The Liberation War is a unique
on Saturday night, can be seen as mostly a step in the right remembering the supreme sacrifice event in Bangladesh’s history. It will
direction. We say “mostly” because of its limited operational The December 2024 edition of And sometimes, they test the waters
of all martyrs, that the great never happen again. Attempts to
scope and overreliance on a law enforcement approach to an Chhatra Shibir’s mouthpiece, the to see how far they can go in public.
ideals of equality, human dignity, equate it with any other movements
issue that extends far beyond policing. While announcing the monthly Chhatra Sangbad (meaning This recent publication was one such
and social justice that united the or campaigns reflect either a lack of
drive, the home ministry stated that law enforcement forces student news) was themed after the instance.
mass uprising that loosely translates The implicit suggestion of Shibir’s people of Bangladesh in the War of wisdom or a deliberate effort to distort
would target “saboteurs who attacked students, individuals with history. Unlike any political movement,
warrants, and troublemakers” to curb mob violence and restore to “the bloody chapter of victory” response to the widespread criticism Independence in 1971 and the ideals
(bijoy er roktakto oddhyay). One of the article is that the editorial of democracy and equity that united the Liberation War was a struggle for
law and order. The decision follows an attack at the residence
article in that magazine, discussing board of the magazine had not vetted them against the fascist rule in 2024 existence, identity, and sovereignty.
of former Awami League minister AKM Mozammel Haque
the downfall of tyrants through each article carefully before they were shall be established in the state and It was a full-scale war against a well-
in Gazipur, where a false alarm of robbery led to 15 people,
including student leaders of the July uprising, being assaulted. the ages (juge juge shoirachar o approved. This is not at all expected society;” trained military machine. It was a
After launching the drive, joint forces arrested 40 people tader korun porinoti), states at one from an outfit as disciplined as Shibir. The existing preamble had national resistance against systematic
overnight in Gazipur, all allegedly linked to the ousted Awami point, “Some Muslims participated The insincere apology, because it does enshrined the Liberation War as a genocide, oppression—in which
League regime. It can be recalled that the joint forces, comprising in the Liberation War without fully not own up to its misdeed (which is sacrosanct basis of the new republic Jamaat and its student collaborated
the army, police, RAB, BGB, Coast Guard, and Ansar, have been comprehending the consequences. It befitting its historical trend), only born on March 26. The first graph with the perpetrators. Comparing it to
active nationwide since September 4 to recover looted firearms was their failure and lack of foresight. came about once the lines went viral reads, “We, the people of Bangladesh, any democratic movement insults its
and maintain law and order. Later, the government granted May the Almighty forgive them.” on social media and Jamaat’s student having proclaimed our independence glory and undermines the sacrifices of
magistracy power to army officers so that they can intervene Chhatra Shibir, which is the cadres realised they were fast losing on the 26th day of March, 1971 millions who fought and perished for
more decisively. That security issues have still persisted—as student wing of Jamaat-e-Islami, has an independent Bangladesh.
evidenced by the events on Wednesday and Thursday that led to expressed its regrets and withdrew Mass uprisings and popular
the demolition of Mujib’s Dhanmondi 32 residence, along with the article and recalled the magazine. campaigns, however significant,
attacks, vandalism, and arson targeting Awami League-linked It is not available online or offline cannot be placed on the same pedestal
houses and establishments in 35 districts, and eventually to anymore. The fundamentalist as the Liberation War. Democratic
attacks on students—raises questions about how effective the students’ organisation went on to say struggles implicitly predicate the
latest operation will be, even within its stated goal of combating in a note of apology that the article existence of an established nation-
the remnants of Awami fascism. had been published “inadvertently” state. The 1971 War was about the very
The fact is, the security situation is too fluid at the moment birth of that state. Any comparison
and further that the views expressed
to pin responsibility on any single entity. While some of the trivialises that War and plays into the
in the article were the writer’s own.
events of the past week can be traced to Awami League or hands of those who seek to rewrite
The explanation and apology
Sheikh Hasina, some factions within the anti-fascist movement (read distort) history and change the
might have been acceptable if it were
also bear responsibility for escalating tensions. The polarisation narrative for their gain.
festering within different factions of the movement as well as any other organisation. But Shibir,
and its parent organisation Jamaat, We have heard many more such
rising extremism risk undermining the very ideals that fuelled
had violently and actively opposed phrases that liken 2024 with 1971
the July uprising. The resulting chaos—readily exploited by
the 1971 Liberation War. Shibir used in the last several months. This new
criminal elements—cannot be neutralised by force alone. As an
to be called Islami Chhatra Sangha in Bangladesh had to be rebuilt from
analysis of law and order under the interim government shows,
criminals perceive the current environment as favourable for 1971 and resurfaced in 1977 under this scratch, everyone said. Proclamation
carrying out illicit activities, with a still weak and demoralised current name. Jamaat and its student of revolution was mentioned in the
police force struggling to contain them. wing are held responsible for a large beginning. The Mujibist constitution
Therefore, for Operation Devil Hunt to be effective, it cannot number of atrocities committed by had to be done away with and in a bid
be just another show of force—it must be part of a broader the notorious vigilante militia groups to rid it of Mujibism, the proposed
strategy involving political parties and other stakeholders to like Razakar, Al-Badr and Al-Shams, draft of the constitution now trivialises
restore order and stability in the country. That means targeting which consisted of members and the 1971 War.
not only remnants of Awami League’s fascist apparatus but also activists of Jamaat and its student ARTWORK: ZAINUL ABEDIN The rhetoric of a new beginning
those who are exploiting the current instability for personal or wing. in the post August 5 dispensation
political gains. The authorities must also use the operation to Neither Jamaat, nor its student support among the public. Almost as and through a historic struggle for often carried an unspoken suggestion,
tackle rising crime including mugging, extortion, and other wing has ever come clean regarding its if they were dangling their feet to test national liberation, established the a fleeting allusion that it is all “as
public safety threats. They must send a strong message that no role in 1971. Still deeply revered within the waters and pulled out sensing that independent, sovereign People’s opposed to 1971.” There is almost
one involved in jeopardising public safety and law and order will the party, several Jamaat leaders have the time was not yet ripe. Republic of Bangladesh.” an instinctive feeling that there is
be spared. been tried, convicted and executed for Just like in 1971, the article in The proposed draft states an ever so subtle attempt to not just
their crimes against humanity. But question conflates religion with the “jonojuddho” (people’s war) which rewrite history, but delete it. A second
the party and its student wing have inspiration for freedom. In fact, the is not the same as Liberation War liberation it can very well be, but that
Ensure rights of never come forward to apologise for
their role or admit to the atrocities
writer is apologetic for even having
waged war and begs forgiveness of the
or muktijuddho. The language
recognises the mass uprising of 2024
does not make it equal to the first one,
when the country was born.
their predecessors had committed Almighty. and the war of independence of 1971 in Attempts to equate the Liberation
women prisoners out of their supposed conviction for
a united Pakistan. Instead, both the
It is also important to take note of
other omens. Take the Constitution
the same breath! One was a full-blown
war which gave birth to a new country.
War with other political movements,
or belittle it, can no longer be
Address overcrowding in country’s party and its student wing continue
to attempt to justify and vindicate
Reform Commission’s proposal for
instance. It proposes the following
The other was a people’s uprising of a
kind that Bangladesh had not seen
shrugged off as adolescent aberration
or dismissed as youthful ignorance.
lone specialised women’s prison their roles during the Liberation War. two paragraphs in the preamble, “We, before and must be given their due They are not.
A report by Banik Barta paints a grim picture of the
environment inside Kashimpur Central Jail’s women’s section,
the country’s lone specialised prison for female inmates.
Originally intended as a modern facility, the prison now
faces severe overcrowding and substandard living conditions.
According to the Department of Prisons, it has a capacity of
Tea garden workers warrant the same
200 inmates but currently houses 450—more than twice its
intended limit. This is posing serious health and security risks
to the prisoners.
According to an inmate who was recently released from the
support as other industry labourers
prison, five to six prisoners are crammed into spaces meant for Rafad Asgar government intervention. The current the National Tea Company and
is research associate at Bangladesh Institute of Governance and Management (BIGM). He can be
two. As a result, many inmates suffer from contagious diseases, reached at [email protected].
approach of relocating displaced Beximco Industrial Park. This involves
including skin infections and fungal and bacterial outbreaks, workers to other factories or gardens is ensuring fair wages, addressing
due to prolonged exposure to unhygienic conditions. The Samira Tasnim short-sighted and counterproductive. worker grievances, and fostering an
sanitation system is subpar, and despite an approved position is research associate at BIGM. She can be reached at [email protected]. environment conducive to sustainable
Such measures ignore the
for a doctor at the prison, no physician is available to provide broader implications: abandoned operations.
necessary medical care. This is unacceptable, demanding infrastructure, loss of industry- For tea workers, the solution lies
immediate action. RAFAD ASGAR and SAMIRA TASNIM in comprehensive industry reform.
specific expertise, and a diminishing
Reportedly, the overcrowding problem extends beyond The systemic exploitation that keeps
industrial base. The parallels with the
Kashimpur. The total capacity of women’s cells in district In the tapestry of Bangladesh’s socio- exemplifies the precarious position wages at starvation levels must end.
prisons across the country is 1,929, but they currently hold economic landscape, tea gardens and of marginalised workers. The sudden The government, alongside industry
2,981 women prisoners. When Kashimpur becomes too stakeholders, should implement
industrial parks stand as silent pillars shutdown of Madhabpur Tea Estate in
overcrowded, prisoners are temporarily transferred to these The stories of wage standardisation, social security
that uphold the lives of millions, Moulvibazar has left families stranded
district jails—only to be brought back when space allows. This
weaving together tradition and without income or alternative Madhabpur’s tea measures, and skill development
cycle of displacement raises the question: should this happen workers and Beximco’s programmes. For larger industrial
in a modern prison system? modernity. A morning that begins employment opportunities. Sanu,
with a cup of tea mirrors the soul of a worker at the estate, paints a grim factory labourers are hubs like Beximco, the focus should
Overcrowding has been a longstanding issue in Bangladesh’s be on transparent conflict resolution
prisons leading to deplorable living conditions and security every Bangalee heart. Alongside, the picture of this reality. With five family not isolated, and they mechanisms, timely payment of
risks. The trend of mixing hardened criminals with general sprawling Beximco Industrial Park members, including a sick mother, remind us of the delicate dues, and robust labour policies that
inmates also increases the risk of violence and exploitation. symbolises industrial ambition and he struggles to provide even the balance between prevent future disruptions.
Besides, there are many kinds of irregularities that often take global competitiveness. Yet, these two most basic meals, resorting to muri
worlds converge in the shared plight (puffed rice) and cha pata bhorta
progress and humanity. It is time for Bangladesh to heed
place in the prisons, as a Comptroller and Auditor General the silent cries of its labour force and
(CAG) audit report found in 2023. We need a modern prison of labourers whose sweat fuels our (mashed tea leaves) for sustenance. Their struggles are a
clarion call for a nation walk resolutely towards reform and
system that upholds basic human rights for inmates, focusing economy. As we savour the warmth Occasionally, a tourist’s tip is all that
equity. The stories of Madhabpur’s
more on their rehabilitation rather than punishment. of tea or don garments stitched with stands between his family and hunger. striving to achieve tea workers and Beximco’s factory
A partial solution already exists for women prisoners: care, do we pause to acknowledge This tragic narrative is emblematic of middle-income status labourers are not isolated, and they
Dhaka Central Jail in Keraniganj has a modern facility for the unseen hands shaping these countless others, yet it garners little while ensuring that remind us of the delicate balance
women prisoners, including a separate building for adolescent moments? This is not just a narrative attention because tea workers lack
inmates, dedicated wards for the mentally ill, and a daycare
nobody is left behind. between progress and humanity.
of labour; it is the story of Bangladesh the platforms or influence to amplify Their struggles are a clarion call for
centre for inmates with children. But this facility reportedly where every worker’s life is intricately their voices.
remains unused. Why hasn’t it been inaugurated? If properly a nation striving to achieve middle-
woven into the fabric of national Meanwhile the crisis at Beximco income status while ensuring that
opened and operated, it could significantly reduce pressure on progress. Industrial Park dominates the decline of Bangladesh’s sugar and
Kashimpur and improve living conditions for female prisoners. jute mills are stark and cautionary. nobody is left behind. Let us not allow
While the media’s spotlight shines headlines, as workers demand their these crises to become forgotten
We urge the government to take this issue seriously and take on the recent turmoil surrounding rightful wages and reinstatement. These once-thriving industries now
all necessary steps to improve the living conditions of our tragedies; instead, let them fuel a
Beximco Industrial Park, the plight While both cases highlight the stand as relics of mismanagement and
prisoners. collective resolve to create a future
of tea garden workers of the tea vulnerability of workers, they also neglect, offering lessons that must
where every sip of tea and every
estates owned and operated by expose an unequal distribution of not be ignored. stitch of cloth represents not just an
National Tea Company remains concern and urgency. The media’s Bangladesh’s status as a growing industry but the dignity of those who
economy demands prudent and
THIS DAY IN HISTORY woefully underreported. These crises
reveal deeper structural and political
focus on high-profile industrial hubs
often eclipses the struggles of those proactive policies to safeguard its
make it possible. Advocacy groups,
unions, and policymakers must
issues that threaten the livelihoods in remote areas, perpetuating a cycle industries. Political instability and work together to amplify the voices
Galileo flew past Venus of thousands and ultimately, the of neglect for sectors like the tea labour exploitation cannot become of the voiceless, ensuring that every
On this day in 1990, the spacecraft Galileo flew past Venus economic resilience of Bangladesh. industry. recurring narratives. The government worker, regardless of their location
on its way to Jupiter. It became the first spacecraft to orbit an The closure of the National Tea Both situations underscore the need must prioritise the reopening and or industry, is afforded dignity and
outer planet. Company due to political instability for immediate and comprehensive stabilisation of the tea estates under justice.

The Daily Star EDITOR & PUBLISHER: Mahfuz Anam Registered & Head Offices: The Daily Star Centre Newsroom: Fax- 58156306 Advertisement: 01711623910 Subscription: thedailystar.net
Reg. No. DA 781 Printed by him on behalf of Mediaworld Ltd at Transcraft Ltd, 229, 64-65 Kazi Nazrul Islam Avenue, Dhaka-1215 [email protected] [email protected] 01711623906 bangla.thedailystar.net/
Tejgaon Industrial Area, [email protected] Phone: 09610222222 GPO Box: 3257
OPINION 9
DHAKA MONDAY FEBRUARY 10, 2025
MAGH 27, 1431 BS

Chaos is a ladder
H. M. Nazmul Alam Gotham because he believes it has power dynamics—these are not just their rule be any different? History crush them. The anger of students,
is an academic, journalist, and political become corrupt beyond redemption. spontaneous acts of rebellion; they warns us that those who seize the frustration of workers, and the
analyst. He can be reached at nazmulalam.
[email protected]. Yet, it is Bruce Wayne, as Batman, appear to be calculated moves in a power in moments of chaos rarely disillusionment of common citizens
who realises that true justice is not larger game. return it to the people. The Taliban are all being manipulated by unseen
about annihilation but restoration. Consider the ousted ruling party: in Afghanistan, the Jacobins in hands. The same masses who set fire
Today, Bangladesh stands at a once powerful, now embattled. Its revolutionary France, the Bolsheviks to the halls of power may later find
crossroads. Will this turmoil lead to fall is reminiscent of those who in Russia—all rose from disorder themselves trapped in the flames of
true reform, or will it merely replace cling to the illusions Littlefinger promising justice, only to impose a new tyranny.
one form of tyranny with another? described—whether it be the regimes as brutal as the ones they Even in fictional Gotham, Bruce
H. M. NAZMUL ALAM Historically, those who claim illusion of control, of loyalty, or of replaced. Wayne realised that fighting crime
with crime, or injustice with more
In the chaos that has engulfed the question arises: what is the injustice, was a self-defeating cycle.
Bangladesh, the events of the past endgame? Is this an organic The real solution was to offer a vision
few days resemble the grim narratives outburst against oppression, or is it beyond the flames. Bangladesh today
of political intrigue and moral decay the strategic dismantling of an old needs that vision. It needs leadership
that does not see the chaos as a
found in the most captivating of order to make way for a new one?
ladder but as a warning—a reminder
fictional tales. In Game of Thrones, This is where Christopher Nolan’s
that if the root causes of unrest
Petyr Baelish, known as Littlefinger, The Dark Knight trilogy offers a
are not addressed, the country
proclaimed: “Chaos isn’t a pit. Chaos poignant analogy.
will remain in a perpetual cycle of
is a ladder. Many who try to climb In The Dark Knight Rises,
destruction and exploitation.
it fail and never get to try again. Bane, the revolutionary anarchist,
What is most concerning is the
The fall breaks them. And some are speaks of giving power back to the
absence of a coherent alternative.
given a chance to climb, but they people. Yet, his ultimate goal is the If the current establishment fails,
refuse. They cling to the realm, or total destruction of Gotham. His what replaces it? The opportunists
the gods, or love... illusions. Only the brand of chaos is one that seduces will surely rise, but will they govern
ladder is real. The climb is all there the desperate and downtrodden justly? Without a clear plan, without
is.” This philosophy—where disorder into believing in justice while, in a commitment to actual reform, the
serves as an opportunity rather than reality, it serves his own thirst for fires burning across the country will
an obstacle—is chillingly relevant vengeance and control. Similarly, not mark the end of oppression but
to what is unfolding in Bangladesh in Bangladesh, we must ask: who merely the start of another chapter
today. benefits from this upheaval? The of turmoil.
A nation that once stood on students and common people We must ask ourselves: Who are
the pillars of its hard-fought leading the charge may believe they the Littlefingers of Bangladesh?
independence now finds itself in a are fighting for justice, but history Who is manipulating the chaos for
whirlpool of anarchy. The recent teaches us that revolutions often personal gain? And who, if anyone, is
wave of protests, vandalism, and create vacuums that are quickly truly fighting for justice rather than
arson directed at establishments filled by new oppressors. just another throne? If Bangladesh
linked to the ousted Awami League Littlefinger’s philosophy suggests does not answer these questions
reflects more than just frustration— that the chaos itself is a mechanism soon, it risks plunging into a deeper
it signifies a power vacuum, an to enable those with ambition to rise. abyss—one where the cycle of power-
opportunity for new players to rise. It is a ruthless reality where idealists hungry opportunists never ends.
Like in Littlefinger’s philosophy, the are crushed beneath the weight Bangladesh needs leadership that does not see chaos as a ladder to climb to power. PHOTO: PRABIR DAS Chaos is not inherently liberating.
opportunists of our time are not of calculated opportunism. When It is merely a tool—one that, if left
looking to stabilise the chaos but disorder reigns, it is not necessarily to fight against dictatorship often permanence in power. But if the fall In The Dark Knight, the Joker unchecked, benefits only those who
to exploit it, to climb to positions the just who prevail, but rather the use the disorder to build their own of one regime is inevitable, who is thrives on chaos, exposing how know how to wield it. As Bangladesh
of power and influence, while the cunning. thrones. Already, we see actors in climbing in its place? easily people abandon morality stands on the brink, its people must
common people bear the brunt of From history to fiction, power Bangladesh manoeuvring to position Oppositions, long silenced, see when faced with fear. The greatest decide: will they build a future from
instability. vacuums have always been exploited themselves advantageously amid the this as their moment to step forward. tragedy in Bangladesh’s current the ashes, or will they merely provide
As students and citizens take to by those who see chaos as a means chaos. The burning of houses and Various factions—some with new predicament is that the very people the stepping stones for another
the streets, setting ablaze structures rather than a tragedy. In Batman murals, the tearing down of symbols, system, some fundamentalist— who demand justice may unwittingly generation of rulers who see only the
symbolic of political dominance, Begins, Ra’s al Ghul aims to destroy the aggressive restructuring of are poised to fill the gap. But will be fuelling a machine that will later ladder?

Is there an economic roadmap of the

interim government?
Selim Jahan Second, in addressing and finding would have to be left for an elected also be identified. One important people are in it, will not produce the
is director of the Human Development
Report Office and lead author of the Human
solutions for the economic problems, government, as those reforms would aspect of the blueprint would be an desired results. Only if such eminent
Development Report. the government must strongly have constitutional implications. The implementation plan with a definite personalities are surrounded by skilled
express its commitment to economic economic reforms that the interim monitoring and evaluation framework. professionals and experts of economic
concerns. But unfortunately, the government wants to pursue must For that, a necessary, robust and discipline, the desired good outcomes
actions undertaken so far by the be brought to the attention of the credible data set must be mobilised and would be achieved. Only a well-knit and
interim government are not creating people with necessary transparency. constructed; so that a good baseline is coherent team can collectively tackle
that kind of a sense. Till now, the This is critically important, since no created for credible monitoring and the economic problems of the country.
SELIM JAHAN government’s economic acts give a reform can be sustainable without the evaluation outcomes. A clearly defined economic
sense of “some measures here, some ownership of the people. Five, it should be realised that roadmap with a timeframe can
reforms there” sort of disparate Four, the interim government having eminent, knowledgeable and strengthen the trust and confidence of
The interim government of indifference and ineffective actions attempts, and the government should present a well-thought experienced people at the top economic the people in the interim government.
Bangladesh has recently completed on economic issues. People involved must move away from such ad hoc blueprint of its economic plan with a leadership of the interim government And at the same time, this will enhance
its six months in office. Because with the White Paper have also approach. In fact, ad hoc measures spelled-out timeframe. In the pursuit may be a necessary condition, but not people’s ownership of the proposed
of certain measures it took at the expressed their despair. Furthermore, provide no relief to the problems, not of establishing a society, based on a sufficient one for solving economic development trajectory of the country
outset of its tenure, people became the main political parties of the to speak of solutions. The current human rights and equality, the major woes. A personality-based structure, and in the ultimate analysis, there is no
somewhat hopeful about the country have also expressed some high inflation of the country is a prime milestones of such a blueprint must irrespective of how talented these alternative to such ownership.
government’s good intentions. But as
days passed, certain things became
clearer. First, it became apparent that
the government was not able to solve
the problems disrupting the lives of
the people. In fact, it was apparent
that the government was severely
struggling to cope with those
challenges. The prime example is
economy’s persistent high inflation.
Second, the mismanagement that
characterised the past economy was
not over. Thus, an even economic
discipline is yet to return, not to
speak of economic acceleration.
Third, the interim government does
not have a clear road map to put the FILE VISUAL: REHNUMA PROSHOON
economy on a solid foundation and
to steer it forward. dissatisfaction by the shortcomings example of such a phenomenon. In
All these phenomena have of the government. Given all these, fact, a well-coordinated approach
created a shaky confidence and a certain issues need to be clarified in is required to overcome economic
sense of despair in people’s minds, the context of economic programmes woes. At the same time, the interim
which now have taken the form of of the interim government. government must refrain from
discontent. People are at a loss and First, there is no doubt that undertaking inadequate measures,
cannot fathom that in spite of the Bangladesh has been passing which in fact, may deepen the crises,
presence of so many notable, efficient through a transition and as a making them more complex. Such
and experienced luminaries in the nation, we have been facing acts by the government make its
government, it is not able to tackle multidimensional challenges—some good intentions, commitments and
economic challenges. People surely political, some are related to public good considerations irrelevant.
do not expect that all the economic administration, some are economic. Third, in the economic arena,
problems will be solved overnight, While the interim government the government should concentrate
but they can hope for some is obliged to give attention to all on two specific issues—economic
improvements and reliefs—at least these concerns, a balance must be management and economic reforms.
by the end of six months. Instead, the maintained in approaching them. Both of these dimensions will help the
efficacy of various policy measures But from what is happening, it Bangladesh economy to accelerate.
undertaken by the government has seems that the government is not In economic management, it is
been questioned. For example, what as interested in economic matters essential to re-establish economic
is the rationale of imposing value- as it is in political issues. As a result, discipline, the checks and balances
added taxes and supplementary it is not spending much time on of the economic structure, and
duties on more than 100 items (some economic issues, compared to the the culture of transparency and
essentials were later removed from time it devotes to political concerns. accountability. During its tenure,
the list after much criticism), when The perception seems to be that the interim government is neither
there has already been a double- reforming the economy is the sole expected nor supposed to complete
digit inflation and sluggish growth responsibility of the talented and all kinds of economic reforms. In that
in the economy? In fact, at various widely experienced economists at context, the government has to make
points in time, people quite clearly the top of the government. This a conscious decision as to which
expressed that economic issues is, to be honest, a wrong and not reforms it would prioritise, what
are the topmost concerns on their so well-thought approach. If the would be the context and the content
minds. Not only people on the street, entire administration of the interim of those reforms, and also what would
but also those closely associated with government is not collectively be the time frames for those reforms.
the government have started raising engaged in economic management, Many structural reforms, particularly
their voices about the government’s the economy will not be fixed. the long-term economic ones,
10 IN FOCUS
DHAKA MONDAY FEBRUARY 10, 2025
MAGH 27, 1431 BS

The Forgotten Revolutionary

In Search of Ghulam Ambia Khan Luhani
On 17 KHALILULLAH of his family life. He includes letters reports included in this book. The
September written by Luhani from Paris to his eminent revolutionaries M.N. Roy and
All the colonies around the world had mother in Sirajganj, correspondence Saumyendranath Tagore praised his
1938, Ghulam to pay the highest price for liberating sharp intellect and theoretical insight.
from Luhani’s wife Gabrielle to his
Ambia Khan themselves from the shackles of mother, and exchanges between Saumyendranath was the grandson
Luhani was colonisation. However, not all colonies
Luhani’s family members and a of Dwijendranath Tagore, the elder
executed by fared the same as India. Revolutionary brother of Rabindranath Tagore, and
activities for India’s independence British officer, as well as a shipping
firing squad at agency in Kolkata, in their attempt to the son of Sudhindranath Tagore.
movement took place on a vast canvas
Kommunarka, that extended across many parts of bring him back home. Posthumous Redemption
near Moscow, the world. The depth of Rahman’s dedication Soviet intelligence documents used
on Stalin’s We usually discuss the sacrifices of to this book is evident from an in this book reveal that suspicion and
anti-British revolutionaries who were incident in the mid-1980s when he distrust surrounded Luhani during
orders. Stalin’s era, a period when many were
active within the Indian subcontinent. met Russian historian and India
However, However, there were also individuals executed for alleged dissent. Luhani
expert Leonid Mitrokhin in Moscow.
in 1957, the who made immense sacrifices abroad, In 1991, Mitrokhin published an article was not spared from this tragic fate. On
Military engaging in a myriad of activities to in Soviet Land magazine, printed in 17 September 1938, he was executed
Collegium liberate India from the yoke of British by firing squad at Kommunarka, near
Delhi, where he was the first to reveal
rule. Narratives of their sacrifices are Moscow, on Stalin’s orders. However,
of the Soviet seldom explored in academic discourse the tragic fates of the three Bengali
in 1957, the Military Collegium of
Supreme or popular literature such as prose, revol u t i on a r i e s — Vi rend r a n a t h
the Soviet Supreme Court declared
Court declared poetry, or novels in Bangladesh. Chattopadhyaya, Abani Mukherji, his trial a miscarriage of justice and
his trial a Nevertheless, there exists a grand and Ghulam Ambia Khan Luhani— posthumously exonerated him.
miscarriage and glorified tale of these heroes that all of whom had roots in present-day The same fate befell Virendranath
deserves to be told not only to the Bangladesh. At the end of the article, Chattopadhyaya and Abani Mukherji.
of justice and people of the Indian subcontinent Mitrokhin expressed hope that Matiur Virendranath, widely known as
posthumously but also to the world—one that will Rahman was planning to write a book Chatto, was a prominent revolutionary
exonerated surely inspire future generations. on Luhani, believing it could offer and early internationalist who worked
him. Imagine a revolutionary swimming new insights into the life and work of abroad for India’s struggle against
off the coast of Singapore to escape
this revolutionary. Decades later, in British imperialism. He was also
the police and reaching the islands of
Sumatra in Indonesia with the help October 2024, this long-awaited book closely associated with Jawaharlal
of fishing boats. Consider another finally came to light. Nehru. Chatto spent most of his life
who crossed the Suez Canal in Egypt The book reveals that after passing in Europe, leading the Berlin-based
to evade the surveillance of British his Entrance Examination (equivalent revolutionary group, where Luhani
agents. These are just a few examples to today’s secondary school exam), and Abani were also active. In his later
of how revolutionaries outside India Luhani studied at Aligarh University years, he worked as a social scientist
became unstoppable in their quest to in India before enrolling at the London and university lecturer in the Soviet
free their motherland. School of Economics and Political Union. Like Luhani, he was executed
Subhas Chandra Bose is renowned during Stalin’s purges in 1937 and
Science in 1914. He was the maternal
for his revolutionary activities was posthumously rehabilitated with
uncle of prominent Bangladeshi
abroad. However, long before him, a honour in 1956.
media and film personalities Fateh Abani Mukherji, another
group of individuals were engaged
in diverse efforts across Europe to Lohani and Fazle Lohani, as well significant revolutionary, was
accelerate India’s freedom movement. as their sister, the distinguished associated with the Berlin group and
singer and professor Husna Banu This signed photograph was presented by Luhani to his friend and former
Initially, they sought assistance had been living in the Soviet Union
from Germany and later from the Khanam. Through Fazle Lohani, classmate, Khan Bahadur Aminul Haq, from their days at Aligarh Muslim
since 1920. He famously escaped from
erstwhile Soviet Union. One such Matiur Rahman was able to connect University. Aminul Haq was the father of journalist and writer Laila Samad. a Singapore prison by swimming and
using fishing boats to reach Kolkata
records marriages from 1837 to 2005), and became a Soviet citizen in 1933. via the Indonesian islands while
provides official evidence of Luhani During this period, he undertook returning from Japan to rally support
and Gabrielle’s marriage ceremony, various roles within the Communist for India’s independence. He later
which took place in Pancras, London, International (Comintern), the global became a professor at the University
in 1919. centre of the communist movement. of Moscow but was executed in 1937
Tracing Ghulam Ambia Khan This book on Luhani vividly during Stalin’s purges. He, too, was
portrays his flamboyant life. He posthumously rehabilitated in 1957.
Luhani
worked as a journalist, translator, This book includes numerous
Various documents from Matiur
researcher, and teacher in various letters and documents related to
Rahman’s collection reveal that
organisations, including the Luhani, including the thesis India
Luhani was engaged in the labour
Comintern. He was involved with
movement and supported the Soviet and the World Revolution, along
Peasant’s International and MOPR
Revolution in London without being with various articles and reports
(the international organisation for
affiliated with any particular political written by him. The second and third
aiding revolutionaries). Additionally,
group. He worked as a journalist and chapters focus on these writings. The
he worked in the Russian Soviet
teacher for his livelihood. From 1920 to final chapter features an article by Dr.
Federative Socialist Republic,
1925, he lived in France, Germany, and Binayak Sen, Director General of BIDS,
Narimanov Institute, Institute of
Switzerland, writing for newspapers analysing the ideological backgrounds
Oriental Studies, and the Communist
in those countries on India’s political of the revolutionaries of that period.
University of the Toilers of the East.
and labour movements. Besides Additionally, the book includes Leonid
He also lectured at the University of
English, he was proficient in French, Mitrokhin’s article A Triple Trap, which
Moscow on Indian affairs.
Persian, German, and Hindi. discusses Luhani, Virendranath, and
Luhani represented India at
Luhani first visited Moscow Abani, as well as a conversation between
the Sixth Comintern Congress in
in 1921 as part of an expatriate Matiur Rahman and Dr. Shobhanlal
Moscow, where he openly expressed
Indian revolutionary group led by Dutt Gupta, a Comintern expert and
his differences with M.N. Roy. On
Virendranath Chattopadhyaya. professor at the University of Kolkata.
30 August 1964, Link’s Moscow
Although the group returned after This discussion sheds light on various
correspondent, P. Unnikrishnan, wrote
(L) This is the last known photograph of Luhani, taken while he was in the custody of the Soviet State failing to secure support from the topics, including the revolutionaries of
an article stating that Luhani served
Intelligence Unit, NKVD, shortly before his execution. The image was published in David King’s book Comintern, Luhani stayed behind for that era, the Comintern, and the future
as a consultant to the Comintern
Ordinary Citizens (p. 135). (R) Cover of the book, Ghulam Ambia Khan Luhani: Ek Ojana Biplobir Kahini a while and worked in its publicity of socialism.
on national and colonial issues.
department, known as Agitprop. The book is further enriched with
published by Prothoma Prokashan. Through this book, Matiur Rahman
While in Paris, he served as editor rare colour photographs of Luhani,
reconstructs Luhani’s extraordinary
of The Masses of India, the official drawings and portraits of Gabrielle,
life and multifaceted contributions,

hero was Ghulam Ambia Khan

Luhani, who hailed from Sirajganj,
Bangladesh. He was not alone—two
other Bengali revolutionaries met the
same fate in Moscow: Virendranath
Chattopadhyaya from the then
Bikrampur (now Munshiganj) and
Abani Mukherji from Satkhira.
The Journey of a Book
The recently published book Ghulam
Ambia Khan Luhani: Ek Ojana
Biplobir Kahini (Ghulam Ambia Khan
Luhani: The Narrative of an Unknown
Revolutionary) offers insight into
the colourful life and multifaceted
activities of revolutionary Luhani. In
the introduction, the book’s author,
Matiur Rahman—editor of Prothom
Alo—narrates his 42-year quest to
uncover Luhani’s life and work.
Rahman first heard about Luhani
in 1981 in Delhi from Dr Gangadhar
Adhikari, a scientist and communist
leader. Dr Adhikari had come across
Luhani’s diverse activities while
documenting the history of the
(L) British painter Roger Fry created this portrait of Gabrielle Luhani, Luhani’s wife, in 1919. The artwork is now preserved at the Metropolitan Museum of Art
Communist Party of India in several in New York. (R) Luhani lived in a flat in this building in Moscow during the later years of his life.
volumes. He was also known for his
with Ghulam Ambia Khan Luhani’s using documents he has meticulously images of their residences in different
arrest in the Meerut Conspiracy publication of the Indian Communist
Case of 1929, which led to a notable nephew, Major General (retd.) Helal collected over the past 42 years with cities, and significant letters.
Morshed, who had preserved the Party. He was also involved in an Reading this book provides
protest—none other than Albert great passion and dedication.
family’s letters for many years. organisation that promoted India’s Beyond Luhani, this book also insights into the tragic fate of a
Einstein himself wrote to the British freedom movement. This organisation,
government, demanding his release. Just as the book was nearing explores the activities and initiatives of Bengali revolutionary and transports
publication, in May 2024, Julia named Committee Pro-Hindu [where Indian revolutionaries based in Berlin us to a historical period that
Dr Adhikari had previously worked at
Boddewyn, an art researcher from New ‘Hindu’ denoted ‘Indian’], was founded and Moscow. In 1921, Luhani, along continues to influence various layers
Einstein’s research institute in Berlin
in the 1920s. York, contacted Matiur Rahman to by the French writer, journalist, and with Virendranath Chattopadhyaya of our politics and society. It reveals
Since 1981, Matiur Rahman inquire about Luhani’s wife, Gabrielle political activist Henri Barbusse, and Pandurang Khankhoje, co- the extraordinary, adventurous
has been on a relentless quest to Soene. This communication revealed whose works profoundly influenced authored a thesis titled India and lives of these revolutionaries and
gather information about Luhani. that Gabrielle was a model and the Lost Generation writers, including the World Revolution and sent it to the profound sacrifices they made.
He searched archives across Berlin, fashion designer. The famous Italian Ernest Hemingway and Erich Maria Vladimir Lenin, leader of the Russian Moreover, it highlights many crucial
Moscow, Delhi, and Kolkata. artist Amedeo Modigliani had made Remarque. Revolution. Remarkably, they received yet overlooked events that were
While he may not have uncovered several drawings of her. Additionally, During his time in Paris, Luhani a response from Lenin. Notably, pivotal in shaping our history.
everything, he managed to collect an she had modelled for Roger Fry’s was accused of anti-British imperial Virendranath Chattopadhyaya was the Undoubtedly, this book is an
unprecedented volume of material paintings, Jacob Epstein’s sculptures, activities and denied permission to younger brother of renowned political essential contribution to the political
on this forgotten revolutionary. In and Edward Wolfe’s portraits. A key remain in the country. In October activist and poet Sarojini Naidu, also history of the Indian subcontinent.
the book, Rahman not only captures document included in the book, 1925, he relocated permanently to known as the Nightingale of the East.
Luhani’s multi-dimensional work but sourced from the England and Wales Moscow. He joined the Communist Luhani’s intellectual and analytical Khalilullah is the Climate Project
also sheds light on various aspects Marriage Registration Index (which Party of the Soviet Union in 1928 prowess is evident in his articles and Manager at The Daily Prothom Alo.
 DHAKA MONDAY FEBRUARY 10, 2025, MAGH 27, 1431 BS
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Sunday, romping to a nine-wicket victory before lunch on day four in the second Test. Set a
Hamza, Fahamedul in
modest target of 75 to win, Australia lost only Travis Head as they stormed to a commanding
victory in a ruthless display from the world’s top-ranked Test side.
This is Australia’s first series victory in Sri Lanka in 65 games. Australia, on the other hand, won 33 in
preliminary squad
since 2011, with the Aussies’ last success in the 53 games. SPORTS REPORTER It is understood that the BFF has been
country coming under Ricky Ponting’s captaincy Australia stand-in skipper Steve Smith scored his trying to woo foreign-based players to
when they won 1-0. 24th Test hundred in a winning cause, thus becoming
Sheffield United midfielder Hamza the national team for quite some time, a
Choudhury has been named alongside
The win is a timely boost for Australia, who will be the fourth leading batter in the list of most centuries Italy-based young midfielder Fahamedul
move which gathered pace after Hamza’s
defending their World Test Championship (WTC) title in a winning cause. Only Ponting (30), Joe Root (25) switch of allegiance from England to
Islam in the 38-member preliminary Bangladesh in December last year.
in the final against South Africa on June 11-15 at Lord’s. and Steve Waugh (25) are ahead of him. squad for Bangladesh’s first Asian Cup
“Hamza is now playing for Sheffield
Australia finished on a PCT of 67.54, just behind South Smith also took his 200th catch in the second Test Qualifiers match against India, which
United and he has played both of their
Africa (69.44). -- the most by any Australian. Smith equalled Jacques
will be held in Shilong on March 25.
last games, (and was) in the (starting)
Head coach Javier Cabrera also
The win in the second Test was Australia’s 33rd Kallis and is only behind Rahul Dravid (210), Joe Root line-up. Of course, (I am) expecting a
win in the WTC -- the most by any team. The record (207), and Mahela Jayawardene (205) on the all-time
picked a few fresh faces, all of whom have BANGLADESH SQUAD great impact from him,” Cabrera said.
impressed in the ongoing Bangladesh
was previously held by England who won 32 matches list for most catches. Premier League while recalling a (PRELIMINARY) Among the others who have been
number of players, who had previously GK: Mitul Marma, Sujon Hossain, Anisur called to the squad for the first time are
worn the red and green jersey. Rahman, Mehedi Hasan Srabon, Shakib goalkeeper Shakib Al Hasan, defender
While the inclusion of Hamza, Al Hasan Zahid Hossain, forward Arif Hossain –
who recently moved from English all three from Mohammedan, alongside
Premier League outfit Leicester City to
DF: Murad Hasan, Mehedi Hassan, Shakil and Police FC forward Al-Amin, who
Championship League side Sheffield
Ahad Topu, Rahmat Mia, Sakil Hossain, Isa is currently the top scorer among the
United, was expected one, Fahamdeul’s
Faysal, Taj Uddin, Tariq Kazi, Topu Barman, locals in the BPL with seven goals.
inclusion was a surprise.
Saad Uddin, Sushanto Tripura, Yeasin Khan, Anisur Rahman, Tariq Kazi,
Fahamedul, an 18-year-old who
Jahid Hasan Shanto Shushanto Tripura, Yeasin Khan,
currently plies his trade for Italian Serie MF: Md Ridoy, Papon Singh, Syed Shah Mohammad Sohel Rana and Mohammad
D side Olbia Calcio, plays as a left-back Quazem, Md Sohel Rana, Sohel Rana, Ibrahim have earned recalls for their
and left wing-back. He has previously Chandan Roy, Mojibur Rahman Jony, performances.
played for Ligiorna and Livorno after Shekh Mursalin, Jamal Bhuyan, Hamza Cabrera said he would trim the squad
having being in the ranks of the Chowdhury, Fahamedul Islam to 28 players before the team’s departure
Sampdoria youth team. for a two-week training camp in likely
FW: Faysal Ahmed Fahim, Rakib Hossain, on February 28. The team will then be
Speaking about the youngster,
Rabby Hossen Rahul, Rafiqul Islam, Emon joined by the two foreign-based players
Cabrera said: “He’s (Fahamedul) still
Shahriar, Mohammad Ibrahim, Arif Hossain,
young but has already been playing at a and train here four a few more days
Al Amin, Piash Ahmed Nova
senior level in Europe. So we believe he before leaving for India five or six days
might provide a good boost to the team.” prior to the match.

‘Team game BFF to ‘move on’

is the most from rebellious 18?
SPORTS REPORTER
important thing’ Bangladesh Football Federation (BFF) has
SPORTS REPORTER apparently decided to move on from the rebellious
18 senior players, focusing on the younger ones for
Bangladesh national team are gearing up for the upcoming UAE tour and central contracts.
the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy with BFF president Tabith Awal met with each of the
a pre-tournament training camp being held 18 players on Thursday night following his return
at the National Cricket Academy in Mirpur from the UK and tried to convince them to join
under head coach Phil Simmons. training from Saturday. However, the players still
The camp will run for three more days demanded removal of head coach Peter Butler,
before the team leaves for the UAE, leaving refusing to join the camp till Sunday.
very little time for the players to refocus in With hope for a resolution fading, BFF is focusing
the 50-over format after playing T20s for on the 37 current players who are currently in
over a month in the BPL. training under Butler and preparing new contracts
Former selector Habibul Bashar, however, with a number of them, keeping the 18 out of it.
felt that the transition from T20s to the 50- A total of 30 women footballers were under
over ICC event would not be difficult. BFF’s central contract, which ran out last October.
“Players now don’t take much time to Out of those 30, only 12 are currently in BFF’s
adapt while changing formats,” the former training camp while 25 others -- mostly from age-
national captain told the reporters in Dhaka group teams -- are out of contracts.
yesterday while attending the inauguration “The contracts will be finalised within Tuesday.
event of former national team opener Javed I can’t say the exact number of contracts to be
Omar’s social welfare foundation. offered, but the contracts will be for among
“In a big tournament, team game is the those who are currently in training,” BFF’s vice-
most important thing. Rather than thinking president Fahad Karim told The Daily Star, adding
of who are the x-factors, we need to focus the president had asked the board to ‘move on’ as
on playing as a team since that’s when we ‘football can’t be stopped’.
do well. Our bowlers are doing well. Taskin Even amid a lot of adversities, women’s football in the country keeps soaring as Magura beat Khulna in a thrilling final Another BFF vice-president Sabbir Ahmed Arif,
has been wonderful, we saw Rana’s pace and however, said later in the evening yesterday that
in the girls’ section of the National Gold Cup (U-17) football tournament to emerge champions of the Khulna Division
Tanzid Tamim has done well with the bat. We the 18 seniors and the coach will “understand their
have performers but in a big tournament the
yesterday. At a time when the national football team seniors are in a row with head coach Peter Butler and women are mistakes and reach an agreement”, keeping a door
team game is necessary.” being stifled of their opportunity to play the beautiful sport -- opposition from religious groups disrupted multiple girls’ open for negotiation. Bangladesh are scheduled
The Tigers are set to depart for Dubai on football matches across the country -- it was a relieving sight at the Khulna Divisional Sports Complex on Sunday as to travel to UAE on February 24 to play two
February 14 (Thursday night) and will face Magura overcame the hosts 4-3 in a tiebreaker in front of a jubilant crowd. PHOTO: HABIBUR RAHMAN international friendly matches on February 26 and
India in their opening match on February March 2. In all likelihood, the 23-member squad
20. will be made out of the current 37 players.

BPL champions’ chaotic

reception in Barishal
SUSHANTA GHOSH

A little over two years ago, the world

witnessed how much the Argentina
football team means to the people of that
country when their World Cup winning
team had to cancel their bus parade
through capital Buenos Aires because
the entire city was in the streets, busy in
raucous revelry, celebrating the historic
win.
Yesterday, somewhat similar scenes
unfolded in Barishal when around
50 thousand fans congregated to
catch a glimpse of their beloved

“We are overwhelmed and apologetic. overwhelmed by the outpouring of love

Overwhelmed seeing your love and enthusiasm and said, “We dedicate this victory to
-- we have never witnessed such a wave of the martyrs of July. This victory is not
millions. However, we are sorry that we were just ours; it’s the victory of the people of
not able to spend more time with you.” Barishal.”
However, the celebrations did not last
Fortune Barishal skipper Tamim Iqbal’s message to Barishal much longer as by 5:00 pm the players
people on Facebook. were off the rickety and overcrowded
stage, boarded their bus and left the
Fortune Barishal but ironically, their the airport to the Bell Park, where the venue. There were also plans of a concert, Atletico Madrid players converge to celebrate after Julian Alvarez converted from the spot with a
unfettered love for the team, who have celebration took place. which fell through, much to the dismay Panenka in the 35th minute as Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham and Federico Valverde express their
recently won their second consecutive At 4:45 pm, around two hours after of the packed crowd.
the scheduled time, the team entered
discontent over a controversial penalty call during the Madrid derby at Santiago Bernabeu on Saturday.
Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), cut Perhaps the management had
the celebrations short. Bells Park led by captain Tamim Iqbal, Referee Cesar Soto Grado found Aurelien Tchouameni guilty of stepping on Samuel Lino’s foot in the
underestimated the love this city holds
The Barishal team arrived in the city flashing victory signs amid thunderous for their champions. But now everyone
box after a VAR review, however, Real players and coach Carlo Ancelotti were convinced the referee
by air in the afternoon, ready to parade applause while the jubilant crowd knows, the city of Barishal maybe one- had got it wrong. Later, Kylian Mbappe brought Los Blancos back into the game with a second-half
both of their BPL trophies. The team bus chanted “Barishal! Barishal”. fourth the size of Buenos Aires and one- strike. The 1-1 draw might have a big role in the title race as Real remained top of LaLiga on 50 points,
was greeted by fans standing roadside all Team owner Mizanur Rahman, eighth in population, but they love their one ahead of Atletico in second while Barcelona, third on 45 points, visit Sevilla on Sunday with a
through the 17-kilometer stretch from who was present with his family, was beloved team just as much. chance to close the gap to just two with the leaders. PHOTO: REUTERS
 CITY

12 DHAKA MONDAY FEBRUARY 10, 2025, MAGH 27, 1431 BS

Yunus to attend
World Govts
Summit in UAE
February 11-13
DIPLOMATIC CORRESPONDENT

AMAR EKUSHEY-10 Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus will

attend the World Governments Summit
This year marks the 73rd 2025, scheduled to be held in Dubai, United
anniversary of the 1952 Arab Emirates (UAE), from February 11 to 13.
Language Movement. Drawing “By participating in the summit, the
on research based on various chief adviser will have the opportunity to
published books, this 21-part present Bangladesh’s perspectives on global
series tells the story of the challenges and
historic struggle for our mother international
tongue. issues,” foreign
m i n i s t r y
Mymensingh s p oke s p er s on
Mohammad
resists Urdu as Rafiqul Alam
said at a media
state language briefing at the
foreign ministry
AHMAD ISTIAK yes terd ay
afternoon.
The students and people of The chief
Mymensingh observed spontaneous adviser is also expected to hold bilateral
general strikes, processions and meetings with heads of state and
rallies in 1948 and 1952, resisting government from various countries on
the Pakistan government’s bid to the sidelines of the summit, Rafiqul, who
declare Urdu as the state language is also the Director General of the Public
by omitting Bangla. Diplomacy Wing, added.
Despite the strong influence “During the summit, the chief adviser
SEE PAGE 6 COL 3 A train going past the street stalls lining the Mohakhali level crossing in the capital’s Amtoli yesterday. The shops stand dangerously close is likely to hold courtesy meetings with
to the tracks, posing risks to both the shop owners and their customers. PHOTO: ANISUR RAHMAN SEE PAGE 6 COL 5

India’s statement Israel withdraws from Chance of Earth

‘unwarranted strategic Gaza road being hit by asteroid
and unexpected’ Netanyahu orders negotiators to Doha in 2032 grows
after fifth hostage-prisoner swap INDEPENDENT.CO.UK
Says Dhaka about Delhi’s remarks The chances of Earth being hit by an asteroid
on demolition of Dhanmondi 32 AFP, Gaza City Salaheddin Road, allowing vehicles to
pass freely in both directions.”
in 2032 have roughly doubled – though we are
almost certainly fine.
Former CEC DIPLOMATIC CORRESPONDENT A Hamas official said Israeli troops AFP journalists saw no troops in
On 22 December, 2032, the Earth will be visited
completed their withdrawal yesterday the area as cars, buses, pickup trucks
Abdur Rouf New Delhi’s comments on the demolition of from a strategic road cutting through and donkey carts travelled along the
by an asteroid discovered last year and named
2 0 2 4 YR. The rock is up to 90 metres across.
Bangabandhu’s house on Dhanmondi 32 is uncalled- the Gaza Strip, part of a fragile road from both the north and south.
no more for and unexpected, said foreign affairs ministry truce deal that Israel said it was Gaza resident Mahmoud al-Sarhi As it does, there is a
chance that it will collide
spokesperson Rafiqul Alam yesterday. implementing. told AFP that for
STAFF CORRESPONDENT with Earth, potentially
The political comments Sheikh Hasina made from her But diplomatic him, “arriving
tensions were high at the Netzarim causing disaster.
Former chief election refuge in New Delhi were not taken well by the people of That chance has
after Israeli Prime Corridor meant
commissioner Justice Md Bangladesh, Rafiqul told reporters.
Minister Benjamin
Gaza rescuers say death until this now been revised up
Abdur Rouf passed away at “On February 5, a situation was created over the
Ne t a nya h u Israeli forces kill three morning.” by Nasa’s Center for
a Dhaka hospital yesterday statements of the former prime minister. The interim appeared to Palestinians This is “the Near Earth Object
at the age of 91. government has already clarified its position,” he told suggest in an first time I saw Studies or Cneos. A
The former Appellate reporters. interview that Israeli forces kill two our destroyed week ago, predictions
Division judge died around On February 6, Indian Ministry of External Affairs a Palestinian house,” he said of had suggested that
(MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said it was
women in West Bank raid his home in the
10:00am at Insaf Barakah state could be there was a roughly 1
Kidney and General regrettable that the historic residence of Sheikh Mujibur established on nearby Zeitun percent chance we would
Hospital, according to a Rahman had been destroyed. Saudi territory, Thai hostages freed from area. be hit by the rock – but it now
press release. “All those who value the freedom struggle that nurtured drawing the ire Gaza arrive in Bangkok “The entire s t a n d s at 2.3 percent, or a one-in-43 chance.
He had been suffering Bangla identity and pride are aware of the importance of Saudi Arabia area is in ruins. I Nasa says that it will continue to study the asteroid
from heart disease, lung of this residence for the national consciousness of and other Arab cannot live here.”
and that it expects the chance of disaster will be
complications and kidney Bangladesh. This act of vandalism should be strongly nations. According to
revised down as it learns more about it and its path.
ailments, among other condemned,” he said. As negotiations are set to begin on a senior Hamas official, the Israeli “There have been several objects in the past that
illnesses, for a long time. Rafiqul yesterday said, “We have seen some situations the next phase of the Gaza ceasefire, withdrawal from Netzarim had been
have risen on the risk list and eventually dropped
His first namaz-e-janaza arise in the neighbouring country. But Bangladesh does which is intended to pave the way scheduled for yesterday under the
for a permanent end to the war, terms of a truce that took effect on off as more data have come in. New observations
was held after Asr prayers not comment on the internal affairs of other countries. may result in reassignment of this asteroid to 0
at Gausul Azam Mosque in Palestinians yesterday were able to January 19.
Bangladesh expects the same from others.” Asked about yesterday’s as more data come in,” the space agency said in a
cross the Netzarim Corridor, where an
Mohakhali. Bangladesh-India relations have been strained since withdrawal, an Israeli security statement last week.
Israeli checkpoint used to stand.
The second janaza will deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasina fled to India on An official from the Hamas-run official told AFP on condition of The asteroid known as 2024 YR was first spotted
be held after Zohr prayers August 5 amid a mass uprising. interior ministry said “Israeli forces anonymity: “We are preparing to on 27 December last year. It came to the attention
today at the National In December last year, Dhaka requested New Delhi to have dismantled their positions... implement the ceasefire agreement of the world a few days later, when it was added to
SEE PAGE 6 COL 5 extradite Hasina, who faces numerous cases of crimes and completely withdrawn their according to the guidelines of the Nasa’s list of asteroids that are near-Earth and are
SEE PAGE 7 COL 5 tanks from the Netzarim Corridor on political echelon.” in danger of colliding with our planet.

Manipur CM
quits after
Indian forces kill
months of
ethnic strife
31 Maoists
Two commandos also killed
OUR CORRESPONDENT,
New Delhi AFP, Raipur

The chief minister of BJP- Indian security forces yesterday killed at least 31 Maoist
ruled northeastern Indian rebels in one of the deadliest clashes since the government
state of Manipur N Biren ramped up efforts to crush the long-running insurgency.
Singh yesterday resigned Two Indian commandos were also killed in the battle, and
after months of ethnic two other security force members were wounded, police said.
strife that left more than More than 10,000 people have been killed in the
250 people dead. decades-long insurgency waged by the rebels, who say
“It has been an honour to they are fighting for the rights of marginalised people in
serve the people of Manipur India’s resource-rich central regions.
so far,” Singh said in his
“So far 31 dead bodies of the Maoists have been
resignation letter which he
recovered,” senior police officer Sundarraj P told AFP.
handed over to Manipur
“Two security personnel are dead and two other
Governor Ajay Kumar Bhalla
at the Raj Bhavan in Imphal. security personnel are injured,” he added.
Singh’s resignation Reinforcements have been sent to the area, he said,
came after a two-hour-long warning that the toll could rise as the police carry out
meeting with Indian Home search operations.
Minister Amit Shah and “Additional forces have been rushed to the encounter
BJP President JP Nadda in site,” he said.
New Delhi yesterday. Police said they had seized assault rifles and grenade
On Saturday, Singh had launchers from the bodies of the dead rebels.
convened a meeting with The gunfight broke in the forested areas of Bijapur
BJP-led ruling alliance district in the state of Chhattisgarh, considered the
legislators in Imphal in heartland of the insurgency.
the wake of the opposition The rebels, also known as Naxalites after the district
Congress seeking to move where their armed campaign began in 1967, were inspired
a no-confidence motion by the Chinese revolutionary leader Mao Zedong.
against the government “This is a big success in the direction of achieving
led by Singh during the a Naxal-free India,” said Amit Shah, India’s interior
budget session of the state Two workers of a dyeing factory wash chemicals off polythene bags in the Shitalakkhya, further contaminating the severely polluted river. minister, who last year said the government expected to
legislature. The photo was taken near Narayanganj city’s Hajiganj ferry terminal recently. PHOTO: SAURAV HOSSAIN SIAM crush the rebellion by 2026.