SECOND EDITION

DHA K A W EDNES DAY JA N UA RY 8 , 2025

Regd. No. DA 781 Vol. XXXIV No. 348 Poush 24, 1431 BS Rajab 7, 1446 Hijri 16 Pages: Tk 15.00

Felani Killing: Still fighting in On reforming Smaller

14 years on, key town Russia our imported boundaries,
family still says captured: institutions and bigger
awaits justice Ukraine governance mode problems
P3 P7 P8 P11

Gas crisis hits Polls by Dec if

parties against
major reforms
households, Says CA’s press secy

industries
STAFF CORRESPONDENT

The interim government is

ready to hold elections this
ASIFUR RAHMAN and SHAHEEN MOLLAH year if political parties do
not want broader reforms,
Inadequate gas supply has been forcing Farzana Akter and Rabiul Islam said Chief Adviser’s Press
to eat at restaurants every morning for two weeks. Secretary Shafiqul Alam
The gas stove at their home near 60-Feet Road in the capital’s Agargaon yesterday.
only works for around two hours after 4:00pm, and Farzana, a nurse at a “We will hold elections
government hospital, tries to cook within that period. by December this year if
For a few hours after midnight, the gas supply becomes normal, and they do not want broader
the couple often stays awake to cook their dinner at those hours. reforms. However, if they
“This has affected everything, including my work, because I feel think that the interim
drowsy all the time,” Farzana says. government should carry
Since December 1, the daily supply of natural gas has hovered around out extensive reforms
2,700 mmcfd against a demand, combining household and industrial before elections, it will
users, of some 3,800 mmcfd, according to Petrobangla data. take another six months,”
Daily life in many neighbourhoods of Dhaka, Narayanganj, and he said while speaking
Gazipur cities is being disrupted by the cooking gas shortage. at an event at Krishibid
In the first four days of this month, the supply dropped even further Institution Bangladesh in
as one of the two floating storage and regasification units (FSRU) in the capital.
Moheshkhali, Cox’s Bazar, was out of commission for maintenance work. “We have provided a
The Daily Star talked to at least 15 residents of different areas in roadmap [for elections]...
Mirpur, Mohammadpur, Jigatola, Nakhalpara, Green Road, Uttara, We have set two timelines
Chakbazar, Nazimuddin Road, Gendaria, Mogbazar, Kazipara, Banasree, in this regard,” he said,
and Khilgaon who said the gas crisis began in December and worsened in referring to the timelines
recent weeks. shared by Chief Adviser
“I pay Tk 1,080 a Senior party leaders and relatives see BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia off at the Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport before Prof Muhammad Yunus in
month for gas, but what Many city residents she boarded a flight to London last night. PHOTO: BNP MEDIA CELL SEE PAGE 2 COL 1
do I get? I have to use
the electric stove every have to cook after
midnight
Govt scraps
day and pay more for
electricity,” said Abdur
Rahman Dipu, a resident Production
JULY UPRISING
Injured victims Khaleda finally off passports of
of Kathalbagan area. units suffer in
Shahnewaz
managing director of
Parvez,

Titas Gas Distribution

Narayanganj, Gazipur
Titas promises better
to be given jobs to UK for treatment Hasina, 96
others
and Transmission PLC,
said the supply often supply by this week in police Leaders, supporters filled the
STAFF CORRESPONDENT
suffers disruptions when Students, ex-staffers of streets to bid her farewell
temperature drops in The Department of
winter because gas condensates in the pipelines. security forces to get SAJJAD HOSSAIN stopover in Qatar before continuing to Immigration and Passports
Maintenance work also lowered the supply, he said, adding that the similar opportunity London. has cancelled passports of
FSRU is functioning now, but voids within the pipelines will have to be After years of relentless appeals and Accompanying the BNP chairperson 97 individuals, including
filled first before the supply improves. “It will increase within this week,” STAFF CORRESPONDENT repeated denials by the Awami League on the journey was a 15-member team, ousted prime minister
he said. government, BNP Chairperson Khaleda including Syeda Sharmila Rahman, Sheikh Hasina, over their
In the months of December and January, less LNG is imported The government has decided to recruit Zia flew to London last night for better the wife of her late son Arafat Rahman alleged involvement in
compared to the rest of the year because the demand at power plants those who were injured during the July medical treatment. Koko; several doctors, air ambulance enforced disappearances
falls, Shahnewaz said. uprising in police. The 79-year-old former prime minister, specialists, BNP leaders, personal and killings during the
PRODUCTION SUFFERS Students and retired members of the who endured years of separation from staffers, and caregivers. July-August mass uprising.
M Jamaluddin, managing director of Jamaluddin Group, which owns a armed forces, police, BGB, and Ansar her loved ones, is set to reunite with her Khaleda is expected to arrive at Of them, passports of 22
knitwear factory in Narayanganj, said he had cut production by almost a will also be eligible for recruitment. son, Tarique Rahman, and other family Heathrow International Airport this people were scrapped for
third. The injured will be appointed to members in what promises to be a long- their alleged involvement in
The burners require gas pressure at 15 psi [pound per square inch], but positions based on their physical awaited and emotional reunion. enforced disappearances,
it often falls to 2 or 3 psi. condition, while students and retired Khaleda’s departure marks a She is scheduled to be Azad Majumder, chief
“Gas pressure fluctuates a lot that results in waste. All the fabric in the personnel will be recruited to control significant moment for her supporters, adviser’s deputy press
who have long campaigned for her right
taken directly to The
dyeing machines becomes useless when this happens,” he said. traffic. secretary, told a press
Mohammad Hatem, president of Bangladesh Knitwear Manufacturers Lt Gen (retd) Jahangir Alam to receive proper medical care for severe London Clinic from conference at Foreign
and Exporters Association, said the current situation was unacceptable. Chowdhury, the home adviser, yesterday ailments, including liver cirrhosis, the airport for her Service Academy yesterday.
Five other factory owners in Gazipur and Narayanganj also expressed made the announcement after visiting diabetes, and arthritis. treatment. He said passports
disappointment. the offices of the Special Branch and The special Royal Air Ambulance, of 75 others, including
“We are struggling a lot,” said a ceramic factory owner in Sreepur, Criminal Investigation Department of sent by Qatar’s Emir, was supposed to Hasina, were revoked for
Gazipur. “If gas pressure fluctuates, production stops.” police. depart Hazrat Shahjalal International morning (Wednesday). She will be their alleged involvement
THE POOR SUFFER He said that many were killed or Airport at 10:00pm. However, due to received by her son Tarique, his wife in violence during the
This newspaper spent three hours in Bhasantek from 12:00pm to 3:00pm injured during the mass uprising that her late arrival at the airport, the flight Zubaida Rahman, and their daughter uprising that killed
on Sunday and found that nobody was able to light their gas stoves. ousted Sheikh Hasina-led government. left at 11:47pm. Zaima Rahman. hundreds.
Residents of Bhasantek Rehabilitation Project -- where the low-income “We discussed how to employ those The BNP chairperson’s office had She is scheduled to be taken directly Azad, however, did not
people live in one room flats -- say they were in serious trouble because who were injured. We have already already completed the necessary to The London Clinic from the airport disclose the names of 96
they cannot afford to eat out. submitted a proposal from Bangladesh immigration formalities. for her treatment, BNP leaders said. others.
SEE PAGE 2 COL 1 SEE PAGE 2 COL 2
The flight is scheduled to make a SEE PAGE 2 COL 2 SEE PAGE 2 COL 2

Clarification
Our investigative report,
Govt to speed up
“Parking wealth under the
Dubai sun” published on
January 7, 2025, is self-
rice import to
explanatory about why we
chose to name the specific
Bangladeshi property
contain prices
holders in Dubai. Please Cabinet committee approves
read paragraphs 9-16 of
the report for a detailed 50,000 tonnes of rice import
explanation. Below we
reaffirm the reasons why STAFF CORRESPONDENT
we only named a select
few and did not mention The government has taken an initiative to accelerate rice
others: imports to strengthen the buffer stock of food grains and
1. This newspaper to arrest the upward trend of the staple’s price.
accessed the online At a meeting yesterday of the cabinet committee on
database of the Center purchase, Finance Adviser Salehuddin Ahmed directed
for Advanced Defense the relevant ministries to move faster with their processes
Studies (C4ADS), a non- for rice import without further delay.
profit based in Washington The meeting approved the import of 50,000 tonnes
DC, United States, and of rice for $458.84 per tonne from an Indian company
found information on named M/S Bagadiya Brothers.
461 Bangladeshi property “Even at the meeting, I have asked them to import rice
owners in Dubai. We immediately from wherever they can to strengthen the
selected 19 of these buffer stock of food grain,” he told reporters after the
individuals and their meeting at the secretariat.
families for this report, About the current price of essentials, Salehuddin said:
excluding the other 442. “The price of a specific item has increased while the prices
2. This rationale is based of other items are stable.”
on two grounds: a) those The government will soon introduce a special Open
who faced investigations, Market Sales (OMS) programme with the view to bringing
allegations, or convictions relief to fixed and low-income people struggling with
or were acquitted after inflation.
being charged with Rice prices have surged in the last two weeks despite the
financial misconduct. b) arrival of new Aman season rice. The price of all varieties
those whose property- This photo shows damaged houses in Shigatse, southwestern China’s Tibet region after a strong earthquake hit the area. At least 95 of rice increased yesterday, according to data from the
related information could people were killed and many buildings collapsed in the 7.1 magnitude tremor that was felt in neighbouring Nepal’s capital Kathmandu Trading Corporation of Bangladesh.
SEE PAGE 2 COL 1 and parts of India. PHOTO: AFP SEE PAGE 2 COL 5

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 NEWS
DHAKA WEDNESDAY JANUARY 8, 2025

2 POUSH 24, 1431 BS City

Investigators Meta shelves

get new warrant fact-checking
to arrest S Korea
President Yoon program in US
REUTERS
AFP, Seoul
Social media giant Meta yesterday scrapped its
South Korean anti- US fact-checking program for a community-
graft investigators based system similar to X and reduced the curbs
yesterday secured a on discussions around contentious topics such as
new court-ordered immigration and gender identity.
arrest warrant for The move marks a reversal in Meta’s policy
impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol, as CEO Mark Zuckerberg has long championed
whose failed martial law bid threw active content moderation despite criticism
the country into turmoil. from conservatives over alleged censorship on its
The former star prosecutor has platforms.
refused questioning three times after It also comes shortly after the company named
his bungled December 3 martial law Republican policy executive Joel Kaplan as global
decree plunged South Korea into its affairs head and elected Dana White, CEO of
worst political crisis in decades. Ultimate Fighting Championship and a close
As anti-graft officials and police friend of President-elect Donald Trump, to its
got a fresh warrant from the same board.
court that issued the first order, Yoon “We’ve reached a point where it’s just too many
was believed to be holed up in his mistakes and too much censorship. It’s time to
residence surrounded by hundreds of get back to our roots around free expression,”
guards preventing his detention. Zuckerberg said in a video.
“The arrest warrant re-requested “We’re going to focus on reducing mistakes,
for the suspect Yoon was issued simplifying our policies and restoring free
today in the afternoon,” the Joint expression on our platforms. We’re going to
Investigation Headquarters said in a tune our content filters to require much higher
statement. confidence before taking down content.”
A woman sunbathing her seven-day old nephew, who was admitted to Dhaka Shishu Hospital with a cold, after having his
Seoul Western District Court The end of the fact-checking program, started
declined to confirm when contacted
echocardiogram done yesterday. The child, born on December 31, was admitted to a Shariatpur clinic the very next day with a cold
in 2016, caught some partner organizations by
by AFP.
and then referred to the hospital in the capital. According to doctors, around 40 new patients are admitted every day, 60 percent of
surprise.
them with cold-related issues. PHOTO: PRABIR DAS

Iran begins military Khaleda finally off to UK for treatment 7 arrested over gang
drills near Natanz FROM PAGE 1 and there is a need to take her to BNP Secretary General Mirza

nuclear site
AFP, Tehran
Khaleda will be meeting her son for
the first time in seven years on her first
overseas visit since July 16, 2017, when
Johns Hopkins University Hospital
in Maryland, USA, that will be looked
into.”
Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said, “During
madam’s imprisonment, she fell
critically ill. We repeatedly urged
rape of 14-yr-old girl
she travelled to London for treatment. According to doctors in Dhaka, the Sheikh Hasina to allow her to seek STAFF CORRESPONDENT, Cox’s Bazar information that three alleged
Tarique, acting chairperson of BNP, BNP chairperson may require a liver medical treatment abroad, but she rapists had taken shelter at a
Iran’s military has begun drills near
has been residing in London with his transplant because of the cirrhosis and ignored our requests. Police have arrested seven men for shrimp enclosure in Shaplapur of
the Natanz nuclear enrichment plant family since 2008. Khaleda’s younger the entire treatment process, including “She prays for the well-being of their suspected involvement in the Moheshkhali, locals along with police
in the centre of the country, state son, Arafat Rahman Koko, died in recovery, may take several months.
media reported yesterday, as part of the people and the establishment of gang rape of a 14-year-old girl in surrounded them and apprehended
Malaysia in 2015. Zahid said doctors will decide democracy.” Badarkahli of Chakaria upazila in
exercises planned nationwide. Khaleda set out from her Gulshan the feasibility and timing of the liver them.
CASES Cox’s Bazar. The victim was gang-raped at
The drills -- dubbed Eqtedar, or residence “Firoza” at 8:12pm. Her transplant after a detailed evaluation at According to Khaleda’s lawyer, of They were arrested from
“might”, in Farsi -- have involved the motorcade reached the airport at the specialised unit in London. Badarkhali union in Chakaria upazila
the 37 cases filed against her during different areas of Moheshkhali
Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps 10:51pm The journey from her home to Khaleda’s eventual departure only around 10:00pm on Sunday, when
the caretaker government and AL upazila between Monday night and
(IRGC), the ideological branch of the airport took over two hours due to became possible after the fall of the AL government tenures, seven cases the girl, who lives in Moheshkhali
Iran’s military, alongside the army. severe traffic congestion caused by the regime on August 5, 2024, signaling yesterday morning, said Jasim Uddin, upazila, was returning home from
are still pending with the courts as additional superintendent of police
“The first phase of the joint presence of hundreds of party leaders a major shift in the country’s political Banshkhali upazila, Chattogram.
of yesterday. These include the Zia in Cox’s Bazar, without revealing the
Eqtedar exercises in the air defense and supporters on the streets. landscape. She was fully freed by an According to the victim’s
Orphanage Trust corruption case, the names.
zone of the Natanz nuclear facility Senior BNP leaders greeted her at order from President Mohammed statement, she was abducted at
Niko corruption case, three sabotage The ASP said the arrestees were
has commenced under the orders the Gulshan residence before departure Shahabuddin the very next day, paving knifepoint and raped by 8 to 10 men
while party supporters gathered along cases in Cumilla, and two defamation sent to jail via a court order.
of the air defense headquarters the way for her overseas treatment. near the Bodorkhali bridge, said
the route, cheering and chanting cases. The victim, who was allegedly
commander,” state TV said. Her health crisis, compounded
slogans in her support. A significant On February 8, 2018, Khaleda was Manjur Kader Bhuyan, officer-in-
by political resistance, had become gang-raped by eight to ten men, was
It added that IRGC air forces jailed in a corruption case. charge of Chakaria Police Station.
number of law enforcers were deployed a rallying point for BNP leaders and receiving treatment at Cox’s Bazar
were undertaking “an all-out point to maintain order. In April 2019, Khaleda’s health She boarded a CNG-run
activists, who are now hopeful for her Sadar Hospital, he said.
defense” of the site “against a Earlier, Khaleda’s family members, recovery and the opportunity for her to deteriorated due to inadequate autorickshaw from the Badarkahli
The incident has enraged the locals
multitude of air threats in tough including her younger brother Shamim reunite with her family in peace. medical treatment. On March 26, Ferry Ghat area. However, the driver
2020, amid the Covid-19 pandemic, she who have been assisting police in
electronic warfare conditions”. Eskander, his wife Kaniz Fatima, and BNP standing committee member abandoned her midway near the
was released from prison after 776 days. identifying and catching the culprits,
On Monday, IRGC spokesman her late brother Sayeed Eskander’s Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury Badarkhali Bridge saying the vehicle
The government temporarily said Alauddin Alo, a local journalist
Ali Mohammad Naini said the wife Nasrin, also greeted her at her told The Daily Star, “We’ve long been had some mechanical issues.
released her on an executive order, of Bodorkhali.
drills, which will also cover other residence. demanding that she receive treatment As she was walking back towards
suspending her sentence on the Since the incident, protest
parts of Iran until mid-March, The former PM’s deteriorating abroad, but we were unsuccessful. Due the ferry ghat area, two men
condition that she remain at her programmes -- road blockades,
were being conducted in response health had been a matter of grave to the lack of adequate medical care, abducted her at knifepoint, the OC
concern for years. Despite repeated she reached a critical point, where her Gulshan residence and not leave the human chains, and processions
to “new security threats”, without said, quoting the victim.
appeals from her party and physicians life was at risk. She is now slightly better country. The term of her release had -- have been held in Cox’s Bazar
elaborating. Later, six others joined the
to allow her to seek treatment abroad, and will fully recover once she receives been extended several times. Sadar, Moheshkhali, and Chakaria
Several branches of the IRGC, perpetrators in raping her.
the AL government rejected over 20 treatment abroad. In April 2021, she contracted demanding the arrest of the
including the navy and the After the incident, the girl made
such requests. “Khaleda Zia made the greatest Covid-19 and recovered while under perpetrators and their trial.
paramilitary Basij forces, will also her way back to the ferry ghat,
Khaleda’s personal physician Dr contribution to the July-August treatment at home. However, as the Hundreds of people also staged
take part in the exercises, he added. where with the help of locals she
Zahid Hossain said, “If they [doctors movement because she inspired the other health complications surfaced, a demonstration yesterday in
Last week, US news website Axios
in London] say she needs further entire country and gave strength she was admitted to Evercare Hospital Moheshkhali. was admitted to Badarkhali General
reported that White House national without any compromise.”
treatment that they can’t provide several times. The journalist said after receiving Hospital.
security adviser Jake Sullivan had
presented President Joe Biden with
options for a potential US strike on
Iran’s nuclear facilities if Tehran
Injured victims to be given jobs in police Strong tremor kills
FROM PAGE 1 Besides, another proposal was About the law and order during
moved toward developing a nuclear
weapon before January 20, when
Donald Trump takes office.
Police to hire some of the people who
suffered injuries,” he said.
sent to employ retired employees of
army, navy, air force, police, BGB, and
the interim government’s five months
in office, the adviser opined, “You
126 in Tibet
“We are trying to recruit as soon Ansar, under the traffic division, he can judge for yourself whether there FROM PAGE 12 be seen in a video on social media
as possible those who have recovered said. has been any improvement. Police performing CPR on an injured person showing the aftermath in the town of
Gas crisis from their injuries. Those who are still
recovering can also be considered for
He, however, found a lack of
interest among the retired employees.
have resumed their work and are
continuously trying to improve the
and soldiers erecting temporary
shelters.
Lhatse, with debris spilling out onto
the road.
FROM PAGE 1 employment,” the adviser said. “I expected more participation, but situation.” The Dalai Lama, Tibet’s spiritual Three townships and 27 villages
“We pay a monthly rent of Tk 3,000. He mentioned that each injured we have so far got only 50-60 people. He, however, acknowledged leader who fled to India along with lie within 20 km (12 miles) of the
But we are having to spend more to victim faces unique challenges. “One thousands of Tibetans in early 1959
We had a plan to start with at least challenges, including the time epicentre, with a total population of
be able to cook,” said Meghla Akter, has lost an eye, another a finger. They
500 retirees.” required for the new officers to after a failed uprising against Chinese around 6,900, and more than 1,000
a resident of the project. “We pay for will be placed in departments where
Student’s managing traffic familiarise with their roles, as rule, said he was deeply saddened. houses have been damaged, Xinhua
the gas but do not get it.” their abilities can be best utilised.
will work for two or three hours a previous ones have been changed. Chinese President Xi Jinping said reported.
Residents said they can cook only “Initially, we plan to start with 100
wounded victims. We will increase day, so that their studies are not Besides, there are shortages of all-out search and rescue efforts Southwestern parts of China,
from 3:00am-6:00am. Sometimes on
the number in phases.” affected, he said. “They will receive an vehicles and damaged police stations should be carried out to minimise Nepal and northern India are often
weekends and holidays, they get gas
Asked if the recruitment would honorarium.” have yet been repaired fully. casualties and to resettle affected hit by earthquakes caused by the
for one or two hours.
Toma Sarker said, “Our lifestyle be limited to police, he responded, Responding to a query, Jahangir “We are taking these matters people. collision of the Indian and Eurasian
has changed due to the gas crisis. We “We are starting with the police as it said money laundering was a seriously and working to address the Villages in Tingri, where the tectonic plates.
have to wake up at midnight to cook.” falls under my ministry’s jurisdiction. major problem under the previous issues.” average elevation is around 4,000- Since 1950, there have been 21
Uttara Sector-11 resident Sakhawat However, we have a plan to expand government. The adviser said, “There was 5,000 metres, reported strong earthquakes of magnitude 6 or
Hossain Mukter said they faced a this initiative to other departments.” “I have instructed the CID chief to no government in place between shaking during the quake, which was above in what is known as the Lhasa
gas crisis every winter, but it was Jahangir also talked about the prioritise investigations into money August 5 and 7. Many fled during followed more than 150 aftershocks block, the largest of which was the
unbearable now. issue of traffic management, saying, laundering cases including that of that time, some crossed borders into with magnitudes of up to 4.4. 6.9-magnitude quake in Mainling in
“A proposal was submitted to recruit the Bangladesh Bank reserve heist. neighbouring countries. However, Crumpled shop fronts could 2017, according to CCTV.
1,000 students for controlling traffic. He added that he had asked the since we assumed office, no one has
Polls by Dec
FROM PAGE 1
an address to the nation.
So far, 400 students have been
recruited.”
CID to come up with the probe
reports without any delay.
fled. If anyone attempts to leave, we
will investigate the matter.” Govt to speed up rice
On December 16 last year, during
a Victory Day address, Chief Adviser
Prof Muhammad Yunus stated that
Govt scraps passports of Hasina, 96 others
FROM PAGE 1 helping the service seekers, which will However, the date of the election was
import to contain prices
the next general election could be He said the Indian authorities are be helpful to break the syndicate of not discussed, he added.
FROM PAGE 1 tonnes of rice was imported at the
already aware of the matter of revoking The price of coarse rice, which was Tk government level and 1.07 lakh
held either at the end of 2025 or in brokers. Talking about the next election,
the passport of Hasina as they said, On the delay of textbook distribution, 50 to Tk 55 a kilogram a month ago, tonnes at the private level.
the first half of 2026 after completing Shafiqul referred to what the chief was Tk 54 to 58 yesterday, meaning
necessary reforms. “India has issued travel documents for Azad said that as of Monday, around 11 adviser said during his address to the The total stock of foodgrain was
her.” crore textbooks out of 40.15 crore had the rice price increased 6.67 percent 12.22 lakh tonnes as of Monday, of
nation on December 16.
Clarification Azad added that expatriate been printed and most of them had in the last month. It increased more which rice was 7.99 lakh tonnes.
Prof Yunus said the next polls can be than 14 percent in the last year,
Bangladeshis who sought passports already reached schools. held between the end of 2025 and the Salehuddin urged the common
would also get text messages from the He hoped that students would get according to data from TCB. people to be patient.
FROM PAGE 1 first half of 2026 after accomplishing Asked about the rice price increase,
be obtained from the Dubai Land authorities as soon as their passports all textbooks by the end of this month. “Once, the price of onion hit Tk
necessary reforms. Ahmed said: “This is a transition time
Department and other official are ready for delivery. He also blamed the delay on non- 200 per kg. Now, it is Tk 40 per kg.
He mentioned that it was earlier Responding to a query about as paddy harvesting is going on and
sources. cooperation of some of the textbook We also have to think about the
discussed that applications of 1,97,000 abduction along the Teknaf border, rice is entering different markets from
3. In our report, we refrained from printers and said, “The education farmers,” he added.
machine readable passports are ministry will probe the incident.” Shafiqul said the government is making the farmers. There is no problem on
naming 442 individuals based on significant efforts to improve law and Besides, at another meeting with
pending and authorities have printed Meanwhile, CA’s Press Secretary the supply side but there could be rice traders, Commerce Adviser Sk.
these two criteria. 1,82,745 MRPs. These new MRPs will order. According to information from
Shafiqul Alam said Jamaat-e-Islami some problem in the supply chain. We Bashir Uddin said the government is
4. We reiterate that we did not reach the embassies soon. Ameer Shafiqur Rahman held a law enforcement agencies, the situation
apply any personal bias or “pick-and- are monitoring the market so that the easing the rules for importing rice.
The deputy press secretary added meeting with Chief Adviser Prof has improved. difference between production cost and
choose” method to either include or About the border killings, he said the He made the remark in response
that the authorities of the department Muhammad Yunus at state guesthouse consumer level cost is not too much.” to rice traders’ demand for easing the
exclude any individual in our report. are taking different steps to make the Jamuna in the evening. previous government remained largely
We only followed the criteria The government took the initiative rules of margin for opening letters of
passport offices free from “brokers”. Topics of discussion included silent on the issue. But the current to import food grain after the flood
mentioned above. Thank you for your government has been protesting every credit for rice import, according to a
He added that the government is electoral reforms, national unity, in August. As of Monday, 24,720
understanding. planning to appoint some “agents” for and reforms in the banking sector. such incident. commerce ministry press release.

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 CITY

DHAKA 3
DHAKA WEDNESDAY JANUARY 8, 2025
POUSH 24, 1431 BS

PUBLIC ADMIN REFORM

90pc of employees
feel overlooked
BAHARAM KHAN them, 190,928 are in the first-class
category, while the remaining 12.50
The Public Administration Reform lakh are second, third, and fourth-class
Commission has neither engaged with employees.
lower-grade government employees Even grade 9 employees, who are not
nor included their representatives in part of the cadre, have been excluded from
the commission, leaving them feeling the reform dialogue.
marginalised. Lower-grade
The reform employees argue
initiative is ignoring that all members
nearly 90 percent Every commission talks of the commission
of government about reforming public are former cadre
e m p l o y e e s administration, but only the employees or
by excluding benefits and opportunities individuals from
dialogue with their of high-ranking officials are similar ranks,
re p re s e n t a t i ve s , considered. leading to a
according to lower- prioritisation of
grade employees NAZRUL ISLAM feedback from
Spokesperson for Inter-Ministerial Em-
from several officials of their
ployees Association of the Secretariat
ministries. own level.
Government They feel their
employees are voices are being
categorised into 20 grades. Those in overlooked, even though they are the most
grades 9 and above are considered high- involved in delivering public services to
level employees, while those in grades 10 to citizens.
20 are classified as lower-grade employees. Nazrul Islam, spokesperson for the
According to the public Inter-Ministerial Employees Association
administration ministry’s latest of the Secretariat, told The Daily Star,
survey, titled “Statistics of Government “Every commission talks about reforming
Servants-2023,” there are 14.40 lakh public administration, but the benefits WINTER DELIGHT... People flock to this pitha shop near Krishi Market in Mohammadpur, enjoying the wide range of items being sold. The shop
government employees. Among SEE PAGE 4 COL 6 owner prepares bhapa and chitoi pithas, with an assortment of bhortas for the latter. The photo was taken recently. PHOTO: PRABIR DAS

Khaleda was GRAFT PROBE INTO FORMER WHIP ACC launches FELANI KILLING
convicted probe against 14 years on, family
to bar her Where did Tk 10.77cr Nayeemul
Islam Khan still awaits justice
from polls
Her lawyer tells SC
STAFF CORRESPONDENT
come from? STAFF CORRESPONDENT

83 pc of Iqbal Karim’s wealth unaccounted for The Anti-Corruption

Commission (ACC) has
B N P initiated an investigation
Chairper- DIPAN NANDY against senior journalist
s o n AT A GLANCE and former press secretary
Khaleda Around 83 percent of the declared income of Iqbalur to ousted prime minister
Zia’s lawyer, Rahim, former whip of the National Parliament Income declared- Tk 12.9cr Sheikh Hasina, Nayeemul
K a y s e r and ex-MP of the Dinajpur-3 constituency, remains Islam Khan, over allegations
K a m a l , untraceable, found an ACC investigation. Income verified by ACC- Tk 2.13cr of amassing illegal wealth.
told the Appellate Division Investigators also uncovered suspicious The decision was made
of the Supreme Court transactions worth Tk 35.71 crore across 24 bank Income unaccounted for- Tk 10.77cr during an ACC meeting
yesterday that the High accounts linked to Iqbal. yesterday morning, a source SHARIFUL ISLAM
DISCREPANCIES IN INCOME Suspicious Transactions- Tk 35.71cr across 24 bank accounts from the commission
Court’s verdict in the Zia
Orphanage Trust case Between fiscal years 2000-01 and 2023-24, Iqbal confirmed to The Daily Star. Fourteen long years have passed, yet the haunting
Owned properties- house and properties in Bashundhara, Earlier, the Bangladesh image of Felani Khatun’s lifeless body hanging
was politically motivated, declared an income of Tk 12.9 crore. Uttara, Dhanmondi
aiming to bar her from However, the ACC has verified evidence for only Tk Financial Intelligence Unit from the barbed fence at the India-Bangladesh
2.13 crore, leaving Tk 10.77 crore, or 83.42 percent, Wife’s assets- Tk 74 lakh (BFIU) flagged 163 bank border lingers in the nation’s collective memory.
elections.
unaccounted for. accounts linked to Nayeemul For Bangladesh, the teenager’s killing remains
He argued that the and his family members. ACC
verdict, which doubled Investigators found discrepancies in multiple a painful scar, with justice still remaining elusive
officials suspect that he has for her family.
her jail term to 10 years, income sources Rahim cited in his tax filings,
laundered money abroad. “I have been waiting for justice for the last 14
violated the law as she was including Tk 2.28 crore from business activities, alongside her husband. Following an analysis of
not involved in corruption Tk 1.63 crore in tax-exempt income (2010-12), Tk SUSPICIOUS TRANSACTIONS preliminary information, years. My daughter was an innocent girl,” Felani’s
or embezzlement, and the 1.71 crore from fisheries, Tk 1.53 crore from house The ACC’s investigation, launched on August 28, the ACC decided to launch a father Nurul Islam told The Daily Star over the
funds in question remain properties, and Tk 3.02 crore from other sources, all revealed suspicious activity in 24 bank accounts formal investigation, aiming phone yesterday.
secure in the trust’s bank of which remain unsubstantiated. linked to Rahim. Of these, 18 accounts were opened to uncover significant He said he visited India twice years ago and filed
account. Rahim’s wife, Nadira Sultana, a housewife, was also after the Awami League came to power in 2009. undisclosed assets allegedly a complaint with the BSF special court, but justice
Kamal presented these found to possess assets worth Tk 74 lakh. The accounts recorded transactions totalling Tk belonging to Nayeemul has yet to be served.
SEE PAGE 4 COL 2 The ACC has indicated she may face charges SEE PAGE 4 COL 4 Islam Khan and his family. SEE PAGE 4 COL 6

43RD BCS PROTEST AT SECRETARIAT

Govt justification Police disperse

for excluding 227 students of
Primeasia univ
candidates baseless STAFF CORRESPONDENT

Says University Teachers’ Network Police charged batons and dispersed

Primeasia University students protesting
STAFF CORRESPONDENT
in front of the Secretariat yesterday
afternoon, leaving several injured,
The University Teachers’ Network has expressed deep
witnesses said.
concern about the gap between the aspiration for a non-
Khalid Monsur, officer-in-charge (OC)
discriminatory Bangladesh and the reality in different
of Shahbagh Police Station, told The
sectors.
Daily Star that the students created chaos
In some cases, a lack of accountability is evident, it said.
The foundation of the July uprising was the dream of by banging on the entrance. “Students
a non-discriminatory Bangladesh, said the network in a should refrain from protesting at the
statement sent to the media yesterday. Secretariat as there is a ban on holding
“We still hope that Bangladesh will not deviate from protests there,” he added.
this path,” the statement added. The protesters, numbering several
On January 2, 2025, the Ministry of Public hundred, marched towards the
Administration issued a notice regarding the 43rd Secretariat demanding the suspension of
Bangladesh Civil Service (BCS), where the ministry the university’s trustee board chairman
provided an explanation for excluding 227 candidates and the establishment of a permanent
who were previously recommended for appointment. campus.
The statement said the excluded candidates had been Police blocked them near the Jatiya
recommended for appointment during the tenure of the Press Club, allowing a seven-member
interim government. delegation to enter the Secretariat to
“Allegations and concerns raised by many excluded meet the education adviser. However,
candidates, as seen on social media, have come to our the adviser was unavailable, and the
attention. Members of the University Teachers’ Network delegation had to wait, according to a
have communicated with many of the victims. We have
Students of Primeasia University yesterday marched to the Secretariat police official.
also reviewed relevant media reports on the issue,” said with various demands, including the removal of the university’s trustee Tensions escalated as other students
the statement. board chairman and the establishment of a permanent campus. When the clashed with police and marched
“After careful consideration, we find the Ministry students reached the Secretariat, police charged batons and dispersed towards the Secretariat despite repeated
SEE PAGE 4 COL 2 them, alleging that they were “causing chaos.” PHOTO: AMRAN HOSSAIN SEE PAGE 4 COL 5

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 CITY

4 NEWS
DHAKA WEDNESDAY JANUARY 8, 2025
POUSH 24, 1431 BS

Jubeida
Khatoon
Khaleda was convicted Police
FROM PAGE 3
90pc of employees
FROM PAGE 3 Tk 2.1 crore intended for defamation cases were warnings, witnesses said. A FROM PAGE 3 of initiatives to implement this moment whether there
reforms across various will be discussions with
passes away arguments before a five-
member bench headed
orphans, the special court
cited Khaleda’s age and
scrapped by lower courts,
and two sentences were
chase and counter-chase
ensued, with police using
and opportunities for one-
tenth of the employees sectors in the country. them. I will consult with the
STAR REPORT by Chief Justice Syed status to impose a lighter overturned through batons and stun grenades -- those in high-ranking The commission was commission’s chairman on
to disperse them. positions -- are considered, initially tasked with this matter.”
Refaat Ahmed. The bench sentence. presidential clemency.
Dr Jubeida Live broadcasts showed while the remaining 90 submitting a report by On January 5, an
is hearing Khaleda’s On November 11, the The BNP chief is now on January 3, 2025, but its organisation called Non-
Khatoon, a police charging at students, percent have not seen
appeals against the 2018 Appellate Division stayed bail in the remaining cases. with some officers seen significant improvements tenure has been extended Cadre Employees Against
renowned High Court verdict that the High Court’s decision Yesterday’s hearing
gyneco- kicking a student who had even after 53 years of until January 15. Discrimination submitted an
increased her sentence and allowed Khaleda to file involved lawyers from fallen during the chaos. independence.” In the meantime, the application to the chairman
logist and
from five to ten years. appeals challenging it. Her both sides, including Following the incident, “In an independent commission has held of the Public Administration
fem i n i s t multiple meetings with Reform Commission.
The former prime appeals seek to overturn Kayser Kamal, AM former and current students country, inequality,
s o c i a l frustration, and imbalance representatives from 26 Rashidul Islam, an assistant
minister, aged 79, landed the judgement and secure Mahbub Uddin Khokon, expressed outrage on social
re for mer , are increasing, surpassing the cadre-based employee director at the Immigration
in jail on February 8, 2018, her acquittal. and Zainul Abedin for media over the police action.
passed away on January 3, On August 26, Dhaka conditions during the British groups. However, the and Passport Department and
aged 95. after a Dhaka special court Khaleda currently faces Khaleda, while Additional
Metropolitan Police and Pakistani eras,” he added. absence of any meetings secretary of the organisation,
Born to educationist sentenced her to five years 37 cases, filed during the Attorney General Aneek
imposed an indefinite He emphasised that with lower-grade employee said in the application they
Osman Gani, she in the case. caretaker government R Haque and lawyer Md employee representatives representatives has left them said non-cadre employees
ban on protests near the
graduated from Lady While five other accused, (2007–08) and Sheikh Ashif Hassan represented Bangladesh Secretariat and are never included in these feeling neglected. are continually overlooked,
Brabourne College, including her son Tarique Hasina’s regime. the state and the Anti- the Chief Adviser’s official commissions. “Their pain, Asked, Dr Mokhles Ur despite constitutional
Kolkata, and became Rahman, were given 10 Of these, 12 cases were Corruption Commission. residence at the Jamuna sorrow, and logical demands Rahman, secretary to the guarantees of equal
the first woman from years’ imprisonment for dismissed by the High The court will continue state guest house. are never taken into Public Administration opportunity.
East Pakistan to achieve misappropriating over Court last year, nine hearing the appeals today. account,” he said. Ministry and member The organisation urged
MRCOG in London.
As a young student, she
Bangladesh The Public Administration
Reform Commission was
secretary of the reform
commission, told The
the commission to engage
with this substantial
witnessed the communal
riots of 1946, which
47 citizens condemn attack FROM PAGE 5
Adviser Muhammad Fouzul
Kabir Khan, Environment
established by the interim
government, led by Chief
Daily Star, “We consider
all employees equally, and
segment of the workforce,
emphasising that their
deeply influenced her FROM PAGE 5 Iftekharuzzaman, Guhathakurta, executive Adviser Prof. Yunus, in the issue is important. feedback is essential for
woman, Philomina executive director director of Research Adviser Syeda Rizwana October last year as part However, I cannot say at meaningful reforms.
commitment to social Hasan, and Bangladesh Bank
justice. Hansda, and the arson of Transparency Initiatives Bangladesh;
Dr Khatoon began her
career at Dhaka Medical
attack on the house of
British Soren, as well as
strict punishment for the
International Bangladesh;
Khushi Kabir, coordinator
of Nijera Kori; Swapan
Barrister Sara Hossain,
honorary executive
director of BLAST; Shireen
Governor Ahsan H Mansur,
among others. She will also
meet business leaders and
14 years on, family still awaits
College in 1957 and later development partners. FROM PAGE 3 the BSF did nothing to rescue 5 lakh as compensation
served as a professor perpetrators.” Adnan, visiting research Parveen Huq; founder of The EU remains Nurul alleged that the or treat her,” he added. to her family through the
and surgeon at Rajshahi The signatories of fellow at University of Naripokkho; Dr Samina Bangladesh’s largest trading previous government took He said the Supreme Indian High Commission in
Medical College for the statement are: Prof Oxford; Advocate Z I Khan Luthfa, associate professor partner, with exports no steps to ensure justice Court of India, which was Bangladesh.
decades. Anu Muhammad; rights Panna, chairperson of Ain at Dhaka University, and growing from €2.4 billion and urged the current set to hear final arguments However, the
She established the activist Sultana Kamal; O Salish Kendra; Meghna others. to €24 billion annually over government to act. in the case today, has compensation was never
first private gynecological the past two decades. Felani, a 15-year-old girl postponed the hearing for paid, and successive
from Kurigram’s Nageshwari unspecified reasons. governments failed to act,
clinic in Rajshahi and
trained generations of
medical students. Beyond
Govt justification for excluding In October 2023, the
EU, EIB, and Bangladesh
signed €400 million in
upazila, was shot dead by an
Indian Border Security Force
MASUM, which has been
assisting Felani’s family in
said Kirity Roy.
Felani’s father said a week
FROM PAGE 3 Rajshahi, were dismissed network. agreements for renewable member while trying to cross their fight for justice, filed after Felani’s murder, the
medicine, she chaired the barbed-wire fence near a writ petition in 2015 in then home minister visited
of Public Administration’s on grounds of a “breach of The signatories of energy projects to support
the Rajshahi Diabetic Kurigram and West Bengal’s collaboration with her father, his home and handed over
justification for excluding discipline.” the statement include climate goals.
Association and served as Koch Bihar on January 7, 2011. demanding accountability Tk 3 lakh, and that’s all the
a Rajshahi Municipality gazetted candidates, as “Yet, the government Dhaka University teachers Beer described her visit
as an opportunity to hear As she climbed down a and compensation. compensation he got thus far.
Commissioner. Her stated in its notice, to be and the relevant ministry Gitiara Nasreen, Kamrul
from ministries, economic makeshift ladder, her dress “I don’t know how long The minister assured that
daughter, anthropologist baseless. We interpret this have not provided the Hasan Mamun, Rushad Felani’s family will have the government would take
leaders, and citizens about caught on the fence. Unable
Nehraz Mahmud, survives notice as a continuation of nation with any detailed Faridi, Tasneem Siraj to escape, she was spotted to wait to get justice,” said his family’s responsibility
the discriminatory culture the country’s challenges
her. Dr Khatoon was laid explanation regarding this Mahboob, and Kajalie by the BSF, and constable Kirity Roy. and ensure justice, which was
and plans.
to rest at Hatem Khan within the republic, which matter to date,” it also said. Shehreen Islam; former “The EU stands behind Amiya Ghosh shot her. “The erstwhile a false promise, he added.
Graveyard in Rajshahi. is deeply disappointing. “We have observed Jahangirnagar University the interim government to Kirity Roy, secretary of Bangladesh government
This notice highlights efforts to prioritise teacher Anu Muhammad serve Bangladeshi citizens, Banglar Manabadhikar did not strongly protest her Electric
a lack of administrative identity over performance, and incumbent teachers and the EIB will support Suraksha Mancha , a rights killing, and we’re not seeing FROM PAGE 5
accountability,” it added. bypassing due process, Swadhin Sen and Sharmind investments,” she said, organisation based in strong action from the doctors declared him dead
PRAYER The statement said while certain groups and Neelormi; Jashore adding that energy remains a West Bengal, said India has current government either,”
he added.
on arrival,” said Abu Omar,
installed barbed wire along a member of the local union
TIMING in October of last year,
during the tenure of the
communities are being
deemed ineligible. This
University of Science and
Technology teacher Ovinu
critical focus of cooperation.
Discussions with the Bangladesh border, deep Initial investigations by parishad.
JANUARY 8 Touhid Hossain included inside Indian territory, on the BSF court acquitted Mostafizur Rahman, an
current government, 252 politics of identity is Kibria Islam; Jagannath the land of villagers. Amiya Ghosh of wrongdoing, official from the Lama Forest
Fazr Zohr Asr Maghrib Esha enhancing Bangladesh’s
trainee sub-inspectors divisive and, therefore, University teacher “So, that day, BSF could a decision widely criticised Department, confirmed
AZAN 5-30 12-45 4-00 5-30 7-00 regional standing. “We
undergoing basic training unjust. Our position Shehreen Ataur Khan; will provide support to have caught Felani without by rights organisations in the incident and said that
JAMAAT 6-05 1-15 4-15 5-35 7-30 at the Bangladesh Police remains firm against all and Chittagong University firing a shot. They could both countries. they were visiting the site to
strengthen the country’s
SOURCE: ISLAMIC FOUNDATION Academy in Sardah, forms of injustice,” said the teacher Khadija Mitu. position,” she said. have presented her in court A second BSF trial upheld gather more details.
for breaking the law, but the verdict, leading to further “The area is remote and
it didn’t happen,” he told discontent. sparsely populated, which
this correspondent over the In 2013, India’s National caused delays in receiving
No longer phone.
“Felani was stuck on the
Human Rights Commission
declared Felani’s killing
a human rights violation
information. Assistance will
be provided to the affected
FROM PAGE 5 human activities as key fence for a long time after families in accordance with
Helal Uddin, president factors behind the decline. being shot. Blood kept and directed the Ministry government regulations,” he
of the Ashighar Village “In the 2023 bird census, flowing for over an hour, but of Home Affairs to pay Rs added.
Conservation Committee, no rare or endangered species
said efforts are underway were found, indicating that
to ensure the safety of these migratory birds may
migratory birds arriving this have forgotten the path to
winter. Hakaluki Haor,” he said.
Inam Al Haque, a bird Md Mahi Uddin, upazila
expert, highlighted the nirbahi officer of Kulaura,
loss of biodiversity in the said the local administration
haor, citing environmental has a strict stance against
pollution, drying bird hunting and will soon
waterbodies, hunting, food conduct raids against
scarcity, and increased poachers in the haor areas.

Where did Tk 10.77cr

FROM PAGE 3 fled the country on August
35.71 crore, of which Tk 35.3 5, following the fall of AL.
crore was withdrawn over The investigation
time. team, led by ACC Director
Investigators said nearly Syed Tahsinul Haque and
all accounts were opened in including Assistant Director
Iqbal’s name or under his Muhammad Jafar Sadeq
businesses. Shibli and Deputy Assistant
In addition to the bank Director Atikur Rahman
transactions, Rahim’s assets Khan, is verifying documents
collected from 91 banks,
include a house on five katha of
financial institutions, and
land in Bashundhara’s N Block,
over 150 public and private
a property in Uttara Model organisations.
Town, a 2,500-square-foot flat ACC Deputy Director
in Dhanmondi, and two vehicles. (Public Relations) Md Akhtarul
INVESTIGATION Islam said, “The investigation
PROGRESS is ongoing. The process of
The ACC has imposed a collecting and verifying
travel ban on Iqbal and his documents is underway. Once
wife, effective from October the investigation team submits
28. its report, the commission will
However, he reportedly take a decision as per the law.”

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 CITY

CITY 5
DHAKA WEDNESDAY JANUARY 8, 2025
POUSH 24, 1431 BS

Bangladesh stable HAKALUKI HAOR 47 citizens condemn

for investment
Says EIB VP
DIPLOMATIC CORRESPONDENT
No longer a sanctuary attack on Santal
community
European Investment Bank Vice-President
Nicola Beer yesterday expressed confidence
in Bangladesh’s current stability for
investment and confirmed the Bank’s
for migratory birds STAFF CORRESPONDENT

Forty-seven eminent citizens of the country in

a statement yesterday strongly condemned the
assault on a Santal woman and the arson attack
plans to finalise agreements for water, on their homes in Gobindaganj of Gaibandha.
sanitation, and energy projects. They called upon the government to ensure the
“I see the current situation as stable for safety of the Santal community and demanded
investment, so we proceed with what we punishment for those responsible. Additionally,
have already decided. Further signatures they also asked for a high-level impartial
are expected this year,” she told reporters investigation into how 250 acres of land and the
after meeting Foreign Adviser Md Touhid government-owned pond belonging to the Santals
Hossain at the foreign ministry. of Rajahar Union in Gobindganj were illegally
Asked if EIB investments would depend occupied, according to a statement sent to media
on the election or political transition, she yesterday.
said that such matters are for the people of Since the era of Pakistan, influential groups and
Bangladesh to decide. political leaders in Gobindaganj, or their agents,
Nicola emphasised EIB’s support for the have repeatedly sought to take control of the
interim government and its engagement Santals’ land. At times, the state seized their land
with various ministries and sectors in the name of sugar mills. On other occasions, the
to determine investment priorities. “I police and administration set fire to their homes
am optimistic about signing deals on to evict them, the statement said.
significant projects, especially in water “At a time when the nation is raising its voice
and sanitation, this year,” she said. to break the chains of discrimination, such unjust
Leading a high-level delegation on a oppression and persecution of the Santals is
three-day visit, Beer is set to meet Finance unacceptable. We strongly condemn and protest
and Planning Adviser Dr Salehuddin this heinous act. We demand an impartial
Ahmed, Power and Energy investigation into the physical assault on the
SEE PAGE 3 COL 5 SEE PAGE 4 COL 2

Two sent to jail over MINTU DESHWARA, Moulvibazar the Bangladesh Bird Club and IUCN
Bangladesh recorded 37,778 birds of
them. Climate change, environmental
pollution, and human activities further Electric fence kills
trader’s abduction Hakaluki Haor, one of the largest
freshwater wetlands in Bangladesh,
52 species, including 12,732 ducks and
4,537 small waterfowl, in Hakaluki
threaten their safety,” said Fakhruzaman,
a resident of Ashighar village in Kulaura elephant, man dies
spanning five upazilas in Sylhet and Haor. The increase compared to 2020 upazila of Moulvibazar.
OUR CORRESPONDENT, Benapole

A Jashore court has sent two men to jail in

Moulvibazar districts, was once a safe
haven for migratory birds during winter.
was attributed to the absence of new
development projects in the area.
Kamrul Hasan Noman,
environmental activist and member
an in retaliatory strike
connection with the abduction of a gold Each year, the arrival of thousands However, the rise in bird of the Patharia Wildlife
trader in Chaugachha upazila. of migratory birds of various species numbers also saw an Conservation Team, said
The accused, Abu Said Al Mamun transformed the haor into a vibrant increase in illegal hunting rivers flowing into the
Babu, 42, of Bodhkhana village, and sanctuary, enhancing the natural beauty activities, with poachers haor are polluted with
Firoz Hossain, 45, of Ichali village, were of the region and drawing tourists from using traps and baits in plastic, polythene, and
produced before the court after a case across the country and beyond. the unprotected waters other waste discarded
was filed by the victim’s son, said Kamal In recent years, however, the of the haor. This has by neighbouring
Hossain, officer-in-charge of Chaugachha population of these winter visitors made the wetlands communities.
Police Station. has significantly declined, raising increasingly unsafe for “Hunters are also
Dhirendra Nath, 50, who owns a jewellery alarm among bird experts and migratory birds. using nets and poison
shop in Chaugachha, was abducted on environmentalists. Additionally, a baits to capture birds,
Monday night while returning home. According to the Bangladesh Bird sharp decline in the exacerbating the decline.
The criminals demanded Tk 20 lakh Club’s census data, the number of birds fish population and the It is an alarming scenario,”
in ransom, which was reported to the in 40 wetlands within the Hakaluki Haor depletion of aquatic vegetation he said.
area plummeted from 58,281 in 2017 to have caused food scarcity, further Sahadat Hosain, a student of Kulaura OUR CORRESPONDENT, Bandarban
police. Officers later identified a suspicious
microbus near Chaugachha bus stand, and 18,660 in 2020. discouraging the birds from returning Degree College, said, “If indiscriminate
The bird census was not conducted in to Hakaluki Haor. hunting doesn’t stop, a time will come Amid the escalating conflict between humans and
after a brief chase, the abductors abandoned elephants in the country, fuelled by the loss of the
Dhirendra and fled. Based on his statement, 2021 due to the pandemic and in 2022 “Soon after the birds begin arriving when birds will stop coming to Hakaluki
due to financial constraints. with the onset of winter, poachers Haor.” latter’s habitat, another tragic incident occurred
police arrested Babu and Firoz, seizing the in Bandarban on Monday, resulting in the death
vehicle after multiple drives. In January 2023, a joint survey by actively prowl the wetlands to hunt SEE PAGE 4 COL 4
of an elephant and a man.
A pregnant elephant, who entered a paddy field
with the other members of her herd in search
3 killed in truck-autorickshaw of food, got electrocuted by an electric fence
protecting the land.
Meanwhile, her death led to a retaliatory attack
collision in Gazipur by its herd that claimed the life of a farmer.
The incident occurred late Monday night in
Kumari Para village of Bandarban’s Lama upazila.
OUR CORRESPONDENT, Gazipur Sutrapur, and Sudip Das, 37, of Tan The deceased was identified as Faridul Alam,
Sutrapur village. 44, of the Bichanyar Chara area.
Three people were killed in a collision Police and locals said the brick-laden He had placed the live wire around the field
between a brick-laden truck and a truck was heading towards Maona from to deter wild elephants, in which the pregnant
passenger-carrying autorickshaw in Kaliakoir Bazar around 4:30pm. When elephant got caught and died.
Kaliakoir upazila of Gazipur yesterday. it reached the Kanchanpur Chairman After her death, the other elephants, angered
The accident occurred on the Bari Bazar area of Chapair union, it by the death of their pregnant member, kept
Fulbaria-Kaliakoir regional road in the collided with the autorickshaw. roaming the area around the field, according to
upazila in the afternoon, said Kaliakoir Kaliakoir Police Station SI Zahid witnesses.
Police Station Sub-Inspector Niharika. Hasan said the truck loaded with bricks Seeing the elephants, Faridul went to his field to
The deceased are Karim Mia, 42, of was seized. drive away the elephants. The herd attacked him.
Boro Gobindapur village in the upazila, However, the truck driver and his “Locals rushed him to Chakaria Hospital, but
Ayan Roy, 35, of Nayanagar village in assistant fled. SEE PAGE 4 COL 8

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 City

6 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

DHAKA WEDNESDAY JANUARY 8, 2025
POUSH 24, 1431 BS

WHAT’S
THE HAPS? A stacked 2025 for
MOSHARRAF KARIM
SHAH ALAM SHAZU

The year 2025 is looking to be another great year for ace

actor Mosharraf Karim. His film Bildakini, directed by
Fazlul Kabir Tuhin, is set for release in cinemas, while Eight directors
his new OTT project, Vicky Zahed’s Ondhokarer Gaan,
premieres today on Binge. Additionally, another film,
Chokkor 302 has recently received its censor certificate.
to spearhead
Speaking to The Daily Star about Bildakini, the
Mohanagar star shared, “The narrative is truly
Cultural Ministry’s
remarkable for this film – you’ll need to watch it to
experience what I’m talking about.”
filmmaking initiative
“Just as the story is exceptional, so is the character
of Manik Majhi. It offered me a great opportunity to The Ministry of Cultural Affairs has launched
perform. The character’s depth and diversity drew me a filmmaking initiative in eight divisional
in, and I poured my heart into the performance,” said cities to promote cultural development and
Mosharraf Karim. decentralisation.
The actor further reflected, “I don’t work just to This workshop-based project will engage young
entertain, I also feel a sense of social responsibility. This creatives from the capital and beyond, allowing

Nomadic Vibes has always been my philosophy.”

Karim shares a long-standing bond with director
them to develop filmmaking skills under the
guidance of renowned filmmakers.
An intimate musical evening, Nomadic Fazlul Kabir Tuhin, whom he has known since 1991. Eight selected directors, namely, Anam Biswas,
Vibes, celebrating original Bangla music, “We’ve spent years together, performing in stage plays. Humaira Bilkis, Nuhash Humayun, Shankha
will feature performances by Auntik, Pehnaz He’s a talented individual who acts, sings, and composes Dasgupta, Shaheen Dill-Riaz, Robiul Alam Robi,
Upama, Rock-A-Baula, and Tulkalam. Set music alongside directing,” he shared. “I’ve worked under Tasmiah Afrin Mou, and Mohammad Touqir
to take place at The Junction in Niketon, his direction before, and though he was abroad for a Islam will collaborate with novice and trained film
the event promises a captivating blend while, I’m eager to see more of his work.” workers to produce eight medium-length films.
of melodies, rhythms, and raw creativity, In Bildakini, Indian actress Parno Mittra plays The initiative aims to promote artistic
offering an unforgettable experience for a significant role. On her performance, Mosharraf expression among youth, encouraging politically
music enthusiasts. remarked, “Parno is a skilled actress, and it’s commendable aware, youth-driven content in filmmaking.
Date: Friday, January 10, 2025 how quickly she mastered the regional dialect.”
Time: 6pm - 9pm When asked about the immense love he receives
Venue: The Junction Dhaka, Niketon
from fans, the actor concluded, “It’s a recognition of
my work. It never gets tiring when people appreciate PHOTO: COLLECTED
‘The Last of Us’
your hard work.”
Season 2 confirms
debut month
‘Putul’: The only Bengali entry in Oscars’ Best Film category Sony Pictures and HBO have
confirmed the official release
The Oscar 2025 race is officially first time a Bengali film has been selected Veer Savarkar (Hindi), All We Imagine date of much awaited second
underway. On Tuesday, the Academy among the 207 films competing globally as Light (Malayalam-Hindi), Girls Will Be season of The Last of Us.
of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences Neil Druckmann, head
for the prestigious award. Girls (Hindi-English).
unveiled a list of 324 films eligible for the of Naughty Dog, confirmed
Directed by Indira Dhar, the film features The voting period for the official The Last of Us Season 2
Best Picture category, stirring excitement Tanushree Shankar, Mumtaz Sorcar, and nominations of the 97th Academy Awards
across film industries. Out of the 207 will premiere in April, with a
Koneenica Banerjee, and explores the lives will open on January 8 and conclude on teaser showing brief glimpses
films competing for the esteemed Best
of street children. It premiered at the 77th January 12. The nominees will be revealed of key characters, including
Picture category, seven Indian films have
made it to the list. Cannes Film Festival’s Marché du Film. on January 17, with final voting for the Pedro Pascal’s Joel and Bella Ramsey’s Ellie.
Among the contenders, Putul stands Apart from Putul, other Indian films winners scheduled between February 11 The intense one-minute teaser introduces
out as the only Bengali film from West that have made it to the list are Kanguva and 18. The Oscars ceremony is set for Kaitlyn Dever as Abby, a new character from the
Bengal to have earned a place in the Oscars’ (Tamil), Aadujeevitham (The Goat Life) March 2 at the renowned Dolby Theatre in game, who delivers a cryptic line about morality.
The official logline suggests a conflict between
Best Picture category race. This marks the (Hindi), Santosh (Hindi), Swatantrya Hollywood.
Joel and Ellie, taking place five years after Season 1,
in a world that has become even more treacherous.

COUNTRYWIDE
MYMENSINGH CITY CORPORATION Dhaka needs to urgently prepare for a major quake
Dumping of garbage in FROM PAGE 12
possibly the 1897 Assam
earthquake, which had a
Dauki fault or the Indo-
Burma subduction zone.
The Great Assam
the city’s collective response
has been nothing more than
a fleeting concern. It is no
achieved remarkable success
in disaster management,
especially managing events
government agencies for
rescue operations.
Also, as part of long-term

open spaces continues magnitude of eight or more.

Smaller tremors occur
in this region regularly
Earthquake of 1897 shook
the Indian subcontinent,
reaching parts of Dhaka.
longer a question of what
will happen if an earthquake
hits, but when it hits.
like cyclones and floods, the
scenario would be different
in case of a catastrophe
measures, the government
must enforce the proper
implementation of the
OUR CORRESPONDENT, Mymensingh Meanwhile, due to lack of proper -- 550 earthquakes with More than a century later, With dense urbanisation in Dhaka and require National Building Code. If
monitoring by the authorities concerned a magnitude of four or experts warn that the region and poorly enforced building meaningful government needed, the code should be
Ignoring repeated protests from local a section of people have been dumping above have struck within is overdue for another codes, the city is at risk of attention. updated by incorporating a
residents, Mymensingh City Corporation 300km of Bangladesh in seismic event -- one that catastrophic damage in the According to experts, proper implementation plan.
waste materials directly into the river,
(MCC) authority has been dumping waste the past decade. This comes could have devastating event of a major quake. the government should We can no longer afford
they further alleged.
in the open space beside a busy city road down to an average of 55 consequences for the Dhaka is more vulnerable conduct extensive mass to be complacent.
Environmental activists said the quakes per year, or four
for long, leading to serious environment Bangladesh capital’s 22 to earthquakes due to its awareness programmes The risk grows with
283-kilometre-long Old Brahmaputra per month. On average,
pollution and health hazards for city million residents. geological location, and among citizens with regular every single day of delay.
river, stretching from Jamalpur’s there are earthquakes near As one of the world’s human and economic earthquake drills; enhance Earthquake drills, stricter
dwellers. Dewanganj upazila to Kishoreganj’s Bangladesh every six days. most densely populated exposure. According to the children’s education about building codes, and public
Locals said their suffering is getting Bhairab upazila, is one of the longest Experts say these small cities, Dhaka is alarmingly earthquake disaster risk natural disasters using awareness campaigns are no
worse to worsen every day since the city rivers of the country. seismic events can be a ill-prepared to face such a index, the capital tops the digital platforms; ensure longer optional -- they are a
corporation do not have a designated Many tributaries and small warning sign of a bigger disaster. list of the 20 most vulnerable volunteer training; and form necessity.
dumping spot and proper waste rivers, which fully dependent on the earthquake in regions with While minor tremors cities in the world. a coordination platform The time to prepare is
management system. Brahmaputra river, are also in dying state active faults, such as the have been felt over the years, Even though Bangladesh with government and non- now, before it’s too late.
Workers of MCC have been dumping due to siltation.
garbage at an open place beside the busy Advocate Nazrul Islam Chunnu,
Bolashpur by-pass road for the last several
months, paying no heed to protests from
convener of Jonoudyog, a citizens’
forum, said it is quite frustrating that
Five killed as Hasina, 15 others sued at ICT
the city dwellers, they alleged. MCC authority itself is dumping garbage train rams FROM PAGE 12 “When I arrived at the killed by the police. I came to participated in the protest
Usually, MCC workers dump waste into the river and open spaces.
materials in the open space during Advocate Shibbir Ahmed Liton, microbus Cumilla-Sylhet highway,
he fell into the chaos of the
hospital, I found my son
lying on the ground with
the ICT to seek justice for his
death.”
were even barred from
seeking treatment in Dhaka.”
midnight, when almost everyone remains secretary of Mymensingh Poribesh FROM PAGE 12 demonstration. severe injuries. The doctors Akhter Hossain, the On Monday, the
in their sleep, said Abdul Barek of the area. Rakkha O Unnayan Andolon, said they people dead on the spot “Police kicked him and referred him to Dhaka. When member secretary of the International Crimes
“Despite repeated protests, the have submitted several memorandums to and six others injured. then struck him with a gun. we reached Dhaka Medical Jatiya Nagorik Committee, Tribunal issued arrest
menace is yet to stop. Due to mindless the authorities concerned, urging them The injured were taken to The severe injuries caused College Hospital, some accompanied Shafiqul Islam warrants against Hasina,
dumpling of waste the area has now to stop the menace, but nothing has been Faridpur Medical College him to lose consciousness, people asked me if I was when the complaint was her defence adviser Maj
turned into a breeding ground for done so far. Hospital. but instead of being taken to from Brahmanbaria. Then submitted to the ICT. Gen (retd) Tarique Ahmed
“The microbus was the hospital immediately, he they threatened to withhold Akhter, who was one of the Siddique, ex-IGP Benazir
mosquito, hampering our normal life,” Contacted, Mohabbat Ali, waste
was kept in a room. It wasn’t treatment for my son.” leaders of the protest against Ahmed, and eight others.
housewife Aysha Akter said. management officer at MCC, said the salvaged. No bodies were
until midnight that he was “They told me that no Modi’s visit in 2021 at the Last year, the ICT issued
Moreover, dumping of waste into the city corporation has been running with found trapped inside or finally transferred to Cumilla hospital in the country Dhaka University campus, arrest warrant against
Brahmaputra river, including Old Ferry only 600 cleaning workers and it is too underneath it.” Medical College Hospital.” would treat my son, as the told reporters, “People from Hasina in cases filed for
Ghat and Jubilee Ghat areas, have also inadequate to run cleaning work at 33 Faridpur Medical College “I received a call order had come from the all walks of life protested her alleged involvement in
been continuing for many years, locals city wards. Hospital Ward Master Atiar around midnight from an highest level. I pleaded with across the country against crimes against humanity and
said, adding that such harmful acts will The city corporation, which is Rahman said of the six, anonymous person who them to begin treatment, the Indian Prime Minister’s genocide during the July-
surely affect health of the already dying gradually expanding, needs at least 1,500 two were declared dead on informed me about the but they ignored my request. visit. Police opened fire on August uprising.
river. workers to handle the pressure, he added. arrival. incident and instructed me Eventually, my son died on the protesters, resulting in at Hasina has been staying
“The rest have been sent to to go to Cumilla Medical March 30.” least 17 deaths. in India since she fled the
Dhaka for better treatment; College Hospital.” Shafiqul said, “My son was “Injured people who country on August 5.
the microbus driver is among
them as well.”
Meanwhile, police have
handed over the bodies
WFP accuses Israel Confiscate 22 flats of
of the deceased to their
family members without
FROM PAGE 12
least 45,885 people in Gaza,
“counterterrorism” raids in
the north of the occupied
Nafeez Sarafat, family
autopsies at their request. a majority of them civilians. West Bank yesterday, with FROM PAGE 12 from the stock market.
There is no authorised Talks aimed at Palestinian officials saying Rahib Safwan Sarafat owns Sarafat took control of
level crossing of the rail cementing a truce in one of the dead was a seven flats at Banani and Padma Bank with assistance
division in Gerda, Faridupur, Gaza between Israel and teenager. Baridhara. from top officials of the
confirmed Taqdir Hossain, Hamas are ongoing, with Two Palestinians were ACC lawyer Mahmud police and an intelligence
station master at the “technical meetings” killed when the Israeli air Hossain Jahangir applied agency when the Awami
Faridpur Railway Station. taking place between the force struck an “armed for the court order. League was in power.
“However, this crossing parties, mediator Qatar’s terrorist cell” that opened On October 7 last year, In January last year,
is important. I will request foreign ministry said fire at Israeli forces who the same court issued a Sarafat resigned from the
the senior officials to yesterday. were conducting a raid in travel ban on Sarafat. position of chairman of
Mymensingh city corporation has been continuing waste disposal in this open provide a gate and gateman Meanwhile, the Israeli the village of Tammun, The ACC is investigating Padma Bank (formerly
space beside the Bolashpur bypass road, causing serious health and environmental here, so that future army said it killed three the military said in a allegations that Sarafat Farmers Bank) citing health
degradation. PHOTO: STAR
accidents may be avoided.” Palestinians in separate statement. embezzled Tk 800 crore reasons.

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INTERNATIONAL 7
DHAKA WEDNESDAY JANUARY 8, 2025
POUSH 24, 1431 BS

Greenland What’s next

belongs to the
Greenlanders for Canada
Says Danish PM as
Trump Jr visits the
after Trudeau’s
country resignation
AFP, Copenhagen
REUTERS, Ottawa
Denmark’s Prime Minister
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on
insisted yesterday that
Monday said he would step down in the coming
Greenland’s future should
months after nine years in power, bowing to
be decided by its inhabitants,
legislators alarmed by his Liberal Party’s miserable
amid talk of Washington
pre-election polling numbers. Here is what might
annexing the Danish
happen next:
autonomous territory.
WILL TRUDEAU LEAVE OFFICE IMMEDIATELY?
“Greenland belongs to
No. Trudeau will stay on both as prime minister
the Greenlanders,” Prime
and head of the ruling Liberal Party for now. Unlike
Minister Mette Frederiksen
the process in other countries like Australia,
said, adding that the Arctic where party leaders are elected by legislators and
territory “is not for sale” as can be removed overnight, in Canada they are
Donald Trump Jr, son of chosen by special leadership conventions that can
US President-elect Donald take months to organize.
Trump, visited Greenland WILL AN ELECTION BE HELD?
weeks after his father No. Trudeau announced that parliament - which
suggested the US take had been due to resume work on Jan. 27 - would
control of the island. instead be prorogued, or suspended, until March 24.
This is not the first This means opposition parties who had originally
time Trump has shown planned to unveil non-confidence motions to bring
an interest in Greenland, his minority government down as soon as they
where the US already has a could after January 27 will now have to wait until
military base. some time in May since the government controls
He said he wanted to buy the agenda for most of each session.
it in 2019, during his first
term as president, an offer
quashed by Greenland and A man searches through the contents of a salvaged clothing shelf in the street outside an apartment building hit by the Israeli bombardment
Denmark. in the Bureij camp for Palestinian refugees in the central Gaza Strip yesterday. PHOTO: AFP

ASSEMBLY POLLS
Delhi to vote US shifts military aid Still fighting
on Feb 5
to Lebanon from Egypt in key town
Result on Feb 8
OUR CORRESPONDENT, Says report; the move comes as Lebanon faces shift
Russia says HOW ELSE COULD THE LIBERALS BE
REMOVED FROM POWER?

captured
New Delhi Under the original parliamentary calendar, the
Over 1.55 crore Delhi voters
in Syria, enforces ceasefire House of Commons elected chamber had been
due to vote on spending measures in late March.
will vote in the assembly
elections on February 5 and
REUTERS, Washington Congress, including from Democratic Senators Says Ukraine, claims This would trigger a confidence vote. It is unclear
whether that vote would still be scheduled for late
Chris Murphy and Chris Coons, both senior
the votes will be counted
on February 8, the Indian
US President Joe Biden’s administration will members of the Foreign Relations Committee, 13 North Korean March and if it were, whether the opposition parties
divert $95 million in military aid allocated for would vote to bring down the Liberals, whether
Election Commission Egypt to Lebanon, which faces threats from
who released a joint statement decrying the
decision.
soldiers killed they are led by Trudeau or a new party head.
announced yesterday. Hezbollah and other non-state actors and is HOW LONG DOES THE PARTY HAVE TO CHOSE
According to the State Department
The voting sets the stage enforcing a ceasefire with Israel, according to a AFP, Kyiv A NEW LEADER?
document, the funds would be made available
for a high-octane triangular document seen by Reuters on Monday. The nightmare Liberal scenario is that the party
to professionalize the Lebanese Armed Forces,
political battle in which The State Department notification to Kyiv’s army said yesterday there was still takes so long to choose a new leader that it has to
strengthen border security, combat terrorism
former chief minister and Congress of the planned shift calls the Lebanese active fighting in Kurakhove, a strategic fight the next election with Trudeau still in charge.
and address security requirements affected by
Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) armed forces “a key partner” in upholding the town in Ukraine’s east that Russia said it It is likely therefore to announce a shortened
chief Arvind Kejriwal faces November 27, 2024, Israel-Lebanon agreement had seized the previous day. contest designed to ensure that Trudeau’s
his toughest political battle Moscow hailed the capture of the replacement is in office as soon as possible.
to retain power for a third
to cease hostilities and to prevent Hezbollah The White House “important logistics hub”, saying it would WOULD A NEW LEADER HELP THE LIBERALS
from threatening Israel.
successive tenure. The move comes after some of Biden’s is to send $95m to enable Russian forces to seize the rest AVOID DEFEAT?
Delhi has 70 Assembly of the eastern Donetsk region “at an Polls strongly indicate that the Liberals will lose
constituencies, 12 of them
fellow Democrats in Congress expressed deep Lebanon, citing accelerated pace”. the election, no matter who the leader is. But the
concerns about Egypt’s human rights record,
reserved. A total of 13,033 particularly the arrests of thousands of political regional security, But the Ukrainian army yesterday scale of the defeat could be tempered if Trudeau is
polling stations will host reported “active” fighting in the “urban not in charge.
the election for choosing
prisoners. while eyeing human area of Kurakhove” and said it was WHO MIGHT RUN TO REPLACE TRUDEAU AS
The State Department and the Egyptian
members of the eighth embassy in Washington did not immediately rights concerns in repelling Russian attacks “near” the town. LIBERAL LEADER?
Delhi Assembly. respond to requests for comment. Egypt Ukraine’s military also said it had The prospect of an election mauling might deter
The polls will pit AAP In September, the state department said killed 13 North Korean soldiers fighting in some candidates, especially if the party is crushed
against his estranged the Biden administration was overriding Russia’s western Kursk region. and ends up a shadow of its current self. Those who
opposition INDIA ally human rights conditions on military aid to the shift in power in Syria. “In the Kurakhove sector, the defence could run include Innovation Minister Francois-
Congress and traditional Egypt, granting Cairo its full allocation of $1.3 “The United States remains Lebanon’s forces are countering the enemy’s attempts Philippe Champagne, Transport Minister Anita
rival BJP in an electoral billion, including $95 million tied specifically security partner of choice, and US support to to use their superiority in manpower and Anand, Foreign Minister Melanie Joly as well as
face-off as over 1.55 crore to Egypt’s progress on the release of political the LAF directly helps secure Lebanon and the develop an offensive,” Ukraine’s Khortytsia former finance minister Chrystia Freeland.
eligible voters are expected prisoners. wider Levant region,” the notification said. army unit said on social media. IS THERE ANY OTHER WAY TRUDEAU CAN BE
to reshape the political The notification did not spell out that the Bolstering Lebanon’s army could also help The unit is fighting in that area of the FORCED OUT?
fortunes of three major $95 million was those funds specifically, but a ensure Syria’s transition is not disrupted by front. “The enemy actively conducted Ultimate constitutional power in Canada lies
parties and several leaders. congressional aide said he did not believe the Iran-backed Shia group Hezbollah, which assault operations in the urban area of with Governor General Mary Simon, who is the
In power in Delhi amount was a coincidence. previously played a major part in propping up Kurakhove,” it said, adding: “Measures personal representative of Britain’s King Charles,
for a decade with an Egypt has been a vital partner in Biden Assad during Syria’s civil war. to localise and destroy enemy assault the head of state. She can in theory remove
overwhelming majority, administration’s efforts to get more aid Under US law, Congress has 15 days to groups that have infiltrated our combat Trudeau, but there is virtually no chance of that
AAP was the first to take to into Gaza and has helped mediate the so far object to a reallocation of military assistance, formations are underway.” happening. “The governor general won’t dismiss
campaigning much before unsuccessful efforts to secure a ceasefire but a congressional aide familiar with the Kurakhove had a pre-conflict a prime minister who still holds the confidence of
yesterday’s polls schedule between Israel and Hamas. process commented on Monday that he population of around 18,000 people. It is the Commons,” said Philippe Lagasse, a professor
announcement and firmed The September decision on the money expected lawmakers would welcome the home to a power station, is located near a and constitutional expert at Ottawa’s Carleton
up all 70 candidates. for Egypt prompted objections from within administration’s shift of the funds to Lebanon. reservoir and has a major lithium deposit. University.

FLOODED PIT IN ASSAM

Three miners
feared dead, six
others trapped

REUTERS, Guwahati

Three miners were feared dead inside a flooded coal

mine in a remote district of India’s northeastern
Assam state, authorities said yesterday, and the men
were part of a total of nine still trapped as rescue
teams worked to reach them.
The mine, in an area controlled by the government,
appeared to be illegal, Assam Chief Minister Himanta
Biswa Sarma said, adding that local police had arrested
one person in connection with the case.
Rescuers have spotted three bodies but have
not yet recovered them, the local government said
in a statement, a day after the nine miners were
trapped by heavy flooding that police said was likely
triggered underground.
“The well is about 150 feet deep, of which almost
a hundred feet is filled with water,” Kaushik Rai, a
local minister who is at the site, told Reuters. “Three
teams have attempted to enter it since morning and
have managed to go as far as 30 to 35 feet,” Rai said.
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8 EDITORIAL
DHAKA WEDNESDAY JANUARY 8, 2025
POUSH 24, 1431 BS

FOUNDER EDITOR: LATE S. M. ALI

Mandate wealth
disclosure for judges
Transparency is key to ensuring
judicial integrity
It is high time the practice of submitting wealth statements by
Supreme Court judges—which has been stalled for the past 13
years—was revived and made mandatory by the government.
The last time Supreme Court judges submitted their wealth
statements was in 2011, when then-Chief Justice ABM Khairul
Haque initiated the practice by submitting his own wealth
statement to then-President Zillur Rahman. However, in
the absence of a specific law or rule, this initiative has not
continued.
Rights activists and legal experts have often called for a
legal framework requiring judges to disclose their income and
assets. This demand has become more relevant now as advisers
to the interim government are themselves expected to disclose
their wealth, with an ordinance to this effect reportedly in
the works. Therefore, public disclosure of Supreme Court
judges’ wealth statements would not only enhance public
trust but also reinforce the judiciary’s prestige and integrity.
VISUAL: SALMAN SAKIB SHAHRYAR
Such a measure would help ensure that those entrusted with
delivering justice and upholding the law are beyond reproach
and free from corruption—qualities essential for maintaining
the credibility of the judicial system.
Last September, in a significant step towards accountability,
the interim government amended the Government Servants
(Conduct) Rules, 1979, making it mandatory for public
On reforming our imported
servants to submit annual wealth statements for themselves,
their spouses, and dependents. Public servants who fail to
comply with this requirement risk facing disciplinary action.
Over the years, in the absence of such transparency measures,
institutions and governance
corruption has become widespread across the public service
THE ICONOCLAST FILES the extant method of electing leaders consider reforms to their ancient
sector. Implementing wealth disclosure for judges should
to govern them, they were already system, while we stubbornly cling to
be seen as critical to addressing the potential risks of such Tariq Karim,
plagued by multiple societal divisions what failed us to bridge our many rifts
corruption in the judicial system. a former ambassador of Bangladesh, is currently
president of the Bay of Bengal Institute and adviser within them. Not only was there and schisms.
One may recall that Chief Adviser Prof Yunus had emeritus of the Cosmos Foundation, and concurrently the major schism between Hindus South Asia was fragmented in
previously underscored the need for government employees to distinguished research fellow at the Institute of South and Muslims (with numerous other 1947 at the macro (regional) level,
regularly submit wealth statements, highlighting the current Asian Studies of the National University of Singapore
(ISAS-NUS). smaller faiths jostling for a place in but even more egregiously so at the
government’s clear stance against corruption. Extending this the sun), there were sub-divisions micro (nation-state) level. This is what
requirement to all Supreme Court judges—as well as judges in within each religion as well, not to prevents us at the national level from
lower courts—seems only to be the right thing to do to ensure TARIQ KARIM
mention the regional differences arriving at much needed consensus.
the integrity of all public institutions. based on language and cultural ethos The lack of such consensus at the
The interim government’s stated goal is to create a The July uprising of 2024 has yielded fear or favour.” Coupled with this, separating north from south, east regional level prevented SAARC from
governance system that is accountable to the people. To for Bangladesh’s long-beleaguered the freedom and independence of from west. successful operationalisation; the
that end, it should promptly issue an ordinance mandating people a “second liberation” from the print and electronic media must In 1947, India was partitioned same failing prevents Bangladesh
both the submission and public disclosure of judges’ wealth continuous oppression and tyrannical be guaranteed. Above all, leadership principally in its two largest states, from successful consolidation of its
statements, which could be formalised into law by a future rule. Just as 54 years ago, people across the political divide needs to Bengal and Punjab. But the genie of nation-state. It is essentially the same
elected government. Additionally, a robust mechanism should decided to take to the streets to wrest take constructive criticism in their marginalised politics in each neo- hubris at both levels, derailing both
be established to thoroughly scrutinise these statements, liberation from an oppressively neo- stride. Westphalian state that emerged processes.
so that anyone found involved in corruption can be held colonial rule, this time round, in the Currently, there is a “chicken and in August 1947 inexorably, and And what if a section of society does
accountable. “36 days of July,” people heeded the egg” debate going on in our social relentlessly, triggered within each not like a party? Should that party
call by valiant students to challenge a spaces on whether we should have new state smaller fragmentations, be banned? Once again, we should
government that they looked upon as elections immediately, or first set in smaller partitions. What triggered glean a lesson from history. Vinayak
Damodar Veer Savarkar, founder-
Stop illegal extraction tyrannical and fascist and overthrew
it, demanding a complete revamping
place critically long-overdue reforms
demanded by the student leaders
and talked at length above. At the
these subsequent fulminations and
multiple sub-partitions? I would
argue in response that the feelings of
member of the Hindu Mahasabha,
asserted in a treatise in 1923 that
of our state institutions to ensure
of natural resources that no abuse of authority could
ever revisit their future. Notably,
heart of this conundrum perhaps lies
the question: who will bell the cat of
disenfranchisement took possession
of the souls of the smaller factions/
India on gaining independence from
British rule should be governed by
and not surprisingly, one of the full- reforms? groups who felt increasingly excluded Hindutva, being a Hindu-majoritarian
Combined public-private initiatives throated slogans of the students this An analysis of our history of the by that insidious “first past the post/ state; neither the liberal British and
time, “Ae baarer shongram, muktir last 80 years, firstly of our fractured winner takes all” system, which could, the liberal Hindus nor any Muslim
can prevent such practices shongram,” was a reprise from the subcontinent itself at the macro level it was discovered progressively, be could accept the assertion. His
We are concerned about the rampant illegal sand extraction Liberation War in 1971. and secondly of our schizoid polity in skilfully manipulated by the winner follower Nathuram Godse, a member
reported at the Barachhara canal in Sharsharshee village However, having wrested our the micro space of Bangladesh, one to capture all state powers and then of both the Hindu Mahasabha and
of Sreemangal, Moulvibazar. According to a report by this liberation in 1971, we were unable to conclusion that one cannot fail to largely abuse the same for control and the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh
daily, the extraction has continued unabated despite a High rid the state of usurpation by power- ignore is: if the process of selection allocation of all resources of the state (RSS), a right-wing Hindu paramilitary
Court order banning sand mining in the area, causing parts hungry rulers driven by greed and of leaders and system of government for themselves and chosen coteries. volunteer organisation, assassinated
of a sluice gate to sink. Built to provide irrigation water to self-aggrandisement in increasingly is not inclusive, and if significant In fact, the British “first past the Gandhi in 1948. The RSS was banned
local farmers, the gate’s functionality is now compromised, efficient ways to the detriment of segments of society are excluded from consequently, but resuscitated after a
jeopardising agricultural activities and the livelihoods of the people. No matter how much the process of exercising their right to year and reorganised and gave birth
people struggled to change this, they franchise, then the result inevitably The burden of initiating to its political arm, the Jan Sangh.
around 25,000 farmers in surrounding villages. Furthermore,
several sinkholes have appeared in the nearby Dinarpur Tea found their state circling back to leads to a state of explosive societal reforms now falls on the Jamaat-e-Islami was banned twice—
the same place at regular intervals, disequilibrium and institutional interim government. If both in Pakistan and in Bangladesh. In
Garden, while roads have been severely damaged by heavy
regardless of which dispensation destabilisation, sooner or later. there are questions on both instances, it lived to revive with
vehicles transporting the sand.
of rulers controlled the state. What Perhaps the imported institutions we greater vigour. There are numerous
Locals allege that an influential group, led until recently the constitutionality of other examples around the globe, in
national hubris embedded within our acquired had embedded within them
by a Jubo League leader who is now on the run, is behind this this task, I would argue
institutions firewalled itself against inbuilt flaws triggered awake by their recent and not so recent times as well.
operation. Even though his two-year lease for sand extraction that there exists today a Quite a few of these banned parties
efforts at change? transplantation from the mother
has expired, there has been no let-up in sand extraction. Who,
Our institutions are essentially soil to distantly located colonial- historical necessity for or entities, after being comatose or in
then, is doing it in his absence? The local administration is the cold for varying periods of time,
derived from the institutional nurtured soils. Perhaps the method of the interim government
apparently in the dark about this. We have seen a similar choosing our leaders, when we were sprang back to life, quite reinvigorated!
concepts that were imported and to pursue its own
trend in Sylhet’s Companyganj where two hillocks have been allowed to practise self-rule by our As greater powers than us have
transplanted by the British colonial policies if it deems such
stripped bare since August 5 through illegal stone quarrying. British colonial masters, itself was not discovered to their chagrin, banning
rulers. However, the actual way they
There, too, the local administration’s role has left a lot to be
operationalised these imported suitable for us. actions necessary for a party, destroying its infrastructure
desired. Let’s not forget that the British the well-being of the or decapitating its leadership does not
institutions was not the same as the
In Bangladesh, we have no shortage of laws, regulations, original British ones. The institutions system of parliamentary democracy state and the larger kill or make that entity simply fade
and court orders prohibiting illegal and destructive resource had a great deal of stability since the into the sunset.
in Britain were designed to govern and welfare of people.
extraction. Yet, enforcement has remained woefully deliver services for the welfare of the 19th and early 20th centuries, there With hindsight, we all would
inadequate. Even with a non-political government in place, Crown’s subjects, while their replicas being only two principal political have been wiser to have adopted a
the entrenched political-administration-business nexus on colonised soil were designed to rule parties, the Conservative Party and post/winner takes all” electoral proportional representation system
continues to wreak havoc on our precious environment and over conquered people. They were also the Liberal Party, with no significant system has now come home to roost that would, at the very minimum, have
ecology. This needs to change. designed to extract everything from minor or even lesser party around in British politics as well. Take the UK given smaller entities in the political
We expect the environment adviser, herself a prominent colonised subjects to fill the coffers to challenge this diarchy. Since the general election held on July 4, 2024, landscape a feeling of participation in
environmental activist, and her ministry to use their at home, and project their imperial Magna Carta of 1215, schisms within for example. With under 60 percent matters of governance and resource
authority and experience to stop all illegal operations power overseas. British society had been whittled turnout of voters, the Labour Party allocations, as well as inclusion within
in extracting natural resources. Given the scale of the I have long argued that, in order to down exponentially through an won 33.7 percent of votes (both these the state. At the very least, the street
problem, it may not be possible for the government to guard secure our future, we need to bolster a organic process following a series figures reportedly lowest in over half mayhem generated by those left-out
every canal, hill, or natural resource on its own. However, sense of overriding confidence among of struggles over the next several a century). There were eight parties “minor” or “fringe” parties would
community-based initiatives can play a crucial supportive the public that our core institutions centuries. By the 1900s, the time when in the fray, including the Reform have felt part of an inclusionary
role. Locals can be educated, empowered, and included in are indeed secure against any the concept of “self-rule” was imbued UK Party (a relatively recent, Brexit- process of negotiating with other
the protection and maintenance of these resources. The idea political tampering. The separation in us by a reluctant British Imperium, championing fringe breakaway from major stakeholders, to try and forge
of community policing, supported by local administration of judiciary, making it completely there had evolved a large space of the Conservative Party led by Nigel an acceptable modicum of consensus
and environmental groups, should also be pursued to curb independent of the executive branch, political consensus between these two Farage). Reaping the benefit of the through an organic, melding process.
these activities. Only collective efforts can help protect our is a sine qua non for ensuring that the who were expected to, and did, play time-honoured “first past the post” The burden of initiating
rule of law prevails in the state and strictly by a variation of the Marquess system, Labour won 411 seats in reforms now falls on the interim
natural resources on which the livelihoods and well-being of
that “Justice” truly acts blindfolded, of Queensberry Rules, applied to their parliament (out of 650) despite its government. If there are questions
countless citizens depend.
without partiality towards anyone. sparring in political fisticuffs, with record low voter turnout; meanwhile, on the constitutionality of this task,
We must also uphold and safeguard the monarch serving as the neutral Farage’s Reform UK, despite having I would argue that there exists today
the independence and integrity of the referee. The British parliamentary garnered 14.3 percent votes (almost a historical necessity for the interim
THIS DAY IN HISTORY Election Commission and the Anti-
Corruption Commission (ACC), and
elections were contested by all these
parties on the basis of “first past the
half the votes of Labour) managed
to get a paltry five seats. Among the
government to pursue its own policies
if it deems such actions necessary for
resolutely address the malaise that post” and “winner takes all” system other contestants, Conservatives the well-being of the state and the
El Chapo captured plagues the bureaucracy and prevents largely accepted by all sections of managed to retain 121 seats with 23.7 larger welfare of people. It could do
it from acting professionally and society, with no fractious minority percent of the votes, Lib-Dems got 72 worse than considering the above and
On this day in 2016, Mexican criminal Joaquín Guzmán (“El neutrally, diminishing its capacity to upsetting the apple cart! seats, Scottish Nationalists Party got absorbing in the various lessons of
Chapo”), head of the Sinaloa drug cartel, was captured in Los deliver effectively. Civil servants must However, when the denizens of nine seats, the Sinn Fein seven seats, history, while going forward with its
Mochis after escaping prison some six months earlier; he was rediscover the lost creed that should the undivided subcontinent adopted Independents got six seats, and the onerous task of reforming the state
later extradited to the United States, where he was convicted of define any bureaucracy: “To take this British system of Westminster- Green Party four seats. Today, perhaps institutions towards the next national
various crimes. decisions, justly and honestly, without style parliamentary institutions and the British too would be forced to election.

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

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GEOPOLITICAL INSIGHTS 9
DHAKA WEDNESDAY JANUARY 8, 2025
POUSH 24, 1431 BS

How Trump’s economic policies will

impact South Asia
Dr Md Abdul Latif, and exports by eight percent, impacting on immigration, including ending the more sophisticated products and enhancing
a global ambassador and ADB-JSP scholar, is additional director at the Bangladesh Institute of Governance backward and forward linkages. Although
and Management (BIGM).
“non-China Asia.” The ongoing US-China Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals
trade tensions could drive a restructuring of (DACA) programme and the Public Charge product diversification has occurred, areas
Shirin Sultana global supply chains, potentially shifting 20 Policy. This could strip protective status such as design, branding, sales, and after-
is research associate at BIGM. percent of manufacturing away from China from over half a million DACA recipients sales services remain largely unaddressed.
by 2025. During the previous administration, and amplify fears among immigrant families Strengthening backward linkages is crucial
countries like Malaysia, Vietnam, and about accessing essential services like for increasing domestic value addition.
Thailand benefited from the trade war as healthcare. Stricter immigration policies Moreover, diversifying the export base is
factories relocated there to establish new may also reduce the flow of skilled labour essential to mitigate vulnerabilities associated
MD ABDUL LATIF and SHIRIN SULTANA supply chains. However, the competition with tariff hikes. Promising sectors like ICT,
and remittances, affecting various South
pharmaceuticals and agro-processing, which
As Donald Trump prepares to be inaugurated currency. Further tariff threats are expected showed significant growth in 2023, offer
as the 47th president of the United States on as Trump views them as vital to diplomatic viable alternatives to reduce economic risks.
January 20, marking the start of his second leverage. Advisers’ proposals may enable Other serious needs include infrastructure
term, this occasion highlights essential the president to impose “reciprocal tariffs” development, in which Bangladesh is ranked
democratic traditions and carries significant matching those of other nations. 88th out of 139 countries regarding logistics
implications for his economic policies that Infrastructure spending may be performance (2023), far from Vietnam’s 43rd
will resonate globally. Joseph Liow Chin prioritised, with plans for significant and India’s 38th positions. In the current
Yong, dean of the College of Humanities, Arts, realignment of global supply chains, how
investment in transportation, energy, and
and Social Sciences at Nanyang Technological Bangladesh will be able to attract FDI to its
technology to create jobs. Policies aimed at
industrial zones is a challenge that needs
University (NTU) in Singapore, told the Time energy independence would support fossil
consideration, along with the rationalisation
magazine after the election that Trump fuel production and relax environmental
of regulations. Migration and remittances
would be “more prepared” in 2025. His regulations. Economic initiatives could
remain critical, with $2.6 billion received
anticipated economic policies, driven by an align with immigration reform, limiting
from the US in 2023; exploring partnerships
“America First” agenda, are set to transform immigration to safeguard jobs while seeking
with countries like Canada, the UK, and
not only the financial landscape in the US, but skilled labour for growth. Trump may advocate
Australia that have friendlier immigration
also that across South Asia, a region home for domestic manufacturing through
policies could bring relief.
to nearly two billion people and with vast subsidies or tax breaks, and assist small
It is also important that in the education
opportunities and substantial challenges. businesses by enhancing access to capital
sector, much effort should be invested in
Trump, branding himself as a “tariff and easing regulatory burdens. Additionally,
strengthening local institutions and building
man,” centres his economic platform on he may pursue healthcare reforms to reduce international academic collaborations as
trade levies. A Trump 2.0 administration costs and boost competition, including a hedge against the risk of more stringent
would likely focus on economic nationalism, efforts to repeal the Affordable Care Act. visa policies by the US, given that over
prioritising US interests with potential tax Overall, these strategies would prioritise 9,000 Bangladeshi students pursue higher
FILE PHOTO: REUTERS education there every year. Finally, when India
is increasingly strengthening its role within
A second Trump presidency might reshape the current Trump 2.0 administration would likely focus on economic nationalism, prioritising US QUAD, Bangladesh will have to go further in
dynamics of South Asian geopolitics and economics. Trump interests with potential tax cuts for individuals and corporations to spur growth. regional cooperation through SAARC and
opposes rerouting US-China trade through third countries, ASEAN, forging partnerships with other
with Oxford Economics predicting that his tariffs could for low-cost manufacturing remains fierce, Asian countries. Additionally, educational countries like Vietnam and Indonesia for its
decrease US imports by three percent and exports by eight particularly with Vietnam attracting foreign exchanges might suffer, as over 200,000 protection of economic and strategic interests.
direct investment (FDI) at a much higher South Asian students currently studying For South Asia and Bangladesh to navigate
percent, impacting ‘non-China Asia.’ rate—$36.6 billion in 2023—compared the challenges posed by Trump’s policy
in the US could choose more welcoming
to Bangladesh ($3 billion). India has a countries like those in Europe, Canada or agenda, proactive measures are essential.
cuts for individuals and corporations to spur national security by protecting US industries robust infrastructure to appeal to export- The region must lead efforts to foster
growth, possibly making parts of the Tax Cuts and jobs from foreign competition. Australia. Lastly, India’s rising influence in
oriented manufacturers, but regional trade the QUAD bolsters its strategic role but may cooperation in response to shifting global
and Jobs Act of 2017 permanent. He intends How Trumponomics 2.0 could impact partnerships face challenges. dynamics, while Bangladesh should focus
to reduce regulations in energy, finance, marginalise smaller economies that overlook
South Asia An “America First” agenda under the regional cooperation through bodies like on diversifying exports, attracting foreign
and healthcare to lower compliance costs Washington’s South Asia policy will align with Trump administration could impose tariffs investment, and improving infrastructure.
and boost economic activity. Maintaining SAARC or ASEAN.
its Indo-Pacific vision initially established detrimental to export-reliant economies Innovative strategies are necessary to
a protectionist trade approach, he aims during Trump 1.0. His foreign policy could like Bangladesh and India. A five percent Challenges and opportunities for promote a fair migration agenda, ensuring
to renegotiate agreements, impose tariffs significantly influence the region’s security tariff increase on Bangladeshi exports, Bangladesh equitable benefits from labour migration
on imports—especially from China—and and economy, with India playing a key role valued at $9.74 billion (2022), could result Bangladesh will encounter various challenges for countries of origin and destination,
foster domestic manufacturing. In his 2024 due to its contributions to the Indo-Pacific. A in a $487 million annual loss. Additionally, and opportunities during Trump’s second employers, and all workers—both nationals
campaign, he proposed at least 60 percent second Trump presidency might reshape the tighter immigration policies may reduce term. The ready-made garment (RMG) and migrants. Strengthening ties with
tariffs on Chinese imports and 10-20 percent current dynamics of South Asian geopolitics remittances—a crucial income source for sector, which comprised 84.7 percent of total new destination countries and enhancing
on global imports. He has threatened tariffs and economics. Trump opposes rerouting South Asia. In 2023, Bangladesh received $2.6 merchandise exports in FY23 (ERD, 2024), domestic educational opportunities are vital
on companies like John Deere for considering US-China trade through third countries, with billion in remittances from the US, making up offers low added value compared to the overall steps to mitigate risks and leverage emerging
offshoring, and could levy 100 percent tariffs Oxford Economics predicting that his tariffs 15 percent of its total inflows. product value. To ascend the global value opportunities for sustainable growth in an
on the BRICS nations if they create a trade could decrease US imports by three percent Trump aims to implement strict measures chain, Bangladesh must focus on creating evolving world.

Russia-Ukraine conflict and the shifting

Md Tariqul Islam Tanvir
alliances in Central Asia (IOM), remittances from Russia to Kyrgyzstan vector” foreign policy approach, aiming for returned to the topic of decolonisation.
is Erasmus scholar in the International Master in Central & East European, Russian & Eurasian Studies programme at and Tajikistan accounted for 31 percent and balanced relations with Russia as well as On the other hand, Central Asia is a
the University of Glasgow.
27 percent of GDP, respectively, in 2020. The other countries such as China, the West, strategically important region for China due
majority of this money is expected to come and Turkey. The states of the region refused to its abundant resources, transit links, and
from their employees in Russia. In 2021, to accept Russia’s recently seized areas in shared border, which are vital for China’s
remittances from Russia accounted for 55 Ukraine, and some issued public declarations security. China’s Belt and Road Initiative
percent of total transfers to Uzbekistan and in support of Ukraine’s territorial integrity in (BRI) underscores its interest in the region,
51 percent to Kazakhstan. the early days of the 2022 war. leveraging growing unease and Russia’s focus
However, the CARs’ internal unrest, Nonetheless, these powers did not openly on Ukraine. Central Asian nations increasingly
MD TARIQUL ISLAM TANVIR Russia’s actions in Ukraine, and growing condemn Vladimir Putin and his “special rely on China for both security and economic
resources, potentially challenging Russian
The war between Russia and Ukraine has and protection against foreign threats. Since dominance and jeopardising Moscow’s
become a major geopolitical crisis of the their independence from the Soviet Union, security interests. Despite a recent decline
21st century. Following Russia’s invasion Central Asian countries have faced a difficult in historical hostility between the two sides,
of Ukraine in February 2022, numerous transition from a common Soviet history Russia believes that China’s increasing
countries, including the US, UK, EU, Australia, to divergent nation-building and economic economy might soon enable it to contest
Moscow’s geopolitical sway in Central Asia.
Canada, and Japan, have imposed over 19,535 liberalisation pathways. The five Central Asian
Notably, China is assisting the CARs
sanctions against Russia. Their primary focus states are part of one or more Russian-led
in strengthening their security and law
has been on Russia’s financial resources. organisations, including the Commonwealth
enforcement capabilities by capitalising on
Approximately half of its total reserves— of Independent States (CIS), the Collective
their worries about Russia. During his visit
amounting to $350 billion—were frozen, Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO), and the
to Central Asia in September 2022, Chinese
impacting its foreign currency reserves. Eurasian Economic Union. These institutions
President Xi Jinping stated that he supported
According to the EU, approximately 70 provide forums for regional security and
Kazakhstan’s territorial integrity in light of
percent of the assets of Russian banks were economic partnership with Russia, allowing these exceptional circumstances. When Xi
frozen by a high-speed messaging service for Russia to maintain a substantial influence called the China-Central Asia Summit to
financial institutions. in Central Asia’s geopolitical landscape. For order in Xi’an in May 2023, he emphasised
The war between Russia and Ukraine has example, in 2021, when the Taliban reclaimed the significance of the security, sovereignty,
undoubtedly influenced the relationship control in Afghanistan, Russia stationed independence, and territorial integrity of
between Moscow and its allies. Following the military equipment on the Tajik-Afghan the CARs. In the midst of the intensifying
imposition of sanctions on Russia, Russian border as part of the CSTO and conducted powerplay among the world’s strongest
President Vladimir Putin made a significant joint military drills with Uzbekistan and nations, Beijing is taking big measures to
swing towards China, signing a series of Tajikistan within 20 kilometres from the expand its regional influence in order to
agreements. The impact of this war was not Afghan border. This exhibition aims to counter the US’s encirclement of China.
only on Western and Russian relations but demonstrate Russia’s military readiness in China is still dedicated to its long-standing
also on Russia’s close allies. In this regard, its own backyard in the event of an attack on Presidents Tokayev (Kazakhstan), Japarov (Kyrgyzstan), Putin, Rahmon (Tajikistan), regional objectives. With over half of China’s
Central Asian countries are now forced Central Asia by the Taliban or other terrorist Prime Minister Pashinyan (Armenia), Stanislav Zas, Secretary General of the Collective trade and investment going to Kazakhstan,
to strike a difficult balance between their outfits. Similarly, in January 2022, Moscow Security Treaty Organisation (CSTO), and President Lukashenko (Belarus) hold a CSTO Beijing sees the country as its main economic
long-standing relations with Russia and dispatched soldiers from the CSTO to quash meeting at the Kremlin, Moscow, May 16, 2022. FILE PHOTO: AFP partner in Central Asia. China’s economic
other large powers. While the region has unrest in Kazakhstan. interests are further supported by the
historically relied on Russia for economic Economically, Central Asia also depended concerns about sovereignty have forced military operation.” Various factors are at play transportation opportunities that have
and security relationships, the protracted on Russia. Moscow’s energy and trade Central Asian nations to look for new allies here, including economic reliance, Central emerged since Russia’s invasion.
conflict has produced new challenges and participation in the region was intended to for long-term security cooperation and are Asian immigration, and membership in Beijing is becoming increasingly interested
possibilities, prompting these countries to lock the governments into a vital dependency, diversifying their foreign policy in an effort Russia-led institutions. in playing the role of a security supplier in the
pursue a more assertive but cautious foreign giving the Kremlin control over their internal to reduce Moscow’s influence. Furthermore, Moreover, according to polls, the majority region due to its rising concerns about the
policy. At the same time, this upheaval and and foreign policy decisions. For example, Western sanctions on Russia led the CARs to of Central Asians—70 percent in Kyrgyzstan, unrest in Afghanistan and Central Asia. This
Russia’s dependence on China create a golden Kazakhstan exports 80 percent of its oil seek alternate channels to sell commodities 55 percent in Kazakhstan, and 30 percent development may cause future difficulties
opportunity for China to strengthen its ties through the Caspian oil pipeline, which to the world market. Therefore, CARs have in Uzbekistan—ascribe the regions current with Moscow. China-Central Asia’s security
with Central Asia. passes through Russian territory. The number responded to the altering geopolitical economic difficulties to Russia’s invasion cooperation has already been strengthened
Though, since the dissolution of the of economic migrants who go to Russia for landscape in a variety of ways, including of Ukraine. The popularity of the Russian by BRI efforts. More robust security allies like
Soviet Union in 1991, the five Central Asian work is relatively high compared to other preserving economic links with Russia, language is declining, entertainment venues China could undermine Russia’s position
countries have gained more political and migrant workers worldwide. For example, avoiding outright criticism of Moscow, and are refusing to host Russian performers, and as the principal security guarantor. China’s
economic independence. Historically, the approximately nine million Central Asians increasing partnerships with other global there have been multiple anti-war protests growing influence in Central Asia after the
Central Asian Republics (CARs)—Kazakhstan, live and work in Russia, and practically every powers such as China, the West, and Turkey. in Almaty and Bishkek. Russia has blocked invasion presents a challenge to Moscow’s
Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and major city relies on their labour. According Since the beginning of the Russian- Central Asian media sites for attempting to dominance, potentially altering the dynamics
Turkmenistan—have always viewed Russia as to a June 2022 report by the United Nations’ Ukraine war, Central Asian leaders have also provide unbiased coverage of the conflict of security cooperation and posing future
a guarantor of security for internal stability International Organization for Migration been at the forefront of the so-called “multi- in Ukraine. The public conversation has complications for Moscow.
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10 DHAKA WEDNESDAY JANUARY 8, 2025, POUSH 24, 1431 BS
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 DHAKA WEDNESDAY JANUARY 8, 2025, POUSH 24, 1431 BS
STAR SPORTS 2 SONY SPORTS 2
Big Bash New Zealand
Sydney Thunders vs Sri Lanka
vs Hobart Second ODI
Hurricanes Live from
Live from 2:15 pm 7:00 am

Smaller boundaries, bigger problems

SAMSUL AREFIN KHAN from Sylhet During Monday’s match between and said he has no knowledge about
SBNCS, DHAKA Rajshahi and Barishal, broadcasters anyone from his department giving
High-scoring fixtures have been Match Day 01 & 03 measured a six that travelled only 52 any such instruction.
one of the highlights of the ongoing Pitch No. 04 metres. “I told him [pitch curator] that
Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) The broadcasters also provided the boundary lengths should be
with the wickets in both Dhaka
3 sides: 70 Yards (64.09 metres)
separate figures about boundary increased. I don’t know if anyone
and Sylhet receiving applause from West: 64 Yards (58.52 metres)
dimensions, according to which the from the BPL governing council had
all corners for providing exciting Match Day 02 & 04 shortest boundary length at the given any such instructions [about
contests so far in the meet. Pitch No. 06 Sylhet venue was 55 meters. So how reducing boundary length]. I certainly
Sixes and fours have been raining Straight from both ends: 70 Yards (64.09 could a shot travel three metres less didn’t give any such direction.”
down at the Sher-e-Bangla National metres) than that and still be counted as six, Fahim also talked about the
Cricket Stadium and the Sylhet East and West: 69 Yards (63.09 metres) is a puzzling question. problems that can stem from having
International Cricket Stadium with When contacted, BCB Grounds shorter boundaries.
the record for the most number of SICS, SYLHET Committee Manager Abdul Baten “It will create a false sense of
sixes in a BPL match broken twice Match Day 05 denied having any knowledge on confidence among the batters.
within the first 10 games of the Pitch No. 06 the matter although he insisted that Spinners will have no impact in the
tournament. All sides: 65 yards (59.436 metres) the boundary lengths adhere to the matches and pacers will also lose
Although the Bangladesh Cricket international standards. confidence. There are many effects of
**The measurements are according to
Board (BCB) is currently struggling “The boundary lengths follow the it and none of them are positive.
**The measurements are according to broadcasters curators
with many off-field issues, the BCB international rule. I have to check it “There are some venues where the
officials can pat themselves on the again, but I don’t agree with what you grounds are small or a particular area
back for ensuring that the wickets in are saying,” Baten told The Daily Star. is small and it can be an exception.
BPL this year have been up to par so gave crept up about whether the high According to the International Monday, the maximum boundary Meanwhile, Mirpur curator Gamini But as we have space here, my
far, which hasn’t always been the case scores are all cooked up. Cricket Council’s (ICC) playing length was 70 yards (64.09 metres) de Silva and Sylhet venue manager question is why should we shorten
in this competition. Tamim said in the post-match conditions guidelines, in men’s T20 while the minimum was 64 yards Joydeep Das denied speaking on the the boundary? We will gain nothing
However, after Fortune Barishal presentation: “The way grounds cricket, the maximum boundary (58.52 metres). matter. out of it,” Fahim concluded.
skipper Tamim Iqbal expressed have been prepared is very good. length is 90 yards (82.29 metres) The list is provided by the curators BPL governing council member As neither the BPL governing
discontentment regarding the What I would like to see are bigger while the minimum is 65 yards (59.43 in Dhaka and Sylhet. However, the secretary Nazmul Abedeen Fahim told council nor the grounds committee
boundary length of the venues after boundaries. I don’t know why we are metres) from the centre of the pitch. players’ and others present at the The Daily Star that he had expressed is accepting the blame, the question
their match against Durbar Rajshahi playing with 58-60 metre boundaries According to a list obtained by The ground have expressed doubts about his dissatisfaction to the curators arises, did the boundary ropes just
in Sylhet on Monday, fresh doubts when there is space available.” Daily Star, till match Day 5 of BPL on the accuracy of the information. after seeing the truncated boundaries magically shrunk themselves?

“I think it will be terrible

TWO-TIER TESTS
Revival or setback?
for all those countries
who worked so hard
to get the Test status.
Now they’ll be playing
among themselves in the
lower section. How are ABDULLAH AL MEHDI England are generating most
they going to make it to revenue because their TV and
the top? When you play The International Cricket Council media rights are most expensive,
against better teams. We (ICC) had shelved the two-tier system but it’s not creating a democratic
were the cash cows for in Tests in 2016, but arguments in its process geared towards cricket’s
a lot of countries over favour have been gathering steam of development,” he added.
the years ... people must late. Tanjil has specific remedies he
recognise that. But we During the recently concluded feels could factor in to help stave off
are at that situation now Border-Gavaskar Trophy, Ravi a two-tier system. For instance, he
where we need the help, Shastri and Mark Taylor voiced argues about a league system where
and we can’t get it.” in favour of the two-tier system, Tests are played in neutral venues.
due to the enormous crowds and “Bangladesh and West Indies
West Indies great broadcast audiences making the playing in England can help both
Clive Lloyd
series between the “two best teams” boards earn revenue… More Pink
“If you don’t create reportedly the most-watched Test Tests could be on the cards to match
a two-tier system, series. TV prime time. We can exhaust
you’ll continue to have Test cricket, far from needing options before thinking of a two-tier
unmatched teams up a revival through the two-tier system,” he added.
against each other and system, has hardly ever been more Even under the existing WTC
then it’s very unlikely exciting. There were just two drawn system, Bangladesh have not played
they’ll be able to take a Tests last year, and West Indies Tests in Australia so far. Even
game into the fifth day. have beaten Australia in Australia,
Then there’ll always be without a two-tier system, in reality,
while Bangladesh have swept a two-tier system was sort of in
talk of four-day Tests.”
series against Pakistan in Pakistan. place, and it will find a structure if
Former India coach However, both West Indies and ICC takes the decision.
Ravi Shastri Bangladesh are likely to be placed in One source claimed that BCCI
“I was delighted to read tier two if the system is implemented tenure, I was the first one to object Back in 2016, Sajjadul had fellow climbed from the lower tier, you had put in a lucrative offer to BCB
in this masthead the ICC after the 2025–2027 World Test to the two-tier proposal in a director Tanjil Chowdhury by his [smaller teams] will be dominated during the previous regime to be
are considering a two- Championship (WTC) cycle. board meeting, when most of my side. by teams when you make the upper on their side in return for some
tier structure from 2027 How does the exclusion of certain colleagues were in favour of it,” “This time it’s more serious,” tier because you don’t have the revenue as “development cost”. Such
which could see the Ashes countries from playing the top former BCB director Sajjadul Alam Tanjil echoed Sajjadul’s sentiments. experience. instances already put the two-tier
staged twice every three nations help with the expansion of said. “This is counterproductive if you “We are going back to square system within reach.
years. I have been saying cricket or Test cricket? Ideally, it “I’ve said this before, and I’m want to make cricket inclusive, one, and I don’t see anything but Former BCB director Sajjadul
for a long time this is the serves fewer games in the calendar saying this again, that this will because if you see recent times, the the spirit of revenue at play. If you remarked on the matter, “I have thus
way to keep Test cricket for Tests but opens slots for shorter- completely destroy our cricket, notion that Test cricket is dying talk about revenue from attendance, one request to the ones in the board,
relevant by ensuring the version formats. because we will lose our ground is being broken,” the former BCB then maybe India and Australia are that they should do whatever it
best play the best as often In 2016, Bangladesh Cricket for development. If we can’t play director argued. able to generate,” Tanjil said. takes to prevent this two-tier system
as possible, and we get against big teams, the interest from Asked how will competitiveness “The cricket calendar year is
Board had BCCI and others on their from being a reality; otherwise, our
fewer mis-matches.” between nations come through
side when opposing the two-tier our sponsors, fans, and media will dominated by shorter formats, so survival will be threatened. Also, it’s
Former England captain system. gradually fade away. As a result, if the lower-tier teams don’t play if you make WTC a two-tier thing, crucial that we do not give in to the
Michael Vaughan “During former BCB president we will end up depending on ICC’s in Australia or England, Tanjil where will competitiveness come? financial impetus to be in favour of
Nazmul Hassan Papon’s first development fund.” responded, “Even after you have You see that India, Australia, or two-tier system.”

Ibrahim drives Abahani Dhaka Capitals in

against Mohammedan
SPORTS REPORTER disarray
National team discard Mohammedan Ibrahim has been SPORTS REPORTER time in six years that Liton played outside
struggling in the Bangladesh Premier League, but the the top three.
forward is shining in the Federation Cup, the latest of his Dhaka Capitals made six changes but On the other side of the coin, Rangpur
efforts was the all-important goal which guided Abahani could not improve their fate as they were firing on all cylinders. Pace
to a 1-0 victory over archrivals Mohammedan in Cumilla succumbed to a fourth straight defeat in sensation Nahid Rana’s sizzle proved too
yesterday. the ongoing Bangladesh Premier League much to handle for Dhaka as the 22-year-
After watching his team play out a goalless draw against (BPL) following a seven-wicket loss old starred with three wickets, while
Fortis FC in their last league match due to an injury, the against league leaders Rangpur Riders in Pakistan’s left-arm pacer Aqib Javed
lad from Cox’s Bazar scored the decisive goal yesterday Mirpur yesterday. scalped two.
which doubled his tally in the current Federation Cup Thisara Perera’s side got a With the bat, Alex Hales, who
campaign. serious boost with the arrival scored a blistering century
The winger tapped home a square-pass from Shahriar of English opener Jason Roy in his last match, smashed
Emon in the 74th minute -- a goal that consigned and the inclusion of local a 27-ball 44 and Khushdil
Mohammedan, who have won all six matches in the league heavyweights Mosaddek Shah took Rangpur across
this season, to their second defeat in three Federation Cup Hossain and Sabbir the finish with a 13-ball 27
matches, all but ending their chances of qualifying for the Rahman but it could not to chase down the paltry
next stage. stop their slide as they total in 13.2 overs.
It was also Abahani’s first win against Mohammedan in stayed bottom of the table. The losing streak seems
two years following a 2-0 win against their archrivals in a After being put into bat ominous for Dhaka as in
league match in January, 2023. first, Dhaka were bundled the last edition, the Dhaka
“This squad features talented players who have speed. out for 111 in 16.3 overs. Regular franchise, then called Durdanto
Today the boys executed the plan in right way as they opener Tanzid Tamim, who came in at Dhaka and captained by Mosaddek
stopped the two key players of the opposition – midfielder three on the day, top-scored with a 16- himself, made a world record of losing
Muzzafarov Muzzafarjon and forward Soulemany Diabate ball 20, while Roy (18 off 12 balls), Liton the most matches on the trot in franchise
AC Milan players celebrate after staging an incredible comeback to win 3-2 from – before finishing the task with a quick attack,” Abahani Das (9 off 12 balls), Sabbir (2 off 7 balls), cricket with 11 defeats in 12 matches.
two goals behind against defending champions Inter Milan in the final of the Italian coach Maruful Haque told The Daily Star on the way back and Mosaddesk (12 off 9 balls) fell cheaply. “Everyone is trying but until you get
Super Cup in Riyadh on Monday. The win capped off an extraordinary first week at to Dhaka. Dhaka’s change in personnel was also that momentum, it’s difficult. Perhaps,
AC Milan for Sergio Conceicao, who replaced the sacked Paulo Fonseca as manager With this victory, Abahani joined Group B leaders accompanied by a change in tactics as the momentum will come if we win a
last Monday, as he managed to help Milan, placed eighth in Serie A, to their first Rahmatganj with six points from two matches while both openers -- Tanzid and Liton -- were match,” Mosaddek told reporters after
silverware since their Seria A title in 2022. PHOTO: AFP Mohammedan have three points from three matches. pushed back in the lineup. It was the first the match.
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 City

12 DHAKA WEDNESDAY JANUARY 8, 2025, POUSH 24, 1431 BS

UNAUTHORISED LEVEL CROSSING KILLING OF BOY

Hasina, 15
Five killed as others sued
at ICT
train rams DU CORRESPONDENT

microbus Another complaint has

been filed against former
prime minister Sheikh
OUR CORRESPONDENT, Faridpur Hasina and 15 others with
the International Crimes
At least five people were killed and four others injured Tribunal (ICT) for allegedly
when a train hit a microbus at an unauthorised rail committing crimes
crossing in Faridpur yesterday afternoon. against humanity during a
The deceased were identified as Mamun Chowdhury, demonstration protesting
50, his wife Fahmida Sharmin, 40, Sajiya Saju, 45, Atifa Indian Prime Minister
Rahman, 36, and Umme Tansuma, 30. Narendra Modi’s visit to
They were relatives who, after visiting Faridpur, were Bangladesh in 2021.
returning home to Narayanganj. Shafiqul Islam filed the
The accident occurred around 12:30pm, when the complaint yesterday over
microbus, unaware of the oncoming train, got onto the the killing of his 17-year-old
unauthorised level crossing at Munshibazar area in son Asadullah in a police
Faridpur Sadar, said Asaduzzaman, officer-in-charge (OC) attack in Brahmanbaria
of Faridpur’s Kotwali Police Station. allegedly ordered by the
The level crossing is unprotected; it does not have any then-government in 2021.
gates or a gateman. Furthermore, the adjacent road is After submitting the
lined with shops and tall trees, which makes it difficult to complaint, Shafiqul Islam
detect oncoming trains. spoke with journalists at
On information, three fire engines from the Faridpur the ICT building.
Fire Service and Civil Defence rushed to the scene and Describing the events,
began rescue operations, said Nazrul Islam, senior station Shafiqul Islam said his
officer of the Faridpur Fire Station. son Asadullah went out to
He said the train had tossed the microbus into a PHOTO: RAJIB RAIHAN buy medicine during the
roadside ditch. Fisherman Ferdous’s mother welcomes her son with hugs and kisses after he was handed over to his family by the Bangladesh Coast Guard at No- protest on March 28. When
“We reached the spot at 12:28pm and found three 15 jetty of Karnaphuli channel in Patenga yesterday morning. Like Ferdous, 90 fishermen and sailors were detained by the Indian Coast Guard while Asadullah reached the
SEE PAGE 6 COL 3 fishing on December 9. They were brought back yesterday after a prison exchange programme at the Bangladesh-India Maritime Boundary Line. SEE PAGE 6 COL 4

Confiscate 22 Strong tremor Dhaka needs WFP accuses Israel

flats of Nafeez kills 126 in Tibet to urgently of firing on Gaza
Sarafat, family prepare for a
Court orders ACC
188 hurt; hundreds of houses flattened
major quake aid convoy
REUTERS, Beijing
STAFF CORRESPONDENT 31 more Palestinians killed in Israeli strikes
A strong earthquake struck the foothills of the Himalayas near one Say experts
A Dhaka court yesterday ordered the Anti- of Tibet’s holiest cities yesterday, killing at least 126 people and AFP, United Nations
Corruption Commission to confiscate flattening hundreds of houses, Chinese authorities said. PINAKI ROY
22 flats owned by former Padma Bank The magnitude 6.8 quake’s epicentre was about 80 km north of The UN’s World Food Programme has accused Israel of firing on one of
chairman Chowdhury Nafeez Sarafat, his Mount Everest, the world’s highest mountain. Tremors also shook Having experienced two earthquakes its aid convoys in the war-torn Gaza Strip, saying at least 16 bullets hit
wife, and their son over allegations that buildings in neighbouring Nepal, Bhutan, India and Bangladesh. in the span of a single week, an obvious the clearly marked vehicles but no staff were injured.
they embezzled Tk 887 crore from banks The impact was felt across the Shigatse region of Tibet, home to question looms – are we taking this silent Condemning the “horrifying” and “unacceptable” incident, the WFP
and the share market. 800,000 people. The region is administered from Shigatse city, the threat seriously enough? called again for “all parties to respect international humanitarian law,
Judge Md Zakir traditional seat of the Panchen Lama, one of the most important Luckily, none of the two earthquakes protect civilian lives, and allow safe passage for humanitarian aid.”
Hossain of Dhaka figures in Tibetan -- one on January 3 with a moderate The “clearly marked WFP
Metropolitan Senior Buddhism. magnitude of five that originated in convoy was shot at by Israeli
Special Judge’s Many homes in Epicentre was around 80 Myanmar and another yesterday morning forces near the Wadi Gaza
Court passed the Shigatse city were reduced with a 7.1 magnitude originating in Tibet checkpoint, putting the lives
to rubble, video released
km north of Mt Everest -- were close enough to affect us. Qatar say meetings on
order after ACC of our staff at tremendous
Deputy Director Md by Tibet Fire and Rescue Tremors felt in Nepal, Yesterday’s quake had its epicentre risk and leaving the vehicles truce ongoing
Masudur Rahman, showed. Rescue workers Bhutan, India, Bangladesh near the Nepal-Tibet border and immobilized,” the agency said in
who is the head of an searched through the reportedly killed at least 126 people. a statement on Monday evening. Israeli troops kill 3
inquiry team, submitted an application debris of a ruined home 1,500 firefighters, rescue Dhaka residents woke up to the tremors “The convoy, consisting of Palestinians in West
in this regard. and pulled out one injured workers dispatched early in the morning, content with the three vehicles carrying eight staff Bank raids
The flats are in the capital’s Gulshan, person, it showed. thought that the quake was not big members, came under hostile
the Cantonment area, Banani, Baridhara, Adding to the misery enough in the country. fire despite having received all Death toll in Gaza rises
Bashundhara Residential Area, Nikunja, for those left homeless, Experts, however, say that Dhaka sits of the necessary clearances
Panthapath, and Pallabi, as well as temperatures in the region had fallen to minus 6 degrees Celsius precariously on a seismic time bomb.
to 45,885
from Israeli authorities. At least
Gazipur and Kaliakair. late yesterday, and were forecast to drop as low as minus 16 C (3 F) Research indicates that the Indo- 16 bullets struck the vehicles,”
Of them, Sarafat owns nine flats overnight. Burma subduction zone, encompassing it added. “Thankfully, no staff
in Gulshan, Dhaka Cantonment, and The China Earthquake Networks Centre located the epicentre at Sylhet and Chattogram, is accumulating members were injured in this terrifying encounter.”
Bashundhara Residential Area, a Tingri county, known as the northern gateway to the Everest region, strain capable of generating a significant Questioned by AFP, the Israeli army said it had received reports of
20-storey building at Gulshan, and 43.20 at a depth of 10 km. The US Geological Service put the quake’s seismic event, with the capability of shots being fired at the convoy, without specifying the origin.
decimals of land in Badda and Nikunja in magnitude at 7.1. It struck at 9:05am. releasing the energy of up to a magnitude “The incident was reviewed, operating procedures have been clarified,
the capital, and Gazipur, and Kaliakair. At least 126 people were known to have been killed and 188 injured of eight. and findings from the inquiry will be analyzed,” it added in a statement.
Sarafat’s wife Anjuman Ara Shahid on the Tibetan side, China’s state-run Xinhua news agency reported. Another very active zone is the Dauki Gazans face dire conditions after 15 months of offensive, with
owns six flats in Panthapath, Gulshan, There were no reports of deaths elsewhere. fault, which has been associated with humanitarian agencies repeatedly warning not enough aid was reaching
Pallabi and Bashundhara Residential More than 1,500 firefighters and rescue workers have been despatched several large earthquakes. It is believed Palestinians in need due in part to looting as well as Israeli restrictions.
Area and owns 21.25 decimals of property to the affected areas, Xinhua said. Some 22,000 items including tents, to have ruptured three times in the past Israel’s relentless bombardment of Gaza continued with at least 31
at Bashundhara, Nikunja, Badda and coats, quilts and folding beds have also been sent, it said. millennium, with significant events Palestinians killed and 57 injured over the past 24 hours, according to
Gazipur while their son Chowdhury Footage broadcast on state television CCTV showed rescuers occurring in 840, 920 and 1548 and the enclave’s health ministry yesterday. The offensive has so far killed at
SEE PAGE 6 COL 6 SEE PAGE 2 COL 5 SEE PAGE 6 COL 3 SEE PAGE 6 COL 4

Youth hacked
to death on
BFIU seeks bank
his way home account info of
OUR CORRESPONDENT,
Pirojpur
Rangpur Riders’
Tulip, family
Police recovered the body of English batter Alex STAFF CORRESPONDENT
a young man from a paddy
field in Jhalakathi Sadar Hales celebrates
with Nahid Rana The Bangladesh Financial Intelligence
upazila yesterday morning. Unit (BFIU) yesterday sought
The deceased Sudeb after one of the three information on the bank accounts of
Halder, 28, was a resident dismissals by the Tulip Siddiq, niece of ousted prime
of Betra village and owner Bangladesh speedster minister Sheikh Hasina and UK city
of a mobile phone shop in during their seven- minister, and her family members.
Bawkathi Bazar, said police. wicket victory against The anti-money laundering
Police suspect that agency has also asked for details
Dhaka Capitals
Sudeb was hacked to death of the accounts of Azmina Siddique, Tulip’s sister, her
by criminals in the Rampur in a Bangladesh
brother Radwan Mujib Siddiq, and mother Sheikh Rehana.
Jorapool area while he was Premier League
Banks have been instructed to submit all the relevant
returning home from his fixture at the Sylhet information, including transaction records, account
shop Monday night. International Cricket opening forms, and other related information.
On information, police Stadium yesterday. Earlier, the BFIU sought information on the bank
recovered the body around Five wins from five accounts of Hasina, her son Sajeeb Wazed, and daughter
10:00am. Injury marks matches consolidated Saima Wazed.
were found on the victim’s Tulip recently made headlines in international media
head, said Jhalakathi
Rangpur’s lead while
Dhaka remained as she is now under increasing pressure to resign due to
Sadar Police Station OC her ties with the fallen Awami League government.
Moniruzzaman. winless after four Tulip, who is responsible for anti-corruption efforts, has
The body has been sent matches. been linked to multiple properties associated with Hasina
to a hospital for autopsy. PHOTO: STAR and her party. The AL has been accused of siphoning funds
Police are trying to from Bangladesh’s banking system, although they deny the
identify and arrest the allegations, reports British daily Financial Times (FT).
suspects. The victim’s The FT disclosed last Friday that Tulip became the
father, Subrata Halder, owner of a two-bedroom flat near King’s Cross in London
filed a murder case against in 2004 without making any payment for it. The flat had
unidentified individuals, been purchased three years earlier for £195,000 by Abdul
added Moniruzzaman. Motalif, a developer connected to senior AL figures.
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