<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?>
<feed xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom">
                        <id>http://www.presstoday.news/feed/bangladesh</id>
                                <link href="http://www.presstoday.news/feed/bangladesh"></link>
                                <title><![CDATA[The Press Today bangladesh Feed]]></title>
                                <description>The Press Today Latest bangladesh News Feeds</description>
                                <language>bn-BD</language>
                                <updated>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 11:32:06 +0000</updated>
                        <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[PM directs awareness campaign on dengue prevention]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/bangladesh/465" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/bangladesh/465</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[DHAKA, Oct 13, 2026 &ndash; Prime Minister Tarique Rahman today directed the authorities concerned to conduct public awareness campaigns using loudspeakers in neighbourhoods to prevent dengue.

He also instructed the authorities concerned to disseminate dengue prevention messages in sermons delivered during Jummah prayers.

He issued the directives at a meeting on dengue prevention and control at the Prime Minister&rsquo;s Office in the Cabinet Division of the Secretariat, PM&rsquo;s Deputy Press Secretary Hasan Shiplu told BSS.

The Prime Minister said the next few months would be crucial for controlling dengue, stressing that all relevant government agencies must work in a coordinated manner to curb the spread of the disease.

He called for intensified preventive measures, particularly in areas reporting higher numbers of dengue infections.

Emphasising public participation in dengue prevention, Tarique Rahman directed the authorities concerned to make regular loudspeaker announcements in neighbourhoods and disseminate dengue prevention messages during Jummah prayers.

The meeting also emphasised the importance of maintaining cleanliness in government residential quarters and hospital premises.

He also underscored the need to strengthen coordination among the relevant ministries, divisions and agencies to ensure effective dengue prevention and control.

Health Minister Sardar Md. Sakhawat Husain, State Minister Dr. M A Muhit, State Minister for Local Government, Rural Development and Cooperatives Mir Shahe Alam, Prime Minister&rsquo;s Special Assistant Dr. Md. Shakirul Islam Khan, Dhaka South City Corporation Administrator Abdus Salam and Dhaka North City Corporation Administrator Shafiqul Islam Khan Milton attended the meeting.

Secretaries and senior officials of the relevant ministries were also present.(BSS)]]>
            </summary>
            
            
            <updated>Tue, 13 Oct 2026 11:32:06 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Mid-day meal every child&#039;s right, not charity: Bobby Hajjaj]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/bangladesh/449" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/bangladesh/449</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[DHAKA, Sept 3, 2026 - State Minister for Primary and Mass Education Bobby Hajjaj today said providing mid-day meals to schoolchildren is not an act of charity or favour, but a fundamental right of every child.

&quot;The main objective of the school feeding programme is to improve children&#39;s health, ensure regular attendance and enhance their learning capacity by providing nutritious food,&quot; he said.

He was speaking at an orientation programme for head teachers and a discussion on improving the quality of primary education, organised today at a local hotel in Khulna under the &quot;Feeding Programme in Government Primary Schools&quot; project, said a press release received here.

Bobby Hajjaj said ensuring nutrition and education for every child is the government&#39;s responsibility and warned that no irregularity, negligence or supply of substandard food would be tolerated in implementing the programme.

He said the participation of teachers, parents and local communities in ensuring transparency and accountability in the programme would be further strengthened.

Referring to Prime Minister Tarique Rahman&#39;s vision, the state minister said the school feeding programme is playing an effective role in achieving the two key goals of primary education set by the Prime Minister - &quot;No child will remain out of school&quot; and &quot;Every child will be properly educated.&quot;

&quot;The government is continuously increasing investment in primary education. The objective is not merely to develop infrastructure, but also to ensure nutrition for every child and build a skilled and educated generation,&quot; he added.

On ensuring food quality, Bobby Hajjaj instructed the authorities not to accept or distribute any substandard, rotten or unsuitable food. He said such food should be returned immediately and the concerned Assistant Upazila Education Officer informed.

&quot;If any irregularity is found in the supply system, strict action will be taken after investigation,&quot; he warned.

He also said the &quot;Mothers&#39; Committee&quot; was being involved more effectively in monitoring the programme to strengthen oversight.

Khulna Divisional Commissioner Md Abdullah Harun chaired the meeting.

Khulna City Corporation Administrator Nazrul Islam Manju, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Primary and Mass Education Md Matiar Rahman, Feeding Programme Project Director Md Abul Amin and Khulna Deputy Commissioner Hure Jannat attended the programme as special guests.

Head teachers from various government primary schools across Khulna Division also participated in the programme.(BSS)]]>
            </summary>
            
            
            <updated>Thu, 03 Sep 2026 10:49:56 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[PM Tarique Rahman&#039;s 19th Jail-Free Day today]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/448" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/politics/448</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[DHAKA, Sept 3, 2026 - The 19th &lsquo;Jail-Free Day&rsquo; of BNP Chairman and Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is being observed today with the party recalling the period as one of the most difficult chapters of his political life.

Tarique Rahman was arrested on March 7, 2007 in a plot to fulfil political vendetta during the illegal 1/11 government. After being imprisoned for about 18 months without trial, he was released on bail on September 3, 2008.

In the early hours of March 7, 2007, the then BNP Senior Joint Secretary General, Tarique Rahman, was arrested from his Dhaka Cantonment residence and imprisoned. He was subjected to brutal torture while in prison.

After securing bail in all the false and politically motivated cases filed against him, he went to England in 2008 for better treatment. After living abroad for a long time, he returned to fascism-free Bangladesh on December 25, 2025.

Then, in the parliamentary elections held on February 12, 2026, the country&rsquo;s people gave BNP the responsibility of running the state. After forming the government based on the people&#39;s mandate, BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman is currently running the country as the Prime Minister.(BSS)

PT/Gn]]>
            </summary>
            
            
            <updated>Thu, 03 Sep 2026 10:45:53 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Eastern Refinery’s 2nd Unit Moves Forward with $1B IsDB Deal]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/trade-and-commerce/447" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/trade-and-commerce/447</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[After 13 years of delay, multiple revisions, and mounting cost overruns, Bangladesh&rsquo;s long-awaited Eastern Refinery Unit-2 (ERL-2) project is finally gaining momentum. A major breakthrough is set for September 3 with the official signing of a $1.004 billion loan agreement with the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB), alongside the rapid procurement of an international consulting firm.

 

Overcoming a 13-Year Bottleneck

 

Built in Patenga in 1968, Bangladesh&#39;s sole state-owned refinery currently operates with an annual crude oil processing capacity of 1.5 million tonnes. Over decades of continuous use, its efficiency has naturally declined. With Bangladesh&rsquo;s national demand for refined oil now sitting at nearly 7 million tonnes annually, the country relies heavily on importing expensive refined petroleum, causing a massive drain on foreign exchange reserves.

 

Initially conceived in 2010 with an estimated cost of BDT 13,000 crore, the ERL-2 project stalled due to funding hurdles and administrative complexities. Following 12 revisions, the project scope has been updated to a total cost of BDT 35,465 crore ($2.95 billion), with completion targeted for November 2030.

 

Key Economic &amp; Strategic Benefits

 

The deployment of the second unit on 70 acres of existing ERL land will transform the domestic energy landscape:

 


	
	Capacity Expansion: Increases national crude refining capacity from 1.5 million to 4.5 million tonnes annually.
	
	
	Massive Cost Savings: Refining crude locally reduces costs by approximately $20 per barrel. Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC) estimates this will save around $473 million (BDT 5,788 crore) annually in foreign currency.
	
	
	High-Grade Production: Designed to produce Euro-5 standard petrol and diesel, alongside Jet Fuel, LPG, base oil, furnace oil, and bitumen.
	
	
	Heavy Crude Capability: Modern equipment will allow the facility to process lower-grade, heavier crude oils, giving Bangladesh greater flexibility and leverage in global crude procurement.
	
	
	SPM Integration: The existing Single Point Mooring (SPM) double pipeline system will transport crude directly from deep sea to onshore storage, drastically reducing handling time and logistics costs.
	


What Lies Ahead

 

With IsDB financing secured, BPC is fast-tracking the selection of an international consultant to handle detailed engineering design, tender preparation, contractor selection, and overall construction supervision.

 

Engr. Sharif Hasnat, Managing Director of Eastern Refinery Limited, confirmed the progress, emphasizing that the project aims to begin trial runs by 2030. Once fully operational, ERL-2 will serve as a cornerstone for Bangladesh&rsquo;s long-term energy independence and economic stability.

 

How would you like to build on this coverage&mdash;would you like to develop an executive summary presentation, draft social media promotion copy, or explore a deep dive into the underlying economic impact?]]>
            </summary>
            
            
            <updated>Mon, 31 Aug 2026 13:43:20 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Seeratunnabi Mahfil enters seventh day in Chunti with discussions on wudu, congregational prayer and Surah Al-Asr]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/bangladesh/442" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/bangladesh/442</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[CHUNATI (Lohagara), CHATTOGRAM &mdash; Aug 31, 2026: The seventh day of the 56th International Seeratunnabi (PBUH) Mahfil, a 19-day religious gathering initiated by eminent Islamic scholar Hazrat Mawlana Hafiz Ahmad, popularly known as Shah Saheb Qibla Chunati (RA), was held on Monday at Shah Manzil Seerat Maidan in Chunti under Lohagara upazila of Chattogram.

The session was presided over by Alhaj Mawlana Mamtazur Rahman, president of Anjumane Talaba-e-Sabeqeen. Mawlana Faruk Hossain, principal of Chunti Hakimia Kamil Madrasa, moderated the programme.

Religious scholars at the gathering emphasised the importance of purity in worship, congregational prayer and the proper use of time, while discussing various aspects of Islamic teachings, including wudu and the Tafsir of Surah Al-Asr.

Mawlana Zamir Uddin, Khatib of Amjadiya Rafiqul Ulum Kamil Madrasa Mosque, discussed &ldquo;The Fard, Sunnah and Mustahabb of Wudu.&rdquo; He said wudu is an important means of attaining purity and that observing its obligatory, Sunnah and recommended practices properly enhances the beauty and completeness of worship.

He stressed the importance of learning and following the correct method of performing wudu.

Speaking on &ldquo;The Importance and Virtues of Offering Prayer in Congregation,&rdquo; Alhaj Mawlana Abu Tayeb, Khatib of Baitul Jannat Jame Mosque, said congregational prayer plays an important role in strengthening unity, discipline and brotherhood among Muslims.

He urged people to develop the habit of regularly attending mosques and offering prayers in congregation.

Alhaj Mawlana Kafil Uddin, assistant professor at Amjadiya Rafiqul Ulum Kamil Madrasa, delivered a discussion on &ldquo;Tafsir and Lessons of Surah Al-Asr.&rdquo; He said the Surah underscores the importance of time in human life and provides clear guidance towards success.

&ldquo;Faith, righteous deeds, advising one another to uphold the truth and practising patience are the qualities that protect people from loss and lead them towards success,&rdquo; he said.

Alhaj Mawlana Mosharraf Hossain said time is extremely valuable in human life.

&ldquo;Following the teachings of Surah Al-Asr, we should encourage one another to remain steadfast in truth and patience alongside faith and righteous deeds. Only then can we attain well-being in this world and the Hereafter,&rdquo; he said.

Former chairman of Satkania Union Parishad Alhaj Mawlana Mahmudul Haque attended the gathering as a special guest.

Among others present were Alhaj Mawlana Muhammad Hafizul Islam Abul Kalam Azad, president of the Mutawalli Committee; Shahzada Mawlana Abdul Malek Muhammad Ibn Dinar Najat, organising secretary; committee members Alhaj Abu Taher and Alhaj Ismail Manik; former principal Alhaj Mawlana Hafizul Haque Nizami; Shahzada Tayebul Haque Bedar; Chhaied Uddin; Ahmadul Kabir; and officials and distinguished personalities associated with different levels of the Mahfil.

The Holy Quran was recited by Khaled Muhammad Saifullah and Hafiz Muhammad Tahsinur Rahman. Naat-e-Rasul (PBUH) was performed by Aziz Uddin Siddiqui and Tanbirul Haque Tahsin.

The programme concluded with Khutba-e-Sadr, Milad Sharif and Munajat.PR

PT/GN]]>
            </summary>
            
            
            <updated>Mon, 31 Aug 2026 13:04:14 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[56th International Mahfil-e-Seeratunnabi (PBUH) Begins in Chunati with 19-Day Programme]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/bangladesh/434" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/bangladesh/434</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Chattogram, Bangladesh &mdash; August 25, 2026: The 56th International Mahfil-e-Seeratunnabi (PBUH), a 19-day religious programme held in Chunati village under Lohagara Upazila of Chattogram, formally began on Tuesday, August 25, at the Chunati Shah Manzil Seerat Maidan.

The historic Mahfil was originally introduced by the renowned Islamic scholar of Chunati, Hazrat Maulana Hafez Ahmad (Rah.), popularly known as Shah Saheb Qibla Chunati. Continuing the long-standing tradition, this year&#39;s programme began after Zuhr prayer with Qur&#39;an recitation, devotional performances and scholarly discussions on the life, teachings and Seerah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

The opening session was presided over by Alhaj Maulana Muhammad Hafizul Islam Abul Kalam Azad, President of the Mahfil Mutawalli Committee. Alhaj Maulana Dr. Syed Muhammad Abu Noman, former Principal of Baitush Sharaf Adarsha Kamil Madrasa, attended the inaugural session as a distinguished guest.

The discussion session was moderated by Maulana Faruk Hossain, Principal of Chunati Hakimia Kamil Madrasa.

During the first session, speakers discussed different stages of the life of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), including his birth, childhood, youth, pre-prophetic life, family background and the social environment of Arabia at the time. The scholars also highlighted various aspects of the Prophet&#39;s character, ideals and guidance for humanity.

Alhaj Maulana Zainul Abedin, Assistant Professor of Cox&#39;s Bazar Tafhimul Quran Alim Madrasa, delivered a discussion on the scheduled topic, &ldquo;The Birth of Muhammadur Rasulullah (PBUH), His Life Before Prophethood and the Social Status of His Family.&rdquo;

The second session was presided over by Alhaj Maulana Hamed Hasan, Principal of Salima Siraj Women&#39;s Fazil Madrasa.

The scheduled topic for the session, &ldquo;Prophecies of Earlier Prophets and Messengers Regarding the Arrival of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH),&rdquo; was discussed by Maulana Ashraful Mostafa bin Nuri, Assistant Superintendent of Chakaria Mishkatul Millat Dakhil Madrasa.

Other speakers included Hafez Maulana Maher Shams, Lecturer at Lohagara Barahatia Eshaatul Uloom Fazil Madrasa; Alhaj Maulana Rafiq Ullah Miazi, Khatib of Chattogram Metropolitan Hospital Jame Mosque; and Alhaj Maulana Shahadat Hossain, Principal of Lohagara Amirabad Sufia Fazil Madrasa.

In their respective discussions, the speakers addressed the status and dignity of the Ahl al-Bayt and the Sahabah, the beginning of divine revelation to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), the reaction of contemporary Arab society to his message, and several other important aspects of the Seerah.

A number of religious scholars, members of the Mahfil management committee, social leaders and distinguished guests attended the opening-day programme.

Among those present were Shahzada Maulana Abdul Malek Muhammad Ibn Dinar Najat, Organising Secretary of the Mahfil Mutawalli Committee; committee members Alhaj Abu Taher, Alhaj Ismail Manik and H. M. Mahabubul Haque; noted social worker Alhaj Abdus Shukur; Maulana Mahmudul Haque, former Principal of Sitakunda Alia Kamil Madrasa; Maulana Momtaz Uddin, President of Anjuman-e-Tolaba-e-Sabekin, Chunati Hakimia Kamil Madrasa; former Secretary Maulana Oliuddin Mohammad; Shahzada Tayyabul Haque Bedar; and Saifuddin Mohammad Tarek, along with other organisers, scholars and community representatives.

At the beginning of the programme, a Pesh Kalam was presented by Alhaj Maulana Hafizul Islam Nizami, a member of the Mutawalli Committee, Khalifa Mujaz of Chunati Tariqat-e-Mujaddedia and a madrasa principal.

Alhaj Mustak Ahmad, former President of the Cox&#39;s Bazar Shop Owners&#39; Federation, attended the programme as a special guest, together with prominent representatives from different professions and sections of society.

The Holy Qur&#39;an was recited by Masud Hasan Kamal Fayaz and Muhammad Abdul Ahad. Takrim Khan Siddiqui, Talha bin Dawood Adib and Ahsan Ullah Tamin presented Na&#39;at-e-Rasul (PBUH) during the programme.

The opening day marked the beginning of the 19-day 56th International Mahfil-e-Seeratunnabi (PBUH), during which scholars and religious speakers are expected to discuss different chapters of the life, mission, teachings, character and legacy of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) through a series of scheduled sessions in Chunati.

PT/Gn]]>
            </summary>
            
            
            <updated>Tue, 25 Aug 2026 15:00:49 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Sajek Valley under evacuation.]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/bangladesh/405" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/bangladesh/405</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[The Bangladesh Army and police on Friday began evacuating the remaining 421 tourists stranded in Sajek Valley under tight security as weather conditions improved.

The convoy left Sajek at around 9:00am and is travelling to Khagrachhari via Baghaihat.

The evacuation follows Thursday&#39;s operation, when 150 stranded tourists were safely escorted out of the hill resort.

Meanwhile, the flood situation in Khagrachhari has improved as river water receded, restoring normalcy in several low-lying areas. However, parts of Merung Union remain inundated, with thousands of families still marooned. Intermittent rainfall continues, raising fears of fresh flooding.

pt/ra]]>
            </summary>
            
            
            <updated>Fri, 10 Jul 2026 11:39:21 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Hatiya under flood !]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/bangladesh/404" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/bangladesh/404</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Thousands of residents in seven unions of Hatiya upazila in Noakhali have been stranded after days of heavy rainfall and unusually high tides inundated vast low-lying areas. Homes, croplands, fish farms and roads have gone underwater, while many low-income families say they have been unable to cook for three consecutive days as floodwaters entered their kitchens.

The worst-hit areas include Tamaraddi, Sukhchar, Jahajmara and Nolchira unions, where floodwaters have submerged homes, kitchens, courtyards, rural roads and fish enclosures. Farmers are also fearing significant losses as large stretches of agricultural land remain underwater.

Residents said the flooding has affected not only the mainland but also the remote islands and chars, including Nijhum Dwip, Damarchar, Dhalchar, Chargasia, Noler Char, Boyar Char, Char Ataur and Moulvir Char, further worsening the suffering of people living in the coastal belt.

Local resident Sakib Ahmed said the combined impact of heavy rain and tidal flooding has submerged most parts of Hatiya, leaving low-income families in an extremely vulnerable situation. &quot;Water has entered many kitchens, and some families have not been able to cook for the past three days. So far, we have not received any assistance from the authorities,&quot; he said.

Shaharaj, a businessman at Bandar Tila Bazar in Nijhum Dwip, said continuous rainfall has forced people to remain indoors, bringing business activities almost to a halt. &quot;Customers cannot reach the market because their homes are flooded. With almost no sales, we are suffering financially, while daily wage earners are facing immense hardship,&quot; he said.

Nolchira Union Parishad Chairman Md Golam Aziz said prolonged rainfall has inundated low-lying parts of the union, damaging homes, roads and croplands. &quot;If the water does not recede soon, the suffering of local residents will intensify. We are preparing a list of affected families and seeking assistance from the local administration,&quot; he said.

According to the Noakhali Meteorological Office, 104 millimetres of rainfall were recorded in the district over the last 24 hours. Hatiya Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Russell Iqbal said several low-lying areas had been inundated by rainwater and tidal surges, causing waterlogging in different parts of the upazila.

&quot;Eleven administrative teams are working on the ground to address the situation. Food assistance has already been distributed among 500 to 600 affected people, and our relief operations are continuing,&quot; the UNO said.

pt/ra]]>
            </summary>
            
            
            <updated>Fri, 10 Jul 2026 11:33:58 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[CA’s condolence to Tarique Rahman]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/bangladesh/256" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/bangladesh/256</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has sent a condolence message on the death of BNP Chairperson and former prime minister Begum Khaleda Zia to BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman on Monday.

The message was delivered by the Chief Adviser&rsquo;s Private Secretary, Shazeeb M Khairul Islam, at the BNP Chairperson&rsquo;s office in Gulshan, according to party sources.

In his message, Professor Yunus expressed profound sorrow at the passing of Begum Khaleda Zia, describing her as a prominent symbol of Bangladesh&rsquo;s democratic movement. He offered prayers for the peace of her departed soul and extended heartfelt sympathy to her family members, as well as to BNP leaders, activists and supporters.

Begum Khaleda Zia, a three-time prime minister and longtime leader of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, died on December 30 while receiving treatment at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka. She was laid to rest the following day at Zia Udyan in the capital, beside her husband, the late president Ziaur Rahman, after a large and historic Namaz-e-Janaza held at the South Plaza of the Jatiya Sangsad.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
            
            
            <updated>Tue, 06 Jan 2026 07:49:31 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Leaders at Janaza]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/bangladesh/246" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/bangladesh/246</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus has joined the namaz-e-janaza of three-time former Prime Minister and BNP Chairperson Begum Khaleda Zia at Manik Mia Avenue.

Members of the Advisory Council, the chiefs of three services and senior political leaders, including BNP representatives, were also present.

A number of foreign dignitaries arrived in Dhaka to join the funeral of Begum Zia.

The Jatiya Sangsad Bhaban witnesses an unprecedented outpouring of grief on Wednesday as millions of mourners from across Bangladesh converged Manik Mia Avenue to pay their final tributes to Begum Zia.

PT/ra

 ]]>
            </summary>
            
            
            <updated>Wed, 31 Dec 2025 12:29:09 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Anis Alamgir into DB custody]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/bangladesh/224" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/bangladesh/224</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Senior journalist Anis Alamgir has been allegedly taken into custody by the Detective Branch (DB) of Dhaka Metropolitan Police, though the reason for his detention has not been disclosed yet.

Alamgir himself confirmed the matter to an online news portal on Sunday night at 8:50 PM, stating over the phone, &ldquo;I am currently in DB custody.&rdquo;

However, attempts to reach multiple DB officials for comments were unsuccessful.

When asked who had taken him, he said he did not know but reiterated that he was in DB custody. On the question of why he was detained, he said he could not provide any information.

Reportedly, Alamgir was taken from a gym in Dhanmondi to the DB office.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
            
            
            <updated>Mon, 15 Dec 2025 04:23:36 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Caretaker government return!]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/bangladesh/185" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/bangladesh/185</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[The Appellate Division of the Supreme Court (SC) has declared the much-awaited verdict to abolish non-party caretaker government system for holding national elections is illegal.

The appex court now reinstated the caretaker government system in the constitution by announcing the 13th Amendment valid.

A seven-member bench, headed by Chief Justice Dr Syed Refaat Ahmed, delivered the judgement on Thursday (November 20), granting the appeal against the judgment cancelling the 13th Amendment.

The apex court in its observation said that the next national election would be held under the interim government and the caretaker government system would be applied from the 14th national election.

The caretaker system was introduced into the constitution through the 13th Amendment in 1996.

Earlier, on August 27, the Appellate Division allowed the filing of an appeal against the verdict that abolished the caretaker government system.

The hearing of the appeal to restore the caretaker government system began on October 21. Later, three lawyers, including Advocate M Salim Ullah, filed a writ petition challenging the amendment in 1998.The petition was dismissed in 2004, and the petitioners appealed in 2005.Acting on that appeal, a full bench of the Appellate Division delivered a verdict on May 10, 2011, declaring the 13th Amendment null and void.

Following the verdict, the 15th Amendment Act, which abolished the caretaker government system along with several other changes, was passed in Parliament on June 30, 2011, with the gazette notification published on July 3 that year.

After the change of government, five prominent individuals, including Shushashoner Jonno Nagorik (SUJAN) Secretary Dr Badiul Alam Majumdar, filed an appeal on August 5 last year seeking a review of the verdict.

The other petitioners were Tofail Ahmed, M Hafizuddin Khan, Zobairul Haq Bhuiyan and Zahra Rahman.

Meanwhile, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir filed a review petition on October 16, followed by another from Jamaat-e-Islami Secretary General Prof Mia Golam Parwar on October 23.

PT/ra

 ]]>
            </summary>
            
            
            <updated>Thu, 20 Nov 2025 08:48:26 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[HRW is concern over fairness of trial]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/bangladesh/184" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/bangladesh/184</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Human Rights Watch (HRW) has shown serious concerns over the fairness of the trial in which Bangladesh&rsquo;s International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) found former prime minister Sheikh Hasina and former home minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal guilty of crimes against humanity.

Meenakshi Ganguly, deputy Asia director at HRW, stated, &quot;While there is enduring anger in Bangladesh over Hasina&#39;s repressive rule, it is essential that all criminal proceedings adhere to international fair trial standards.&quot;

She added, &quot;Those responsible for the horrific abuses under her administration must be held to account, but only after impartial investigations and credible trials.&quot;

&#39;&#39;Both were prosecuted in absentia, not represented by counsel of their choosing, and sentenced to death, raising serious human rights concerns,&rdquo; the HRW said in a news release on November 17.

The HRW came up with the statement after the International Crimes Tribunal-1 of Bangladesh on Monday (November 17) sentenced Hasina and Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, the former home minister, to death for crimes against humanity during the violent suppression of student-led protests in 2024.

The Bangladeshi authorities committed serious human rights violations during the three weeks of protests in July and August 2024 that toppled the Hasina government.

While those responsible for abuses should be appropriately held to account, the prosecution failed to meet international fair trial standards, including for a full opportunity to present a defense and question the witnesses against them, and the right to be represented by counsel of one&#39;s choosing. Concerns over the fairness of the trial are exacerbated by the death sentences, the New York-based rights organisations said.

The rights organisation alleged the International Crimes Tribunal proceedings during Hasina&#39;s rule repeatedly failed to meet international fair trial standards and imposed the death penalty. Human Rights Watch opposes the death penalty in all circumstances because of its inherent cruelty.

The HRW urged the government to respond to any demonstrations in accordance with the UN Basic Principles on the Use of Force and Firearms by Law Enforcement Officials. Awami League leaders should discourage violence by party supporters opposing the tribunal verdict, it said.

&quot;Victims of the grave violations under the Hasina government deserve justice and reparations, but this must be delivered through proceedings that are genuinely independent and fair,&quot; Ganguly concluded. &quot;A crucial part of ensuring justice is protecting the rights of the accused, which includes abolishing the death penalty, an inherently cruel and irreversible punishment.&quot;

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
            
            
            <updated>Tue, 18 Nov 2025 10:16:25 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Human capital is the nat&#039;l strength: CA]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/bangladesh/168" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/bangladesh/168</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Professor Muhammad Yunus issued a message on the occasion of &#39;Public Engineering Day 2025&#39; and 55th founding anniversary of the Institution of Diploma Engineers, Bangladesh (IDEB).

In his message, Prof Yunus underscored the importance of human ingenuity, skills, and creativity as true foundation of a nation&rsquo;s strength, beyond its natural resources.

He also praised this year&rsquo;s theme, &ldquo;Skilled manpower &ndash; the cornerstone of nation building,&rdquo; as timely and relevant, reflecting vital role of technical expertise in advancing the nations&rsquo;s progress.

Dr Yunus noted that diploma engineers have been instrumental in the country&rsquo;s development across sectors such as infrastructure, industry, and technology.

Their technical knowledge, he said, continues to strengthen the foundation of a modern and sustainable economy.

He commended IDEB for its sustained efforts in promoting technical education, nurturing skilled professionals, and fostering innovation to meet national development goals.

Expressing confidence in the organization&rsquo;s ongoing contributions, Dr Yunus said he believes IDEB members will remain at the forefront of nation-building through their professionalism, dedication, and inventive spirit.

Dr Yunus also conveyed his best wishes for the success of all events organized to celebrate Public Engineering Day and IDEB&rsquo;s anniversary.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
            
            
            <updated>Sat, 08 Nov 2025 09:03:24 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[NBR’s Belal OSD]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/103" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/national/103</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Mohammad Belal Hossain Chowdhury, President, Customs, Excise and VAT Appellate Tribunal, made OSD at NBR.

The decision was announced in a notification signed by Md. Humayun Kabir, Deputy Secretary of the Internal Resources Division, on Thursday (October 9). Earlier, on Wednesday (October 8), Belal Hossain Chowdhury, who has been named as an accused in a case filed by the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC), was transferred to the post of President of the Customs, Excise and VAT Appellate Tribunal, Dhaka.

According to the latest notification, &ldquo;BCS (Customs and Excise) cadre officer Mohammad Belal Hossain Chowdhury, Member and President, Customs, Excise and VAT Appellate Tribunal, Dhaka, has been appointed as Special Officer (Member) at the National Board of Revenue, Dhaka. This order, issued in the public interest, takes immediate effect.&rdquo;

On October 7, the ACC filed a case against Belal Hossain Chowdhury on allegations of amassing illegal wealth worth around Tk 5 crore. Following that, on October 8, he was reassigned to the Customs, Excise and VAT Appellate Tribunal as its President.

The notification further stated that the BCS (Customs and Excise) cadre officer, currently serving at the NBR, has been released from his previous post to join his new assignment.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
            
            
            <updated>Thu, 09 Oct 2025 13:14:53 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[No Need another powerless rights body: Debapriya]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/opinion/79" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/opinion/79</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Dr. Debapriya Bhattacharya, distinguished fellow at Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD), has said that Bangladesh does not need another weak and ineffective human rights commission, calling for a stronger, more authoritative institution capable of addressing real issues of rights and justice.

Speaking at a discussion titled &quot;Draft Human Rights Commission Act 2025&quot;, organized by Citizens&rsquo; Platform on Saturday, Debapriya criticized past efforts, pointing out that the existing frameworks have failed to deliver justice or accountability. &quot;The people of Bangladesh don&rsquo;t want another powerless human rights commission with no authority or efficiency,&quot; he said, adding that the initiative to establish a commission first emerged during the 2007 caretaker government under Fakhruddin Ahmed, with a draft law prepared by 2009.

However, he noted that when Awami League government came to power, it significantly altered the draft and passed a version through parliament that ultimately lacked independence and effectiveness. &ldquo;A spineless good man was appointed to lead the commission. No matter how well-meaning a person may be, if they lack backbone, they cannot lead a human rights commission,&rdquo; Debapriya remarked bluntly. He further criticized the interim government for failing to offer a viable alternative after abolishing the previous commission in November 2024. &ldquo;Nearly a year has passed and what we have now is a draft law riddled with ambiguity and loopholes,&rdquo; he said.

Highlighting the legal flaws, Supreme Court lawyer Barrister Jyotirmoy Barua pointed out that the draft contains many of the same issues as the previous law. &ldquo;There&rsquo;s no specific timeframe for complaint resolution, no clarity on whether dual citizens can serve on the commission and serious ambiguity around funding sources,&rdquo; he said. Barua also raised concerns about the inclusion of bureaucrats in the commission, which creates an inherent conflict of interest. &ldquo;The draft doesn&rsquo;t say whether this problematic practice will be continued or abolished,&rdquo; he added.

Sanjida Islam, coordinator of Mayer Daak, a platform of families of victims of enforced disappearances, shared her disappointment with past commissions. &ldquo;Each time we approached the commission, they would simply send a letter to Home Ministry and consider their duty done. No real action followed,&rdquo; she said. Echoing her frustration, Debapriya criticized the commission&rsquo;s annual reports that claimed 100 percent task completion. &ldquo;In reality, their work amounted to little more than writing letters,&rdquo; he said.

The discussion was attended by human rights activists from various sectors, along with representatives from United Nations and several foreign missions, who also shared their perspectives on strengthening the proposed law and ensuring accountability in human rights governance.

PT/ra]]>
            </summary>
            
            
            <updated>Sat, 27 Sep 2025 08:35:29 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
            <entry>
            <title><![CDATA[Digital literacy for inclusive, knowledge-driven Bangladesh]]></title>
            <link rel="alternate" href="http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/bangladesh/68" />
            <id>http://www.presstoday.news/news/article/bangladesh/68</id>
            <author>
                <name> <![CDATA[The Press Today Admin]]></name>
            </author>
            <summary type="html">
                <![CDATA[Chief Adviser (CA) Professor Muhammad Yunus on Sunday called for united efforts to create a knowledge-based and inclusive society by harnessing the combined strengths of technology and literacy. In a message marking International Literacy Day 2025, Yunus said the interim government, formed in the wake of the July mass uprising, is working to reshape Bangladesh&rsquo;s future. &ldquo;Let us strive for a Bangladesh where literacy and technology together build an inclusive, humane society,&rdquo; he said.

He stressed that literacy today extends far beyond reading and writing, encompassing digital knowledge, online learning, information analysis, and problem-solving. &ldquo;Those who fall behind in using technology are not only deprived of education but are also excluded from the mainstream of society and the economy,&rdquo; he noted. Welcoming this year&rsquo;s theme, &#39;Promoting Literacy in a Digital Era&#39;, Yunus said it was both timely and crucial.

He underscored the importance of skill-based education to remain competitive globally, urging reforms to ensure digital learning opportunities for women, children, marginalized groups, and people with disabilities.

The Chief Adviser also emphasized the need for teacher training, wider access to technology for students, and greater parental support for digital learning.

&ldquo;Work-oriented and skill-based education must go hand in hand with traditional learning,&rdquo; he said, expressing hopes for the success of all programmes undertaken nationwide to mark the day.]]>
            </summary>
            
            
            <updated>Sun, 07 Sep 2025 13:15:25 +0000</updated>
        </entry>
    </feed>
