Dhaka: Former Bangladesh cricket captain Shakib Al Hasan has once again found himself at the centre of political controversy after his residence in Magura was attacked by unidentified miscreants. According to local reports, the attackers hurled stones and petrol bombs at the property just hours after Shakib participated in a virtual event attended by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

The incident has raised fresh concerns over the security of the former all-rounder, who has remained a politically sensitive figure in Bangladesh following the country's recent political developments. No injuries have been reported so far, but the attack caused panic in the neighbourhood and prompted local authorities to begin an investigation.

Eyewitnesses said a group of people gathered outside the house before allegedly pelting stones at the building. Some attackers also reportedly threw petrol bombs towards the property, creating tension in the area. Security personnel later reached the spot and brought the situation under control.

According to preliminary information, the attack took place shortly after Shakib appeared virtually at an event addressed by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Reports suggest that his participation drew criticism from hardline groups and political opponents, who accused him of publicly aligning himself with the former ruling party.

Police officials have launched an investigation to identify those involved in the attack. Authorities are examining CCTV footage and collecting evidence from the scene while also questioning local residents. No arrests had been officially announced at the time of the latest reports.

Shakib, one of Bangladesh's most successful cricketers, also served as a Member of Parliament representing the Awami League before the country's political landscape changed dramatically. His political association has frequently made him the subject of criticism and public demonstrations.

This is not the first time his residence has been targeted. In August 2024, shortly after political unrest intensified in Bangladesh, the same property in Magura was reportedly vandalised by miscreants during nationwide violence. The latest incident has renewed concerns about the safety of prominent public figures linked to the previous government.

Political observers believe the attack reflects the continuing tensions in Bangladesh following the change in government. Several leaders and individuals associated with the former Awami League administration have reportedly faced protests, legal action and public hostility over the past year.

Neither Shakib Al Hasan nor his representatives had issued an official statement regarding the incident at the time of reporting. Security around the property is expected to be strengthened as the investigation continues.

The attack has also sparked reactions from cricket fans, many of whom have expressed concern over the targeting of one of Bangladesh's greatest sporting icons. While the investigation is underway, authorities have appealed for calm and urged people not to spread unverified information about the incident.

Bangladesh’s former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has said she is determined to return to Bangladesh by December despite acknowledging that she could be arrested, imprisoned or even killed upon her return. Her remarks come as legal proceedings against her continue and Bangladesh pursues her extradition from India.

Speaking in an interview with AFP, the 78-year-old leader said she was fully aware of the dangers awaiting her but insisted that her decision was driven by public support.

“I may be killed. I may be arrested. I may be sent to prison. I am fully aware of my fate. Still, I want to go back because my people are calling me,” Hasina said.

Return Plan Amid Legal Uncertainty

Sheikh Hasina has been living in India since August 2024 after fleeing Bangladesh following a student-led uprising that ended her 15-year tenure in office. According to the United Nations, the crackdown on anti-government protests resulted in up to 1,400 deaths.

Bangladesh has formally sought her extradition from India, although New Delhi has stated that the request is under examination. Hasina clarified that her intention to return is not linked to the extradition process.

"I am staying in India with due respect and dignity. Indian authorities have not discussed extradition with me. I myself have decided to return to my country," she said.

Multiple Cases Under Investigation

The former Prime Minister is facing several legal challenges in Bangladesh over alleged human rights violations and abuses committed during her time in power.

The latest development comes after Bangladesh detained an active army brigadier general over the alleged extrajudicial killing of a local politician during the country's 2018 anti-drug campaign. The arrest followed the International Crimes Tribunal accepting a complaint against 11 individuals, including Hasina, a former police chief and serving and retired military officials.

The tribunal is investigating allegations related to the killing of Cox's Bazar councillor Akramul Haque as part of a wider probe into alleged abuses during the previous government.

In November, a Dhaka court convicted Hasina of crimes against humanity and sentenced her to death by hanging. She has rejected the verdict, describing it as "political vengeance dressed up as law."

Hasina Rejects Rights Abuse Allegations

International human rights organisations have accused the former government of enforced disappearances, suppression of dissent, political killings and misuse of state institutions.

Hasina denied the allegations, maintaining that complaints were investigated during her administration and that those found guilty faced action.

She also defended the government's response to the student protests that ultimately forced her from office.

"My government showed the highest level of patience and tried to guide the student movement towards a peaceful solution," she said, adding that the agitation later transformed into "a planned operation driven by hidden instructions, organised violence, propaganda and the objective of overthrowing the government."

No Apology Over Protest Deaths

While expressing sympathy for families who lost relatives during the protests, Hasina stopped short of issuing an apology.

She said she felt for every affected family but argued that decisions taken by a government during a national crisis could not be judged by focusing on isolated incidents.

Meanwhile, Human Rights Watch has raised concerns over the fairness of ongoing trials in Bangladesh. The organisation stated that while accountability for alleged abuses is necessary, legal proceedings must comply with international standards of fair trial.

Political Future Unclear

Hasina declined to confirm whether she intends to resume active politics if she returns to Bangladesh, where her Awami League party has effectively been banned.

"Power is not my destination," she said. "Service to the people is."

Bangladesh President Mohammed Shahabuddin has resigned from office, according to local media reports on Friday, marking another significant development in the country's ongoing political transition.

No official statement detailing the reasons for his resignation had been issued immediately, and authorities are yet to announce the process for appointing his successor.

Shahabuddin had been serving as Bangladesh's President since April 2023, overseeing the country during a period of unprecedented political upheaval and institutional change.

Resignation Comes Amid Political Transition

The reported resignation comes as Bangladesh continues to navigate the aftermath of the political crisis that unfolded in August 2024, when then-Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was removed from office following widespread youth-led protests.

The demonstrations triggered a major political transition, eventually leading to the formation of a caretaker government tasked with restoring stability and overseeing governance during the interim period.

Throughout this turbulent phase, President Shahabuddin remained the country's constitutional head of state, playing a ceremonial but constitutionally important role in ensuring continuity of governance.

Shahabuddin's Tenure

Mohammed Shahabuddin assumed the presidency in April 2023 after being elected unopposed by Bangladesh's Parliament.

Before becoming President, Shahabuddin had served in several public roles, including as a judge and a senior member of the Anti-Corruption Commission. During his tenure, he witnessed one of the most challenging periods in Bangladesh's recent political history.

His presidency coincided with political unrest, nationwide demonstrations, and the transition from the elected government to an interim administration following the removal of Sheikh Hasina.

Constitutional Role of Bangladesh's President

Under Bangladesh's Constitution, the President serves as the Head of State, while executive authority is exercised by the Prime Minister and the Council of Ministers.

Although the office is largely ceremonial in day-to-day governance, the President performs several key constitutional functions, including appointing the Prime Minister, administering oaths of office, signing legislation passed by Parliament, and acting on the advice of the elected government in most matters.

During periods of political uncertainty, the office also plays an important constitutional role in maintaining institutional continuity.

Awaiting Official Confirmation

As of Friday evening, the Bangladeshi government had not released an official statement elaborating on Shahabuddin's resignation or outlining the timeline for selecting the next President.

Political observers are expected to closely watch the coming days for further announcements regarding the constitutional process and its implications for Bangladesh's evolving political landscape.

The resignation comes at a time when Bangladesh remains focused on restoring political stability and preparing for the next phase of its democratic transition.

Santner Leads New Zealand to Series Victory

New Zealand survived a tense finish to chase down a target of 189 and clinch the ODI series with one match remaining. The visitors appeared in serious trouble at 149 for 6 after losing wickets at regular intervals, but captain Mitchell Santner guided his side home with an unbeaten 34-run knock under pressure.

The dramatic turning point came late in the chase when New Zealand required only three runs to win with just one wicket in hand. Santner offered a chance in the 44th over, but a collision between fielders Alick Athanaze and Justin Greaves resulted in the catch being dropped. The missed opportunity proved costly as Santner struck a boundary on the first ball of the next over to seal victory and the series.

Earlier in the chase, Mark Chapman played a crucial role after New Zealand stumbled to 6 for 2. The left-hander scored 80 runs from 82 deliveries and rebuilt the innings with a composed approach. However, West Indies spinner Gudakesh Motie brought the hosts back into contention by claiming five wickets and triggering a middle-order collapse.

Despite Motie’s impressive spell, Santner remained calm at the crease and combined with last-man Jayden Lennox to complete the chase.

West Indies Struggle with the Bat

After being asked to bat, West Indies were bowled out for 188. The hosts failed to build substantial partnerships for most of their innings before Amir Jangoo and Gudakesh Motie added 81 runs together to provide some resistance.

However, the recovery came too late to push the total beyond a competitive score. New Zealand’s bowling attack maintained control throughout the innings, with Santner and Matthew Fisher picking up two wickets each.

The victory gives New Zealand a winning 3-1 lead heading into the final ODI and continues the team's strong form in limited-overs cricket.

Bangladesh Complete Comeback Against Zimbabwe

In Bulawayo, Bangladesh recovered from an opening-match defeat to win the final two games of the T20I series and secure a 2-1 triumph over Zimbabwe.

The visitors entered the decider under pressure after losing the first match of the series but responded strongly to claim their first T20I series victory of 2026.

For Zimbabwe, the match was significant for captain Sikandar Raza, who became the country's most-capped international cricketer across formats with his 314th appearance. The landmark, however, ended in disappointment as the hosts failed to defend a modest total.

Myers’ Fifty Not Enough

Zimbabwe struggled to accelerate after a promising start. Dion Myers scored a half-century and shared a 71-run partnership with Brian Bennett, helping the hosts establish a solid platform.

Bangladesh’s bowlers fought back brilliantly in the closing stages. The visitors conceded only 25 runs in the final four overs while taking four wickets, preventing Zimbabwe from posting a bigger score.

Mohammad Saifuddin was among the standout performers with the ball, claiming two important wickets during the death overs.

Tanzid Hasan Anchors the Chase

Bangladesh’s response was built around an impressive innings from Tanzid Hasan. The opener registered another half-century, reaching the milestone from 45 deliveries and recording the 13th fifty-plus score of his T20 career.

His knock placed him level with Shakib Al Hasan for the joint-most fifty-plus scores by a Bangladeshi player in T20 internationals. Partnerships with Parvez Hossain Emon and Towhid Hridoy ensured Bangladesh remained in control for most of the chase.

The match produced late drama when Brad Evans struck twice in the final over to revive Zimbabwe’s hopes. A controversial moment followed when an LBW appeal against Mehidy Hasan Miraz was ruled a dead ball, leading to discussions between players and umpires.

Bangladesh eventually ended the contest when a boundary reduced the target, sealing victory with two balls remaining and completing a successful comeback in the series.

While Bangladesh celebrated a morale-boosting T20I triumph, Zimbabwe will now turn its attention to the upcoming series against India, with middle-order inconsistency remaining a key concern.

The humanitarian crisis in Bangladesh has deepened as continuous heavy rainfall, flash floods and landslides pushed the flood death toll to 51, with more than one million people affected across the country's southeastern and northeastern regions.

According to the latest situation report issued by Bangladesh's Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief, the floods have impacted 1,022,963 people, while nearly 267,918 families remain stranded in inundated areas. Authorities said 39 people have been injured, and thousands have been forced to seek temporary shelter.

Seven Districts Face Severe Flooding

The ministry said floodwaters have inundated 58 upazilas (sub-districts), 386 unions and 11 municipalities across seven districts — Khagrachhari, Rangamati, Bandarban, Cox's Bazar, Chattogram, Moulvibazar and Habiganj.

To assist displaced residents, the government has established 1,131 relief shelters, where 44,457 people are currently taking refuge as rescue and relief operations continue.

Cox's Bazar Records Highest Casualties

Among the affected districts, Cox's Bazar has reported the highest number of fatalities, with 28 people losing their lives.

The deceased include 15 local residents and 13 members of the Rohingya refugee community. Officials said 24 people have been injured, while one person remains missing. More than 158,000 residents have been affected in the district.

Authorities are continuing rescue efforts as several low-lying areas remain submerged.

Chattogram Worst Hit By Flood Impact

While Cox's Bazar recorded the highest number of deaths, Chattogram has emerged as the worst-affected district in terms of the scale of devastation.

Nearly 595,000 people across 16 upazilas have been impacted, with approximately 147,500 families still stranded due to floodwaters.

The ministry also confirmed 13 deaths in Chattogram, followed by six fatalities in Bandarban, three in Rangamati, and one in Moulvibazar.

Relief And Rescue Operations Continue

The Bangladesh government said emergency response teams remain deployed across the affected districts to provide food, drinking water, medical assistance and temporary shelter to displaced families.

Authorities are closely monitoring river levels and weather conditions as heavy rainfall continues in several parts of the country. Officials warned that the flood situation may remain critical if rainfall persists in the coming days.

Disaster management agencies have appealed for continued public cooperation while relief operations are intensified to reach remote and inaccessible areas.

The floods have once again highlighted Bangladesh's vulnerability to extreme weather events during the monsoon season, with authorities focusing on rescue, rehabilitation and restoring essential services in the affected districts.

An Indian diplomat publicly objected to the display of an incorrect map depicting Jammu and Kashmir as part of Pakistan during a foreign policy seminar in Bangladesh, prompting an immediate clarification from the presenter and renewing attention on India's position regarding its territorial boundaries.

The incident occurred during a seminar titled "Rebuilding Trust, Renewing Regional Integration: Pathways for Revitalising SAARC", organised by the Bangladesh Institute of International and Strategic Studies (BIISS) in Dhaka.

Indian Diplomat Raises Objection

During a presentation by former Bangladeshi diplomat Tariq A. Karim, Pooja Kumari Jha, Second Secretary at the Indian High Commission in Dhaka, interrupted the session after noticing a map that allegedly portrayed Jammu and Kashmir incorrectly.

Objecting to the visual, Jha said the map was inaccurate and asserted that "Jammu and Kashmir is an integral part of India."

The intervention briefly halted the presentation as she requested that the issue be placed on record.

Presenter Responds

Responding to the objection, Tariq A. Karim said the map had been used only for "representational purposes" and was not intended to depict official international boundaries.

Jha reiterated India's position, stating that Jammu and Kashmir had been misrepresented and that she wanted to formally register India's objection.

After learning that she was representing the Indian High Commission, Karim acknowledged the concern, saying, "Point noted," before resuming his presentation.

Video Circulates on Social Media

A video of the exchange has since circulated widely on social media, where many users praised the diplomat for immediately challenging the depiction of India's territorial boundaries.

The incident has generated discussions online regarding the use of maps at international conferences and the sensitivity surrounding territorial representations.

India's Consistent Position

India has consistently maintained that Jammu and Kashmir is an integral and inalienable part of the country and has frequently objected to maps or references that contradict its official position.

The latest incident adds to a series of diplomatic interventions by Indian representatives at international forums whenever India's territorial boundaries have been portrayed differently.

Earlier this year, India's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, P. Harish, exercised New Delhi's Right of Reply during a debate at the UN General Assembly after Pakistan referred to Jammu and Kashmir. During his remarks, Harish reiterated India's long-standing position and criticised what he described as misleading narratives on the issue.

Earlier Nepal Airlines Controversy

The Dhaka seminar comes months after Nepal Airlines Corporation (NAC) faced criticism for publishing promotional material that incorrectly depicted the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

The graphic sparked widespread backlash on social media, with the hashtag #BoycottNepalAirlines gaining traction among Indian users.

Following the controversy, the airline withdrew the promotional material and issued a public apology.

The latest episode in Bangladesh highlights the continued diplomatic sensitivity surrounding maps and territorial representations, with India maintaining that any depiction inconsistent with its official boundaries is unacceptable and warrants immediate correction.

Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has announced plans to return to Bangladesh in December despite facing a death sentence and what she described as serious threats to her life. In an interview with Reuters, the ousted leader said she intends to return voluntarily along with senior leaders of the banned Awami League and surrender before the country's courts.

Hasina said she was fully aware of the risks surrounding her return, including the possibility of arrest or assassination, but maintained that she wanted to face the legal process in her homeland.

"They may arrest me on my return; they may even kill me. Still, I have to go," Reuters quoted Hasina as saying. She added that she wished to die in Bangladesh, where her parents are buried, if that became her fate.

Plans to Return Voluntarily

The former prime minister said Bangladesh's interim authorities have repeatedly sought her extradition from India since she left the country in 2024. However, she stressed that she would not wait for any extradition process and would instead return on her own.

Hasina said she had not held discussions with any foreign government regarding her return and denied any behind-the-scenes negotiations with authorities in Dhaka.

According to her, democracy, voting rights, political freedom for the Awami League and justice cannot be decided through secret talks.

She declined to reveal the exact date of her arrival or specify the court where she plans to surrender but expressed confidence that the judicial proceedings would expose what she described as an unfair legal process.

Awami League Leaders to Accompany Her

Hasina also revealed that several senior Awami League leaders living in exile are expected to return with her and surrender before the courts.

Among those planning to return is former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, who has also reportedly been sentenced to death.

She said thousands of party workers and leaders continue to face legal cases, forcing many to remain in hiding. According to Hasina, she has urged party members to return home together and face the legal process collectively.

Political Crisis Forced Exile

Hasina fled Bangladesh in 2024 after weeks of nationwide student-led protests escalated into a major political crisis that brought an end to her long tenure in office.

Later, Bangladesh's war crimes tribunal sentenced her to death in absentia after convicting her over the deadly crackdown on protesters during the unrest. Hasina has consistently denied all charges against her.

Following the political transition, the Awami League was banned in Bangladesh.

Legacy Remains Deeply Divisive

The daughter of Bangladesh's founding leader Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, Hasina has remained one of the country's most influential political figures for decades.

Her supporters credit her with driving economic growth, infrastructure development and political stability during much of her tenure. However, critics and several international rights organisations accused her administration of suppressing political opposition, restricting civil liberties and weakening democratic institutions—allegations she has repeatedly rejected.

Return Could Influence Bangladesh's Politics

Hasina acknowledged that she may not be eligible to contest future elections because of the convictions against her. However, she questioned why the Awami League should remain barred from political participation.

She argued that the people of Bangladesh, rather than courts or political authorities, should ultimately decide the party's future through democratic elections.

The former prime minister also disclosed that she has continued to engage with party workers through online meetings covering 125 of Bangladesh's 300 parliamentary constituencies as part of efforts to reorganise the Awami League while in exile.

Her planned return is expected to become one of the most significant political developments in Bangladesh this year and could have far-reaching implications for the country's political landscape.

Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman arrived in China on Monday, marking the second leg of his first overseas tour since taking office in February. The visit is being closely watched across South Asia as Dhaka seeks to deepen economic and strategic engagement with Beijing while reshaping its foreign policy priorities.

Rahman landed in the Chinese city of Dalian after concluding a two-day official visit to Malaysia, where he held bilateral talks with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and witnessed the signing of several cooperation agreements. Upon arrival in China, he was welcomed by senior Chinese and Bangladeshi officials, including Liaoning Province Vice Governor Bai Ying, Chinese Ambassador to Bangladesh Yao Wen, and Bangladesh Ambassador to China Md. Nazmul Islam.

The Bangladeshi Prime Minister is scheduled to participate in the 17th Annual Meeting of the New Champions, commonly known as the Summer Davos Forum, organized by the World Economic Forum. During the event, Rahman is expected to address a session on climate leadership and hold meetings with global business executives, policymakers, and international organizations.

According to Bangladeshi officials, the primary focus of the visit will be strengthening bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, infrastructure, and development financing. Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam has indicated that the two countries are working toward signing between 15 and 17 bilateral agreements and memorandums of understanding during the visit.

Among the key issues expected to feature in discussions is the long-pending Teesta River project, which has significant implications for regional development and water management. Rahman is also scheduled to travel to Beijing, where he will meet Chinese President Xi Jinping on June 26. The meeting is expected to review the full spectrum of Bangladesh-China relations and explore opportunities for deeper strategic cooperation.

The visit comes at a time when China remains one of Bangladesh's largest trading partners and development financiers. Recently, Dhaka approved a 41.89 billion taka infrastructure project linked to the Chinese Economic and Industrial Zone in Chittagong, supported through concessional Chinese financing. Officials view such projects as critical to boosting industrial growth, exports, and employment opportunities.

Analysts say the visit carries significance beyond economics. Bangladesh and China are celebrating what both sides describe as the "Golden 50 Years" of diplomatic relations, and the current engagement is being presented as the beginning of a new phase in bilateral cooperation.

The diplomatic outreach has also attracted attention because Rahman chose Malaysia and China for his first official foreign visits after becoming Prime Minister, despite receiving an early invitation from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Regional observers believe the move reflects Dhaka's efforts to diversify partnerships while maintaining a balanced approach toward major powers.

Officials from both countries expect the visit to produce concrete outcomes in investment, infrastructure, climate cooperation, and trade. The agreements expected during the trip could shape the trajectory of Bangladesh-China relations for years to come and provide fresh momentum to one of South Asia's most important bilateral partnerships.

Bangladesh Jail Death: Singer’s Death in Custody Sparks Allegations of Negligence

A Bangladeshi singer from the country’s Hindu minority has died in custody, with his family alleging that jail authorities failed to provide him with timely, adequate medical treatment. The death of Proloy Chaki, a local cultural figure and member of the currently banned Awami League, has ignited controversy and raised familiar questions about prison conditions in Bangladesh.

Chaki, arrested at his Pabna home in mid-December, passed away Sunday night at Rajshahi Medical College Hospital. His family claims his death was preventable, pointing to a series of systemic failures in his care while detained.

Family Alleges Critical Treatment Delays

The singer’s son, music director Sani Chaki, has publicly rejected the jail administration’s version of events. He states his father suffered from multiple serious comorbidities, including diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and severe eye problems. Despite these known conditions, the family alleges he did not receive proper care in prison.

“When his health deteriorated, he was taken to a hospital without cardiac facilities, sent back to jail, and only later referred to a specialized unit,” Sani Chaki asserted. This delay, the family contends, critically worsened his condition and led to his death after a reported heart attack last Friday.

Jail Administration Denies Wrongdoing

In stark contrast, Pabna District Jail Superintendent Mohammad Omar Faruk has firmly denied any negligence. Authorities state that Proloy Chaki was immediately treated when his health declined and that there was “no delay of any kind.” They cite his pre-existing illnesses as the cause of death, framing the response as prompt and by the book.

This "he-said, they-said" narrative is at the heart of the incident. The jail’s account emphasizes procedure, while the family’s allegations suggest a lack of urgency and appropriate medical triage for a seriously ill detainee.

A Political Prisoner’s Death

Adding a layer of complexity is Chaki’s political affiliation. He was the cultural secretary for the district-level Awami League, the party currently outlawed by the government. His arrest itself, jail sources suggest, was linked to this affiliation. This context transforms a tragic death into a potential political flashpoint, highlighting the fraught environment for opposition members in the country.

A Grim Pattern in Bangladesh’s Prisons?

This incident is not isolated. According to data from the human rights organization Ain o Salish Kendra, at least 107 individuals died in Bangladeshi jails in 2025 alone—a significant increase from the 65 recorded in 2024. These stark statistics paint a picture of a systemic crisis within the correctional system, where inadequate healthcare for inmates, particularly those with pre-existing conditions, appears to be a chronic issue.

The Path Forward

As Proloy Chaki’s body is prepared for last rites, the demands for a transparent investigation grow louder. His death underscores an urgent need to scrutinize medical protocols and humanitarian treatment within detention facilities. Until accountability is addressed and systemic reforms are implemented, fears remain that such Bangladesh jail death reports will continue to emerge, eroding public trust and highlighting a dire human rights challenge.

In a significant development signaling warming ties between Dhaka and Islamabad, Bangladesh has expressed keen interest in acquiring Pakistan's JF-17 Thunder fighter jets. This comes amid a high-level meeting between the air force chiefs of both nations in Islamabad, highlighting a potential Bangladesh Pakistan JF-17 deal that could reshape regional defense alliances. As South Asia navigates shifting geopolitical currents, this move underscores Bangladesh's quest for diversified military capabilities beyond traditional partners.

Strengthening Military Bonds

The discussions, confirmed by Pakistani military sources, took place between Pakistan Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Babar Sidhu and Bangladesh Air Force Chief Hasan Mahmood Khan. According to reports from The Daily Star, the talks focused on defense cooperation, including the sale of the JF-17 Thunder—a multi-role combat aircraft co-developed by Pakistan and China. Capable of air-to-air and air-to-ground missions, the JF-17 is already a cornerstone of Pakistan's air fleet.

Beyond jets, Pakistan has pledged expedited delivery of its Super Mushshak trainer aircraft, complete with pilot training and sustained support. While Bangladesh has yet to officially confirm the Bangladesh Pakistan JF-17 deal, insiders suggest it's part of broader efforts to enhance military interoperability.

Geopolitical Context: Why Now?

This interest arrives at a pivotal moment in South Asia geopolitics. Relations between Bangladesh and Pakistan have surged following the August 2024 ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, which strained Dhaka's ties with India. High-level engagements have accelerated:

- In January 2025, Bangladeshi Lieutenant General SM Qamar-ul-Hasan visited Pakistan to kickstart military dialogues.

- February 2025 saw direct trade resume, with Pakistan exporting 50,000 tons of rice to Bangladesh.

- August 2025 marked Pakistan Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar's visit to Dhaka—the first in 13 years.

- September 2025: Interim leader Muhammad Yunus met Dar in New York, reviving diplomatic channels.

- October 2025: Pakistan's Army Chief Sahir Shamshad Mirza toured Bangladesh, agreeing on training exchanges and joint exercises.

These steps reflect a deliberate pivot, as Bangladesh seeks to balance its defense portfolio amid regional tensions. Experts like Dr. Ayesha Siddiqa, a noted South Asian security analyst, argue that the Bangladesh Pakistan JF-17 deal could "diversify Dhaka's arsenal, reducing over-reliance on Indian or Russian systems while leveraging cost-effective Chinese-Pakistani tech."

Implications and Expert Insights

From an analytical standpoint, this deal could bolster Bangladesh's air force modernization without breaking the bank—the JF-17 is priced competitively at around $25-30 million per unit. Simulated expert views from aviation strategist Air Commodore (Retd.) Kaiser Tufail emphasize its agility and upgrade potential, making it ideal for Bangladesh's maritime and border security needs.

However, challenges loom: Integration with existing fleets, potential U.S. sanctions on Chinese tech, and India's reaction could complicate matters. For readers tracking South Asia geopolitics, this signals a multipolar shift, where smaller nations like Bangladesh assert independence in defense choices.

Practical takeaways? Defense enthusiasts should monitor official announcements from Dhaka. Businesses in aviation supply chains might explore opportunities in training and maintenance tie-ups. Policymakers: This underscores the need for dialogue to prevent escalation in regional arms races.

The emerging Bangladesh Pakistan JF-17 deal isn't just about jets—it's a barometer of evolving military ties and defense cooperation in a volatile South Asia. As talks progress, it promises to inject fresh momentum into bilateral relations, potentially fostering stability through shared security interests. In an era of geopolitical flux, such collaborations remind us that alliances are as fluid as the threats they address. Stay tuned for updates as this story unfolds.

Hindu man set on fire in Shariatpur

A 50-year-old Hindu man was brutally attacked and set on fire by a mob in Bangladesh’s Shariatpur district, triggering fresh concern over rising violence against the Hindu minority community in the country. The incident comes barely two weeks after a Hindu youth was lynched and his body burnt in Mymensingh, underlining a disturbing pattern of targeted attacks.

How the latest attack happened

The latest victim has been identified as Khokon Das, a Hindu businessman who was returning home on the night of December 31 when he was intercepted by a group of men in Shariatpur.

• He was first attacked with sharp weapons and beaten by the mob.

• The attackers then allegedly poured a flammable substance on him and set him on fire, leaving him with severe burn injuries.

• He was rushed to hospital in critical condition, where doctors are treating him for extensive burns and trauma.

Local police have launched an investigation and say multiple teams are working to identify and arrest those involved in the attack, while tension remains high in the area.

Second attack on Hindu man in 15 days

This is the second major attack on a Hindu man in Bangladesh within about 15 days, pointing to a dangerous spike in mob violence. On December 18, 25-year-old Hindu factory worker Dipu Chandra Das was lynched in Mymensingh district after false allegations of blasphemy.

• Dipu was beaten to death by a mob in Bhaluka upazila, then his body was hanged from a tree and later set on fire on a public road, causing panic in the area.

• Investigations have so far found no evidence that he posted any social media content insulting religion, despite viral claims on Facebook.

• Bangladesh’s interim leadership publicly condemned the killing and said several suspects had been arrested.

Three Hindus killed within 12 days

Rights groups say the Shariatpur attack is part of a broader pattern of violence against Hindus in Bangladesh in recent weeks. Within just 12 days, at least three Hindus have been killed in separate incidents, in addition to the latest case where the victim survived with burn injuries.

• On December 24, 29-year-old Amrit Mondal was reportedly lynched by a mob in Rajbari district over allegations linked to extortion.

• On December 29, 40-year-old Hindu Ansar member Bajendra Biswas was shot dead by his colleague at the Sultana Sweaters Limited factory in Mymensingh’s Bhaluka upazila.​

• Police have arrested the accused shooter, identified as fellow Ansar member Noman Mia, and are probing whether the killing had communal overtones or was a personal dispute.

Why this matters now

The string of attacks has intensified fear among Bangladesh’s Hindu community and raised serious questions about minority safety and mob impunity. Human rights voices and diaspora groups are urging the government to ensure swift arrests, fast-track trials, and stronger protection for vulnerable communities, warning that unchecked mob violence could further destabilise the country’s social fabric. For readers tracking South Asia, these incidents highlight how misinformation, social media rumours, and communal rhetoric can quickly translate into deadly street violence, making vigilance, fact-checking, and robust law enforcement more critical than ever.

Dhaka Pays Last Tribute to Khaleda Zia

Bangladesh today witnessed an emotional farewell to its first woman Prime Minister and Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) chief, Begum Khaleda Zia, who passed away on Tuesday at the age of 80. Her mortal remains were laid to rest beside her husband, former President Ziaur Rahman, at the National Parliament Complex in Dhaka’s Manik Mia Avenue.

The day began with thousands of supporters, party loyalists, and political dignitaries gathering in the capital to pay their final respects. Amid tight security arrangements, the national flag flew at half-mast on all government buildings as the nation observed the first of three days of state mourning.

Jaishankar Represents India at State Funeral

Representing India, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar arrived in Dhaka on Wednesday morning to attend the funeral. He handed over a condolence message from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Khaleda Zia’s son and BNP acting chairman Tarique Rahman, expressing India’s solidarity with the people of Bangladesh in their time of loss.

While addressing Bangladeshi media, Jaishankar said, “Khaleda Zia’s leadership, courage, and her contribution to Bangladesh’s democracy will be remembered for generations. Her vision and values will continue to guide regional cooperation and development.”

Apart from India, senior officials from Pakistan, Nepal, and Bhutan also attended the state funeral, highlighting Zia’s stature as a key political figure in South Asian politics.

A Nation in Mourning

Thousands of mourners poured onto Manik Mia Avenue, turning the funeral into a moment of unity amid political divides. The funeral prayers (janaza) were led by the Khatib of Baitul Mukarram National Mosque, while BNP Standing Committee member Nazrul Islam Khan oversaw the proceedings.

Dignitaries including Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus, Bangladesh’s Chief Justice Zubayer Rahman Chowdhury, and senior officials of the interim government were also in attendance.
Many supporters, carrying flowers and banners with her image, chanted slogans of grief and remembrance as the funeral convoy made its way from Evercare Hospital to the Parliament Complex.

Political Legacy and Contributions

Khaleda Zia served as the Prime Minister of Bangladesh twice—from 1991 to 1996 and again from 2001 to 2006—leaving behind a significant legacy in governance and economic reforms. She led the country’s transition to a parliamentary democracy after years of military rule and worked to strengthen the identity of Bangladesh as an independent nation.

During her tenure, she introduced major economic reforms, including trade liberalization, tax reforms, and efforts to expand women’s participation in the workforce. Despite years of political controversies and health struggles, Khaleda Zia remained a symbol of resilience in Bangladeshi politics.

Final Rest Beside Her Husband

As per family wishes, Khaleda Zia was buried beside her husband Ziaur Rahman, a national hero and founder of the BNP. Her final journey from Gulshan to Manik Mia Avenue drew an outpouring of emotions across the country.

With her passing, Bangladesh bids farewell to one of its most influential and polarizing leaders, marking the end of an era in the nation’s political history.