TIB Calls for Cancellation of ‘Discriminatory’ Decision to Bear Foreign Observers’ Expenses

Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has demanded the cancellation of the Election Commission’s (EC) decision to bear the accommodation and food expenses of foreign observers for the 13th National Parliamentary Election. The organization stated that the decision is imprudent, discriminatory, and creates a conflict of interest, which goes against the principles of impartial election observation.

Bangladeshis will have to pay a security bond of up to $15,000 to obtain a US visa

Travelers going to the United States for business and tourism purposes will now be required to provide a security deposit. The US State Department has introduced this new measure to prevent visa misuse.

Touristless Sundarbans as Vessel Strike Continues for Second Day

In Mongla, for the second consecutive day on Tuesday (6 January), a strike by owners of tourist-carrying jali boats, launches, and trawlers operating in the Sundarbans is ongoing.

Operation Devil Hunt: Claims of Arrests Based on Political Identity, Not Crime

As Bangladesh approaches the 13th National Parliamentary Election, the government’s “Operation Devil Hunt” has drawn attention over claims that arrests are being carried out based on political identity rather than proven criminal activity.

Bangladesh Inflation Rises to 8.49% in December as Food Prices Surge

Bangladesh’s inflation rate continued to rise in December, fueled by a sharp increase in food prices and persistent cost pressures in non-food items.

Intelligence Agencies “Interfere” in Internal Politics: Disappearance Commission Chief

The head of the Enforced Disappearances Commission, Mainul Islam Chowdhury, commented that the misuse of the country’s intelligence agencies stems from their tendency to “interfere” in internal politics and seek a share of power.

High Court Petition Challenges Validity of Bangladesh’s National Election and Referendum Schedule

On the same day, a writ petition was filed in the High Court challenging the validity of the schedule for the national parliament elections and the referendum.

Does NEIR function as a surveillance mechanism?

NEIR is a regulatory system designed to block illegal and stolen mobile phones in Bangladesh by linking devices with SIM cards. While it is not a surveillance tool, experts warn that strong legal safeguards are needed to prevent misuse and protect privacy.

Cases Planned Against OCs Over July Uprising Killings: Anti-Discrimination Student Movement

The Anti-Discrimination Student Movement is preparing a list of the then officers-in-charge (OCs) of police stations in whose jurisdictions students and members of the public were martyred during the July uprising. Alongside this, a list is also being compiled of senior police officials, ranging from district superintendents of police (SPs) to higher-ranking officers.

802 Workers Killed in Workplace Accidents in 2025

At least 802 workers were killed in 713 workplace accidents across the country in 2025, marking an increase from 758 deaths in 2024, according to a survey by the Safety and Rights Society (SRS).