U.S. Policy Toward Bangladesh May Trigger a Renewed Islamist Rise in South Asia
Washington may be betting on forces whose rise could deepen instability across the region, empower extremist networks, and undermine Bangladesh’s secular foundations — foundations that were laid with enormous sacrifice in 1971.
8,597 Arrests in 24 Hours: Growing Fears of Authoritarian Overreach
Within a span of just 24 hours, 8,597 individuals were reportedly arrested nationwide—a figure so extraordinary that it demands urgent scrutiny. These arrests do not appear to be the result of targeted, evidence-based investigations.
Mob Violence Rises as State Control Weakens in Bangladesh
Bangladesh is no longer governed by the rule of law; it is increasingly ruled by fear. Across the country, mobs operate with near impunity—setting fire to homes and businesses, vandalising media offices, attacking cultural institutions and historical sites, and desecrating mazars, temples, and graveyards. Foreign missions have also been targeted, while citizens are being lynched in broad daylight.
Bangladesh’s Post-Transition Hope Dims Amid Rising Mob Violence
Attacks on journalists and minority communities highlight growing instability in Bangladesh months after political change.
“Is this the example of Muhammad Yunus’s civilization?" — questions Anu Muhammad
Following the student–mass uprising and the drafting of the July Charter, questions have been raised by Professor Anu Muhammad regarding the statement made by Chief Adviser Professor Yunus, in which he claimed that ‘civilization’ was being brought to Bangladesh, after attacks on media outlets and cultural institutions.
Human Rights Bodies Raise Alarm Over Eroding Democratic Space in Bangladesh
Global human rights organisations have voiced grave concern over what they describe as an alarming deterioration of the rule of law in Bangladesh, citing the targeting of politicians, activists, major media outlets, and cultural institutions amid rising political tensions ahead of the 2026 national election.
Russia Urges Dhaka to Ease Internal Tensions
Russian Ambassador to Bangladesh Alexander Grigoryevich Khozin on Monday emphasized the need to reduce tensions in Bangladesh to ensure a conducive environment ahead of the next national election, scheduled for February 12 next year. He also underscored the importance of easing tensions between Bangladesh and its neighbouring country India, saying that such efforts should be taken as soon as possible.
Embassy Urges US Citizens in Bangladesh to Remain Alert
The US Embassy in Dhaka has issued a security alert for US citizens residing in Bangladesh. The warning was issued on Friday afternoon (19 December) on the embassy’s website and social media platforms.
Code of Conduct to Be Amended to Allow Candidates to Possess Weapons
Relevant officials of the EC said that the code of conduct would need to be amended regarding candidates possessing weapons, because there is no opportunity for any candidate to legally carry weapons during election campaigning.
The Home Minister ordered the arrest of Awami League members even without any cases
The Home Affairs Adviser of the interim government, Lieutenant General (Retd.) Jahangir Alam Chowdhury, has instructed the police to bring those members of the Awami League who are terrorists under the purview of the law, even if there are no cases filed against them. He warned that action would also be taken against police officers if they fail to do so.