Government Misleads Youth with Perks: Subrata Chowdhury

Advocate Subrata Chowdhury, Acting President of Gonoforum, has alleged that the interim government has misled certain youths by offering them various privileges and facilities. He further stated that not signing the July Charter amounts to duplicity on the part of July fighters. The NCP should sign the charter without bargaining.

Speaking as the chief guest at the Debate for Democracy’s Shadow Parliament debate competition titled “What Needs to Be Done to Implement the July Charter” held on Saturday (November 1) at the Bangladesh Film Development Corporation (FDC) in the capital, he made these remarks.

Referring to the interim government’s act of misleading some youths with benefits, Subrata Chowdhury said, “They are interfering in DC and UNO offices and various institutions. A government within the government has been formed. As a result, reforms and the rule of law are being obstructed.”

Dismissing fears of conflict over differences between BNP and Jamaat on the referendum issue, Subrata Chowdhury said, “The referendum and national election will be held on the same day in February. To those advocating participatory elections, I say—if 70 percent of votes are cast in the national election, it will be considered participatory.” Urging political parties, he added, “Do not engage in nomination or position trading in the future. Reform and democratization within parties are urgent. A functional parliament should be formed with competent individuals.”

Terming former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s interview labeling the July Uprising as a “violent movement” as “ridiculous and childish,” the Gonoforum acting president said, “The trial of Sheikh Hasina’s crimes against humanity will continue unabated. She fled after committing massacres. We urge India not to give her shelter to make provocative statements. Stop her. Do not create hostile relations with us.”

The event was chaired by Hasan Ahmed Chowdhury Kiran, Chairman of Debate for Democracy. He said the July Mass Uprising overthrew fascism through the blood, lives, disabilities, and blindness of students and the masses. Today’s Bangladesh stands on the blood of July martyrs. The unity that made the July Uprising successful is now cracking over the implementation of the July Charter.

Describing the July Charter as a “historic national document and political settlement,” Hasan Ahmed Chowdhury said, “The future of Bangladesh depends on its implementation. If the spirit of July fails, the state will fail, and the interim government will fail. No one—BNP, Jamaat, NCP, or anyone else—can escape this responsibility.”He further stated that through the July Charter, the people wanted a united Bangladesh. But sharp disagreements among political parties over its implementation are creating a divided Bangladesh. If fascist forces return as a result, no party will escape the fire of vengeance. Hence, anti-fascist unity is now indispensable.

Hasan Ahmed Chowdhury Kiran noted that domestic and foreign nefarious forces are conspiring to derail the upcoming national election and fueling divisive politics. A tripartite political struggle is currently underway. The nation must be relieved from this situation. The interim government must work not only for political parties but also to fulfill the people’s aspirations.

In the shadow parliament debate titled “Political Will Is More Crucial Than Legal Framework for Implementing the July Charter,” Bangladesh University of Business and Technology (BUBT) emerged victorious by defeating Shaheed Suhrawardy Medical College. Trophies, crests, and certificates were awarded to the participating teams at the end of the competition.

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Ensuring justice for domestic workers in Bangladesh requires unwavering political resolve

Bangladedshi Politicians Will Essential to Ensure Wages and Dignity for Domestic Workers, Says Women’s Affairs Reform Commission Chief

Shireen Parveen Haque, head of the Women’s Affairs Reform Commission, emphasized the critical need for political goodwill to ensure fair wages and dignity for domestic workers. She expressed hope that future governments will prioritize appointing an ombudsman and creating a legal framework to protect domestic workers in their action plans.

She made these remarks on Saturday, October 25, 2025, during a shadow parliament session on protecting domestic workers’ rights, jointly organized by Debate for Democracy and the Mass Literacy Campaign at the FDC. The event was supported by Nets Bangladesh and Education Out Loud, and chaired by Hasan Ahmed Chowdhury Kiron, Chairman of Debate for Democracy.

Shireen Parveen Haque noted that the Women’s Affairs Reform Commission’s report did not specifically address domestic workers’ rights, though it should have. She highlighted the absence of specific proposals for their wage structure and stressed that a minimum wage for domestic workers should be set, considering the cost of living. Appointing an independent ombudsman would foster accountability and protect their rights. She reiterated that political goodwill is essential to ensure their wages and dignity.

She further expressed hope that future governments would prioritize appointing an ombudsman and establishing a legal framework for domestic workers’ protection in their agendas. Haque criticized the derogatory use of terms like “bua” to address domestic workers, urging society to avoid such disrespectful language. She also advocated for registering domestic workers to enhance their social recognition and rights.

In his speech, Hasan Ahmed Chowdhury Kiron, Chairman of Debate for Democracy, stated that a compassionate and caring policy cannot be expected in an autocratic social system. He criticized the previous government for failing to implement any measures for the welfare of sensitive labor groups like domestic workers. Despite policies being drafted, none were enforced, leaving domestic workers in conditions akin to British-era slavery, deprived of their rightful recognition and rights. They lack fair wages, defined working hours, medical care, leave, and recreational opportunities, unlike other workers. Kiron remarked that, despite the abolition of slavery, the inhumane treatment of domestic workers resembles a modern version of it in a civilized society.

He added that if society fails to show humanity toward domestic workers, no amount of democracy, voting rights, or good governance will make the state truly humane. Protecting domestic workers cannot be achieved by the government alone; families, society, NGOs, and the media must also step forward. However, he emphasized that political goodwill is indispensable for safeguarding their rights. He urged political parties to include commitments in their election manifestos to ensure domestic workers’ wages, leave, bonuses, and other rights, which would boost public trust and support. Kiron expressed disappointment that, post-independence, no discussions on domestic workers’ rights have taken place in Bangladesh’s parliament, and MPs have not raised their voices for their legitimate demands.

He expressed hope that the parliament formed after restoring democracy would address domestic workers’ rights and demands. He particularly urged women MPs to form a caucus with other parliamentarians to advocate for their protection, playing a vital role in securing their rightful entitlements.

Hasan Ahmed Chowdhury Kiron’s 10-Point Recommendations for Domestic Workers’ Rights:

1. Include domestic workers under the Labor Act through Advisory Council meetings, ensuring prompt implementation of wages, bonuses, working hours, and leave as per the law.

2. Make written contracts mandatory between employers and domestic workers, specifying job nature, hours, wages, and leave.

3. Establish skill development training programs for domestic workers through government and NGO initiatives.

4. Ensure accessible complaint mechanisms with law enforcement agencies.

5. Create a registration system and database for domestic workers.

6. Introduce health insurance, accident insurance, and provident funds for domestic workers through public-private partnerships.

7. Launch awareness campaigns through media, educational institutions, and religious organizations to promote humane treatment of domestic workers.

8. Ensure appropriate compensation for families of injured or deceased domestic workers.

9. Take effective measures to stop the employment of child domestic workers.

10. Establish rehabilitation centers, healthcare, and legal aid for abused or unemployed domestic workers.

During the shadow parliament session titled “Not Just Laws, but a Humane Perspective Can Protect Domestic Workers’ Rights,” organized by Debate for Democracy and the Mass Literacy Campaign, debaters from Holy Family Red Crescent Medical College defeated Bangladesh University’s team. The competition was judged by Professor Abu Muhammad Rais, Dr. Tajul Islam Chowdhury Tuhin, Dr. S.M. Morshed, poet Jahanara Parveen, and journalist Md. Al-Amin. Trophies, crests, and certificates were awarded to the participating teams at the conclusion of the event.

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🎓 Scholarship Opportunities for Bangladeshi Students to Study in Russia

A seminar and press conference was held at the Russian House in Dhaka to highlight higher education opportunities for Bangladeshi students at Russian universities under the Russian government’s scholarship quota.

On Thursday, the event featured an introduction by Alexandra A. Khlevnyar, the newly appointed Director of the Russian House. The seminar included participation from alumni of prestigious Russian universities, over 100 local applicants, and Bangladeshi students currently studying in Russia who joined online.

📢 Key Announcements:

• The Russian government’s scholarship program was presented in detail.

• Alexandra announced that for the 2026–2027 academic year, the number of scholarships for Bangladeshi students has increased to 200, up from just 65 five years ago.

• This expansion reflects Russia’s commitment to strengthening cooperation in education and science and supporting Bangladesh’s human resource development.

• She stated: “Our goal is to offer talented Bangladeshi students the opportunity to study at Russian universities so they can return and contribute to Bangladesh’s development.”

🗓️ Application Details:

• Application Period: September 15, 2025 – January 15, 2026

• Platform:

• Required Documents:

  • Valid passport

  • Educational certificate or diploma

  • Most recent academic transcript

• Shortlisted candidates will later need to submit a medical fitness certificate.

• Selection criteria include academic performance, participation in Olympiads, and achievements in science, sports, or creative competitions.

• The selection committee will include representatives from the Russian House, the Russian Embassy, and Russian universities.

🎯 Fields of Study:

Students can apply for vocational and technical programs, undergraduate, postgraduate, PhD, and short-term professional development courses in areas such as:

• IT

• Engineering

• Physics

• Chemistry

• Economics

• Law

• Agriculture

• Architecture

• Performing arts (acting, dance, music)

The portal offers access to over 16,000 programs across more than 400 Russian universities.

🗣️ Free Russian Language Course:

It was also announced that starting October 27, 2025, a free Russian language course will be offered at the Russian House under the guidance of a trainer from Saint Petersburg State University.

The Russian House in Dhaka is actively supporting interested students with program selection, document preparation, and language training.

🤝 Strengthening Educational Ties:

This initiative is expected to deepen educational ties between Bangladesh and Russia and expand access to internationally recognized education for Bangladeshi students.

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Failure to Implement July Charter Will Set Back Bangladesh, Hinder Democracy: Attorney General

Bangladesh’s Attorney General, Md. Asaduzzaman, has stated that the July Charter is a political settlement that is more transparent, well-structured, and precise than any previous settlement. This charter will remain a memorable milestone in the annals of law. He warned that if we fail to implement the July Charter, we will be remembered by future generations as cowardly and timid.

Speaking at a shadow parliament organized by Debate for Democracy on the implementation of the July Charter to protect democracy, held at the FDC on Saturday (October 18, 2025), the Attorney General made these remarks. The event was chaired by Hasan Ahmed Chowdhury Kiron, Chairman of Debate for Democracy.

The Attorney General emphasized, “While there are challenges in implementing this charter, they are surmountable. Debating the July Charter would be a futile controversy. It is not the Quran or the Bible that it cannot be amended. If we adopt the narrative of the defeated forces of July 36 and attempt to derail the July Charter, the country will regress.”

He further noted, “The 1972 Constitution was heavily amended by authoritarian regimes, undermining the rule of law and stripping people of their voting rights. If the aspirations of the July uprising are realized, the people will regain their right to vote. The trials for the July killings will proceed through a natural process and will not be obstructed in any way. The processes for prosecuting the disappearances and murders committed by past fascist regimes have already been initiated at the state level, arguments are ongoing, and we now await the verdicts. The commitment to the July spirit is the cornerstone of these trials.”

In his speech, Hasan Ahmed Chowdhury Kiron, Chairman of Debate for Democracy, said, “The July Charter is a historic document for the nation. The future of Bangladesh depends on its implementation. We cannot allow the July Charter to fail. If it fails, there is a risk that fascist forces will rise again. The country could face instability, political stability would be undermined, and law and order would suffer significant negative impacts. Efforts to restore lost democracy and voting rights would be obstructed. This document reflects the long-standing aspirations of the Bangladeshi people for justice, voting rights, democracy, freedom, and dignity. Implementing this charter will dismantle authoritarian structures.” He added, “The signing of the July Charter has made the roadmap for the national election in February clearer, dispelling concerns about its organization. However, without good governance and accountability, elections alone cannot bring about a change in the authoritarian system. The July Charter will be regarded by the people as a national commitment by political parties—a commitment through which political parties will rise above partisan interests, relinquish the greed for power, and work for the welfare of the people. If the future Bangladesh is not guided by the implementation of the July Charter, it will be an injustice to the nation. Political parties that fail to implement the July Charter may face rejection by the people in the future.”

In the shadow parliament organized by Debate for Democracy titled “Implementing the July Charter Will Protect Democracy,” debaters from Presidency University emerged victorious, defeating the team from Bangladesh Maritime University. The judges for the competition were Professor Abu Muhammad Rais, Dr. Tajul Islam Chowdhury Tuhin, journalist Hasan Jabed, journalist Moniruzzaman Mission, and journalist Maidur Rahman Rubel. At the conclusion of the competition, participating teams were awarded trophies, crests, and certificates.

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Dr. Badiul Alam Urges Unity for Referendum and Fair Elections to Protect Democracy

Dr. Badiul Alam Majumdar, a member of the National Consensus Commission and Secretary of Citizens for Good Governance (Sujon), stated that a referendum could still be held even if political parties fail to reach a consensus. He made these remarks during a shadow parliament session titled “A Fair and Acceptable Election Will Ensure Democracy’s Protection,” organized by Debate for Democracy at the Bangladesh Film Development Corporation (BFDC) in Tejgaon, Dhaka, on Saturday morning.

Dr. Majumdar expressed hope that political parties would sign the July Charter, emphasizing that the National Consensus Commission would recommend to the government whether the referendum and the national election should occur simultaneously. However, he noted that the final decision would be made through discussions between the government and the Election Commission.

Highlighting the need for public support, Dr. Majumdar stressed that efforts must be made to ensure a “yes” vote in the referendum. He criticized the autocratic framework left by the Sheikh Hasina government, underscoring the necessity of reforming it through the adoption of the July Charter. He warned that if the next government fails to implement the charter, it could face consequences similar to those of the previous regime. Dr. Majumdar also emphasized preventing a change in power from becoming a mere shift in corruption, advocating for a fair election, the rule of law, and the protection of political rights to safeguard democracy.

The Sujon secretary called for the establishment of a caretaker government during elections, urging the elimination of thuggery from politics and elections, and the strengthening of the Election Commission’s independence and effectiveness.

In his keynote address, Hasan Ahmed Chowdhury Kiron, Chairman of Debate for Democracy, expressed optimism about the upcoming national election scheduled for February, stating that consensus on the July Charter has progressed from a “silver lining to a golden one.” He noted that all democratic political parties aspire for a fair, transparent, and acceptable election, with citizens eagerly awaiting the opportunity to vote for their preferred candidates.

Kiron added that the July Charter is set to be signed on October 15 under the leadership of interim government chief Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus. However, he cautioned that political rivalries could hinder this process, risking the democratic process and stalling justice for the atrocities committed during the past 16 years of fascist rule, including murders and enforced disappearances during the July uprising. He warned that failure to hold elections could allow fallen fascist forces to regain strength, emphasizing that there is no alternative to elections to restore democracy and voting rights. Kiron urged anti-fascist political parties to unite, setting aside divisive politics, to ensure the national election takes place in February.

The shadow parliament featured participation from debaters of Tejgaon College and Prime Asia University. The judging panel included Professor Abu Muhammad Rais, Dr. Tajul Islam Chowdhury Tuhin, senior journalist Mainul Alam, and journalists Md. Humayun Kabir and Zakir Hossain Liton. Trophies, crests, and certificates were awarded to the participating teams at the conclusion of the competition.

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CPD Urges Swift Transition to Elected Government to Revive Economy, Highlights Banking Sector Challenges

Dhaka, September 28, 2025: The Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD) has called for the urgent transfer of power to an elected government to bolster Bangladesh’s economy. Speaking at a shadow parliament debate competition on bank mergers organized by Debate for Democracy at BFDC in the capital on Saturday morning, CPD Executive Director Dr. Fahmida Khatun emphasized the need for political stability to foster a robust economy.

Dr. Khatun stated that a strong economy cannot thrive under weak governance, as politics and economics are interlinked. She warned that prolonged interim governance is detrimental to the economy, hindering investment and job creation. To restore discipline in the financial sector, she stressed the necessity of holding elections promptly to establish a political government.

Reflecting on the past year, Dr. Khatun noted that while some economic indicators have been maintained, the overall crisis persists, and poverty reduction remains elusive. She criticized the previous government for approving an excessive number of banks based on political considerations, a practice she claimed is unparalleled globally. She further alleged that banks were used as tools for asset accumulation.

Commenting on the interim government’s initiative to merge weak banks, Dr. Khatun described the process as complex and risky, noting that it has caused confusion and uncertainty among the public.

In his remarks, Hasan Ahmed Chowdhury Kiron, Chairman of Debate for Democracy, accused certain Bangladesh Bank officials under the previous Awami League government of enabling financial sector mafias through misuse of power. He claimed that a “mafia economy” prevailed, with banks like Islami Bank being looted in plain sight. Depositors’ funds were not only misappropriated but also siphoned off abroad, leaving customers anxious and uncertain about recovering their savings. Many depositors, unable to access funds for critical expenses like medical treatment, have faced severe hardships, with some even passing away.

Kiron highlighted the staggering 6 to 7 lakh crore Taka in defaulted loans, which remain unrecovered due to problematic or encumbered collateral properties that cannot be auctioned. He noted that influential owners deter potential buyers, further complicating recovery efforts. Additionally, he alleged that politically connected bank owners under the previous regime plundered both movable and immovable assets.

The shadow parliament debate, titled “Bank Mergers Will Restore Discipline in the Banking Sector,” saw the debating team from Government Teachers’ Training College, Dhaka, emerge victorious over Southeast University. The event was judged by Professor Dr. Tajul Islam Chowdhury Tuhin, senior journalist Mainul Alam, professional accountant Abul Bashir Khan, and journalists Md. Alamgir Hossain and Refayet Ullah Mirdha. Trophies, crests, and certificates were awarded to the participating teams.

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Seminar in Dhaka Highlights Higher Education Opportunities in Russia

A comprehensive seminar was recently held at the Russian House in Dhaka, focusing on higher education opportunities for Bangladeshi students under the Russian Government’s scholarship quota.

Held on September 24, the seminar informed participants about the selection process for higher and additional professional education programs in Russia. Detailed guidance was provided on applying and submitting documents via the online platform.

Speakers highlighted Russia’s longstanding contribution to Bangladesh’s education sector, noting that thousands of Bangladeshi students have studied at Russian universities over the decades. Dr. Mahamudul Hasan, an alumnus of the N.N. Blokhin National Medical Research Center of Oncology, shared his personal academic journey in Russia.

Russia currently offers over 750 universities and 650 specialized fields. For the 2026 academic year, around 200 government quotas have been allocated for Bangladeshi students, with applications open until January.

The seminar also introduced opportunities to learn Russian, participate in youth programs, and engage with the Russian House’s various initiatives.

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