Severely injured for refusing to pay extortion money

 

In Shailkupa, Jhenaidah, extortionists severely injured a cattle farm manager, Alam Sheikh, for refusing to pay extortion money. The incident occurred on Sunday evening in Par Kancherkol village. Alam Sheikh was admitted to Shailkupa Upazila Health Complex in critical condition. Locals reported that the extortionists had been demanding money from the farm owner for a long time. Frustrated by the owner's absence abroad, they attacked the manager. A case is being prepared to file with the police.

AI/MR

বিস্তারিত পড়ুন

Harmony of the New Year, End of Fascism”

On the occasion of Pahela Baishakh, a colorful Boishakh celebration rally was organized at the Faculty of Fine Arts of Dhaka University. The rally started at 9:00 AM and concluded at 10:30 AM in front of the Fine Arts premises. The theme of this year’s event was *“Harmony of the New Year, End of Fascism”*, led by Dhaka University Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Niaz Ahmed Khan.

The vibrant procession included university faculty, students, representatives from cultural organizations, farmers, rickshaw pullers, female football players, and members of 28 indigenous communities. Thousands of participants made the celebration even more dynamic. Adorned with colorful masks, posters, placards, and traditional decorations, the rally was full of festivity. In solidarity with Palestine, the rally featured the Palestinian flag and symbolic motifs like watermelon slices. Additionally, the rally displayed 21 artistic installations, including the central piece titled *"Portrait of Tyranny”*.

AI/MR

বিস্তারিত পড়ুন

Childrens Pahela Boishakh

 

The joyous Boishakh procession at Dhaka University’s Faculty of Fine Arts showcased the innocent delight of children celebrating the Bengali New Year. Starting at 9 a.m. on Monday, the parade included kids like Bishank, Abdullah, and Abdur Rahman, who joined with their parents from Lalbagh to participate.  

Bishank’s father shared that exploring the fair and being part of the colorful procession offered the children a unique experience of happiness. Bishank himself expressed his excitement about having “Shubho Noboborsho” painted on his cheek and buying toys such as spinning tops.  

The "Boishakh Festival Procession," starting in front of the Faculty of Fine Arts, passed through different landmarks within the  before concluding back at its origin.

AI/MR

বিস্তারিত পড়ুন

Investment Summit Yields Proposals Worth BDT 3,100 Crore: BIDA Chairman

 

Ashik Chowdhury, Chairman of the Bangladesh Investment Development Authority (BIDA), revealed that the investment summit held in Dhaka brought in foreign investment proposals totaling BDT 3,100 crore. The primary objective of the summit was to reintroduce Bangladesh to international investors from a fresh perspective.

During a press conference on Sunday (April 13), he stated, “Investors visiting Bangladesh for the first time mentioned that it's challenging to understand the country's true potential without being here. We've organized this summit modeled on similar events in developed nations, aiming to reshape investors’ perceptions of Bangladesh.”

Chowdhury addressed the fact that Bangladesh is internationally recognized as a densely populated South Asian country. However, he noted that the real scenario differs significantly—a reality understood through direct experience by investors.

The government spent BDT 1 crore on hosting the summit, while other partners contributed the remaining expenses. Chowdhury emphasized evaluating the success of the summit not only by the amount of investment secured but also by the shift in investor perspectives.

The chairman expressed hope that the summit would further improve Bangladesh's investment environment in the future. 

AI/MR

বিস্তারিত পড়ুন

Where Freedom of Voice Exists, There Lies Democracy

Democracy thrives on the foundation of freedom of expression. This isn’t just a right; it’s a reflection of a society’s ethical and cultural advancement. In places where freedom of voice is restricted, democracy transforms into a mere facade—a system devoid of its true essence. In this editorial, we delve deeper into the significance of free speech, the challenges it faces, and the ways to protect it.

Freedom of Voice: The Core of Democracy

Freedom of voice is one of the fundamental human rights. It ensures that every individual has the ability to express their thoughts without fear or hesitation. Democracy, by definition, is a system of governance that serves the people and functions based on the people’s will. This will cannot be accurately represented without free and open expression. Without freedom of voice, democracy is blind—it loses its connection to the needs, opinions, and concerns of its citizens.

The Lack of Freedom of Voice: A Global Perspective

Across the globe, restrictions on freedom of voice still prevail. Suppression of dissent, control over the press, and barriers to individual expression are rampant. These actions distort the true essence of democracy. For instance, in some nations, journalists face threats, dissenters are imprisoned, and social media is heavily monitored—creating an environment of fear and silence. Such practices pose significant threats to democratic ideals.

Protecting Freedom of Voice

1. Education and Awareness: Citizens need to be educated about their rights. Awareness campaigns can help people understand why freedom of expression is vital for a thriving democracy.

2. Independent Media: Media outlets must operate without external influence or bias, ensuring that they can provide truthful information to the public.

3. Enforcement of Laws: Legal systems should be robust enough to prevent any acts of suppression against freedom of voice.

4. Social Movements: Unity among citizens can lead to powerful social movements that fight for the right to free expression. These movements are vital for preserving democratic values.

5. International Cooperation: Collaboration between nations can strengthen efforts to uphold freedom of voice on a global scale.

The Future of Democracy: An Optimistic View

Where freedom of voice prevails, the future of democracy is bright. It is not merely a system of governance but also a social contract where every individual enjoys the right to express themselves freely. Protecting this right requires collective efforts from every corner of society.

Conclusion

“Where freedom of voice exists, there lies democracy” is not just a phrase; it’s an ideal. To bring this ideal into reality, active participation from citizens, institutions, and governments is essential. Democracy is not just about governing; it’s about creating a society where every voice matters and every perspective contributes to the greater good.

বাংলায় পড়ুন

বিস্তারিত পড়ুন

Hefazat and NCP Agree on Awami League's Dissolution

On April 9, Hefazat-e-Islam Bangladesh and the National Citizen Party (NCP) convened for a discussion meeting. During the meeting, they reached a consensus on the dissolution of the Awami League, including its trial, cancellation of registration, and suspension of political activities. Additionally, they deliberated on declaring the party a terrorist organization and expediting the withdrawal of cases filed against political parties during the Awami League's tenure.

The NCP's press releases highlighted agreement on four key points.

AI/MR

খবর টি বাংলায় পড়ুন

বিস্তারিত পড়ুন