INSERT INTO `news_details` (`id`, `news_id`, `details`, `ticker`, `representative`, `keyword`, `video_link`, `google_drive_link`, `audio_link`, `shoulder`, `created_at`, `updated_at`) VALUES
(8060, 8060, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>A 3-year-old child accidentally shot and killed their one-year-old sister in California, it was reported. The incident took place in Fallbrook in San Diego County.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>The police said that they responded to a call from the child. Upon arriving at the scene, they found that the 3-year-old child had accidentally shot and killed their one-year-old sister. The child had found an unsecured handgun in the house.</div><div><br></div><div>The one-year-old had a head injury. Fire department personnel transported the child to Palomar Hospital where she was pronounced dead.</div><div><br></div><div>“When North County Fire Protection District firefighters arrived on the scene, they found a 1-year-old girl suffering from at least one gunshot wound, and in CPR status,” officials said.</div><div><br></div><div>\"The family\'s 1-year-old, whose name is not being released at this point out of respect for the family and the fact she is a juvenile, had a head injury,\" they added. Source: HT</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', '<p>US<br></p>', 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-19 02:42:36', '2023-07-19 02:42:36'),
(8061, 8061, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today asked the authorities concerned for revising the rate schedules of different works of development projects in line with the changing prices of construction materials.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>The Premier also directed the authorities concerned to consider the latest exchange rate of US dollars before preparing the drafts of the development projects as the exchange rate of US dollars often influence the overall expenditure of the projects.</div><div><br></div><div>The Prime Minister gave such directives while chairing the 1st meeting of the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council (ECNEC) of this fiscal year (FY24) held today at the NEC Conference room in the city\'s Sher-e-Bangla Nagar area.</div><div><br></div><div>Briefing reporters after the meeting, Planning Minister MA Mannan said that the Prime Minister in the meeting noted that the prices of construction materials like iron, cement, stones and bricks are witnessing an uptrend in the market, for which the prices of such items often go up during the implementation period compared to the exact time of framing the rate schedule of development projects.</div><div><br></div><div>Acknowledging the facts, Mannan said that the Premier had noted that this could happen in the growing global economy.</div><div><br></div><div>He said that Sheikh Hasina, in this regard, asked the authorities concerned, including the Ministry of Finance, to revise the rate schedules as per the necessity and changing of prices of construction materials.</div><div><br></div><div>Noting that the exchange rate of US dollars also influences the overall expenditure of the development schemes, the Prime Minister also suggested accommodating the latest exchange rate before finalizing the overall expenditure or financial estimation of the projects.</div><div><br></div><div>\"The Prime Minister has clearly directed the Ministry of Finance and other concerned agencies to address these issues,\" added Mannan.</div><div><br></div><div>The Planning Minister said that the Prime Minister has directed the Ministry of Law to take necessary steps for disposing of tax related pending cases with the Supreme Court and thus realizing taxes to enrich the state coffer.</div><div><br></div><div>Referring to a project for constructing Urirchar-Noakhali Cross Dam, Mannan said that the Prime Minister strongly asked the Ministry of Water Resources to remain cautious while dealing with the project since coastal areas are involved in it.</div><div><br></div><div>She cautioned that the adjacent islands, areas and channels should not be disturbed during the implementation of this project.</div><div><br></div><div>Directing the authorities concerned to take necessary steps for preserving the seasonal vegetables and fruits, the Prime Minister noted that countries like Thailand, Vietnam have become successful in the business and export of fruits after preserving and bottling those. Such process can also be followed in Bangladesh, she added.</div><div><br></div><div>In order to avoid duplication of projects in the same area, the Premier asked the authorities concerned to become more cautious and thus work in an integrated manner. \"If there is overlapping, then there can be misuse of funds,\" Mannan said quoting the Prime Minister as saying.</div><div><br></div><div>Referring to the \'Amar Gram-Amar Shohor\' project, Mannan said Sheikh Hasina said that this is a pilot project and its experiments could be useful in the future.</div><div><br></div><div>But, she said no further projects would be taken in future under the same title while all concerned agencies should work in an integrated manner.</div><div><br></div><div>The Planning Minister said that in the ECNEC meeting, the Prime Minister was apprised of the findings of two BBS surveys on Literacy Assessment and ICT Use and thus expressed her satisfaction over the results.</div><div><br></div><div>Planning Division Secretary Satyajit Karmakar said that the \'Amar Gram Amar Shohor\' project has been taken on a pilot basis based on the findings of a study. Source: BSS</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-19 03:45:47', '2023-07-19 03:45:47'),
(8062, 8062, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The holy Ashura, commemorating the martyrdom of Prophet Hazrat Muhammad\'s (PBUH) grandson Hazrat Imam Hossain Ibn Ali (RA), will be observed in the country on July 29 as the Muharram moon was not sighted in the sky today.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>So, the month of Muharram will start on Thursday (July 20, 2023) while the 30th day of Zil Hajj month will be tomorrow (Wednesday), said a press release.</div><div><br></div><div>Therefore, the holy Ashura will be celebrated on July 29 (Saturday).</div><div><br></div><div>The decision was taken at a meeting of the National Moon Sighting Committee at Islamic Foundation (IF) conference room in Baitul Mukarram National Mosque this evening.</div><div><br></div><div>State Minister for Religious Affairs Md Faridul Haque Khan chaired the meeting. Source: BSS</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-19 03:51:00', '2023-07-19 03:51:00'),
(8063, 8063, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">India\'s space chief says a giant metal dome that washed up on an Australian beach was definitely part of a rocket - but may or may not be Indian.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We can\'t confirm it\'s ours unless we analyse it,\" S Somanath told the BBC.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">There has been wild speculation about the object ever since it was discovered at Green Head beach, about 250km (155 miles) north of Perth, at the weekend.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Some even said it may be from India\'s latest Moon mission launch last Friday but experts quickly ruled that out.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The cylindrical object, about 2.5m wide and between 2.5m and 3m long, has generated a lot of excitement among the residents of Green Head beach.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It was initially speculated that the wreckage could be a part of MH370 - a plane that went missing off the west Australian coast in 2014 with 239 passengers on board.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">But aviation experts soon clarified that the item couldn\'t have come from a commercial aircraft and that it was possibly a fuel tank from a rocket that had fallen into the Indian Ocean at some stage.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Australian Space Agency then said it was possible the giant cylinder could have fallen from a \"foreign space launch vehicle\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">This resulted in speculation that the object was a fuel tank of a PSLV - the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicles that the Indian Space Research Organisation (Isro) regularly uses to launch satellites into space.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Since one was most recently used last Friday to send the Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft into orbit, it led to speculation that the debris came from that - despite experts saying the object had been in the water for at least a few months. Photos showing its extensive barnacle cover support that argument.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Mr Somanath, who heads Isro, told the BBC that there was \"no mystery\" about the object, confirming that \"it is part of some rocket\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"It could be a PSLV or any other and unless we see and analyse it, it cannot be confirmed,\" he said. The Australian authorities have yet to release more details.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Mr Somanath, however, confirmed that \"some of the PSLV parts are known to have fallen in the sea beyond Australia\'s Exclusive Economic Zone\" and said that the object \"may have been floating for a long time and finally reached shore\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He added that there was no danger associated with the debris.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Authorities in Australia, however, have said they were treating the item \"as hazardous\" and police have requested people to keep a safe distance. Some experts said it could contain toxic materials. BBC</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-19 12:45:17', '2023-07-19 12:45:17'),
(8064, 8064, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">A senior Conservative MP has been criticised for claiming there had been improvements in Afghanistan.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Tobias Ellwood, who is chair of the Commons Defence Committee, described it as a \"country transformed\" following a recent visit. He also called for the UK government to re-engage with the Taliban and for Kabul\'s British embassy to reopen.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He put out a tweet with a video saying that security was vastly improved, corruption reduced and the opium trade \"ended\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Some social media users criticised the comments, pointing out the massive curtailment of rights for women and girls under Taliban rule.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Taliban chief spokesman, Zabihullah Mujahid, shared the video but erroneously described the Bournemouth East MP as \"a British reporter\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In his tweet, Mr Elwood wrote that the \"opium trade ended\" (although in the accompanying video he qualified it by saying the trade had \"all but disappeared\").</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">However, this claim is incorrect.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Opium cultivation in 2022 was up by 32% compared with 2021, according to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Taliban took over in August 2021 and announced a ban on opium cultivation the following April. A BBC investigation this year found that this was beginning to have an effect with a huge fall in poppy production in major opium-growing provinces.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">However, the ban on production doesn\'t mean the end of the opium trade. Experts says that while production has significantly reduced in poppy-growing areas, the opium trade out of Afghanistan has not stopped.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Given that prices have unsurprisingly increased and farmers or traders are stockpiling their inventories, it seems very unlikely that trading will or can be stopped,\" says Prof Jonathan Goodhand, an Afghanistan expert at SOAS University of London.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Mr Ellwood told the BBC he was basing his claim on a visit to Helmand and Kandahar provinces, as well as his time in the capital, Kabul.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said: \"I\'m sure it\'s still grown, but as a \'mass trade\' the locals reported it is no longer there.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He clarified to the BBC his observation was based on conversations with locals.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Corruption in Afghanistan has fallen slightly in 2022, according to Berlin-based Transparency International - an organisation that tracks corruption globally using World Bank and World Economic Forum data.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Afghanistan ranked 150 out of the 180 countries, improving slightly from its 2021 ranking of 174, but still very low.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Experts say this slight improvement might be because the massive inflows of military assistance and foreign aid spending have stopped, which some believe were fuelling local corruption.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Prof Goodhand says the Taliban does have a \"commitment to tackle \'immoral\' behaviour,\" but also warns that it may not last as petty corruption continues in the country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Jan Koehler, a researcher on Afghanistan at SOAS says there\'s evidence of other forms of corruption.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He says this includes the \"misuse of power to get people into jobs, and personal ties enabling access to the Taliban very much improving ones chances to get one\'s way in land, water or other resource conflicts\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The number of casualties recorded after the Taliban takeover are well below figures from previous years, when foreign forces were still in the country fighting the Taliban.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Taliban members stand guard at border posts into Afghanistan</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Between August 2021 and May 2023, total civilian casualties stood at 3,774, according to the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In the years before the Taliban takeover, levels of violence were much higher, with civilian casualties peaking in 2016 at over 11,000.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">But rebel groups like the local Islamic State group (which opposes the Taliban) continue to target both the Taliban themselves and civilians.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The UN says that there has been a \"rise in attacks on places of worship and against minority groups\" by such groups.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It also highlights violence directed by some Taliban members against civilian and military officials associated with the former Afghan government.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">As for women\'s safety, a survey conducted earlier this year by UN showed that 68% women believed their physical safety was \"very bad\" or \"bad\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Taliban has also imposed increasing restrictions on women and girl\'s ability to work, attend school and university or freely move in public spaces. BBC</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-19 12:49:29', '2023-07-19 12:49:29'),
(8065, 8065, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">North Korea fired two short-range ballistic missiles into its eastern sea early Wednesday in what appeared to be a statement of defiance as the United States deployed a nuclear-armed submarine to South Korea for the first time in decades.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The launches came as the U.S.-led United Nations Command tries to secure the release of a U.S. soldier who fled to North Korea from the South Korean side of a border village Tuesday afternoon.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Private 2nd Class Travis King, in his early 20s, had just been released from a South Korean prison where he was held on assault charges. Instead of getting on a plane to be taken back to Fort Bliss, Texas, he left and joined a tour of the Korean border village of Panmunjom, where he ran across the border, U.S. officials say.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff said that from 3:30 to 3:46 a.m. North Korea fired two short-range ballistic missiles from an area near capital Pyongyang that flew about 550 kilometers (341 miles) before landing in waters east of the Korean Peninsula.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Those flight details were similar to the assessment of the Japanese military, which said the missiles landed outside of Japan’s exclusive economic zone and that there were no immediate reports of damage from ships or aircraft in affected areas.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The flight distance of the North Korean missiles roughly matched the distance between Pyongyang and the South Korean port city of Busan, where the USS Kentucky arrived Tuesday afternoon in the first visit by a U.S. nuclear-armed submarine to South Korea since the 1980s.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Japanese Defense Minister Yasukazu Hamada told reporters that the North Korean missiles traveled on a low trajectory, with their maximum altitude reaching about 50 kilometers (31 miles), and possibly demonstrated “irregular maneuver” in flight.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Japan has previously used similar language to describe the flight characteristics of a North Korean weapon modeled after Russia’s Iskander missile, which travels at low altitudes and is designed to be maneuverable in flight to improve its chances of evading missile defenses.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff condemned the North Korean launches as “major provocation” that threatens peace and stability in the region and said the South Korean and U.S. militaries were closely monitoring the North for further weapons activities.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Wednesday’s launches marked the North’s first ballistic activity since July 12, when it flight-tested a new solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile that demonstrated potential range to reach deep into the U.S. mainland. That launch was supervised by the country’s authoritarian leader Kim Jong Un, who vowed to further bolster his country’s nuclear fighting capabilities in the face of expanding U.S.-South Korean military activities, which he blamed for worsening the security environment on the Korean Peninsula.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Tensions have rose in the region in recent months as the pace of both North Korean weapons tests and U.S.-South Korean joint military drills have increased in a cycle of tit-for-tat.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Since the start of 2022, North Korea has test-fired around 100 missiles while attempting to demonstrate a dual ability to conduct nuclear attacks on both South Korea and the continental United States. The allies in response have stepped up their joint military training and agreed to increase the deployments of U.S. strategic assets like long-range bombers, aircraft carriers and submarines to the region.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Periodic visits by U.S. nuclear ballistic missile-capable submarines to South Korea were one of several agreements reached by U.S. President Joe Biden and South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol in April in response to North Korea’s expanding nuclear threat. They also agreed to further expand combined military exercises, strengthen joint planning for nuclear contingencies and establish a bilateral Nuclear Consultative Group, which held its inaugural meeting in Seoul Tuesday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The steps were meant to ease South Korean concerns about North Korea\'s growing nuclear weapons arsenal and suppress voices within the South calling for the country to pursue its own nuclear weapons program.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">U.S. Forces Korea said in a statement that the Kentucky\'s arrival in Busan reflects the United States\' “ironclad” commitment to “extended deterrence,” referring to an assurance to defend its ally with its full military capabilities, including nuclear ones.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Ohio-class submarine can be equipped with about 20 Trident II ballistic missiles with a range of 12,000 kilometers (7,456 miles), according to South Korea\'s military.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“From this submarine, the U.S. can launch attacks (on North Korea) from anywhere in the world,\" said Moon Keun-sik, a submarine expert who teaches at Kyonggi University in South Korea. “But there will likely be backlashes from North Korea and China because it’s like the world’s most covert and threatening nuclear weapons forces being deployed on their doorsteps.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">While some South Korean conservatives have expressed disappointment that the Biden-Yoon meeting in April came short of agreeing to station U.S. nuclear weapons or strategic assets in the South, placing nuclear weapons offshore and on submarines is “actually a stronger deterrent in many ways,” said Duyeon Kim, a senior analyst at Washington’s Center for a New American Security.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Deterrence is strengthened when the location of American strategic assets is unknown to the adversary as long as the adversary knows that these weapons exist,” said Kim.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Still, Seoul and Washington will need to find the “sweet spot” when it comes to the visibility of America’s extended deterrent.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Too much visibility of strategic assets could actually undermine the deterrent effect while too little could raise questions in Seoul about commitment,\" Kim said. AP/UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-19 14:14:13', '2023-07-19 14:14:13'),
(8066, 8066, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The nation is observing the 11th death anniversary of the iconic writer, filmmaker Humayun Ahmed today.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Widely considered one of the cornerstones of modern Bangla literature, the legendary writer passed away on July 19, 2012, due to colorectal cancer at the age of 63 at Bellevue Hospital, New York, in the United States.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">His family and several organizations are observing the day with different programmes and events.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Humayun Ahmed\'s widow and actress-media personality Meher Afroz Shaon, alongside their two sons Ninit and Nishad, placed wreaths at his grave in Nuhash Palli, Gazipur in the morning.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Special prayers and Quran Khatam have been organized since morning, and a prayer ceremony was also held to seek eternal peace of his soul. Orphans will be fed at noon marking the occasion, according to both Shaon and the authority of Nuhash Palli.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Himu Paribahan, a renowned fan unit of the prolific writer, has been observing the special day since 2013. Members of the platform placed wreaths at the writer\'s grave in the morning.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Several other organisations are also commemorating the day with various events, while fans and admirers are sharing emotional tributes to the legend on their social media accounts.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Television channels and radio stations are also airing various programmes, highlighting the life and glorious career of the wordsmith.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Humayun Ahmed was born in Kutubpur village at Mohanganj, Netrakona to Foyzur Rahman Ahmed and Ayesha Foyez on November 13, 1948.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He passed the School Certificate (1965) from Bogra Zilla School, Intermediate from Dhaka College and earned his BSc and MSc in Chemistry from Dhaka University with first class. He joined Dhaka University as a lecturer of Chemistry and later went to North Dakota State University in the United States to pursue his PhD in Polymer Chemistry.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\'Nondito Noroke\' (1972) was Humayun Ahmed\'s debut novel, which gave him the breakthrough and propelled his career as a writer. The Ekushey Padak winner writer wrote over 200 fiction and non-fiction books, all of which were bestsellers in Bangladesh to date.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He won Bangla Academy Award, Lekhak Shibir Award, Shishu Academy Award, Michael Madhusudan Padak, Bachsas Award, and more for his outstanding contributions in his illustrious career to the Bengali culture and entertainment sphere.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Humayun Ahmed debuted with his drama \'Prothom Prohor\' (1983) for Bangladesh Television (BTV). His successful journey in television continued with popular drama serials \'Ei Shob Din Ratri\', \'Bohubrihi\', \'Ayomoy\', \'Nokkhotrer Raat\', \'Aaj Robibar\' and most notably, \'Kothao Keu Nei\' which created a never-before-seen hype in the nation surrounding the lead character \'Baker Bhai\', portrayed by veteran actor Asaduzzaman Noor.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Humayun Ahmed also explored success as a filmmaker in the early 1990s and went on to make a total of eight films in his filmmaking career, each based on his novels. Two of his films, ‘Shyamol Chhaya’ (2004) and \'Ghetuputra Komola\' (2012) were the official Bangladeshi submissions for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in their respective years.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He received seven Bangladesh National Film Awards in different categories for the films \'Shonkhonil Karagar\' (as screenwriter), \'Aguner Poroshmoni\', \'Daruchini Dwip\' and \'Ghetuputra Komola\'. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bndd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-19 15:06:58', '2023-07-19 15:06:58'),
(8067, 8067, '<div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Natural gas leaked from a defective fitting at a Pennsylvania chocolate factory where a powerful explosion leveled one building, heavily damaged another and killed seven people, federal safety investigators said Tuesday as they continued to investigate the cause of the blast.</span></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">One of two leaks at the R.M. Palmer Co. plant in West Reading was traced to a gas fitting that was installed in 1982 and was determined to have fractured, according to an investigative update released by the National Transportation Safety Board. Investigators also determined there was a small leak on a natural gas fitting installed in 2021, the board said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The older fitting, made by DuPont, had a known tendency to crack, and it was added to a federal government list of pipe materials with “poor performance histories\" in 2007, the safety board said. But it was left in place during utility work two years ago and remained connected to the natural gas system.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The findings outraged lawyers for the victims\' families.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“It\'s one thing to lose a family member because of some unforeseen, unknown hazard,” said attorney Robert Mongeluzzi, who has filed suit against Palmer, DuPont and UGI Corp., the natural gas utility that served the chocolate factory. \"But here, this was a problem and a defect that has been known for decades, and that makes the loss and the tragedy even worse.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">About 70 Palmer production workers and 35 office staff were working in two adjacent buildings at the time of the March 24 blast. Employees in both buildings told federal investigators they could smell gas before the explosion. Workers at the plant have accused Palmer of ignoring warnings of a natural gas leak, saying the plant, in a small town 60 miles (96 kilometers) northwest of Philadelphia, should have been evacuated.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">UGI, which provided natural gas to the factory complex via two mains, has said there wasn’t any utility work going on in the area, and that it detected no sudden surge in gas usage before the explosion.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Safety investigators determined that UGI replaced a service line at the Palmer plant in 2021, but kept the 1982 service tee connected to the system and fully pressurized.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“We have reason to believe that UGI was very well aware of the dangerous, defective problems with the DuPont piping, yet left that DuPont piping in place in 2021,” said attorney Andrew Duffy, who works with Mongeluzzi to represent survivors and families of victims. Noting the safety board also found a leak in the new piping, he added: “Seven people lost their lives due to shoddy materials and shoddy work.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Civil litigation filed after the Palmer blast said older plastic pipe manufactured by DuPont and others has long been linked to failures around the country. Federal regulators said as far back as 1998 that much of the plastic pipe manufactured for natural gas service from the 1960s through the early 1980s was susceptible to cracking.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Investigators said they are looking at the gas leaks as a possible cause or contributor of the chocolate factory blast, but have made no conclusions.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“We are not at a point to say what caused the explosion,” NTSB spokesperson Keith Holloway said Tuesday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The cracked fitting was less than two feet from other pipelines that ran between the two plant buildings, including a steam line, a condensate line and several pipelines filled with heated chocolate. Investigators said they also saw a crack in the steam line.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">UGI said it’s aware of the safety board report and is cooperating. The utility declined further comment on an ongoing investigation. “Our focus and commitment remains with the victims and the West Reading community,” said utility spokesperson Joe Swope.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Palmer said in a statement that it remains focused on rebuilding and “doing all we can to help the entire West Reading community recover.” DuPont said it was reviewing the safety board\'s report but declined further comment, citing the civil litigation. AP/UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bndb24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-19 15:21:31', '2023-07-19 15:21:31'),
(8068, 8068, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Dhaka\'s air quality continues to be in the ‘moderate’ zone.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">With an air quality index (AQI) score of 95 at 8:47 am, the capital of Bangladesh ranked 15th on the list of cities worldwide with the worst air quality.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The United Arab Emirates’ Dubai, Saudi Arabia’s Riyadh and Indonesia’s Jakarta occupied the first three spots on the list, with AQI scores of 186, 164, and 158, respectively.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">An AQI between 50 and 100 is considered ‘moderate’ with an acceptable air quality. However, there may be a moderate health concern for a very small number of people who are unusually sensitive to air pollution.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">An AQI between 101 and 200 is considered \'unhealthy\', particularly for sensitive groups.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Similarly, an AQI between 201 and 300 is said to be \'poor\', while a reading of 301 to 400 is considered \'hazardous\', posing serious health risks to residents.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In Bangladesh, the AQI is based on five criteria pollutants -- Particulate Matter (PM10 and PM2.5), NO2, CO, SO2 and Ozone.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Dhaka has long been grappling with air pollution issues. Its air quality usually turns unhealthy in winter and improves during the monsoon.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Air pollution consistently ranks among the top risk factors for death and disability worldwide. Breathing polluted air has long been recognised as increasing a person’s chances of developing a heart disease, chronic respiratory diseases, lung infections and cancer, according to several studies.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">As per the World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution kills an estimated seven million people worldwide every year, largely as a result of increased mortality from stroke, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer and acute respiratory infections. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-19 15:24:30', '2023-07-19 15:24:30'),
(8069, 8069, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The Bangladesh-UK relationship is transitioning to a deeper economic, migration and security partnership, while helping to protect Bangladesh’s development gains, said the British foreign ministry.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The UK’s development offer in Bangladesh aligns with the UK government’s Strategy for International Development (IDS) and government of Bangladesh’s strategies and plans.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Bangladesh is an increasingly important strategic partner for the UK in the Indo-Pacific region and it is a key player in upholding the Rules-Based International System (RBIS),\" said the Foreign, Commonwealth &amp; Development Office in a policy paper on UK–Bangladesh development partnership.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Strategy for International Development (IDS) places development at the heart of the UK’s foreign policy.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It sets out a new approach to development, anchored in patient, long-term partnerships tailored to the needs of the countries.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">This approach goes beyond aid and brings the combined power of the UK’s global economic, scientific, security and diplomatic strengths to development partnerships.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Country Development Partnership Summary details how the IDS and IR23 will be put into practice with Bangladesh.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Bangladesh is a Lower-Middle Income (L-MIC) country with aspirations to become an Upper Middle Income Country (U-MIC) by 2031.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The United Kingdom and Bangladesh have a long-standing partnership built on shared economic, security, development and people to people ties.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The UK was one of the first countries to recognise Bangladesh and the countries celebrated 50 years of partnership in 2021.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Bangladesh has made significant progress on development and it will graduate from Least Developed Country status in 2026.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It was the world’s second-poorest country at independence and had a Gross National Income (GNI) per person of $120 in 1973. It is now the world’s 33rd largest economy with GNI per person of $2,570.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Annual GDP growth has averaged about 6% since 2011, except in 2020 because of COVID-19. Growth has been fuelled by the expansion of garment exports, overseas remittances, external support, and domestic consumption.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Bangladesh has a strong record on poverty reduction and improvement in a range of social indicators.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Despite this progress, Bangladesh faces a range of development challenges as it strives to meet the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030, said the British Foreign Ministry.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Bangladesh is highly vulnerable to the impact of extreme weather events.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Global Climate Risk Index highlights that Bangladesh was the 7th most climate vulnerable country in the world in 2019.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It is one of the world’s most densely populated countries with more than one third of the population living in urban areas.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Decades of high growth and impressive human development gains in Bangladesh are set against governance and democracy challenges, said the policy paper.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">To overcome these development challenges, the UK said, a number of key economic and policy reforms have been identified by both the government of Bangladesh and development partners.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The government of Bangladesh has outlined rapid and transformational shifts in agriculture, trade, education, healthcare, transportation, communication and in conducting business in the 2021 to 2041 Perspective Plan.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It also stressed the need for institutional and governance improvements to drive economic development.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The UK is increasingly providing expertise and knowledge to support Bangladesh’s development.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We will continue to prioritise areas where analysis shows this is key to systemic change, whether economic - promoting trade and investment, political - supporting peaceful politics or social - women’s rights,\" said the UK government.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A deeper and broader economic partnership will help Bangladesh access new sources of affordable finance for sustainable growth and build resilience against the impact of climate change, it said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“We will use technical and diplomatic expertise to support long term economic reforms and boost investment,” it added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The UK’s new Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS) will boost trade and British Investment International (BII) will expand its impact investment portfolio.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The UK has six strategic goals in Bangladesh.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">These goals bring together the strategic priorities and international objectives of the UK and Bangladesh to support progress on the SDGs.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">They also align with the UK’s IR23 and the IDS.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Goal 1: Foreign policy and security</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">UK will develop and maintain a strong and productive network of contacts in Bangladesh to support a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific region, that upholds the RBIS. UK will also support Bangladesh to remain a stable, reliable, and human rights compliant partner on UK national security interests and migration.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Goal 2: Democratic institutions and norms</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">UK will work with government, civil society, youth, political parties, and international partners to deliver this goal. UK will support Bangladesh institutions become more open, democratic, and inclusive, with greater transparency and accountability, respect for human rights, gender equality and ability to resolve conflict.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Goal 3: Women and girls and global health</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">UK will support government’s efforts to help ensure Bangladesh has the systems, policies, and practices in place that educates and empowers its people, especially women and girls, to protect their rights, fulfil their potential, and live healthy lives. UK will provide targeted technical assistance, combined with diplomatic lobbying, global, regional, and centrally managed programmes (CMP) and UK expertise to support this goal.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Goal 4: Economic reform, trade and investment</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">UK will support Bangladesh to deliver key reforms to help it reach upper middle-income status whilst building a closer economic and investment partnership. UK will deepen bilateral trade and investment partnership through better market access for British firms and the DCTS.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Goal 5: Climate change and environment</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">UK will ensure the partnership with Bangladesh delivers on climate change and environment commitments and contributes to the government’s efforts for a more climate resilient, less-carbon-intensive, and cleaner Bangladesh. UK will use targeted ODA programming, political engagement, centrally and regionally managed programmes, and UK technical expertise to support people to better adapt to the impacts of climate change.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Goal 6: Rohingya and disaster preparedness</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">UK will use its UN Security Council membership to continue to put pressure on Myanmar to resolve the crisis and call for accountability. UK will also deliver large scale life-saving humanitarian support to Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh and advocate for a more sustainable response to the protracted crisis. UK will also support Bangladesh to prepare and respond effectively to natural disasters across the country. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-19 15:29:52', '2023-07-19 15:29:52');
INSERT INTO `news_details` (`id`, `news_id`, `details`, `ticker`, `representative`, `keyword`, `video_link`, `google_drive_link`, `audio_link`, `shoulder`, `created_at`, `updated_at`) VALUES
(8070, 8070, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The United States has said it engages directly with Bangladeshi officials to discuss \"shared priorities\" for the two countries.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Talking to reporters during a regular briefing at the US State Department on July 18, its Spokesperson Matthew Miller said US Under Secretary Uzra Zeya emphasized in her trip the importance of the United States and Bangladesh working together to achieve Bangladesh’s goal of \"free and fair elections\" as well as the crucial role of civil society, human rights defenders, journalists, and labor activists, and accountability for human rights abuses.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"These are important issues in our bilateral relationship,\" he said, adding that senior officials from the United States regularly travel to Bangladesh.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Miller said the US Under Secretary also emphasized the importance of continuing to support the Rohingya refugees.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She visited Rohingya refugees as well as humanitarian partners and Bangladesh senior government officials in Cox’s Bazar and announced $74 million in additional humanitarian assistance to support Myanmar and Bangladesh response efforts.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"I will just say finally that the United States is dedicated to partnering with the government and civil society to address the scourge of human trafficking in the region,\" Miller said. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-19 16:33:06', '2023-07-19 16:33:06'),
(8071, 8071, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Extreme heat was forecast across the globe on Wednesday, as wildfires raged and health warnings were in place in parts of Asia, Europe and North America.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Firefighters battled blazes in parts of Greece and the Canary Islands while Spain issued heat alerts and some children in Italy\'s Sardinia were told to stay away from sports.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">From California to China, authorities warned of the health dangers brought by searing temperatures, urging people to drink water and shelter from the sun.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"You can\'t be in the street, it\'s horrible,\" said Lidia Rodriguez, 27, in Madrid.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Temperature records tumbled around the world, with new heat streaks set in China and the United States, and fresh highs in France.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Beijing broke a 23-year-old record with 27 consecutive days of temperatures above 35 degrees Celsius (95 Fahrenheit), forecasters said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Phoenix broke a similar record, in place for 49 years, with its 19th consecutive day of temperatures of 43.3 Celsius or higher, weather officials said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In southern France, a record 29.5C was recorded in the Alpine ski resort of Alpe d\'Huez, while 40.6C had been recorded for the first time in Verdun in the foothills of the Pyrenees.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In a stark reminder of the effects of global warming, the UN\'s World Meteorological Agency (WMO) said the trend showed \"no signs of decreasing\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"These events will continue to grow in intensity, and the world needs to prepare for more intense heatwaves,\" John Nairn, a senior extreme heat adviser at the WMO told reporters in Geneva.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">- Heatwave on horizon -</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Northwest of the Greek capital Athens, columns of smoke loomed over the forest of Dervenohoria, where one of several fires around the capital and beyond was still burning.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Fire spokesman Yannis Artopios called it \"a difficult day\", with another heatwave on the horizon for Thursday, with expected temperatures of 44C.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A forest fire by the seaside resort of Loutraki, where the mayor said 1,200 children had been evacuated Monday from holiday camps, was still burning.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In the Canary Islands, some 400 firefighters battled a blaze that has ravaged 3,500 hectares of forest and forced 4,000 residents to evacuate, with authorities warning residents to wear face masks outside due to poor air quality.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Temperatures were unforgiving in Italy and in Spain, where three regions were put under hot weather red alerts.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Italian islands of Sardinia and Sicily have been forecast to possibly surpass a continent-wide record of 48.8C recorded in Sicily in August 2021.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">At Lanusei, near Sardinia\'s eastern coast, a children\'s summer camp was restricting beach visits to the early morning and forbidding sports, teacher Morgana Cucca told AFP.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In the Sardinian capital of Cagliari, pharmacist Teresa Angioni said patients were complaining of heat-related symptoms.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"They mainly buy magnesium and potassium supplements and ask us to measure their blood pressure, which is often low,\" Angioni said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Many throughout Italy sought escape by the sea, including outside Rome, where the midday heat hit 40C.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Certainly it\'s better at the beach, you can at least get a little wind from the sea. It\'s not even possible to remain in the city, too hot,\" said Virginia Cesario, 30, at the Focene beach near the capital.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">- Climate change impact -</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Tens of millions of Americans experienced dangerous heat levels on Tuesday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In the town of San Angelo, Texas, where temperatures were expected to reach 104-108F (40-42C), the National Weather Service said it was \"running out of ways to say that it\'s gonna be hot out there today.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"With temperatures across the area likely topping the 105 mark yet again, we implore you to continue to practice heat safety and try to stay cool,\" the agency said on Twitter.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">And in Arizona, the mercury at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport again reached 110F on Tuesday, breaking the previous record of 18 consecutive days at or above that temperature, set in 1974.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The heat waves across Europe and the globe are \"not one single phenomenon but several acting at the same time\", said Robert Vautard, director of France\'s Pierre-Simon Laplace climate institute.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"But they are all strengthened by one factor: climate change.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The record-setting heat came as US climate envoy John Kerry met with Chinese officials in Beijing, with the world\'s two largest polluters reviving stalled diplomacy on reducing planet-warming emissions.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Speaking Tuesday at Beijing\'s Great Hall of the People with China\'s top diplomat Wang Yi, Kerry called for \"global leadership\" on climate issues. AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-19 17:09:03', '2023-07-19 17:09:03'),
(8072, 8072, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">US President Joe Biden and a Vatican envoy discussed the Russian invasion of Ukraine and deportation of Ukrainian children Tuesday, the White House said.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Biden and Cardinal Matteo Maria Zuppi discussed the papacy\'s efforts to provide \"humanitarian aid to address the widespread suffering caused by Russia\'s continuing aggression in Ukraine, as well as the Vatican\'s advocacy for the return of forcibly deported Ukrainian children,\" a White House statement said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Zuppi, archbishop of Bologna and president of the Italian Episcopal Conference, came to the White House at the request of Pope Francis, the Biden administration said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Biden, only the second Roman Catholic to become US president, also delivered \"his wishes for Pope Francis\'s continued ministry and global leadership and welcomed the recent nomination of a US archbishop as cardinal,\" the White House said. AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-19 17:11:52', '2023-07-19 17:11:52'),
(8073, 8073, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Reformist Pita Limjaroenrat will again ask Thailand\'s parliament to endorse him as prime minister Wednesday but with little chance of wooing the military-appointed senators who scuttled his first bid.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Pita\'s Move Forward Party (MFP) won the most seats in May elections, buoyed by the hopes of young and urban Thais wearied by nearly a decade of army-backed rule, but its efforts to form a government have stumbled.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Thailand\'s conservative establishment vehemently opposes the party\'s pledge to soften the kingdom\'s strict royal defamation laws, and Pita\'s first tilt at the premiership fell 51 votes short last week.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Parliament opened to weigh his candidacy again on Wednesday but few believe the 42-year-old Harvard graduate has managed to turn the numbers in his favour.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He has vowed to step aside to make way for a coalition partner to form a government if his second attempt fails.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Pita is less likely to get the vote passed,\" Napisa Waitoolkiat, a political analyst with Naresuan University, told AFP.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Thailand\'s senate is stacked with military appointees -- a reliable brake on the kind of liberal reforms sought by MFP and its progressive voter base.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Only 13 of 249 serving senators voted for Pita last week and Napisa said his only likely pathway to power was to successfully court many more members of the chamber.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"And I don\'t think the senate is going to be brave and courageous enough to do that,\" she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Pita was optimistic on Monday that several MPs who missed the vote could be persuaded to rally behind him.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We still are talking to find more support,\" he told reporters.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">- \'You cannot allow that\' -</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">But other roadblocks have been thrown in front of his candidacy.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A possible motion by military-aligned lawmakers could see parliament rule Pita ineligible to be considered a second time.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Constitutional Court will be in session as parliament meets, and may decide to proceed with a case about whether Pita should be disqualified from parliament entirely for owning shares in a media company.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Doing so is prohibited by Thailand\'s constitution, even though the station has not broadcast since 2007. Pita, wealthy from a family-run agrifood business, has said the shares were inherited from his father.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">If the case does proceed, Pita could be given an interim suspension from parliament while his candidacy for prime minister is being considered.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The court has also agreed to hear a case alleging that MFP\'s campaign promise to amend Thailand\'s royal defamation law is tantamount to a plan to \"overthrow\" the constitutional monarchy.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Pita\'s party has ignored strident opposition to its pledge to revise the law, which can allow convicted critics of the monarchy to be jailed for up to 15 years.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Napisa said MFP\'s reformist platform also posed a threat to powerful, family-owned business monopolies that play an outsized role in the kingdom\'s economy.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"If you are those people, you cannot allow that,\" she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">- \'Justification for crackdown\' -</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">If Pita\'s next bid fails, the coalition backing him is expected to fall in line behind property tycoon Srettha Thavisin, potentially relegating MFP to serve in opposition.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Srettha\'s Pheu Thai party is seen as a vehicle for the Shinawatra political clan, whose members include two former prime ministers ousted by military coups in 2006 and 2014.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">But as a successful entrepreneur liked by business leaders among the Thai elite, the 60-year-old is seen as a potential compromise that would smooth the way for the coalition to take office.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Prawit Wongsuwan, 77, a former Thai army chief who served as number two in the junta that took power in 2014, has also been floated as a candidate by parliament\'s military bloc.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Thai voters roundly rejected army-backed parties in May\'s election, and political analyst Thitinan Pongsudhirak said the prospect of a Prawit premiership could spark a backlash in a country that is no stranger to political unrest.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"If Move Forward is excluded, there will likely be protests... if protesters overreact, a Pheu Thai-led government would have some justification for a crackdown.\" AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-19 17:21:38', '2023-07-19 17:21:38'),
(8074, 8074, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Gigi Hadid was arrested and charged with possessing marijuana and drug paraphernalia after she flew to the Cayman Islands from the US recently. Amid recent reports of her arrest and subsequent bail, the model looked radiant in new pictures from her Cayman Islands trip. On Wednesday, Gigi took to Instagram to share a series of sun-kissed photos and videos of her holiday.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The model shared an Instagram post spotlighting her many vacation looks from the Cayman Islands. She also shared a glimpse of the food she gorged on during her holiday with friends. In some of the solo and group pictures she posted, Gigi soaked up the sun in bright swimsuits.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">This is Gigi\'s first Instagram post after reports of her arrest surfaced on Tuesday. Seemingly reacting to the buzz around her recent trip, she wrote in her caption, “All’s well that ends well (sunset emoji).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Many said Gigi was unbothered after making headlines on drug charges. One commented on her post, \"She couldn’t care less (laughing emoji).\" Another wrote, \"Girl after being arrested for drugs and released with money.\" One joked, \"My level of recklessness after being arrested and bailed.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Defending Gigi, a fan wrote, \"You all, she got the weed legally in New York and with a medical prescription for it. Cayman Islands have allowed medical use of weed since 2017. She only got a fine because her prescription wasn’t from there.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Gigi Hadid\'s arrest</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Gigi and one of her friends were charged with drug possession after marijuana was found in their luggage as they arrived in Cayman Islands last week, said a report.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to the Washington Post, although the marijuana was purchased legally in New York City (and has been legal in the Cayman Islands since 2017), Gigi and her friend Leah Nicole McCarthy were both taken to a detention center before being released on bail. HT</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"13\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-19 17:48:23', '2023-07-19 17:48:23'),
(8075, 8075, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The dengue situation might worsen in the months of August and September, according to health experts.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Despite the government\'s visible preventive measures, the numbers of cases and fatalities from dengue fever are rising day by day as a record number of dengue cases and deaths were reported in the country in the first six months of this year.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to experts, the pattern of Aedes mosquitoes has changed as it has now become much “smarter” than before.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Prof. Dr. Kabirul Bashar, Entomologist of Jahangirnagar University, said, “The dengue situation may worsen in the running month. During our research in the laboratory, we make a model after analyzing some factors, including the density of Aedes mosquito population, number of dengue patients, temperature, humidity and rainfall. It is clear that the dengue situation may worsen in the coming days. It could take a serious turn in the months of August and September.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“At this moment it is important to manage dengue hotspots and use fogging to combat Aedes mosquitoes in those areas where dengue has already spread. In that case, the authorities can detect the infected people through their address and kill the mosquitoes through fogging machines, because as long as these mosquitoes remain alive, dengue will spread in all the areas,” he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He also urged city dwellers to combat dengue and ensure that Aedes mosquitoes do not accumulate in their homes and yards.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to a survey conducted in 98 wards — under Dhaka North and South city corporations — by the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS), from June 18 to 27, 55 wards are at high risk of dengue.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">During the survey in 40 wards of Dhaka North City Corporation and 58 wards in South City Corporation, Aedes larvae were found in 43.53% multipurpose buildings, 21.31% houses and 18.21% under construction buildings.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The wards which are at high risk of dengue under Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) are: No 2, 3, 5, 6, 10, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 33, 35, 37 and 38. The areas include Mirpur, Pallabi, Mazar Road, Pirer Bagh, Monipur, Shewrapara, Kafrul, Ibrahimpur, Khilkhet, Kuril, Joar Shahara, Banani, Gulshan, Baridhara, Mohakhali, Rampura, Khilgaon, Malibagh, Karwanbazar, Tejturi Bazar, Agargaon, Mohammadpur, Baitul Aman, Moghbazar, Iskaton and Badda.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The wards which are at high risk of dengue under Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC)are: No 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 9, 11, 12, 13, 15, 16, 18, 19, 22, 23, 26, 33, 34, 36, 41, 44, 46, 48, 50, 51, 54, 55 and 57. The areas include Goran, Meradia, Basabo, Sabujbagh, Mugda, Madartek, Fakirapool, Arambagh, Shahjahanpur, Rajarbagh, Old Paltan, Baitul Mukarram, dhanmondi, Rayerbazar, Nilkhet, Science Laboratory, Elephant Road, Minto Road, Kakrail, Hazaribagh, Lalbagh, Azimpur, Palashi, Bongshal, Siddiquebazar, Shakharibazar, Wari, Sutrapur, Mill Barrack, Sayedabad, North Jatrabari, Mirhazaribagh, Dholaipar, Gendaria, Jurain and Kamrangirchar.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Public health expert Dr Lelin Chowdhury said the country has recorded the highest death toll from dengue in the first six months this year. There are some reasons behind it. First, most of those who were infected with dengue this year, have had dengue once or twice before. When they again became infected with the disease, the severity increased.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Most of them failed to identify whether they were infected with dengue or not and some people were in a dilemma. When they delay in seeking medical attention, they develop a condition of complications or shock syndrome, he said, adding, “This is another reason for deaths behind dengue.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Besides, the behaviour pattern of Aedes mosquitoes has changed as they bite people throughout the day and night, and can remain active in artificial light outside, which is playing a vital role in dengue infection.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“We are afraid that if no immediate program is taken against the Aedes mosquito to control dengue, a terrible disaster might be upon us in the coming days,” he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Replying to a question on why the authorities concerned have not yet managed to control dengue, Dr Lelin said, “The authorities concerned of the city corporations have not taken effective measures as we see. Secondly, it is not possible for the city corporations alone to combat dengue. For this, the public representatives and people should be involved as well.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Prof. Dr Nazmul Islam, director of disease control and line of DGHS, said during a survey conducted on 3149 houses in 40 wards of DNCC and 58 wards of DSCC, Aedes larvae were found in 549 houses, which is an alarming sign.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He also blamed people’s unawareness behind the spread of dengue.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Prof Abul Bashar Mohammad Khurshid Alam, Director General of the DGHS, said, “This year, as monsoon has started late, there is a possibility that the dengue season may prolong. We have taken steps to minimize the manpower crisis and dengue treatment is going on in all hospitals in the capital.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Additional director of DGHS, Dr. Rasheda Sultana, told UNB that dengue corners have been opened in all hospitals and an information desk is available in the hospitals. Sufficient beds are available for providing treatment to dengue patients.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">There are 800 beds in DNCC’s dedicated dengue hospital while there are 600 beds in Mugda General Hospital, 120 in Dhaka Medical College and Hospital, 195 in Salimullah Medical College and Hospital, 44 in Shishu Hospital, 120 in Suhrawardy Hospital, 250 in Kurmitola General Hospital, and 72 in Kuwait Maitree Hospital.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to DGHS report till July 18, thirteen deaths were reported from dengue in 24 hours till Tuesday morning, the highest number of deaths in a day from the mosquito-borne disease this year, raising the fatalities in Bangladesh to 127 in 2023.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">During the period, 1,533 more patients were hospitalised with the viral fever, it said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Of the new patients, 779 were admitted to hospitals in Dhaka and the rest outside it, according to DGHS.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A total of 5,569 dengue patients, including 3,443 in the capital, are now receiving treatment at hospitals across the country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">So far, the DGHS has recorded 24,000 dengue cases and 18,304 recoveries this year. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"6\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-19 18:11:54', '2023-07-19 18:11:54'),
(8076, 8076, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Denmark today expressed interest to invest US$ 1.3 billion for producing offshore wind energy in Bangladesh as its Ambassador Winnie Estrup Petersen paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;\"Denmark is keen to invest US$ 1.3 billion in Bangladesh for producing offshore wind energy,\" Prime Minister\'s Press Secretary Ihsanul Karim quoted the ambassador as telling the Bangladesh premier at the meeting in Prime Minister\'s Office (PMO) here.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">After the meeting, Karim in a media briefing said the prime minister seeks assistances from the friendly countries like Demark for Bangladesh\'s development.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In this regard, Sheikh Hasina mentioned that Bangladesh has established 100 special economic zones across the country where both foreign and domestic investments are required.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;The Bangladesh premier and the Danish envoy, as well, appreciated the 50 years\' development partnership between Bangladesh and Denmark.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;During the meeting, the ambassador lauded the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in socioeconomic development of Bangladesh.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;Sheikh Hasina said that her government has substantially reduced the poverty level in the country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;Referring to the development of women, she said that her government has put emphasis on the development of sports of women.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;Regarding the development of democracy in the country, the prime minister said, \"We\'ve long struggle for democracy in the country.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;The Danish envoy said her country is the sixth largest exporter in the ICT sector globally. In this connection, Sheikh Hasina said that ICI sector of Bangladesh is also growing first.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;Petersen said that the two countries can extend cooperation in several fields including human development. \"We\'ve achieved many things through cooperation,\" she added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;The outgoing ambassador said she has spent a good time in Bangladesh living with good friends.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;The envoy presented books to the premier marking the 50-year of development partnership.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;PMO Secretary Mohammad Salahuddin was present. BSS</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-19 18:36:34', '2023-07-19 18:36:34'),
(8077, 8077, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">BNP has started their second march from Uttara’s Abdullahpur to Jatrabari as part of their one-point movement with the goal to remove Awami League from power to hold the upcoming national elections under a neutral government.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">BNP Standing Committee member Mirza Abbas formally inaugurated the programme in front of Polwel Market at Uttara’s Abdullahpur around 11:05 am on Wednesday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Thousands of leaders and activists of BNP and its associate bodies joined the march programme for the second day in a row under the scorching sun.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A similar programme is supposed to be held in all other metropolitan cities and district towns today.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In a brief address, Abbas said the ruling party leaders and workers are creating chaos in the name of “peace procession” countering BNP’s peaceful programmes.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He alleged that the Awami League cadres attacked BNP’s peaceful march programme in different parts of the country on Tuesday, killing a man and injuring many others.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Abbas said their party leaders and activists have been subjected to repression for 15 years. “We’ll no longer tolerate the repressive acts. We’ll come up with a fitting reply.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He also said they will restore the voting rights of people and force the current regime to hold the next election under a neutral interim government.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The party’s Tuesday’s march was marked by violent clashes with police and Awami League activists across the country that left at least one man dead and several hundred people injured.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">BNP\'s march also came under attack near Mirpur\'s Govt Bangla college in the capital, resulting in a clash between the supporters of the ruling and opposition parties.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Alongside the BNP, Ganatantra Mancha, 12-party alliance, Jatiyatabadi Samomona Jote, the Liberal Democratic Party, Gonoforum and People’s Party, Labour Party, Gono Odhikar Parishad Gonotantrik Bam Oikya, Samomona Gonotantrik Peshajibi Jote and Sadaran Chhatra Odhikar Sanrakshan Parishad are also scheduled to stage marches in the city’s different areas.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier on July 12, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir formally announced a ‘one-point’ movement with the goal to remove Awami League from power to hold the upcoming national elections under a neutral government.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">As part of the first programme to realise the one-point demand, he also announced a two-day countrywide march programme for July 18 and 19.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">BNP and 36 other parties are likely to announce fresh programmes of their one-point movement today.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The opposition’s one-point demand includes the resignation of the current Awami League government, dissolution of the existing parliament, formation of a polls-time “impartial” government and reconstitution of the Election Commission for arranging a free, fair and inclusive election, the release of all “political prisoners”, including BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia, withdrawal of all “false” cases, including those against Tarique Rahman, and annulment of all “false convictions”. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbdd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"4\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-19 18:56:03', '2023-07-19 18:56:03'),
(8078, 8078, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Wednesday asked the government officials to ensure accountability and work sincerely up to the grassroots level for the sake of the advancement of the country.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">\"Any tough situation can be overcome or even impossible things can also be made possible, if we go forward showing sincerity towards work, having a sense of self-esteem, ensuring accountability, and staying away from corruption. Today our Bangladesh has proven it,\" she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">The premier said this while addressing the signing ceremony of Annual Performance Agreements (APAs) for the FY2023-24 at her office here in the city.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">The ministries and divisions signed the APAs with the Cabinet Division.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">The PM received the APAs from the secretaries of the ministries and divisions.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">In the function, the APA Award for FY2021-22 and Integrity Award for FY2022-23 were distributed among the government offices and officials for their excellent performance in APA implementation and rendering services.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Pointing at the ministries and divisions, Hasina asked them to ensure accountability by signing APAs with their subordinate offices.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">“You (ministries) will sign the APA with your other offices so that communication and accountability is ensured (in government offices) up to the grassroots level. If we could work in this way, we can turn Bangladesh into a developed-prosperous country by 2041,” she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">The prime minister asked the top government officials to prepare their predecessors as competent ones to build the country as a developed, prosperous, smart and golden Bangladesh by 2041 by implementing the government\'s action plans.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">She hoped that the government can take Bangladesh forward by overcoming both the natural and manmade disasters.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">\"The man-made disasters may come alongside natural calamities. We\'ll be able to take the country forward by overcoming all sorts of disasters. I believe it,\" she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">The PM asked all to boost food production and not to leave a single inch of land uncultivated so that Bangladesh won\'t be required to depend on others in case of food shortages amid the current global situation.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">State Minister for Public Administration Farhad Hossain spoke on the occasion, while Cabinet Secretary Md Mahbub Hossain delivered the welcome speech.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Planning Division Secretary Satyajit Karmakar, who received the Integrity Award 2022-23, and Public Administration Secretary Mohammed Mezbah Uddin Chowdhury also spoke at the event.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">The Public Administration Ministry has attained the first Award in the APA implementation for 2021-2022, while the Power Division and the Agricultural Ministry gained the second and third position respectively.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">The ministries and divisions that attained fourth to tenth position in the implementation of APA are finance division, ICT division, IMED, energy and mineral resources division, ministry of water resources, planning division, rural development and cooperatives division. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">nbbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-19 20:01:55', '2023-07-19 20:01:55'),
(8079, 8079, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">A case has been filed against 380 leaders and activists of BNP in connection with Tuesday\'s clash with police at Circuit House in Pirojpur district town.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Police also arrested 15 people in this connection.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sub-inspector Maksudur Rahaman of Sadar Police Station filed the case against 80 identified and 300 unidentified people on Tuesday night, said officer-in-charge of Sadar Police Station Abir Mohammad Hasan.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Convener of Pirojpur district unit BNP Alamgir Hossain and member secretary Gazi Wahiduzzaman Lavlu were among the accused.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to the case statement, seven policemen were injured as some BNP men attacked police during their march programme in sadar upazila on Tuesday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The injured are now taking treatment at Sadar Hospital. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"4\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-19 20:16:28', '2023-07-19 20:16:28'),
(8080, 8080, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Outgoing Navy Chief Admiral M Shaheen Iqbal met President Mohammed Shahabuddin on Tuesday.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>President\'s Press Secretary Joynal Abedin briefed reporters after the meeting.</div><div><br></div><div>During the meeting at Bangabhaban, the outgoing Navy chief expressed his gratitude to the president for providing cooperation and guidance in carrying out his duties.</div><div><br></div><div>He also informed the president about the implementation and progress of the programme taken by the government for the development of the Navy and its upcoming action plan.</div><div><br></div><div>Mentioning that the Navy has now become a three-dimensional force, the president said that efforts should be continued to make the Navy a modern and smart force in order to protect the independence and sovereignty of the country as well as ensure the security of the maritime area.</div><div><br></div><div>The president thanked the outgoing Chief of Naval Staff for performing his duties with devotion and sincerity, saying that his talent and wisdom contributed positively to the development of the Navy.</div><div><br></div><div>Secretaries concerned of the president\'s office were also present at this time. Source: UNB</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-19 20:51:43', '2023-07-19 20:51:43'),
(8081, 8081, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>At least 15 people, including a police subinspector and five home guards, died after getting electric shock at a Namami Gange project site on the banks of river Alkananda in Uttarakhand\'s Chamoli on Wednesday. A transformer exploded at the project site and many people are feared to be trapped. Police and rescue teams have reached the spot and started relief operations.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Chamoli SP Parmendra Doval said 10 people died and several others were injured after the transformer exploded. The injured have been admitted to the district hospital. The side railing of the river dam had current and the caretaker of the project site Ganesh Lal died first. All those who died subsequently touched the railing.</div><div><br></div><div>“It is a sad incident. District administration, police, and SDRF have reached the spot. The injured are being referred to higher centre and are being shifted to AIIMS Rishikesh via helicopter. Orders have been given to conduct a Magisterial inquiry,” chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami said.</div><div><br></div><div>State health minister Dhan Singh Rawat, who is in Chamoli, confirmed that 15 people have died so far and seven are injured. He said the injured are being airlifted to AIIMS Rishikesh. A magisterial inquiry has also been instituted in the incident, the minister said.</div><div><br></div><div>The mishap occurred as continuous rain battered Uttarakhand for the past few days. The water level of Alakananda rose as a result of the incessant rain. About 3,000 cusecs of additional water were released from the dam of the GVK hydroelectric project at Srinagar in the Pauri district as Alakananda\'s water level rose.</div><div><br></div><div>The State Emergency Operation Center directed the district magistrates of Pauri, Tehri, Haridwar and Dehradun to exercise caution in their respective areas due to the release of water. In Haridwar, Rishikesh and other places, people were told to stay away from the river banks and to take care of their safety. Source: Hindustan Times</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-19 21:21:04', '2023-07-19 21:21:04'),
(8082, 8082, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s ICT Affairs Adviser Sajeeb Wazed Joy said Awami League (AL) brought back democracy in the country by confronting the violent claws of dictator-extremists.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>He wrote this in a facebook post from his verified account today along with uploading a video content.</div><div><br></div><div>“After wresting victory from the Pakistanis in 1971, Bangladesh struggled to establish democracy for many more years. After the assassination of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in 1975, the Pakistani-style dictatorship began in the country,” Joy wrote.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>He said: “Mushtaq, Zia and Ershad misled the country\'s democracy by adopting Ayub-Yahia\'s method to legitimize their misrule.”</div><div><br></div><div>Since independence, the anti-independence force, Jamaat-e-Islami, has been given the opportunity to do politics in the country with the support of the country\'s head of state, he said.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>As the days went by, the desire to enslave the people of Bangladesh purged the country, he mentioned, reports BSS</div><div><br></div><div>“Awami League brought back democracy in the country by confronting the violent claws of those dictator-extremists,” Joy said.</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-19 22:07:55', '2023-07-19 22:07:55');
INSERT INTO `news_details` (`id`, `news_id`, `details`, `ticker`, `representative`, `keyword`, `video_link`, `google_drive_link`, `audio_link`, `shoulder`, `created_at`, `updated_at`) VALUES
(8083, 8083, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Early in \"The Deepest Breath,\" an underwater drone follows free diver Alessia Zecchini as she plunges 100 meters down into the ocean\'s dark depths, and back up, all on a single breath.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>The heart-pounding, claustrophobic three-and-a-half-minute sequence is as difficult to watch as it is mesmerizing.</div><div><br></div><div>As she ascends to the shallows, Zecchini\'s body begins to twitch. Rescue divers seize her and drag her up to the surface, her unconscious eyes rolling grotesquely backward as she is resuscitated.</div><div><br></div><div>It may seem shocking, but \"blacking out\" from lack of oxygen is a common occurrence in free diving, an extreme sport in which athletes compete to go as deep as they can without any breathing apparatus.</div><div><br></div><div>\"You can watch all the videos in the world. It doesn\'t really prepare you for seeing a human being just pass out like that,\" said director Laura McGann, director of the Netflix documentary, out Wednesday.</div><div><br></div><div>\"It\'s scary to see.\"</div><div><br></div><div>Through archive footage, interviews and a handful of re-enactments, McGann\'s film explores what drives these men and women to repeatedly risk their lives and push the limits of human endurance in pursuit of new competitive records.</div><div><br></div><div>\"Seeing a human being behave more like a seal or a dolphin in the water, with no tanks, was kind of like learning that there was a group of people in part of the world that knew how to fly,\" she told AFP.</div><div><br></div><div>- \'In the moment\' -</div><div>Specifically, the film focusses on the relationship between record-breaking diver Zecchini and Stephen Keenan, a nomadic young Irishman who becomes one of the sport\'s top safety experts.</div><div><br></div><div>Free divers, if not actively courting death, do not appear to fear it. Indeed, Zecchini airily claims in the movie\'s opening scene that she does not even think about death.</div><div><br></div><div>Yet it quickly becomes apparent that some sort of tragedy has occurred.</div><div><br></div><div>Neither Zecchini nor Keenan appear among the film\'s present-day interviews, leaving the question of their fates hanging for much of the movie -- at least, for those able to resist a quick Google search.</div><div><br></div><div>That structure was criticized as being somewhat manipulative in early reviews at January\'s Sundance Film Festival, where the movie premiered, having already been acquired by Netflix days earlier.</div><div><br></div><div>But McGann decided \"really early\" that her film would remain \"in the moment\" with its characters throughout their journeys.</div><div><br></div><div>Death \"was always going to be towards the end of the film,\" she said.</div><div><br></div><div>- Love and death -</div><div><br></div><div>\"The Deepest Breath\" is the latest documentary to explore dangerous obsessions through the lens of a love story.</div><div><br></div><div>Last year\'s Oscar-nominated \"Fire of Love\" followed a husband-and-wife scientist couple as they risked their lives to explore the craters of erupting volcanoes.</div><div><br></div><div>In 2019, \"Free Solo\" profiled death-defying climber Alex Honnold, as he juggled his obsession with climbing a notorious rockface without ropes, and his relationship with his understandably terrified girlfriend.</div><div><br></div><div>For McGann, the relationship between Zecchini and Keenan was \"a yin and a yang,\" like \"they were each other\'s missing piece,\" even before they connected as celebrities in the small free diving community.</div><div><br></div><div>It emphasizes that free diving is as much a mental sport as it is a physical one, requiring very specific personality types that not only stay calm, but actively enjoy being 100 meters under water, beyond rescue.</div><div><br></div><div>\"What the free diver is feeling is definitely close to the complete opposite to what we the audience are feeling,\" explained McGann.</div><div><br></div><div>While viewers might struggle for breath just watching, divers speak of a \"serene, quiet, peaceful silence,\" as they quieten their minds and reduce their heart rates to \"that of a Tibetan monk.\"</div><div><br></div><div>\"You\'re almost in a meditative state,\" said McGann.</div><div><br></div><div>\"But you need to keep a little bit of your subconscious aware of what you\'re doing -- so that you remember that you have to come back up.\" ‍Source: AFP&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'Entertainment', '[\"13\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-19 22:17:21', '2023-07-19 22:17:21'),
(8084, 8084, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>The second day\'s program of Awami League\'s two-day \'peace and development procession\' started at 4 pm today at Dhaka\'s Satrasta intersection area.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Dhaka North City unit of Awami League is organising the second day\'s programme.</div><div><br></div><div>The programme is being held in response to the BNP\'s \'one-point\' movement calling for the government’s resignation.</div><div><br></div><div>Awami League will bring out processions to resist BNP\'s “attempts to create an unstable situation,” it said.</div><div><br></div><div>Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader will deliver a speech as chief guest at the brief inauguration, while President of Dhaka North unit of Awami League Bazlur Rahman will preside over the event; General Secretary SM Mannan Kochi is conducting the procession.</div><div><br></div><div>A procession will pass Satrasta, Tibet, Nabisco, and Mohakhali Bus Terminal.</div><div><br></div><div>Dhaka district Awami League is holding the procession outside the city too.</div><div><br></div><div>Dhaka South city unit of Awami League organised a procession yesterday that passed through Shahbagh, Kataban, Science Laboratory, and Kalabagan to reach Dhanmondi 32 from outside the Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-19 22:58:53', '2023-07-19 22:58:53'),
(8085, 8085, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Information and Broadcasting Minister Hasan Mahmud today said that Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has not yet moved away from “destructive politics”.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>He made the remark while talking to journalists on current affairs at the ministry’s meeting room in the Secretariat.</div><div><br></div><div>Hasan Mahmud, also joint general secretary of the Awami League, criticized BNP’s recent activities, saying, “BNP has once again demonstrated its engagement in conflicting and destructive politics. Yesterday, they organized a march program across the country. Meanwhile, our party brought out ‘peace and development processions’. It has become evident that BNP’s main objective with their program is to create chaos in the country.”</div><div><br></div><div>He pointed out instances where clashes occurred between BNP and the police or Awami League activists at nine locations in the country, and said, “They burnt a Chhatra League leader’s bike near Mirpur Bangla College in Dhaka, and the national flag was also set on fire. Several Awami League activists were attacked and injured in Khagrachhari. They also vandalized the municipality building.”</div><div><br></div><div>“In Bogura’s Satmatha junction, BNP activists started throwing bricks at police, and law enforcers had to resort to using tear gas. At the same time, BNP activists tore down the festoons and banners of Awami League leaders in front of Samad Academy in Lakshmipur, inciting clashes at various locations. It is evident that BNP’s intention is to create a tense situation in the country through these confrontations, but we will not let it happen,” he went on.</div><div><br></div><div>Regarding the attack on Hero Alam and subsequent response, the information minister said, “I am surprised at the promotion of tweets by the resident coordinator of UN and Amnesty International Bangladesh as ‘official statements’ from the respective organizations. A tweet cannot be considered an official statement. This is ‘misinformation’ and ‘yellow journalism’.”</div><div><br></div><div>“As the Information Minister and joint general secretary of the party, I request everyone to refrain from promoting such tweets as official statements,” he added.</div><div><br></div><div>On Tuesday, the UN resident coordinator in Dhaka, Gwyn Lewis tweeted, “The UN in Bangladesh is concerned over the attack on independent MP candidate Ashraful Alam during the Dhaka-17 by-poll. The fundamental human right of everyone to participate in elections without violence should be guaranteed and protected”. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-19 23:22:01', '2023-07-19 23:22:01'),
(8086, 8086, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Russian President Vladimir Putin will not attend a BRICS nations summit in South Africa next month, the country\'s presidency said on Wednesday, ending months of speculation he could be detained.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Putin\'s potential visit has been a thorny diplomatic issue for Pretoria.</div><div><br></div><div>The Russian leader is the target of an International Criminal Court arrest warrant -- a provision that South africa as an ICC member would be expected to implement were he to set foot in the country.</div><div><br></div><div>\"By mutual agreement, President Vladimir Putin of the Russian Federation will not attend the summit,\" Vincent Magwenya, a spokesman for President Cyril Ramaphosa, said in a statement.</div><div><br></div><div>Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov will instead represent Russia, Magwenya said.</div><div><br></div><div>The decision follows \"a number of consultations\" held by Ramaphosa in recent months, the most recent of which took place last night, he added.</div><div><br></div><div>South Africa is the current chair of the BRICS group, a gathering of heavyweights that also includes Brazil, Russia, India and China, and which sees itself as a counterweight to Western economic domination.</div><div><br></div><div>Putin was formally invited to a BRICS summit due to take place in Johannesburg between August 22 and 24, but Pretoria has been under heavy domestic and international pressure not to host him.</div><div><br></div><div>The other countries\' leaders will all be in attendance, Magwenya said.</div><div><br></div><div>\"President Ramaphosa is confident that the Summit will be a success and calls on the nation to extend the necessary hospitality to the many delegates who will arrive from various parts of the continent and the globe,\" he said.</div><div><br></div><div>Putin is sought by the ICC over accusations that Russia unlawfully deported Ukrainian children.</div><div><br></div><div>In court papers released on Tuesday, Ramaphosa wrote that arresting him would have amounted to a declaration of war on Russia.</div><div><br></div><div>The assessment was given in an affidavit responding to an application by the country\'s leading opposition party, the Democratic Alliance (DA), which aimed at forcing the government\'s hand and ensuring the Kremlin leader was handed over to the ICC if he were to arrive.</div><div><br></div><div>- Neutral -</div><div>Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov was asked if the war wording was used in talks between the two nations.</div><div><br></div><div>\"No, it did not sound that way,\" he said.</div><div><br></div><div>\"In this world, it is absolutely clear to everyone what an attempt to encroach on the head of the Russian state would mean.</div><div><br></div><div>\"That is why there is no need to explain anything to anyone on this,\" Peskov added.</div><div><br></div><div>The affidavit revealed South Africa was seeking an exemption under ICC rules, arguing that enacting the arrest could have threatened the \"security, peace and order of the state\".</div><div><br></div><div>Pretoria has long said it wants to stay neutral over the war in Ukraine but has been accused by critics of tilting towards Moscow.</div><div><br></div><div>Some feared hosting Putin could have been read as a signal of support for Russia and jeopardised South Africa\'s strong economic and trade relations with the United States and Europe.</div><div><br></div><div>Trade with Russia is much smaller, but their ties date back decades to when the Kremlin supported the ruling African National Congress party during the struggle against apartheid.</div><div><br></div><div>In recent local media interviews, South African Deputy President Paul Mashatile said the government had been trying to persuade Putin not to come. - AFP&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-20 01:12:38', '2023-07-20 01:12:38'),
(8087, 8087, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>At least 34 people were killed when an Algerian passenger bus collided head-on with a commercial vehicle and burst into flames in the country\'s southern desert Wednesday, officials said.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>One of the North African country\'s deadliest road crashes in years also left 12 others injured, many with burn wounds, Algeria\'s civil defence agency said.</div><div><br></div><div>Unverified media images showed the mangled and charred hull of the bus after the accident which occurred at around 4:00 am (0300 GMT) near Tamanrasset, about a 2,000-kilometre (1,250 miles) drive south from the capital Algiers.</div><div><br></div><div>Local media reported burnt bodies were recovered from the bus wreck, near the town of Outoul, 20 kilometres west of Tamanrasset, deep in the Sahara.</div><div><br></div><div>The civil defence agency said the bus was carrying passengers between Tamanrasset and Adrar, a town of about 2,000 residents to the northwest.</div><div><br></div><div>Footage broadcast by local media showed the bus going up in a massive ball of flames.</div><div><br></div><div>Other images shared by Algerian media show rescuers at the scene, near the two burnt vehicles that were involved in the accident.</div><div><br></div><div>Authorities did not immediately elaborate on the circumstances of the deadly crash or what had caused it.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Speed is the main cause of road accidents in the country, according to a government road safety agency.</div><div><br></div><div>There was no official comment on the accident. Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune is currently in China for a state visit.</div><div><br></div><div>Mohamed Boudraa, the governor -- or wali -- of Tamanrasset, visited the local hospital where the 12 injured were being treated, the official APS news agency reported.</div><div><br></div><div>It said they suffered serious burns.</div><div><br></div><div>Provincial officials also arrived at the site of the accident to oversee rescue operations, APS said.</div><div><br></div><div>Algeria recorded nearly 23,000 road accidents in 2022, leaving 3,409 people dead and more than 30,000 injured, according to the country\'s road safety chief Nacef Abdelhakim.</div><div><br></div><div>Tamanrasset is an important transport hub for the movement of people and goods from Algeria\'s far south to the coastal north.</div><div><br></div><div>The region, near the borders of Mali and Niger, is also a key transit point for migrants from sub-Saharan Africa hoping to reach Europe via Algeria.</div><div><br></div><div>In December 2020, a car crash near Tamanrasset killed 20 people and injured 11 others, most of them African migrants. - AFP</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-20 01:48:56', '2023-07-20 01:48:56'),
(8088, 8088, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Nineteen more deaths were reported from dengue in 24 hours till Wednesday morning, the highest number of deaths in a day from the mosquito-borne disease this year, raising the fatalities in Bangladesh to 146 in 2023.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>During the period, 1,792 more patients were hospitalised with viral fever, according to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS).</div><div><br></div><div>Of the new patients, 922 were admitted to hospitals in Dhaka and the rest outside it, according to DGHS.</div><div><br></div><div>A total of 5,552 dengue patients, including 3,370 in the capital, are now receiving treatment at hospitals across the country.</div><div><br></div><div>So far, the DGHS has recorded 25,792 dengue cases, 20,094 recoveries this year.</div><div><br></div><div>The country logged 281 dengue deaths in 2022 – the highest on record after 179 deaths recorded in 2019. Also, it recorded 62,423 dengue cases and 61,971 recoveries last year. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-20 01:52:59', '2023-07-20 01:52:59'),
(8089, 8089, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Bangladesh Bank (BB) issued a cyber attack warning in banks and other financial institutions after leakage of a large number of private information of citizens.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>The central bank recently issued the warning asking them to enhance malware surveillance&nbsp; and apply different security tools to secure financial information of banks.</div><div><br></div><div>Though the BB has not mentioned any specific area, the malware like the banking Trojan TrickBot, which can steal financial details, account credentials and personally identifiable information should be under check.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>The BB asked banks to notify it of any recent incidents of malware attacks and the actions taken by July 13. It also sought a detailed account of the preventive and reactive measures from cyberattacks by July 20.</div><div><br></div><div>BB Spokesman Md Mezbaul Haque acknowledged sending the letters, which was part of the central bank\'s general housekeeping. \"Banks are taking proactive measures,\" he added.</div><div><br></div><div>After Bangladesh Krishi Bank\'s server came under a malware attack last month, the central bank gave warning letters to the banks.</div><div><br></div><div>Notorious ransomware group ALPHV, also known as BlackCat, broke into the state bank\'s servers and made way with more than 170 GB of crucial information.</div><div><br></div><div>The break-in went undetected for 12 days, giving the hackers ample time to study internal documentation and steal valuable data with impunity. - UNB</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-20 03:01:20', '2023-07-20 03:01:20'),
(8090, 8090, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Bangladesh Test and T20 skipper Shakib Al Hasan, senior batter Mushfiqur Rahim and pacer Taskin Ahmed left the country on Tuesday night to play in different franchise leagues.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>All three players boarded a Dubai-bound flight. From Dubai, Shakib would go to USA before joining the Global T20 tournament in Canada while Taskin and Mushfiqur will head to Zimbabwe to play the first ever Afro T-10 tournament.</div><div><br></div><div>Earlier, Liton Das left the country for Canada to play GT20 tournament for Surrey Jaguars. Shakib will play for Montreal Tigers, who had picked him as icon player for the third edition of the tournament. The GT20 tournament was last held in 2019 before being halted by Covid-19 pandemic.</div><div><br></div><div>Shakib obtained an NOC for July 20-30 from BCB. But Liton was allowed to stay till August 6 from July 20.</div><div><br></div><div>Taskin, meanwhile, features for Bulawayo Braves in the Zim-Afro T10 League and Mushfiqur, on the other hand, was directly signed by Joburg Buffaloes. Taskin and Mushfiqur are the only two cricketers from Bangladesh to play in the league.</div><div><br></div><div>The Tigers have no international cricket scheduled for now as their next assignment is the Asia Cup which will get underway on September 5. Source: BSS</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'Sports Desk', '[\"20\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-20 03:12:22', '2023-07-20 03:12:22'),
(8091, 8091, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen today expressed displeasure over the joint statement, regarding the assault on Hero Alam, issued by foreign missions in Dhaka. He wondered whether such incidents happening in other countries result in similar reactions.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>\"That’s not acceptable. They create noises when something happens in Bangladesh only. But don\'t do the same as a group when similar things happen in the US, UK, France or in other countries,\" Momen said when a reporter asked for his comments on the issue.</div><div><br></div><div>Momen wanted to know from reporters whether these countries say anything about the investigation progress when Bangladeshi citizens are killed abroad.</div><div><br></div><div>\"Ask them (foreign diplomats). Why don\'t you ask them? Why don\'t they give statements then?\" — he said.</div><div><br></div><div>Momen said the perpetrators who assaulted Hero Alam need to be identified as this could have been done to create uncertainty ahead of the next national election. \"We don\'t know. You never know… whether to foil the election, these misdeeds are staged.\"</div><div><br></div><div>\"Give me an investigative report on which countries issued such statements when similar things happen in their own countries,\" he said.</div><div><br></div><div>The foreign minister told reporters that it is time to stop publishing or broadcasting such statements.</div><div><br></div><div>Responding to a question, Momen said US President Joe Biden wants to strengthen the relations with Bangladesh and for that reason, senior officials keep coming here.</div><div><br></div><div>Earlier, foreign missions in Dhaka called for a full investigation and accountability of the perpetrators involved in the assault on Hero Alam.</div><div><br></div><div>In a joint statement, the foreign missions said, “We condemn the July 17 attack on Dhaka-17 constituency candidate Ashraful Alam, popularly known as Hero Alam. Violence has no place in the democratic process.”</div><div><br></div><div>“Everyone involved in the upcoming elections should ensure that they are free, fair, and peaceful,” said the diplomatic missions in Dhaka.</div><div><br></div><div>The joint statement was signed by the embassies/high commissions of Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, United States and the delegation of the European Union.</div><div><br></div><div>Mohammad Ali Arafat, who won the Dhaka-17 by-polls, said what happened “just 20 minutes before the end of the election is uncalled for.”</div><div><br></div><div>Amnesty International condemns attack on Hero Alom</div><div><br></div><div>“I strongly condemn it. The involved parties could not be Awami League’s well-wishers. It was done with the intention of maligning the election,” he said.</div><div><br></div><div>The culprits should be arrested and brought to justice, Arafat said.</div><div><br></div><div>Hero Alam, an independent candidate contesting the Dhaka-17 by-election, was physically assaulted while leaving a polling centre in Banani area on July 17. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-20 03:39:50', '2023-07-20 03:39:50'),
(8092, 8092, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">A shooting has left two people dead in the centre of Auckland, New Zealand, hours before the city is due to open the Fifa Women\'s World Cup.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Six other people, including police officers, were injured and the gunman is also dead after the incident at 07:22 (19:22 GMT) on a construction site in the central business district.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">PM Chris Hipkins said the attack was not being seen as an act of terrorism.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The tournament would go ahead as planned, he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The public, he added, could be assured police had neutralised the threat and there was no ongoing risk after the incident on Queen Street.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">No political or ideological motive for the attack had been identified, the prime minister said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The gunman, he said, had been armed with a pump-action shotgun.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Mr Hipkins thanked \"the brave men and women of the New Zealand police who ran into the gunfire, straight into harm\'s way, in order to save the lives of others\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"These kinds of situations move fast and the actions of those who risk their lives to save others are nothing short of heroic,\" he added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown, all Fifa personnel and football teams are safe and have been accounted for.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The opening match is to be held between New Zealand and Norway in the city\'s Eden Park.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sport Minister Grant Robertson said there would be extra police in the area to provide reassurance.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The ninth Women\'s World Cup is being co-hosted by New Zealand and Australia.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier, the mayor warned people should stay home and avoid travelling into the city. Mr Brown said it was a \"dreadful thing to happen\" in his city.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Police say they heard reports of a person discharging a firearm inside the construction site, and the gunman moved through the building and continued to fire.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The man then went into a lift shaft and police attempted to engage with him.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Further shots were fired by the man and he was found dead a short time later, police say.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Following the shooting there was a large armed police presence in the central business district not far from the waterfront and the fan park.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Tatjana Haenni, chief sporting director for National Women\'s Soccer league USA, is staying close to where the shooting happened.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She told BBC News she had woken up to sounds of police cars arriving and was told to stay inside. \"So far we feel safe,\" she said. BBC</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-20 12:40:00', '2023-07-20 12:40:00'),
(8093, 8093, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Wheat prices have risen sharply on global markets after Russia said it would treat ships heading for Ukrainian ports as potential military targets.</span><br></b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Moscow pulled out of a deal this week that had guaranteed safe passage for grain shipments through the Black Sea.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A White House spokesperson accused Russia of planning to blame Ukraine for attacks on civilian ships.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Russia\'s President Vladimir Putin said he would return to the grain agreement immediately if his demands were met.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">They include reconnecting Russia\'s agricultural bank to a global payment system.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A Russian air strike on the Ukrainian port city of Mykolaiv killed an unknown number of people on Wednesday night, according to a local official. Other air strikes were reported on the port of Odesa.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Following previous air strikes around Odesa this week, Ukraine\'s President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Russia of deliberately targeting grain export infrastructure and putting vulnerable countries at risk.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Kyiv urged other countries in the Black Sea region to intervene to assure the safe passage of cargo ships.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"From 00:00 Moscow time on 20 July 2023 [21:00 GMT Wednesday], all vessels sailing on the Black Sea to Ukrainian ports will be regarded as potential carriers of military cargo,\" the Russian defence ministry said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Flag states of such vessels will be considered to be involved in the Ukrainian conflict on the side of the Kyiv regime,\" it added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Wheat prices on the European stock exchange soared by 8.2% on Wednesday from the previous day, to €253.75 (£219.78) per tonne, while corn prices were up 5.4%.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">US wheat futures jumped 8.5% on Wednesday, their highest daily rise since just after Russia\'s invasion of Ukraine.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Ukrainian Agriculture Minister Mykola Solskyi said strikes had destroyed 60,000 tonnes of grain and damaged considerable parts of grain export infrastructure.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Russia began targeting Ukraine\'s ports in the early hours of Tuesday within hours of its withdrawal from the grain deal.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Marex Capital analyst Charlie Sernatinger said the threat of this kind of escalation could \"cut all of the waterborne grain shipments off from the Black Sea, both Russian, and Ukrainian\" which would cause a similar situation to that at the start of the war.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Jim Gerlach, president of A/C Trading, said: \"Things got heated back up over in Ukraine. There is some real shooting going on over there and nobody is going to get in the middle of that.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"That is the bread basket of Europe and shippers are pulling out.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On Wednesday Mr Putin accused the West of using the grain deal as \"political blackmail\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Moscow also accused Ukraine of using the Black Sea grain corridor for \"combat purposes\". It struck at Ukraine\'s Black Sea ports after a suspected seaborne drone attack damaged its sea bridge to Crimea on Monday. BBC</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-20 14:23:33', '2023-07-20 14:23:33'),
(8094, 8094, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Women\'s World Cup teams in Auckland said they were shocked but safe after a deadly shooting in the centre of the New Zealand city on the opening day of the tournament Thursday.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A gunman opened fire at a building site just hours before the opening game at the city\'s Eden Park between hosts New Zealand and Norway. Two people, plus the shooter, were dead and six wounded.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">New Zealand Prime Minister Chris Hipkins said the showpiece match would go ahead as scheduled but the incident left teams rattled with at least one squad staying nearby.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"New Zealand Football are shocked by the incident in Auckland this morning,\" NZ Football said. \"We can confirm that all of the Football Ferns team and staff are safe.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Norway\'s team hotel was close to where the shooting unfolded but they were unharmed and said \"everything is calm in the squad\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Captain Maren Mjelde said they were woken up by a helicopter and \"a large number of emergency vehicles\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"At first we didn\'t know what was going on, but eventually there were updates on TV and the local media,\" she said in a statement.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We felt safe the whole time. FIFA has a good security system at the hotel and we have our own security officer in the squad.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Everyone seems calm and we are preparing as normal for the game tonight. Then we may have to adapt if there are any instructions from the authorities.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Defending champions the United States are also based in Auckland for the tournament, which is also being co-hosted by Australia, and similarly said \"all of our players and staff are accounted for and safe\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Our security team is in communication with local authorities and we are proceeding with our daily schedule,\" they added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Americans are chasing an unprecedented third World Cup crown in a row and face outsiders Vietnam to open their title defence in Auckland on Saturday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Hipkins told reporters there was no ongoing risk and he had spoken with football\'s governing body FIFA.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Clearly with the FIFA World Cup kicking off this evening there are a lot of eyes on Auckland. The government has spoken to FIFA organisers this morning and the tournament will proceed as planned,\" he said at a press conference.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"I want to reiterate that there is no wider national security threat. This appears to be the actions of one individual.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Former New Zealand player Maia Jackman was reportedly in a fan zone as the drama unfolded and told The New Zealand Herald: \"It\'s pretty scary actually.\" AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-20 14:28:58', '2023-07-20 14:28:58'),
(8095, 8095, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The United States said Wednesday it has no fresh news on the US soldier who left a tour of the demilitarized zone and ran into North Korea, in a bizarre incident that has baffled authorities in Washington.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">US officials have identified the soldier as Private Second Class Travis King, who broke away from a South Korean orientation visit in the border Panmunjon truce village on Tuesday and raced over the frontier where it is believed he was taken into custody by North Korean officials.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Little is known about the serviceman\'s motive or present status in the reclusive nation.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We here at the State Department, and the UN, are all continuing to work together on this matter to ascertain information about the well-being and whereabouts of Private King,\" said State Department spokesman Matthew Miller.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">King, who earlier was in the process of being sent back to the United States over disciplinary problems, somehow got to Panmunjon and crossed the border \"wilfully and without authorisation\", US officials said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Miller said the State Department was continuing to gather information on the case, but knew nothing of his current condition.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"I want to be very clear that the administration has and will continue to actively work to ensure his safety and return him home to his family,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said the Pentagon has reached out to contacts in the North Korean military for information on King\'s situation, but there had not been a response.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Miller said Washington, which does not have diplomatic relations with Pyongyang, has other channels to communicate.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He mentioned that the State Department is engaging counterparts in South Korea and Sweden to find out information on King.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">US media said King broke away at an airport as he was being escorted home for disciplinary reasons.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to South Korean police, King had spent around two months in a local prison on assault charges, and was released on July 10. AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bndb24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-20 14:32:22', '2023-07-20 14:32:22'),
(8096, 8096, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Russia is considering attacking civilian ships on the Black Sea and then putting the blame on Ukrainian forces, a senior White House official said Wednesday.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"The Russian military may expand their targeting of Ukrainian grain facilities to include attacks against civilian shipping,\" National Security Council spokesman Adam Hodge told AFP.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said the allegation was based on newly declassified intelligence.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It came in the wake of a missile and drone attack by Russia against the port city of Odesa, as well as the Kremlin\'s decision to pull out of an international deal allowing safe passage of massive Ukrainian grain exports across the Black Sea to world markets.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Moscow said its missiles targeted military objectives in Odesa but Hodge backed Ukrainian accusations that the attack destroyed \"agricultural infrastructure and 60,000 tons of grain\" lying ready for export.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to the White House official, those kinds of attacks could now expand to civilian ships. And Russia is mounting an operation to make such attacks look like they were carried out by Ukraine, he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Hodge cited Russia\'s release of a video showing its forces detecting and destroying an \"alleged Ukrainian sea mine\" on Wednesday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">At the same time, \"our information indicates that Russia laid additional sea mines in the approaches to Ukrainian ports. We believe that this is a coordinated effort to justify any attacks against civilian ships in the Black Sea and lay blame on Ukraine for these attacks.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Russian defense ministry said all vessels sailing to Ukrainian ports on the Black Sea from now on will be regarded as potential carriers of military cargo and its flag states \"will be considered to be involved in the Ukrainian conflict on the side of the Kyiv regime.\" AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-20 14:36:39', '2023-07-20 14:36:39'),
(8097, 8097, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">BNP is set to hold nationwide “mourning rallies,” including in Dhaka, today, protesting the killing of a Krishak Dal leader in Laxmipur on Tuesday during the party’s road march.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Today’s rallies are also meant for registering the party’s protest against attacks on the road marches brought out by the party and its alliance partners on Tuesday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Leaders and activists of BNP and its associate bodies will bring out a mourning rally in front of the party’s Nayapaltan central office in Dhaka at 3 pm.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">BNP standing committee member Mirza Abbas announced the programme while concluding the second-day’s march from Uttara’s Abdullahpur towards Jatrabari in the capital on Wednesday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Later, at a press conference at the party’s Nayapaltan central office, BNP senior joint secretary general Ruhul Kabir Rizvi said the mourning rallies will be brought out in all metropolitan cities and district towns.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In Dhaka, he said, they will bring out a mourning rally from Nayapaltan at 3pm and it will end at Moghbazar after going through Shantinagar, Malibagh and Mouchak.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Besides, he said their party leaders and activists will give out leaflets among Muslim devotees in mosques across the country after Juma prayers on Friday, to press home their one-point demand, including the resignation of the government.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">As part of their one-point movement, BNP staged countrywide marches, including in the capital, on Tuesday and Wednesday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The party’s march on Tuesday was marked by violent clashes with police and Awami League activists in different parts of the country, leaving at least one man dead and several hundred people injured.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">BNP\'s march also came under attack near Mirpur Govt Bangla college on the same day in the capital.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On July 12, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir formally announced a ‘one-point’ movement with the goal to remove Awami League from power and hold the upcoming national election under a “neutral” government. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"4\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-20 14:52:57', '2023-07-20 14:52:57'),
(8098, 8098, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Heavy rains on Wednesday complicated the search for nine people still missing after a landslide that killed at least 20 in central Colombia, authorities said.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">More than 400 military troops, firefighters and other government rescue workers searched for survivors under intense downpours, two days after Monday\'s disaster in the Cundinamarca department.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We have at this time a toll of 20 fatalities\" including five minors, fire department chief Alvaro Farfan told reporters Wednesday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Several homes were destroyed and a major trade artery blocked after torrential rains hit the Quetame municipality late Monday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Fifteen bodies, four of them children, had been recovered from the mud and rubble on Tuesday before the search was temporarily called off due to bad weather.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The other five victims were discovered Wednesday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The operation had previously been suspended due to rainfall that Farfan said \"poses a risk for the personnel.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He did not rule out the possibility of more landslides due to the ongoing storms. BBC</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-20 15:01:39', '2023-07-20 15:01:39');
INSERT INTO `news_details` (`id`, `news_id`, `details`, `ticker`, `representative`, `keyword`, `video_link`, `google_drive_link`, `audio_link`, `shoulder`, `created_at`, `updated_at`) VALUES
(8099, 8099, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Dhaka\'s air quality continued to be in the ‘moderate’ zone this morning.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">With an air quality index (AQI) score of 87 at 9:12 am, Dhaka ranked 18th on the list of cities worldwide with the worst air quality.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Chile’s Santiago, the United Arab Emirates\' Dubai and South Africa’s Johannesburg occupied the first three spots on the list, with AQI scores of 194, 184 and 155 respectively.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">An AQI score between 50 and 100 is considered ‘moderate’ with acceptable air quality. However, there may be a health concern for a very small number of people who are unusually sensitive to air pollution.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">AQI score between 150 and 200 is considered \'unhealthy\', between 201 and 300 is said to be \'very unhealthy\', and a reading of 301+ is considered \'hazardous\', posing serious health risks to residents.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In Bangladesh, the AQI is based on five criteria pollutants: particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), NO2, CO, SO2 and Ozone.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Dhaka has long grappled with air pollution issues. Its air quality usually turns unhealthy in the winter and improves during the monsoon.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Air pollution consistently ranks among the top risk factors for death and disability worldwide.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">As per the World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution kills an estimated seven million people worldwide every year. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-20 15:20:37', '2023-07-20 15:20:37'),
(8100, 8100, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">South Korean, US and Japanese leaders will meet in August in America, Seoul\'s presidential office said Thursday, as the three nations increase military cooperation to counter North Korea\'s growing nuclear threats.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Relations between Pyongyang and Seoul are at one of their lowest points ever, with diplomacy stalled and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un calling for increased weapons development, including tactical nukes.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In response, President Yoon Suk Yeol has pulled South Korea closer to long-standing ally Washington, and even sought to bury the hatchet with former colonial power Japan in a bid to contain North Korea.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In April, Seoul and Washington said that if Pyongyang ever used its nuclear weapons against the allies, it would face a nuclear reaction and the \"end\" of its regime.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"The Korea-US-Japan trilateral summit is scheduled to be held in the United States in August,\" Seoul\'s presidential office said Thursday, adding the specific date and location would be \"announced later\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Yonhap News Agency reported the meeting will take place on August 18 at Camp David near Washington, citing unnamed sources.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The announcement comes days after Seoul and Washington held their first Nuclear Consultative Group meeting in the South Korean capital.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On Tuesday, a nuclear-armed American submarine made a port visit to Busan for the first time since 1981.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Pyongyang last week said it had successfully tested the Hwasong-18, its new solid-fuel intercontinental ballistic missile, for the second time.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Analysts say the tests represent a major breakthrough for North Korea\'s banned weapons programmes.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The announcement also comes as Washington confirmed Tuesday that a US soldier -- who had been jailed in the South on assault charges -- is believed to have been detained by North Korea after crossing the border.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Pyongyang has a long history of detaining Americans and using them as bargaining chips. AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-20 17:02:41', '2023-07-20 17:02:41'),
(8101, 8101, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Inter Miami on Wednesday brought in Paraguayan international midfielder Diego Gomez, as it continued rebuilding its squad, following the signing of Lionel Messi.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The 20-year-old joins Miami on a two and a half year deal from Paraguayan club Libertad, where Miami\'s new head coach Gerardo Martino had two spells.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Gomez is the third player to join Inter, bottom of Major League Soccer, in this transfer window, joining Messi and Spanish midfielder Sergio Busquets.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A third former Barcelona player, Spanish left-back Jordi Alba, is expected to complete his move to Miami in the coming days.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Diego is a well-rounded midfielder that we believe will contribute in all phases of the game,\" said Miami\'s sporting director Chris Henderson.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We believe in his ability and potential, and feel he will be a strong addition to our squad as we enter this next phase of growth at Inter Miami.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Gomez made 51 appearances for Libertad and was part of two domestic title winning teams. He captained Paraguay\'s Under-20 national side and has gone on to make four appearances for the full national team.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Inter Miami owner Jorge Mas said on Tuesday that further signings were expected in this window.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Another young South American, 20-year-old Argentine midfielder Facundo Farias has a verbal agreement to join the club, said Mas.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Miami owner added that talks are also underway with two young talents from the Argentine league -- Tomas Aviles, a central defender with Racing Club, and striker Brian Aguirre, of Newell\'s Old Boys.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Mas also suggested that former Barcelona and Liverpool striker Luis Suarez, the 36-year-old Uruguay international, could be another arrival, if he is able to free himself from his contract with Brazilian club Gremio.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"I don\'t know how Luis Suarez can leave Gremio. But if he does we are free to talk to Luis and bring him to Inter Miami. That possibility would be there,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Messi and Busquets could make their debut for their new club on Friday against Mexico\'s Cruz Azul in the Leagues Cup. AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"20\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-20 17:11:00', '2023-07-20 17:11:00'),
(8102, 8102, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The lack of progress on the Russian part of the grain deal was one of the key reasons why it was terminated on Monday, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Vershinin said on Wednesday at a meeting with Turkish Ambassador to Russia Mehmet Samsar.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"The Russian side once again stressed that the lack of progress in the implementation of the Russia-UN memorandum was one of the key reasons behind our principled decision to terminate the Black Sea Initiative on exporting Ukrainian food after its expiration on July 17,\" the Russian foreign ministry said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"The sides reiterated Russia and Turkey\'s commitment to continue coordinated efforts in the interests of ensuring global food security, paying special attention to the assistance to the poorest countries in Africa,\" it said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to the ministry, the meeting was held in furtherance of Tuesday\'s telephone talks between Russian and Turkish Foreign Ministers, Sergey Lavrov and Hakan Fidan.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A package of documents geared to resolve the problem of food and fertilizer supplies on global markets was signed on July 22, 2022 in Istanbul and extended several times since then before ultimately expiring on July 17.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Russia refused to extend it again because the part of the deal envisaging the removal of obstacles for Russian agricultural exports has never been implemented.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Apart from that, Moscow has repeatedly stressed that the bulk of grain that was meant to be supplied to the poorest counties was shipped to Western countries. Russian presidential press secretary Dmitry Peskov said that Russia is ready to resurrect the deal but only after its part related to obligations to Moscow is fulfilled. TASS</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-20 17:14:41', '2023-07-20 17:14:41'),
(8103, 8103, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">At least six people, including a woman, were dead and two were injured when a microbus and a CNG-run auto-rickshaw collided and fell into a roadside ditch on Sylhet-Bholaganj Road at Salutikor under Gowainghat upazila of Sylhet district today (July 20, 2023).</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">One of the deceased was identified as Kazi Amir Uddin, a teacher of Anwar High School and College, while identities of the others could not be known immediately.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">KM Nazrul Islam, officer-in-charge of Gowainghat Police Station, said the accident occurred around 8:30 am when the microbus and CNG-run auto-rickshaw fell into the road side ditch after a head-on collision, leaving five people dead on the spot and three injured.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Of the injured, one died on the way to Sylhet Osmani Medical College and Hospital. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-20 17:26:39', '2023-07-20 17:26:39'),
(8104, 8104, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday that Moscow would \"consider\" returning to the Ukraine grain deal if its demands were \"fully\" met, saying the agreement had \"lost all meaning.\"</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It was the first time the Russian leader commented since Moscow this week exited the landmark deal, which allowed the safe passage of cargo ships from Black Sea ports.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"The continuation of the grain deal in its current form has lost all meaning,\" Putin said at a government meeting.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Of course we will consider the possibility of returning to it -- but only under one condition: if all principles under which Russia agreed to participate in the deal are fully taken into account and fulfilled.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He named the \"withdrawal of sanctions on supplies of Russian grain and fertilisers to world markets\" as one of the main conditions.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Moscow had for months complained that a related agreement on allowing the export of Russian food and fertilisers had not been honoured.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Putin said Russia had shown \"miracles of poise and tolerance\" by extending the deal several times.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">But he accused Western countries of using the deal for \"political blackmail\". \"Instead of helping countries in real need, the West used the grain deal for political blackmail and... turned it into a tool to enrich transnational corporations and speculators in the global grain market,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Putin spoke shortly after the Russian army said that cargo ships heading for Ukrainian ports on the Black Sea would be regarded as possibly carrying military cargo.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The grain deal, brokered by the UN and Turkey, had enabled the export of more than 32 million tonnes of Ukrainian grain over the last year. AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-20 18:06:28', '2023-07-20 18:06:28'),
(8105, 8105, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>The United States on Wednesday announced a new $1.3 billion military aid package for Ukraine featuring air defense systems, anti-tank missiles, drones and other equipment.</b></span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The package is part of US efforts to meet \"Ukraine\'s pressing requirements by committing critical near-term capabilities while also building the enduring capacity of Ukraine\'s armed forces,\" the Defense Department said in a statement.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The assistance will not immediately arrive on the battlefield, as it falls under the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI), under which Washington procures equipment from the defense industry or partners, rather than drawing it from US stocks.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The package includes four NASAMs air defense systems and related munitions, TOW anti-tank missiles, 152 mm artillery shells, drones as well as counter-drone systems, and various vehicles.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The announcement comes as Ukrainian forces are fighting to advance against invading Russian troops in a slow-moving counteroffensive that Mykhailo Podolyak, a senior aide to Ukraine\'s president, said Wednesday \"will be quite difficult, long and will take quite a lot of time.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Podolyak also said that Kyiv\'s forces need two to three hundred tanks as well as 60 to 80 F-16 warplanes.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Netherlands and Denmark are leading a plan to train Ukrainian pilots on using the US-made aircraft as part of an 11-nation coalition, but the effort is still in its early stages.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The pace of Ukraine\'s advance in the counteroffensive has raised questions about whether it will be successful, but US officials have highlighted the tough obstacles Kyiv\'s forces must overcome when asked about the pace of advance.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Ukrainian troops are facing heavily fortified Russian positions that include complex minefields, tank obstacles, barbed wire and trenches, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Mark Milley told journalists on Tuesday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He also said that Ukraine has \"a significant amount of combat power not yet committed.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Right now, they are preserving their combat power, and they are slowly and deliberately and steadily working their way through all these minefields, and it\'s a tough fight.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The United States has spearheaded the push for international support for Ukraine, quickly forging an international coalition to back Kyiv after Russia invaded and coordinating aid from dozens of countries.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Washington has committed to providing tens of billions of dollars in military aid to Kyiv since Russia invaded in February 2022. AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-20 18:28:21', '2023-07-20 18:28:21'),
(8106, 8106, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">On July 21 (India time), the team of Project K will unveil the film\'s first glimpse at San Diego Comic-Con, which is taking place in the US from July 20-23. On Wednesday, a day before the Project K launch, the film\'s lead actor Prabhas was spotted at a bash in the US, where he met fans. The makers reportedly offered fans a look at the film as part of an opening night party on July 19.&nbsp;</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Pictures of Prabhas looking dapper in blue and black at the event were shared on fan pages. Reacting to which, a person wrote, \"Looking cool anna (brother).\" Another said, \"Time to dominate the world. All the best for Projeck K.\" Moreover, ahead of the first glimpse of Project K at the San Diego Comic Con, the first look of Prabhas from the film was unveiled on Wednesday. The film also stars Kamal Haasan, Deepika Padukone and Amitabh Bachchan, among others.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>Project K at Comic-Con</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">According to Variety, the film\'s makers will unveil exclusive footage at the event. On July 20 (US time), the film\'s team will host a panel titled \'This is Project K: First Glimpse of India\'s Mytho-Sci-fi Epic\'. The stars will be seen in a stage performance at the event.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Talking about the event, Nag Ashwin had earlier said in a statement, \"India is the home of some of the greatest lore and superheroes ever written. We feel that our film is an attempt to bring out and share this with the world. And Comic-Con gives us the perfect stage to introduce our story to a global audience.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>About Project K</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Project K is set to become the first-ever Indian film to debut at the San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC) 2023. At the event, Kamal Haasan, Prabhas and the team of Project K will unveil the film\'s title, trailer, and release date. Project K is a multi-lingual sci-fi film produced by Vyjayanthi Movies.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It has been reported that Deepika Padukone will miss the event due to the ongoing strike by the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Radio and Television Artists (SAG-AFTRA) in the US. The actor is a member of SAG-AFTRA. HT</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"13\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-20 18:34:49', '2023-07-20 18:34:49'),
(8107, 8107, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today urged the countrymen to protect themselves from the clasp of BNP-Jamaat, saying that they only know how to destroy, make corruption and plunder but don\'t know how to serve people.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"They (BNP-Jamaat) know how to destroy, don\'t know how to create anything, they don\'t know how to serve people, they only know how to do corruption and plunder as well as fulfill self interest. . .,\" she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The premier said this while opening train movement on the newly constructed 72-km dual-gauge double rail line built under the Akhaura-Laksam Double Track Project.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She joined the inaugural function at Laksam in Cumilla through a virtual platform from her official residence Ganabhaban here.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sheikh Hasina said the government won\'t impede political programmes of BNP-Jamaat but won\'t spare them if they repeat any destructive activity.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We will not obstruct them in doing politics and are not doing so as well. But, they won\'t get spared if they set fire to rail again or make any damage to the people,\" she said referring to the violence unleashed by BNP-Jamaat clique during the 2013-2015 period.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She said there will be cameras everywhere and the culprits will be identified and punished properly if they carry out any destructive activity.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The prime minister urged the people to remain alert so that they can stay protected from the hands of terrorist BNP-Jamaat.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We want the country to be protected from their hands,\" she added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">With the newly constructed 72-km dual-gauge double track, the entire 321-km Dhaka-Chattogram corridor has turned into a double lined one increasing its operational capacity, which will save travelling time by 30 minutes to one hour.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">With Railways Minister Nurul Islam Sujan in the chair from Laksam end, LGRD and Cooperatives Minister Tazul Islam (also local MP from Laksam-Monohargonj) and Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Anisul Huq (also local MP from Akhaura-Kashba) and Asian Development Bank (ADB) country director for Bangladesh Edimon Ginting spoke on the occasion.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">PMO Secretary Mohammad Salahuddin conducted the function while Railways Secretary Dr Humayun Kabir delivered the welcome speech.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">At the outset of the function, an audio-visual documentary on the development of Bangladesh Railway under the present Awami League government was screened.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The prime minister said, \"BNP is a terrorist party. BNP doesn\'t understand anything except terrorism,\" referring to the misdeeds and brutality of its founder military dictator Ziaur Rahman.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She said that Ziaur Rahman was involved in the killing of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and national four leaders in jail alongside killing freedom fighter officers of armed forces and ordinary people.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She added that when her wife (Begum Khaleda Zia) assumed power, she also didn\'t understand anything but killing people.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She continued: \"Over 21,000 leaders and activists of Awami League were killed by them (BNP) while huge numbers were tortured and repressed during her (Khaleda Zia) regime.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sheikh Hasina went on saying that, \"This terrorist party’s (BNP) only job is to destroy.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In this connection, she mentioned that over 3,824 vehicles including buses and trucks with passengers, drivers and helpers were burnt down by BNP during 2013-2015.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The prime minister said the BNP-Jamaat set fire to railways in 29 places during their arson violence to thwart the 2014 general election.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She said many train operations were suspended during the BNP-Jamaat regime, but the AL government took massive steps to improve the sector considering that train journeys are comfortable and cheap for the common people.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sheikh Hasina said her government formed a separate ministry for railways to increase allocation for the sector.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"In the last 14 and a half years, we constructed 740 km new rail lines, converted 280 km meter-gauge rail tracks into dual-gauge, and reinstalled or reconstructed 1,308 km rail lines,\" she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Besides, the AL government has constructed 126 new station buildings, reconstructed 223 stations buildings, constructed 732 new railway bridges and reinstalled or reconstructed 774 railway bridges during the period, she added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The premier said her government collected 111 locomotives, 588 passenger carriages and 516 wagons (for carrying goods) since 2009.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We\'ve commissioned 143 new trains on different routes,\" she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She also said the government is implementing several mega projects to enhance the regional and local railway communication and networks.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We\'ve taken initiative to collect 46 new broad-gauge locomotives, 460 new broad-gauge passenger carriages, 150 new meter-gauge passenger carriages, 125 new modern luggage vans and 1,310 new wagons,\" she added. BSS</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-20 19:42:29', '2023-07-20 19:42:29'),
(8108, 8108, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">At least 10 people were killed after a landslide triggered by heavy rains smashed into their village in India\'s Maharashtra state with dozens more feared trapped, officials said Thursday.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Rescue teams were battling lashing rain in the remote, hilly and forested Raigad district, with people scrambling at mounds of earth and rubble.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Devendra Fadnavis, Maharashtra\'s deputy chief minister, said 10 people had died in the landslide, which overwhelmed the village overnight.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"More than 200 people reside there, we have rescued about 70 people so far -- out of those, 21 are injured,\" Fadnavis said on Thursday morning.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Police officer Harish Kalsekar told AFP that nearly 50 people were feared still buried under the debris.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"It is raining and the terrain is hilly, so heavy equipment can\'t be moved there,\" Kalsekar said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Interior Minister Amit Shah said the priority was \"to evacuate people from the scene and treat the injured immediately\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">India has been battered by rains since the start of the annual monsoon season in June, and flooding and landslides have killed scores of people.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Monsoon rains are vital to replenishing rivers and groundwater, but the deluge also causes widespread destruction every year.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Experts say climate change is increasing the number of extreme weather events around the world, with damming, deforestation and development projects in India exacerbating the human toll. BSS</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-20 19:48:27', '2023-07-20 19:48:27'),
(8109, 8109, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Awami League General Secretary and Road, Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader said that BNP\'s condition for participating in the next general election is unconstitutional.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>“Foreigners have said nothing about the caretaker government or the party\'s one-point agenda,” the minister said while briefing reporters at Setu Bhaban in Dhaka’s Banani.</div><div><br></div><div>Quader said BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul’s statement indicates the “intent of violence” and makes it clear that the party is “walking on the path of unrest.”</div><div><br></div><div>“They want to disrupt peaceful elections. They are moving forward with the goal of terrorizing and foiling elections,” he said.</div><div><br></div><div>The AL general secretary reiterated his party’s stance on the upcoming election.</div><div><br></div><div>“Awami League’s one point is clear: Election will be held as per the constitution – under the leadership of Sheikh Hasina and the (supervision of) Election Commission,” Quader said.</div><div><br></div><div>“BNP\'s demand is strange, bizarre and absurd. They have decided not to participate in elections unless they are guaranteed to win,” he added.</div><div><br></div><div>Earlier, British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Sarah Catherine Cook paid a courtesy call on the minister at the Setu Bhaban.</div><div><br></div><div>During the meeting, discussions were held on how the next national election will be held in the country, and the responsibilities of the election-time government.</div><div><br></div><div>The British High Commissioner stressed on free, fair, peaceful and participatory election. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-20 20:57:08', '2023-07-20 20:57:08'),
(8110, 8110, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>A group of attackers from a road march brought out by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) in the port city today allegedly vandalised the main election camp of Mohiuddin Bachchu, Awami League (AL) nominated candidate for Chattogram-10 consistency by-polls.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>A video posted on Awami League’s verified Facebook page shows men from the road march attacking the office designated for AL candidate Mohiuddin Bachchu.</div><div><br></div><div>On Wednesday evening, a group of activists from BNP and its associate bodies brought out a procession and as they reached Lalkhan Bazar area, some of them started throwing brick chips targeting the AL election camp, local AL activists said.</div><div><br></div><div>The attackers also tore down banners and posters at the AL election camp.</div><div><br></div><div>The video shows men armed with sticks and rods throwing brick chips and stones while another group is seen vandalising the office.</div><div><br></div><div>The caption with the video posted on AL’s verified Facebook page reads: “Is this a peaceful protest? Should the people of this country allow BNP to carry out such violent activities? We condemn such acts of terror.” Source: UNB</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-20 22:16:52', '2023-07-20 22:16:52'),
(8111, 8111, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">At least nine people have been killed and 16 injured after an explosive device accidentally detonated in a field in conflict-torn Democratic Republic of Congo, local sources said on Thursday.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>The blast occurred on Wednesday evening in Lubwe Sud in North Kivu province\'s Rutshuru territory.</div><div><br></div><div>Justin Mwangaza, a local civil-society figure, told AFP that a civilian had picked up a bomb in a field and given it to a militiamen when it subsequently exploded.</div><div><br></div><div>Nine people were killed and 16 injured, he said.</div><div><br></div><div>A nurse at a nearby clinic confirmed the toll, explaining that two people died on the spot and seven later succumbed to their wounds.</div><div><br></div><div>Some of the 16 wounded people are in critical condition, the nurse said.</div><div><br></div><div>AFP was unable to independently confirm the death toll.</div><div><br></div><div>Armed groups have plagued much of eastern DRC for decades, a legacy of regional wars that flared in the 1990s and 2000s.</div><div><br></div><div>One such group, the M23, has captured swathes of territory in North Kivu since taking up arms again in late 2021 after years of dormancy.</div><div><br></div><div>The rebel campaign has displaced over one million people, according to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).</div><div><br></div><div>Independent UN experts, the DRC government and several Western nations including the United States and France accuse Rwanda of actively backing the M23, despite denials from Kigali. Accoridngt to AFP reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-20 23:19:40', '2023-07-20 23:19:40'),
(8112, 8112, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>A Dhaka court set August 14 for submitting probe report in a case filed against Grameen Telecom Chairman and Nobel Laureate Dr Muhammad Yunus and 12 others for allegedly embezzling Taka 25 crore from the company.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Today was fixed for submitting the report but the investigation agency Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) failed to do it. Taking the matter into consideration, Dhaka Metropolitan Sessions Judge Asaduzzaman set a new date in this regard.</div><div><br></div><div>ACC deputy director Md Gulshan Anwar on May 30 filed the case with its integrated district office Dhaka-1.</div><div><br></div><div>The other accused in the case are- Grameen Telecom Managing Director Nazmul Islam, directors Ashraful Hasan, Naznin Sultana, Parvin Mahmud, Md Shahjahan, Nurjahan Begum and SM Huzzatul Islam Latifee, Sramik-Karmachari Union President Md Kamruzzaman and General Secretary Firoz Mahmud Hasan, lawyers Zafrul Hasan Sharif and Yusuf Ali and representative Md Mainul Islam.</div><div><br></div><div>According to the case documents, a decision was made on the company\'s 108th board meeting, presided over by Dr Yunus on May 9, 2022, to open a bank account at Gulshan branch of Dhaka Bank Limited. But it was found that the account was opened a day before the decision was even made.</div><div><br></div><div>More than Taka 26 crore was transferred to the account on different occasions, as per \'fake settlement agreements\' and decision of the board. But before even distributing the share of the company\'s profit to the workers, and letting them know, the accused embezzled around Taka 25 crore from the fund. According to BSS reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-20 23:36:29', '2023-07-20 23:36:29'),
(8113, 8113, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The United Arab Emirates is interested in making investments in the energy sector of Bangladesh, particularly renewable energy, said a visiting minister of the oil-rich Gulf country on Thursday.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology Dr Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber expressed this eagerness during a courtesy call on Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina at her official residence Ganabhaban.</div><div><br></div><div>“They are very interested in the energy sector, especially renewable energy alongside conventional energy,” PM’s Press Secretary Ihsanul Karim said while briefing reporters after the meeting.</div><div><br></div><div>Dr Ahmed, also the chairman of ‘Masdar’ (an energy company) and Managing Director of Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC), said that they will send two teams to Bangladesh from UAE -- one is to discuss renewable energy and another one to discuss business.</div><div><br></div><div>During the meeting, mainly the climate change and bilateral issues including economic cooperation were discussed, said the press secretary.</div><div><br></div><div>Ahmed, also the UAE Special Envoy for Climate Change and President-Designate for the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28) praised the leadership of PM Hasina on the climate change issue and expected her further support on this issue.</div><div><br></div><div>He sought support from the prime minister on climate change and food security issues. “We want to be a game changer,” he said, adding that they are exerting pressure on collection of climate funds to solve the problem before the COP28.</div><div><br></div><div>Noting that UAE is going green, the minister said they want to get a positive impact from the COP28 in the UAE.</div><div><br></div><div>The prime minister said the COP28 is of crucial importance since it will involve a global stocktake of the Paris Agreement.</div><div><br></div><div>“We hope the UAE presidency will help make a realistic assessment of the progress made and the huge gaps that remain to accelerate climate actions globally to maintain the 1.5 degree temperature,” she said.</div><div><br></div><div>Talking about the bilateral relations between Bangladesh and UAE, the PM said “We’ve many things in common.”</div><div><br></div><div>PM’s Private Industry and Investment Adviser Salman Fazlur Rahman, PM’s ambassador-at-large Mohammad Ziauddin and PMO Secretary Mohammad Salahuddin and Environment Secretary Farhina Ahmed and UAE ambassador to Bangladesh Abdullah Ali Al Hamoudi were present. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-21 00:03:43', '2023-07-21 00:03:43');
INSERT INTO `news_details` (`id`, `news_id`, `details`, `ticker`, `representative`, `keyword`, `video_link`, `google_drive_link`, `audio_link`, `shoulder`, `created_at`, `updated_at`) VALUES
(8114, 8114, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Iraq\'s prime minister ordered the expulsion of the Swedish ambassador from Iraq and the withdrawal of the Iraqi charge d\'affaires from Sweden on Thursday as a man desecrated of a copy of the Quran in Stockholm.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>The diplomatic blowup came hours after protesters angered by the planned burning of a copy of the Quran stormed the Swedish Embassy in Baghdad, breaking into the compound and lighting a small fire.</div><div><br></div><div>The Swedish Embassy announced it had closed to visitors. Prime Minister Shia al-Sudani said that Iraqi authorities will prosecute the arsonists as well, referring \"negligent security officials\" for investigation.</div><div><br></div><div>The man kicked and stood on the Quran during his protest at the Iraqi Embassy in Stockholm as Swedish police stood by.</div><div><br></div><div>Protesters angered by the planned burning of a copy of the Quran stormed the Swedish Embassy in Baghdad early Thursday, breaking into the compound and lighting a small fire and setting off a diplomatic furor.</div><div><br></div><div>Online videos showed demonstrators at the diplomatic post waving flags and signs showing the influential Iraqi Shiite cleric and political leader Muqtada al-Sadr ahead of a planned burning of the Islamic holy book Thursday in Stockholm by an Iraqi asylum-seeker who burned a copy of the Quran in a previous demonstration last month.</div><div><br></div><div>Following the incident, the Swedish Embassy announced it had closed to visitors without specifying when it would reopen. Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani convened a meeting with security officials and said in a statement afterwards that Iraqi authorities will prosecute those responsible for the arson as well referring \"negligent security officials\" for investigation.</div><div><br></div><div>However, the statement also said that the Iraqi government had informed its Swedish counterpart on Wednesday that Iraq would cut off diplomatic relations should the Quran burning go forward.</div><div><br></div><div>The videos showed dozens of men climbing over the fence at the complex, with the sound of them trying to break down a front door. Another showed what appeared to be a small fire being set. Other footage showed men, some shirtless in the summer heat, inside what appeared to be a room at the embassy, an alarm audible in the background.</div><div><br></div><div>Others later performed predawn prayers outside of the embassy.</div><div><br></div><div>As dawn broke, police and other security officials gathered at the embassy as small plumes of smoke still rose. Firefighters tried to douse the flames from the ladder of a fire truck. Some demonstrators still stood at the site, holding placards showing al-Sadr\'s face, apparently left alone by police.</div><div><br></div><div>The Swedish Foreign Ministry said in a statement that \"our embassy staff are in safety,\" without elaborating. In a statement posted on its website Thursday, the Swedish Embassy in Baghdad said it is closed to visitors, but didn\'t specify how long the closure would last.</div><div><br></div><div>\"We condemn all attacks on diplomats and staff from international organizations,\" the ministry said. \"Attacks on embassies and diplomats constitute a serious violation of the Vienna Convention. Iraqi authorities have the responsibility to protect diplomatic missions and diplomatic staff.\"</div><div><br></div><div>Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billström called the attacks \"completely unacceptable\" in a statement and said the ministry will summon Iraq\'s charge d\'affaires in Stockholm, slamming Iraqi authorities for \"seriously failing\" in their responsibility to protect the embassy and its personnel.</div><div><br></div><div>The Finnish embassy in Baghdad is adjacent to the Swedish embassy, in an area enclosed by blast walls. Finland\'s ambassador to Iraq, Matti Lassila, told the Finnish public broadcaster YLE that the staff of the Swedish and Finnish embassies were proactively evacuated Wednesday and were uninjured.</div><div><br></div><div>Iraq\'s Foreign Ministry also issued a statement condemning the attack, without explaining how it allowed the breach to happen or identifying who carried out the assault.</div><div><br></div><div>\"The Iraqi government has instructed the competent security authorities to conduct an urgent investigation and take the necessary security measures in order to uncover the circumstances of the incident and identify the perpetrators of this act and hold them accountable according to the law,\" the Foreign Ministry said.</div><div><br></div><div>Iraqi police did not immediately acknowledge the attack.</div><div><br></div><div>Stockholm police spokesman Mats Eriksson confirmed that police had granted permission for a demonstration involving two people outside the Iraqi Embassy in Stockholm on Thursday. He could not say whether the protesters were planning to burn the Quran.</div><div><br></div><div>The right to hold public demonstrations is strong in Sweden and protected by the constitution. Blasphemy laws were abandoned in the 1970s. Police generally give permission based on whether they believe a public gathering can be held without major disruptions or risks to public safety.</div><div><br></div><div>However, for Muslims, the burning of the Quran represents a blasphemous desecration of their religion\'s holy text. Quran burnings in the past have sparked protests across the Muslim world, some turning violent. In Afghanistan, the Taliban have suspended all the activities of Swedish organizations in the country in response to the recent Quran burning.</div><div><br></div><div>An Iraqi Christian immigrant last month burned a Quran outside a Stockholm mosque during the major Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha, triggering widespread condemnation in the Islamic world. According to Swedish news agency TT, the same man was one of those who planned to burn the Quran on Thursday.</div><div><br></div><div>A similar protest by a far-right activist was held outside Turkey\'s Embassy earlier this year, complicating Sweden\'s efforts to convince Turkey to let it join NATO.</div><div><br></div><div>In June, protesters who support al-Sadr stormed the embassy in Baghdad during daylight hours over that Quran burning. Another day of protests saw thousands of demonstrators on the streets in the country. Protesters then, as well as early Thursday, called on Iraqi officials to expel Sweden\'s ambassador to Iraq.</div><div><br></div><div>Al-Sadr, the chameleonic son of a prominent Shiite cleric assassinated in a 1999 attack believed to be organized by Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein, quickly organized Shiite dispossessed under Saddam against the American occupation after the 2003 U.S.-led invasion.</div><div><br></div><div>Saddam loyalists and Shiite extremists alike would soon fight an insurgency against the American forces. Al-Sadr\'s Mahdi Army militia fought American forces throughout much of 2004 in Baghdad and other cities. Al-Sadr\'s forces are believed to have later taken part in the sectarian killings between Shiites and Sunnis that plagued Iraq for several years after the bombing of one of the holiest sites in Shiite Islam.</div><div><br></div><div>Since that time much has changed.</div><div><br></div><div>Al-Sadr\'s followers have taken part in Iraqi military offensives against the Islamic State group in Tikrit and other cities. He has organized rallies against government corruption, including breaching the fortified Green Zone in Baghdad, the highly secure area housing government offices and many foreign embassies.</div><div><br></div><div>He claimed he would bow out of politics last August, following a nearly yearlong deadlock in the formation of a new Cabinet. His party won the largest share of seats in the October 2021 parliamentary elections, but not enough to secure a majority government. - AP</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-21 02:15:05', '2023-07-21 02:15:05'),
(8115, 8115, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>BNP on Thursday told British High Commissioner to Bangladesh Sarah Cooke that a fair election is not possible here without a neutral government as the current regime has been moving ahead with its scheme of rigging votes.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>“Though the election is six months away, the scheme of stealing votes is actively going on...that’s why it’s not possible to have a fair election in Bangladesh without an impartial government,” said BNP Standing Committee member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Briefing reporters about the outcome of their meeting with the British envoy, he said that the only way to break the vote-stealing scheme is holding the election under a non-partisan government. “This discussion is now going on everywhere and it has come up in our discussion today (Thursday).\"</div><div><br></div><div>Explaining the political developments and context over the last week, the BNP leader said one of their party leaders was killed, many others were injured,&nbsp; arrested, and implicated in false cases while DCs, UNOs and police officers were transferred and given new postings. “These all are parts of the scheme to steal votes in the election.”</div><div><br></div><div>He said all the democratic countries and organisations across the world have concerns that human rights the rule of law, and the security of public life are at stake amid widespread corruption as an ‘unelected’ government has been in power.</div><div><br></div><div>“The only way to change this situation is a fair, acceptable and participatory election and that is the same expectation of the democratic countries like the people of Bangladesh,” the BNP leader said.</div><div><br></div><div>He said the global community has also concerns whether a credible, participatory and impartial election will be held in Bangladesh paving the way for people to elect their parliament and the government. “The British government has always had this concern as we follow Westminster. This issue was also discussed in the meeting.\"</div><div><br></div><div>Asked whether the UK support BNP’s demand for holding a fair and participatory under a non-partisan government, he said not only Great Britain but also many other countries are extending support to it.</div><div><br></div><div>“Why are the (delegations of) democratic countries coming to Bangladesh? What messages are they sending?&nbsp; Why are they talking about a representative and participatory and acceptable election? Are they going to any other country in South Asia?” the BNP leader said.</div><div><br></div><div>Had there been a fair election in Bangladesh, he said these questions would not have been raised and the British High Commissioner would not have come to the BNP Chairperson’s office to discuss these issues.</div><div><br></div><div>Khosru said the people of Bangladesh want to get back democracy, their voting rights, the rule of law, democratic politics, and constitutional rights, and they also want a level-playing field and security of life. “These are not the demands of BNP, these are the demands of crores of people in this country.\"</div><div><br></div><div>After a meeting with Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader, the British High Commissioner&nbsp; went to the BNP Chairperson’s Gulshan office around 3pm and had around one hour and fifty minutes of meeting with a BNP delegation, led by its Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir,</div><div><br></div><div>BNP Standing Committee member Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury and Organising Secretary Shama Obaed also attended the meeting, according to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-21 02:46:43', '2023-07-21 02:46:43'),
(8116, 8116, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">North Korea\'s defence minister said Thursday the current port visit of a US nuclear-capable submarine to South Korea could meet the legal conditions under which Pyongyang would use its nuclear weapons.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Relations between the two Koreas are at one of their lowest points ever, with diplomacy stalled and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un calling for increased weapons development, including tactical nuclear weapons.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The United States and South Korea have stepped up displays of military muscle in response, and a US nuclear-capable submarine made a port call to South Korea this week for the first time since 1981.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Pyongyang\'s defence minister Kang Sun Nam said the arrival in Busan port of a US Ohio-class submarine \"may fall under the conditions of the use of nuclear weapons specified in the DPRK law on the nuclear force policy\", referring to North Korea by its official name.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">North Korea last year adopted a sweeping nuclear law, setting out an array of scenarios in which it could use its nukes, including pre-emptive nuclear strikes if threatened.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Kang said the presence of the sub was an \"undisguised and direct nuclear threat to the DPRK\", and meant that \"strategic nuclear weapons have been deployed on the Korean peninsula for the first time after 40 odd years\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"The US military side should realise that its nuclear assets have entered extremely dangerous waters,\" he said in a statement carried by the official Korean Central News Agency.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol visited the Ohio-class submarine Wednesday, and warned Pyongyang that were it to use nuclear weapons against the South, \"it will lead to the demise of its regime\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Ohio-class subs can carry up to 20 Trident II ballistic missiles. The US Navy typically does not confirm if a submarine is carrying nuclear weapons before it goes out to sea.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The allies also held their first Nuclear Consultative Group meeting in Seoul Tuesday, to improve their joint response to any nuclear attack by North Korea.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">- \'Direct, outright threat\' -</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It appears that the deployment of the submarine has rattled the North, Hong Min, a researcher at the Korea Institute for National Unification, told AFP.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Pyongyang\'s message is that the US and South Korea are acting in a manner that is bringing the North closer to consider invoking its nuclear weapons use guidelines,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Yoon\'s comment during his visit to the submarine mentioning the end of the North Korean regime appears to have rattled Pyongyang a lot, prompting it to react much more aggressively.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">North Korea has conducted a string of banned weapons tests this year, including twice launching its newest solid fuel Hwasong-18 intercontinental ballistic missile.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Seoul and Washington have ramped up defence cooperation in response, staging joint military exercises with advanced stealth jets and US strategic assets.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Washington first announced it would deploy a submarine capable of launching ballistic missiles with nuclear warheads to the Korean peninsula in April, while Yoon was on a state visit.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">North Korea baulks at having US nuclear assets deployed around the Korean peninsula.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Kang said that for Washington and Seoul, \"any use of their military muscle against the DPRK will be their most miserable choice by which they will have no room to think of their existence again\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Pyongyang\'s statement comes as an American soldier, Travis King, is believed to be in North Korean custody after crossing the border during a tourist trip to the Joint Security Area in the Demilitarised Zone on Tuesday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Pyongyang has a long history of detaining Americans and using them as bargaining chips in bilateral ties. It has not yet issued any comment on King.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The US-led United Nations Command has said it is working with North Korea\'s military to \"resolve this incident\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">But with relations between Pyongyang and Washington at one of their lowest points in years, experts say it will be difficult to gain consular access to King.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In addition, nearly all foreign embassies in Pyongyang withdrew foreign staff after North Korea closed its borders in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">That includes Sweden, which handles US consular affairs in the North Korean capital. AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-21 16:44:41', '2023-07-21 16:44:41'),
(8117, 8117, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">China has laid emphasis on stronger people to people relations between Dhaka and Beijing to help learn from each other and move forward together towards common development and prosperity.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">To help understand each other better and foster deeper friendship between the two sides, the Chinese government has invited a ten-member media delegation which arrived in Xinjiang on Thursday evening to interact with the people of all walks of life here and the officials.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Journalists play a vital role to tell the truth to world,\" an official here told UNB, adding that now it is very easy and convenient to travel to China and learn from each other.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Now all travel related restrictions have been lifted in China following recovery from Covid-19.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The media delegation members from Bangladesh visited Xinjiang Museum on Thursday evening.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"This Museum receives around 10 thousand visitors every day from all over the world. But the domestic visitors dominate the number,\" an official at the Museum told UNB.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Located in Urumqi, capital of northwest China\'s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, the expansion area of the museum covers more than 12,000 square meters, bringing the total area of the museum to nearly 50,000 square meters.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The renovated museum is expected to receive 2 million visitors every year.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The media delegation members are Daily Jugantor Chief Reporter Masud Karim, The Business Standard Deputy Editor Titu Das Gupta, The Financial Express Special Correspondent Mir Mostafizur Rahaman, The Daily Star Diplomatic Correspondent Porimol Palma, UNB Special Correspondent AKM Moinuddin, Independent TV Special Correspondent Nafiza Dawla, ATN News Chief Reporter Ashiqur Rahman Apu, Daily Samokal Diplomatic Correspondent Tasnim Mohsin Mishu, Jamuna TV Senior Reporter Ahmed Reza and Somoy TV Diplomatic Correspondent Tajwar Mahmid.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">During this visit, the media delegation will get knowledge of the true Xinjiang from multiple perspectives, such as religious policy, ethnic equality and unity, education development, traditional cultural protection and inheritance, health care development, rural revitalization, literary and artistic creation, protection of women and children\'s rights, and assurance of human rights by the legal system.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Before the departure from Dhaka, Ambassador of China to Bangladesh Yao Wen said the friendly relations and practical cooperation between Bangladesh and China have made fruitful achievements.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"By recording and spreading the stories of China-Bangladesh friendship by pens and cameras, the press have always played a key role in promoting our bilateral relations and people-to-people exchanges,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The embassy hoped that Bangladeshi media will take the initiative to encourage friends from all walks of life in Bangladesh to work with the embassy to dig out and tell more touching stories of China-Bangladesh friendship, so as to enhance the bridge of understanding and friendship between the two countries and the two peoples.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">When the Covid situation eased, the embassy immediately invited representatives of local media houses to visit China.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“The charm of the \"Colorful Yunnan\" was felt all across the country,” said Ambassador Yao.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier, a separate delegation for Yunnan, China, had in-depth exchanges with government officials and media and university representatives.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">They visited industries of local characteristics, ethnic and cultural legacies and spots of Belt and Road cooperation, through which they experienced in persons the achievements of ecological civilization construction and rural revitalization in Yunnan Province.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“You will be indulged with the mysterious Xinjiang,” said Yao.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">While appreciating the elegance of the ancient Silk Road, they would also deepen the understanding of the profound spirit core of the Belt and Road Initiative today, he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Ambassador Yao also said in the future, the embassy will facilitate more friends from the press to visit the vast land of China and experience the infinite vitality of Chinese modernisation. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-21 17:13:53', '2023-07-21 17:13:53'),
(8118, 8118, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The Gold Jewellers became costlier and marked its price over Tk1,00,000 per bhori for the first time in the country.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Bangladesh Jewellers Samity (Bajus) on Thursday announced the price hike, said a press release.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The price of good quality 22 carat gold has been increased by Tk2333 per bhori.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">This price is the highest ever in the country.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The press release has been signed by MA Hannan Azad, Chairman of Bajus Price Determination and Price Monitoring Standing Committee on Thursday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to the notification, the price of acidic gold has increased in the local market. Considering the overall situation, Bajus has fixed the new price of gold. It will be implemented from Friday (July 21).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The price of 21 carat solid gold is Tk96228, 18 carat is Tk82464 and the traditional gold price is Tk68701. The price of gold has been increased but the price of silver has been kept unchanged. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-21 17:22:29', '2023-07-21 17:22:29'),
(8119, 8119, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Jamaat-e-Islami has not been given permission to hold a public rally in Sylhet city on Friday.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The rally has not been allowed due to the fear of violence, Sylhet Metropolitan Police Commissioner Elias Sharif told journalists on Thursday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said police received Jamaat\'s application and scrutinised it and decided not to permit them to hold the rally.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On July 16, the Sylhet city unit of Jamaat applied to the Sylhet Metropolitan Police, seeking permission to hold the rally at the Registry Ground in the city on Friday (July 21). UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"4\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-21 17:25:48', '2023-07-21 17:25:48'),
(8120, 8120, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will leave Dhaka for Italy on Sunday at an invitation of the United Nation Secretary-General to attend the UN Food Systems Summit to be held in Rome on July 24-26.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The summit titled ‘United Nations Food Systems +2 Stocktaking Moment’ (UNFSS+2) will be held at the Headquarters of Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) with the theme of ‘Sustainable Food Systems for People, Planet and Prosperity: Diverse Pathways in a Shared Journey.’</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sheikh Hasina and her entourage will leave Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at 5:00am on Sunday and she is scheduled to reach Rome at 2:00pm local time after a stopover in Doha.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">During her stay in Italy, she will also sit in a bilateral meeting with her Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“The premier is expected to pass busy time during her stay in Italy,” said Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen at a press conference on Thursday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On July 24, the Bangladesh Prime Minister will address the inaugural session of the summit as a special guest. The UN Secretary-General António Guterres, among others, is expected to speak at the event, he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Then Sheikh Hasina will attend a plenary session on food systems and climate action at FAO headquarters, join a regional envoy conference, which will be held with participation of 15 Bangladeshi envoys stationed in Europe on the same day.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On July 25, the Bangladesh prime minister will have a bilateral meeting with her Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Two memorandums of understanding (MoUs) on ‘cooperation in the field of energy’ and ‘cultural exchange programme’ are expected to be signed between the two countries during her visit to Italy.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Besides, the Prime Minister is expected to hold talks with the executive chiefs of FAO, International Fund of Agricultural Development (IFAD) and World Food Programme (WFP).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The premier will be accompanied, among others, by Agriculture Minister Muhammad Abdur Razzaque, Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen, Food Minister Sadhan Chandra Majumder and PM’s Private Industry and Investment Adviser Salam Fazlur Rahman during the visit. Sheikh Hasina is expected to return home on July 26. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-21 17:31:00', '2023-07-21 17:31:00'),
(8121, 8121, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader on Friday reiterated that the upcoming general election will be held as per the provision of the constitution.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Apart from this, Awami League will not allow anyone\'s conspiratorial ambitions to be implemented,” he told a meeting at the party\'s central office on Bangabandhu Avenue this morning.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Quader, also the road, transports and bridges minister said, “BNP\'s only demand is Sheikh Hasina’s resignation which is a gross violation of the Constitution. We cannot violate the Constitution.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Quader asserted that the opposion group consists of communal forces, which are friends of both Pakistan and Afghanistan, and are patrons of militancy.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Should we surrender to the activities of these conspirators?&nbsp; Should we sacrifice the soil of this country, Bangabandhu\'s leadership, independence, Sheikh Hasina\'s leadership, political victory and development journey?\" Quader asked.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Awami League general secretary said the BNP is engaged in killing AL members across the country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Awami League leaders and activists are being killed. And BNP is habitually misleading the nation with baseless information,” Quader said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“The violence that is taking place in many parts of the country is highly well-planned. BNP, the mastermind of political evil forces, is trying to attract the attention of foreigners by making isolated incidents. They are conspiring to sabotage the election.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Regarding the attack on Ashraful Alom, popularly known as “Hero Alom” during the Dhaka-17 by-election in Gulshan,&nbsp; Quader said whoever the candidate is, the government is looking at him as a candidate.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“So far 10 people have been arrested in connection with the incident. The government has taken action,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Awami League Presidium Members Matia Chowdhury, Mofazzal Hossain Maya, Kazi Zafarullah, Abdur Razzaque, Kamrul Islam, Jahangir Kabir Nanak, Joint General Secretary AFM Bahauddin Nasim, Organizing Secretary Afzal Hossain, Abu Sayeed Al Mahmud Swapan, Office Secretary Biplab Barua, Publicity and Publication Secretary Abdus Sobhan Golap, Science and Technology Affairs Secretary Engineer Abdus Sabur among others were present at the meeting. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-21 20:24:20', '2023-07-21 20:24:20'),
(8122, 8122, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Permanent Representative of Bangladesh to the United Nations in New York Ambassador Muhammad Abdul Muhith has said they deeply condemn the repeated incidents of the public burning of Holy Quran in a few countries as they insult the sacred values of Muslims worldwide.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He met the UN Secretary-General António Guterres today at his office in his capacity as the Acting Chair of the OIC CFM.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He was accompanied by representatives of other OIC countries including Egypt, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Mauritania and Pakistan.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">During the meeting, Ambassador Muhith told the secretary-general that such despicable acts of Holy Quran\'s desecration not only inflames the sentiments of Muslims worldwide but also goes against the principles of freedom of expression, religious tolerance and individual beliefs.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He further stated that inaction against this form of religious hatred may lead to incitement of violence and thus destabilize the peace and security in many countries.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Dhaka calls on UN Secretary-General to convey OIC’s deep condemnation on burning of Holy Quran&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Photo: Collected</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In this context, he also referred to the case of Rohingya Muslims who were forced to take shelter in Bangladesh owing to the consequences of religious and ethnic hatred in Myanmar.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Muhith urged the UN secretary general to request all UN member states to take appropriate legal measures at the national level to combat religious intolerance including Islamophobia, hate speech and desecration of Holy Quran and other religious symbols.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Secretary-General Guterres expressed his solidarity with the OIC members and strongly condemned this heinous act of religious hatred.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He also assured the OIC representatives that he would do his best in his capacity as the UN secretary-general to support the global efforts in preventing the recurrence of such anti-religious hatred in future.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier led by Ambassador Muhith, OIC representatives called on the President of the General Assembly Csaba Kőrösi on 14th July and President of the Security Council for the month of July Ambassador Dame Barbara Woodward on 20th July to express the similar concerns. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-21 20:27:12', '2023-07-21 20:27:12'),
(8123, 8123, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Attributing restoration of democracy to Awami League, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina\'s ICT Advisor Sajeeb Wazed recalled the dark times when the government was led by military rulers and fundamentalist forces that put democracy in the back seat for a long time.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A video posted yesterday from his verified Facebook page made the observation that Bangladesh had to undergo an agonizing wait for democracy over the years even after achieving independence through the Liberation War in 1971.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The 1975 assassination of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman paved the way for Pakistani-style autocracy.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The governments of Mostaq, Zia, and Ershad “followed the course of Ayub Khan and Yahya Khan to destroy democracy and validate their own misrule,” said the video.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">They paved the way for the return of Jamaat-e-Islami, which strongly opposed the independence of Bangladesh and with the Pakistan army committed crimes against humanity during the Liberation War, into the country\'s political landscape.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The video also highlighted the role of Awami League in advancing freedom and democracy since the party’s inception to this day.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">When the fear of autocrats hushed all the political parties in 1958 and prompted them to refrain from political activities, it was Bangabandhu who carried forward the struggle for restoring democracy.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Following the 1981 homecoming of Sheikh Hasina, she was not allowed to enter her own residence as the country was then governed by a military dictator.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In February 1983, the then military ruler kept her under house arrest, a feat repeated in the coming years of 1985, 1986, 1987, 1989, and 1990. On January 24, 1988, police fired bullets targeting Sheikh Hasina and her supporters in front of Chattogram Court Building, killing around 30 Awami League activists.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Contrasting Awami League\'s pro-democratic approach to BNP\'s politics, the video said that Khaleda Zia “demanded halting the trial of her son Tarique Rahman and sending him abroad; otherwise, she would refrain from taking part in the election.”&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Moreover, BNP and Jamaat carried out widespread subversive activities to threaten democracy in 2013 and 2014,” the video posted by Sajeeb Wazed said. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-21 20:29:35', '2023-07-21 20:29:35'),
(8124, 8124, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Police have arrested a man in connection with the assault on the independent candidate for the Dhaka-17 by-election, Ashraful Alom alias Hero Alom.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Also read: EC wants to form judicial inquiry committee to investigate attack on Hero Alam</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Talukder Masud, president of the Karwanbazar Pick-up Owners Association, was arrested on Thursday afternoon, said Sub-inspector Nur Uddin of Banani Police Station.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"So far, we have arrested 10 people in connection with the incident. Efforts are on to nab the rest through video footage,\" he added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Hero Alam was attacked by some miscreants while he was leaving the Banani Bidyaniketan School polling centre on July 17. He returned home after receiving treatment at a hospital. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-21 21:59:21', '2023-07-21 21:59:21'),
(8125, 8125, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday dismissed the country\'s ambassador to the United Kingdom, Vadym Prystaiko, after he criticised the president\'s response to a row over British military aid.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Prystaiko\'s dismissal came after he criticised Zelensky\'s sarcastic response to suggestions from British defence minister Ben Wallace that Ukraine should show more gratitude for arms supplies from its allies. AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-21 22:01:43', '2023-07-21 22:01:43'),
(8126, 8126, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Information and Broadcasting Minister and Awami League Joint General Secretary Dr Hasan Mahmud today said parliamentary polls will be held as per the constitution of the country and current government will perform duties of poll-time government.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will discharge duties of the premier during the polls. There is no chance to go beyond the constitution for an inch,\" he told journalists at Circuit House here before addressing the extended meeting of district unit of AL as the chief guest.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In India, the UK, Australia, Japan, France and Germany in the continental Europe and other democratic countries, existing government perform duties of poll-time government and in the USA, existing president doesn\'t resign before elections of president, he referred.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">BNP is demanding caretaker government system which also exists in Pakistan, he mentioned.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"My question is that why they (BNP) only follows Pakistan. Mirza Fakhrul (BNP secretary general) few days ago said Pakistan (period) was better. So, it is natural that they would follow Pakistan,\" Hasan said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">About BNP\'s movement, the AL joint general secretary said: \"Now BNP\'s situation is as like as confined lion. It is as like as too much talks end in nothing. They have nothing to do anything else.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">If BNP tries to destroy the country\'s peace and order, the government will deal them in iron hand and the AL along with people will resist them.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Reply to a question about visit of delegations of the European Union (EU) and the USA, the minister said the EU delegation came at the invitation of the Election Commission, not others.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">As they came at the EC\'s invitation, they held talks with the commission, ruling party and opposition party and others and their visit was very much positive one, the minister said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">They invited them for holding a free, fair and proper elections and the EU sent its delegation at the invitation and so, it is positive one, he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">About the US under-secretary and high-level officials, Hasan said Bangladesh has very good multidimensional relations with the USA. \"They are our development partner. Few days ago, we celebrated the 50 years of our diplomatic relations. In light with that, their visit was to further strengthen the ties,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The minister said Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina gave shelter to over 12 lakh Rohingya people.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The US delegation visited the Rohingya camps, he said, adding before leaving Bangladesh, they said the relations between the two nations will go ahead.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Their visit also strengthened our ties,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Kurigram district unit AL President Md Zafar Ali chaired the meeting at Zila Parishad Hall while General Secretary Aman Uddin Ahmed Manju moderated it.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">State Minister for Primary and Mass Education Zakir Hossain, AL Joint General Secretary Sujit Roy Nandi, Central Members Advocate Safura Begum Rumi and Advocate Hosne Ara Lutfa Dalia addressed the meeting, among others. BSS</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-21 22:05:32', '2023-07-21 22:05:32');
INSERT INTO `news_details` (`id`, `news_id`, `details`, `ticker`, `representative`, `keyword`, `video_link`, `google_drive_link`, `audio_link`, `shoulder`, `created_at`, `updated_at`) VALUES
(8127, 8127, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Attributing restoration of democracy to Awami League, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina\'s ICT Advisor Sajeeb Wazed recalled the dark times when the government was led by military rulers and fundamentalist forces that put democracy in the back seat for a long time.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A video posted yesterday from his verified Facebook page made the observation that Bangladesh had to undergo an agonizing wait for democracy over the years even after achieving independence through the Liberation War in 1971.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The 1975 assassination of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman paved the way for Pakistani-style autocracy.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The governments of Mostaq, Zia, and Ershad “followed the course of Ayub Khan and Yahya Khan to destroy democracy and validate their own misrule,” said the video.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">They paved the way for the return of Jamaat-e-Islami, which strongly opposed the independence of Bangladesh and with the Pakistan army committed crimes against humanity during the Liberation War, into the country\'s political landscape.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The video also highlighted the role of Awami League in advancing freedom and democracy since the party’s inception to this day.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">When the fear of autocrats hushed all the political parties in 1958 and prompted them to refrain from political activities, it was Bangabandhu who carried forward the struggle for restoring democracy.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Following the 1981 homecoming of Sheikh Hasina, she was not allowed to enter her own residence as the country was then governed by a military dictator.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In February 1983, the then military ruler kept her under house arrest, a feat repeated in the coming years of 1985, 1986, 1987, 1989, and 1990. On January 24, 1988, police fired bullets targeting Sheikh Hasina and her supporters in front of Chattogram Court Building, killing around 30 Awami League activists.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Contrasting Awami League\'s pro-democratic approach to BNP\'s politics, the video said that Khaleda Zia “demanded halting the trial of her son Tarique Rahman and sending him abroad; otherwise, she would refrain from taking part in the election.”&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Moreover, BNP and Jamaat carried out widespread subversive activities to threaten democracy in 2013 and 2014,” the video posted by Sajeeb Wazed said. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-21 23:04:04', '2023-07-21 23:04:04'),
(8128, 8128, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Ed Westwick is currently in Mumbai, and took to Instagram to share pictures from his sightseeing in the city. He was accompanied by his actor-girlfriend Amy Jackson, as they shared a kiss in front of the Gateway of India.&nbsp;</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Ed Westwick shared a bunch of pictures on his Instagram where he was seen having a gala time. Amy Jackson accompanied him for the day as they both smiled for a selfie, clicked in front of the Gateway of India. In another picture, Ed was seen busy scrolling through his phone. Ed captioned the post with a short and sweet note, and wrote: \"Gateway 2 India.\" Amy reacted to the post and commented with a red heart emoticon.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Ed also replied to a bunch of fans who commented on his post. One asked, \"Yaay what do you like the most about India so far?\" To this, Ed said, \"I had street food. Unreal.\" Another asked, \"Omg CHUCK, what are you doing in India?\" To this, the actor replied, \"killin it.\" A second fan said, \"u r the gateway 2 my heart (red heart emoticon)\" and Ed replied, \"cutie.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Meanwhile, Amy also posted the same pictures a small video of the food served for breakfast on her Instagram. She captioned it, \"Namaste ya lil tinker\" Reacting to the post, Ed commented back, “Bloody tinker tots everywhere.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">It was on Wednesday when Ed was spotted by the paparazzo exiting the Mumbai airport. In the small video that was soon posted on Instagram, the actor was seen walking out of the airport with the paparazzo following him from the front. Ed looked cool in a deep blue tee paired with a blue jacket and green shorts. At the airport, the actor posed for the shutterbugs and then made his way out.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b><br></b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><b>Amy and Ed\'s relationship</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Ed and Amy Jackson confirmed their relationship when Amy made an Instagram post in June last year. She was earlier engaged to George Panayiotou. They welcomed their son Andreas in September in 2019. Their split was confirmed in 2021 when Amy deleted all photos of George, including the post in which they announced the birth of Andreas.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Ed is known for playing playboy Chuck Bass on the CW Network\'s Gossip Girl from 2007 to 2012. The show also starred Blake Lively, Leighton Meester and others. Ed also played the lead in the sitcom White Gold. Ed had made his film debut with Children of Men (2006). HT</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"13\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-21 23:33:13', '2023-07-21 23:33:13'),
(8129, 8129, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Bangladesh reported one more COVID-19-linked death and 32 fresh cases in 24 hours till Friday morning.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">With the new numbers, the country\'s total fatalities rose to 29,467 and caseload to 2,043,913, according to the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The daily case test positivity rate declined to 4.31 per cent from Thursday’s 4.35 as 743 samples were tested.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">However, the recovery and death rates remained unchanged at 98.38 and 1.44 percent, respectively.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Bangladesh registered its highest daily caseload of 16,230 on July 28 in 2021 and highest number of fatalities of 264 on August 10 the same year. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"6\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-21 23:36:16', '2023-07-21 23:36:16'),
(8130, 8130, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>At least 17 people including seven children and five women were killed and 35 others injured when a bus plunged into a roadside pond at Chhatrakanda in Sadar upazila of Jhalakathi district on Saturday.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Five of the deceased were identified as Sumaiya, 5, Samad Molla, 60, Tarik, 55, Shahin Molla, 33 and Abdullah, 7 while the identities of the others could not be known immediately.</div><div><br></div><div>The Barishal-bound bus from Bhandaria in Pirojpur district carrying around 70 passengers fell into the pond near Union Parishad office around 9:55 am, leaving 17 people dead and 35 others injured, said Sub-inspector of Sadar Police Station Shakhawat Hossain.</div><div><br></div><div>The driver might have lost control over the steering, he said.</div><div><br></div><div>The injured were taken to Sadar Hospital. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-22 20:13:54', '2023-07-22 20:13:54'),
(8131, 8131, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today said people\'s trust and confidence are crucial factors for army and the military in Bangladesh earned that with their performance.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>\"Trust and confidence are very important for any army. If there is no trust and confidence, independence and sovereignty cannot be protected. Today, I can say that people have their trust and confidence in our army,\" she said.</div><div><br></div><div>The premier was addressing the opening ceremony of Army Selection Board (First Phase)-2023 at Senakunja in Dhaka Cantonment here.</div><div>&nbsp;</div><div>She said Bangladesh Army is a people\'s army, which always stands beside the country\'s people and plays very effective role during any disaster.</div><div>&nbsp;</div><div>Referring to the engagement of the army with the country\'s development activities directly, she said the army is working everywhere from infrastructure development.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>\"As the army is implementing many big projects, we are sure that the work will be done quickly ensuring quality,\" she added.</div><div>&nbsp;</div><div>&nbsp;Mentioning a quote of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the premier said, \"Bangabandhu told the army that our army will be people\'s army\".</div><div><br></div><div>&nbsp;In this perspective, Sheikh Hasina also hoped that Bangladesh Army would pull the country ahead as people\'s army.&nbsp;</div><div>&nbsp;</div><div>She asked Bangladesh Army Selection Board-2023 to pick qualified and prudent officers for promotion through a neutral evaluation.</div><div>&nbsp;</div><div>\"You should do it considering professional competence, drawing comparative evaluation in logical and scientific ways,\" she said.</div><div><br></div><div>\"Besides, you need to pay attention to whether the officers have the skills of giving command or the ability of taking quick decisions (in special situations),\" she added.&nbsp;</div><div>&nbsp;</div><div>The prime minister expressed hope that the selection board will perform the sacred duty with honesty and proper judgement to pick the qualified officers for promotion.</div><div>&nbsp;</div><div>She added: \"Consider their experience in field work and the ability of taking instant decisions and using resources instantly.... We want you to promote the officers for future leadership (in Bangladesh Army) through neutral evaluation.\"&nbsp;</div><div>&nbsp;</div><div>Describing the Bangladesh Army as the vigilant sentinels of the country\'s independence and sovereignty, the head of government said Bangladesh doesn\'t want to engage in a war with anyone as it believes in peace.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>\"A peaceful environment is a prerequisite for development,\" she said.</div><div>&nbsp;</div><div>Praising the Bangladesh Army, Sheikh Hasina said the army has been playing a praiseworthy role standing beside the people in any disaster and critical time, reports BSS</div><div><br></div><div>\"Our patriotic army always stands by the people of the country,\" she said.</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-22 20:52:01', '2023-07-22 20:52:01'),
(8132, 8132, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Lionel Messi scored on his debut for Inter Miami in the final seconds of stoppage time as his team beat Cruz Azul 2-1.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>On as a 54th minute substitute in the Leagues Cup game, Messi was given the chance for the perfect debut when he won a free-kick on the edge of the box and curled the game-winner into the top corner. - AFP</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'Sports Desk', '[\"20\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-22 21:02:09', '2023-07-22 21:02:09'),
(8133, 8133, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Right-handed opener Fargana Hoque Pinky made history on Saturday (July 22, 2023) by becoming the first Bangladeshi woman to score a hundred in women\'s ODI.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>She achieved this milestone during the third match of the three-match ODI series against India at Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium in Dhaka.</div><div><br></div><div>Prior to Fargana\'s century, the highest individual score by a Bangladeshi woman in ODIs was 75, achieved by former captain Salma Khatun against India in 2013.</div><div><br></div><div>Winning the toss in Saturday\'s match, Bangladesh chose to bat first and posted a total of 225 for four wickets in 50 overs.</div><div><br></div><div>Fargana led the batting with a remarkable 107 runs off 160 balls, including seven fours. She had a solid opening partnership with Sharmin Sultana, and together they added 93 runs — the highest opening stand by the Bangladesh team against India in ODIs so far.</div><div><br></div><div>Bangladesh had already secured a historic victory in the series opener against India, marking their first-ever ODI win against their rivals. However, in the second match, the visitors managed to bounce back and level the series. According to UNB reports </div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'Sports Desk', '[\"20\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-22 23:06:26', '2023-07-22 23:13:54'),
(8134, 8134, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The BNP will hold a grand rally in the capital on Thursday (July 27) to press home their one-point demand, including the resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and holding the next national election under a neutral government.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir announced the programme from a mammoth ‘youth rally’ at historic Suhrawardy Udyan on Saturday.</div><div><br></div><div>He said the rally will be held in the capital at 2pm as part of their simultaneous movement.</div><div><br></div><div>Fakhrul, however, did not mention the name of the rally venue.</div><div><br></div><div>The BNP leader called upon people from all walks of life to join the rally spontaneously to hasten the fall of the current regime.</div><div><br></div><div>The other like-minded parties and alliances also announced to hold rallies on the same day in different parts of the country.</div><div><br></div><div>The youth rally arranged by three BNP associate bodies--Jatiyatabadi Jubo Dal, Chhatra Dal, and Swechchasebak Dal--formally began around 3:28pm with the recitation from the holy Quran.</div><div><br></div><div>The main objective of the programme was to involve the young generation in the street movement for establishing their rights.</div><div><br></div><div>The rally started 90 minutes late as the makeshift stage set up for the programme collapsed apparently due to extra load.</div><div><br></div><div>The incident occurred when Jatiyatabadi Jubo Dal President Sultan Salahuddin Tuku was formally opening the rally around 1:50pm. Later, party activists with the help of the employees of the decoration company repaired the cracked stage.</div><div><br></div><div>Youth leaders and activists from various parts of Dhaka wearing different coloured caps and carrying banners, festoons, placards and portraits of the party’s top leaders started gathering at the venue in processions in the morning.</div><div><br></div><div>Apart from the main rally venue, the BNP loyalists took a position on the nearby roads, disrupting traffic in the adjoining areas.</div><div><br></div><div>A large number of members of law enforcement agencies have been deployed around the rally venue to fend off any untoward incident.</div><div><br></div><div>The three organizations earlier held five youth rallies and got a huge response from the young people.</div><div><br></div><div>On June 2, three BNP associate bodies announced six youth rallies in Chattogram, Bogura, Khulna, Barishal, Sylhet, and Dhaka to drum up the young generation’s support for the ongoing movement demanding holding the next polls under a caretaker government. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-23 01:03:53', '2023-07-23 01:03:53'),
(8135, 8135, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Eleven more deaths were reported from dengue by the Directorate General of Health Services on Saturday, raising the fatalities from the mosquito-borne disease in Bangladesh to 167 this year. The July death toll alone rose to 120, smashing the previous highest for deaths from dengue in a single month.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>Previously, the deadliest month had been November 2022, when 113 people died from the disease, according to DGHS records in the public domain.</div><div><br></div><div>Also on Saturday, DGHS reported 2,242 hospitalisations - easily the highest this year in a single day.</div><div><br></div><div>Of the new patients, 1,239 were admitted to hospitals in Dhaka and the rest outside it.</div><div><br></div><div>A total of 6,656 dengue patients, including 3,839 in the capital, are now receiving treatment at hospitals across the country.</div><div><br></div><div>So far, the DGHS has recorded 30,685 dengue cases and 23,862 recoveries this year.</div><div><br></div><div>The country logged 281 dengue deaths in 2022 – the highest on record after 179 deaths recorded in 2019. Also, it recorded 62,423 dengue cases and 61,971 recoveries last year. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-23 03:13:52', '2023-07-23 03:13:52'),
(8136, 8136, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>The World Health Organization warned on Friday that cases of dengue fever could reach close to record highs this year, partly due to global warming benefiting mosquitoes that spread it.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Dengue rates are rising globally, with reported cases since 2000 up eight-fold to 4.2 million in 2022, WHO said.</div><div><br></div><div>The disease was found in Sudan’s capital Khartoum for the first time on record, according to a health ministry report in March, while Europe has reported a surge in cases and Peru declared a state of emergency in most regions.</div><div><br></div><div>In January, WHO warned that dengue is the world’s fastest-spreading tropical disease and represents a “pandemic threat”.</div><div><br></div><div>About half of the world’s population is now at risk, Dr. Raman Velayudhan, a specialist at the WHO’s control of neglected tropical diseases department, told journalists in Geneva on Friday.</div><div><br></div><div>Reported cases to WHO hit an all-time high in 2019 with 5.2 million cases in 129 countries, said Velayudhan via a video link. This year the world is on track for “4 million plus” cases, depending mostly on the Asian monsoon season. Source: Gulf Insider&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-23 03:31:58', '2023-07-23 03:31:58'),
(8137, 8137, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Australia and Bangladesh want to take the relationship between the two countries to a new height by strengthening partnership and expanding trade and investment in potential areas.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Both sides are also keen to explore opportunities and turn them into reality through collaboration in order to derive reciprocal benefits.</div><div><br></div><div>The willingness was expressed during a meeting between Australian Assistant Minister for Trade Senator Tim Ayres and Bangladesh High Commissioner to Australia M Allama Siddiki and BGMEA President Faruque Hassan at the Commonwealth Parliamentary Office in Sydney on July 21.</div><div><br></div><div>During the meeting, they had discussions about general trade issues, investment opportunities and areas of collaboration, BGMEA said on Saturday.</div><div><br></div><div>They also stressed on the need for finding ways to enhance trade and investment flow for adding dynamism in economic ties.</div><div><br></div><div>The issue of Bangladesh’s economic development, LDC graduation and its associated challenges and preparations to overcome them was also discussed.</div><div><br></div><div>Australian Assistant Minister for Trade Senator Tim Ayres assured that Australia would continue duty free facility for Bangladesh’s exports even after graduation out of LDC in 2026.</div><div><br></div><div>BGMEA President Faruque Hassan expressed thanks to Australia for supporting Bangladesh in its journey towards development, particularly for the decision of continuation of duty free market access in the post-LDC period.</div><div><br></div><div>Highlighting the trade potential, Faruque Hassan said Bangladesh considers Australia as a promising market for apparel exports, especially high-end fashion items.</div><div><br></div><div>He also pointed to Bangladesh’s interest in enhancing exports of cotton and wool from Australia for its RMG sector, emphasizing the need for enhancing industry connections between Australian exporters of raw materials like cotton, wool and importers and manufacturers in Bangladesh.</div><div><br></div><div>It would create a win-win situation for both countries, he further said.</div><div><br></div><div>The BGMEA President sought cooperation of Australia in developing knowledge and skills of the students of BGMEA University of Fashion and Technology (BUFT) in textile, apparel, fashion, design and business through collaboration with leading Australian universities and fashion institutes.</div><div><br></div><div>Bangladesh High Commissioner to Australia M Allama Siddiki recalled with gratitude Australia\'s prompt recognition of Bangladesh after it achieved independence in 1971, reports UNB</div><div><br></div><div>Since then Australia has remained a committed development partner of Bangladesh, he said.</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-23 03:34:47', '2023-07-23 03:34:47'),
(8138, 8138, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Sheikh Hasina\'s government is needed again, said Awami League General Secretary and Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader on Saturday.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>He said this while addressing a peace and development rally organized by the district Awami League at the district school ground in Maijdi of Noakhali.</div><div><br></div><div>Presided over by District Awami League President Khairul Anam Selim, the rally was addressed, among others, by Awami League\'s Chattogram divisional organising secretary Whip Abu Sayeed Al Mahmud Swapan.</div><div><br></div><div>At the rally, the minister said Tarique Rahman moved to London 16 years ago on a bond that he will not do politics.</div><div><br></div><div>“You (Tarique) have laundered crores of taka from this country. Sheikh Hasina government has been able to recover Tk 40 crore from abroad and bring it back to the country, people all over the world know that. Where did all this money come from Tarique Rahman? People under the leadership of Tarique Rahman will agitate to topple the government by smuggling thousands of crores of taka through corruption,” said Quader.</div><div><br></div><div>Quader said, “The faces of BNP leaders have dried up and there is no movement anymore. The people of Bangladesh know Tarique Rahman and his leadership Noakhali BNP\'s base is over and they have tried to mislead the people of Noakhali by thinking they are fools. The people of Noakhali are with Bangabandhu\'s base.”</div><div><br></div><div>Quader said there is a lack of honest, efficient and courageous leaders and workers in politics. “We need good people in politics. Sheikh Hasina is not sleeping due to the rise in the prices of essential commodities in the country, she is trying her best to alleviate the sufferings of the poor people.”</div><div><br></div><div>Local parliamentarians, district and upazila Awami League leaders also spoke at the rally. District Awami League General Secretary Shahid Ullah Khan Sohel moderated the rally. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-23 03:48:59', '2023-07-23 03:48:59'),
(8139, 8139, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The International cricket council (ICC) on Thursday unveiled the first promo of the upcoming ICC Men\'s World Cup 2023 featuring actor Shah Rukh Khan.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>Taking to Twitter, ICC dropped unveiled the news campaign and wrote, \"History will be written and dreams will be realised at the ICC Men\'s Cricket World Cup 2023 All it takes is just one day.\"</div><div><br></div><div>At the end of the video, the \'Chak De India\' actor appears with the coveted Cricket World Cup 2023 trophy, and said, \"For everything ever dreamed for, pushed for, lived for, it takes one day.\"</div><div><br></div><div>Soon after the ICC dropped the video, fans flooded the comment section with red hearts and fire emoticons. \"KING KHAN IN THE BUILDING,\" a fan wrote. Another fan commented, \"#ShahRukhKhan Representing India at Global level.\" \"Chak De! India theme playing in our mind,\" a user wrote. The video also featured renowned cricketers like JP Duminy, Shubman Gill, , MS Dhoni, current World Cup winning captain , Muttiah Muralitharan, Jonty Rhodes and Jemimah Rodrigues.</div><div><br></div><div>According to the ICC release, the campaign displays the journey of raw emotions experienced by both players and fans collectively over One Day, with the film connecting the nine \'Navarasa\' emotions - anguish, bravery, glory, joy, passion, power, pride, respect and wonder - and explores how it takes one day to experience this rollercoaster.</div><div><br></div><div>ICC CEO Geoff Allardice was thrilled to launch the campaign and is eagerly awaiting the commencement of the World Cup in Ahmedabad on October 5. \"This campaign is a true celebration of One Day International cricket and builds a sense of anticipation of what we can expect when the ICC Men\'s Cricket World Cup 2023 returns to India.</div><div><br></div><div>The emotions, or Navarasa, are felt by fans and players alike during One Day and this campaign brings to life that shared experience,\" Allardice said. \"Cricket and cinema are at the heart of Indian psyche, and we\'ve infused the two to create appeal far and wide.</div><div><br></div><div>The involvement of Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan together with an exceptional line-up of cricketers will only help us deepen our connect in this country, while captivating the attention worldwide,\" as per ICC release. The opening match of the ICC Men\'s Cricket World Cup 2023, featuring defending champions England and runner-up New Zealand, is set to commence on October 5 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad.</div><div><br></div><div>Ten teams will feature in this biggest Cricket World Cup ever, to be played across 10 venues from October 5 to November 19, with the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad hosting the tournament opener and the final. The event will feature 48 matches to be played across 46 days.</div><div><br></div><div>India\'s World Cup campaign will begin with a match against Australia on October 8 in Chennai. The venues other than Ahmedabad and Chennai are Bengaluru, Delhi, Dharamsala, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Lucknow, Mumbai and Pune. While Guwahati and Thiruvananthapuram will join Hyderabad in hosting the practice games. Arch-rivals India and Pakistan will square off at the ICC Men\'s Cricket World Cup 2023 on October 15 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Source: Times of India</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'Entertainment', '[\"13\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-23 03:55:38', '2023-07-23 03:55:38'),
(8140, 8140, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Thousands of people have been evacuated from homes and hotels on the Greek island of Rhodes after wildfires engulfed large parts of the island.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The country\'s fire service has described the fires as the most difficult it is currently facing.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It is estimated more than 3,500 people have been moved by land and sea to safer locations.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The island has been battling wildfires fanned by strong winds since Tuesday, amidst a heatwave in Europe.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">No injuries have been reported, according to the Ministry of Climate Crisis and Civil Protection in Greece.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It said visitors are being evacuated safely from the affected areas of Rhodes - which represent less than 10% of the island\'s tourist accommodation - and are being redirected to other hotels on the island.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Five helicopters and 173 firefighters were operating in the area, with three hotels in the Kiotari area reported to have been damaged by fire. The areas of Laerma, Lardos and Asklipio were also affected.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Private boats joined the Greek coastguard in helping to pick up people from beaches on the east of the island. Greek navy vessels were also reported to be heading to the area, which is popular with tourists.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Deputy fire chief Ioannis Artophios said a ferry is available to accommodate people. Others are being housed at an indoor stadium on the island, according to the island\'s deputy mayor.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Mr Artophios added that firefighters often struggle on Rhodes because of how green it is, which is what makes it an attractive tourist destination.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Greek television showed long queues of tourists with suitcases being taken to safety, with smoke in the background.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">One British woman said she was evacuated from the hotel she was staying at with her sister and daughter, but was then stuck on a beach with hundreds of others in the severe heat.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"There\'s just a small shack here and there\'s so many of us,\" Becky Mulligan told the BBC. \"There\'s children, it\'s the middle of the day, we are just stuck here with no help, it\'s disgusting.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Katie Piercefield-Holmes, who arrived on the island on Thursday, described the situation as \"chaotic\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Today was normal up until about lunchtime when the sky turned orange. It was like a sunset in the middle of the day,\" she told the BBC.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Hundreds of people were filing down to the beach asking for water, wet towels, but we were being told to stay at that point.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She says firefighters have told her she is safe in her hotel, despite other guests evacuating.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Simon Wheatley said ash had begun falling onto his pizza when he was eating.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"The hotel said this was normal and there was no need to worry as they were in contact with the authorities about the situation,\" he told the BBC.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">His hotel was later evacuated.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We saw that a beach bar that we were at just the day before had burnt down. The smoke was so bad. We had to leave two bags of luggage.\" BBC</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-23 13:38:06', '2023-07-23 13:38:06'),
(8141, 8141, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The UN secretary-general on Saturday voiced \"great concern\" surrounding elections in Guatemala and called on the Central American nation to respect the will of voters in free and fair balloting.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Guatemalan voters go to the polls August 20 for a runoff presidential election that will veer the country to the political left, unsettling right-wing powerbrokers.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A brief statement on behalf of Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called \"on the Guatemalan authorities to respect the human rights of its population, including the right to vote at genuine periodic elections which guarantee the free expression of the will of the electors.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Voters, he said, \"should be protected from any form of coercion and from any unlawful or arbitrary interference with the voting process.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In the first round elections in June, Guatemalans sent two center-left candidates to a runoff, marking the first time the nation will have a leftist leader in more than a decade.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">But since then, a prosecutor has sought to suspend the party of one of the candidates, Bernardo Arevalo, and state agents on Friday raided his party offices allegedly in pursuit of documents showing irregularities in its formation.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Arevalo\'s shock arrival in the runoff has distressed right-wing parties and led to efforts to scuttle the electoral process.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Prosecutors have twice sent agents to search the Supreme Electoral Tribunal, prompting the nation\'s highest court to issue an injunction to protect the vote.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Guterres said UN member states \"are responsible for ensuring transparent, free and fair elections, free of intimidation and coercion.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Arevalo, son of a reformist former president, finished second behind Sandra Torres, a former first lady who leads a social democratic party.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Efforts to disqualify Arevalo\'s Semilla (Seed) Party have drawn stern rebukes from the United Nations, the United States and the European Union. AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"6\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-23 13:47:32', '2023-07-23 13:47:32'),
(8142, 8142, '<div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">A man who was thrown out of a bar in Mexico for improper behavior toward women went back and set fire to it, killing 11 people, authorities said Saturday.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The arson attack happened overnight Friday into Saturday in the town of San Luis Rio Colorado, in the northern state of Sonora, which borders the United States.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The fire killed seven men and four women and wounded six others, the state prosecutor\'s office in Sonora said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The attacker was expelled from the bar \"for treating women disrespectfully,\" and then returned and threw a flaming object into it, presumably a Molotov cocktail, the prosecutor\'s office said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The mayor of San Luis Rio Colorado, which abuts the border south of Yuma, Arizona, said later in the day that a suspect had been arrested in the fatal attack on the Beer House bar. He did not identify the man. AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-23 14:07:26', '2023-07-23 14:07:26'),
(8143, 8143, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will undergo surgery to implant a pacemaker, his office said in a statement early on Sunday, just days after he was discharged from hospital following a health scare.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Prime Minister Netanyahu will tonight undergo a procedure to implant a pacemaker at Sheba Medical Centre at Tel Hashomer,\" the statement said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"The procedure will be carried out under sedation, during which time Justice Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Yariv Lenin will stand in for him,\" it added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A week ago Netanyahu, 73, had been discharged from the same medical centre after a night of hospitalisaton following complaints of dizziness.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">At that time as part of cardiological tests, the centre had decided to use Holter monitor to monitor his heart rhythm, Sheba\'s head of cardiology professor Amit Segev said last week. AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-23 14:33:02', '2023-07-23 14:33:02'),
(8144, 8144, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Sunday left Dhaka for Italy at an invitation of the United Nation Secretary-General to attend the UN Food Systems Summit to be held in Rome on July 24-26.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A regular flight of Qatar Airways, carrying the premier and her entourages, departed Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA) at 05:05am.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The flight is scheduled to land at Rome Fiumicino Airport at 02:05pm local time (06:05pm BST).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The summit titled ‘United Nations Food Systems +2 Stocktaking Moment’ (UNFSS+2) will be held at the Headquarters of Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) with the theme of ‘Sustainable Food Systems for People, Planet and Prosperity: Diverse Pathways in a Shared Journey.’</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">During her stay in Italy, she will also hold a bilateral meeting with her Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni on July 25, according to her official schedule.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On July 24, the prime minister will address the opening ceremony of the summit as a special guest. UN Secretary-General António Guterres, among others, is expected to speak at the event.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The PM will then attend a plenary session on food systems and climate action at FAO headquarters, hold talks separately with FAO Director General Qu Dongyu and President of International Fund of Agricultural Development (IFAD) Alvaro Lario, join the inauguration ceremony of the Bangladesh-Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Room at the FAO headquarters and attend a reception to be hosted by the FAO Director General on the same day.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Two memorandums of understanding (MoUs) on ‘cooperation in the field of energy’ and ‘cultural exchange programme’ are expected to be signed between the two countries during the visit.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Besides, Hasina will join a regional envoy conference, which will be held with participation of 15 Bangladeshi envoys stationed in Europe, and a community event on July 25.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The premier is being accompanied, among others, by Agriculture Minister Muhammad Abdur Razzaque, Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen, Food Minister Sadhan Chandra Majumder and PM’s Private Industry and Investment Adviser Salman Fazlur Rahman during the visit.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sheikh Hasina is expected to leave Rome for home on July 26. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-23 14:36:41', '2023-07-23 14:36:41'),
(8145, 8145, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Dhaka’s air is 6th most polluted among cities around the world this morning, according to the Air Quality Index (AQI).</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The air in Dhaka city was categorised as ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups’, with an AQI score of 125 at 8:30 am.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">United Arab Emirates’ Dubai, Indonesia’s Jakarta and Brazil’s Sao Paulo occupied the first three spots on the list, with AQI scores of 156, 152, and 140 respectively.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">When the AQI value for particle pollution is between 101 and 150, air quality is considered ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups’, between 150 and 200 is ‘unhealthy’, between 201 and 300 is said to be \'very unhealthy\', while a reading of 301+ is considered \'hazardous\', posing serious health risks to residents.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In Bangladesh, the AQI is based on five criteria pollutants — particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), NO2, CO, SO2, and Ozone.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Dhaka has long been grappling with air pollution issues. Its air quality usually turns unhealthy in winter and improves during the monsoon.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Air pollution consistently ranks among the top risk factors for death and disability worldwide.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">As per the World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution kills an estimated seven million people worldwide every year, largely due to increased mortality from stroke, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, and acute respiratory infections. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-23 16:32:22', '2023-07-23 16:32:22'),
(8146, 8146, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Two people, including a bus driver, were killed and 10 were injured in a collision between a passenger bus and a truck on Dhaka-Natore highway in Baraigram upazila of Natore early today.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The identities of the deceased could not be known immediately and the injured were admitted to several hospitals including Rajshahi Medical College Hospital.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Monir Hossain, sub-inspector of Jhalmolia Highway Police Station, said the accident happened around 1 am when a Dhaka-bound bus from Chapainawabganj collided with a truck heading from the opposite direction in Khejurtal area of the upazila, leaving the bus driver and another person dead on the spot and 10 others injured.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On information, members of police and Fire Service and Civil Defence rushed to the spot, he said, adding that the injured were sent to several hospitals.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The bus passengers were residents of different areas of Chapainawabganj, the police officer added. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-23 16:35:28', '2023-07-23 16:35:28');
INSERT INTO `news_details` (`id`, `news_id`, `details`, `ticker`, `representative`, `keyword`, `video_link`, `google_drive_link`, `audio_link`, `shoulder`, `created_at`, `updated_at`) VALUES
(8147, 8147, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">After a wildly successful first few days, Threads popularity has waned in the weeks since Meta launched its challenge to Twitter, which lives on despite its problems.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The average amount of time people spend on Threads daily has plummeted more than 75 percent since the platform made a rock star debut on July 6, according to data from Sensor Tower, a market analysis firm.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Threads was quickly billed as a potential death knell for Twitter, a platform that has tumbled into chaos under the leadership of mercurial tycoon Elon Musk.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The launch saw sign-ups of more than 100 million users in less than five days, smashing the record of AI tool ChatGPT for fastest-growing consumer app and creating relief and excitement amongst early adopters fleeing Twitter.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"I actually closed down my Twitter account after starting Threads,\" said Brooklyn resident Lauren Brose, head of marketing at a tech start-up.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"I used to love Twitter. After Elon Musk took over Twitter, I found that the entire environment just changed completely.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">But weeks later, Threads has since seen a \"material decline in new sign-ups,\" Sensor Tower said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Twitter continues to dominate its space as a platform for online comment and news, and Musk \"would have to completely destroy it\" to drive away its audience for good, according to Silicon Valley investor and analyst Jeremiah Owyang.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Will Threads kill Twitter? Absolutely not. It\'s just not equivalent,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Threads went live on Apple and Android app stores in 100 countries at its launch, though it is not available in Europe because parent company Meta is unsure how to navigate the European Union\'s data privacy legislation.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Twitter is thought to have around 200 million regular users but it has suffered repeated technical failures since Tesla tycoon Musk bought the platform last year and sacked much of its staff.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Musk, also the boss of SpaceX, has alienated users by introducing charges for previously free services and allowing banned right-wing accounts back on the platform.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">There is little doubt that Threads had a major leg up compared to other wannabe Twitter alternatives.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Several rivals have emerged but most are niche platforms without the capacity to grow at the necessary scale to dethrone Twitter.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">But Meta was able to easily prompt Instagram users to start Threads accounts, tapping into a base of at least a billion users at the image-focused social network.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">- Not about news? -</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Threads has a lot to prove, and features to add, to become a formidable Twitter alternative, according to Insider Intelligence analyst Jasmine Enberg.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It needs to foster creators to engage users, and to find its own identity separate from Instagram and Twitter, Enberg said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Given that Twitter is in a state of disarray, the brilliant move that they did was using the existing social graph from Instagram for rapid and seamless adoption,\" Owyang said of Threads.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The downside is that\'s not the user base \"that you want to have chats with or to do microblogging,\" he added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Instagram users typically engage with the service for images or videos, not commentary or controversy, Owyang noted.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"It is a very different crowd on Instagram,\" Creative Strategies analyst Carolina Milanesi said of a comparison to Threads.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Twitter is known as a forum for news and politics, topics that Threads has no interest in spotlighting, according to a recent post by Threads and Instagram boss Adam Mosseri.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Meanwhile, Twitter is seen as an established home for posts by journalists, celebrities, athletes, politicians and others.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Another roadblock to Threads growth is that Meta is holding it back from the European Union, Milanesi said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"You are missing a big chunk of the market,\" she said of Threads being absent from the EU.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">- Twitter \'diaspora\'? -</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">While people frustrated with Musk-owned Twitter are seeking alternatives, no single competitor has established itself as the ideal option.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Twitter quitters have become a \"diaspora\" of sorts, spread across Mastodon, Bluesky, Threads and other platforms in search of a new social media home, Owyang reasoned.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Many people have left Twitter, and that will continue,\" Owyang said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"But the issue is where are they going? There\'s no one centralized place to go.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Threads app has been downloaded more than 184 million times globally since its launch, according to Data.ai Intelligence.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"But, the app hasn\'t proved to be materially different from Twitter in terms of features/functionality,\" said Sensor Tower senior insights analyst Abe Yousef.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"What should dissuade people from remaining on Twitter, assuming they\'re comfortable with Twitter\'s content policies?\" Yousef added. AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"5\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-23 16:41:47', '2023-07-23 16:41:47'),
(8148, 8148, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The 20-year-long master plan to transform the tourism city Cox’s Bazar into a modern and smart city is likely to be initiated next month.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Cox\'s Bazar Development Authority (CoxDA) is ready to prepare a masterplan for the tourism city.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We\'re working to formulate a masterplan for 20 years — from 2023 to 2043 — to transform Cox\'s Bazar into a smart city. The formal work to this end will start next month,\" Chairman of the CoxDA, Commodore (retd) Muhammed Nurul Absar, told reporters in a views-exchange meeting held at his office on Saturday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Prime Minister\'s Deputy Press Secretary Hasan Jahid Tusher also spoke at the programme.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A detailed area plan is also being formulated to ensure a planned development for an attractive and environment-friendly Cox’s Bazar.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina earlier asked the authorities concerned to prepare a masterplan for Cox\'s Bazar, to develop it as a smart city with all the modern facilities.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She also asked the authorities concerned to keep the beauty of the “longest natural unbroken sea beach” in the world unharmed.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sheikh Hasina wants to transform Cox\'s Bazar into a global hub of tourism and aviation by developing a dedicated tourist attraction for foreigners, and a state of the art international airport with the longest and only marine runway in the country, the CoxDA chairman said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The CoxDA chairman also said they are formulating the masterplan following the directive of the prime minister.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It includes formulating strategic policy plan, detailed area plan of all the upazilas and beach areas of Cox\'s Bazar (690.67 sqkm), and tourism and regional development plans.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Disaster management, preparing a Smart City Model for Cox\'s Bazar, transport management, environment management, drainage and sanitation management, utilities and socio-economic development and sectoral plans are also the key features of the masterplan.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">To support the Vision 2041 announced by the Awami League government to turn Bangladesh into a developed country with high income, the CoxDA is undertaking several development projects.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The projects include cable car installation from Cox\'s Bazar to Sabrong and Cox\'s Bazar to Moheshkhali, introducing watersports and other amusement facilities on the sea beach, indoor amusement park, CoxDA Marina Bay Resort, CoxDA Condominium Project, Eco-resort in Moheshkhali, protecting lives and boosting marine tourism, preparing a roadmap to tap potential of the blue economy, renewable energy project, installation of central sewerage treatment plant (STP), water treatment plan and introducing sea-plane, cruise ship and helicopter service and preparing integrated costal zone management plan.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">CoxDA chairman Commodore (retd) Muhammed Nurul Absar said they are working to set up the central STP in Cox\'s Bazar, otherwise the Bay of Bengal will be a dead zone with huge amounts of sewerage going into the sea.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Once the projects are completed, they can immensely contribute to achieve the targets of sustainable development goals,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He added that they have already completed several projects that include reforming and rehabilitating Cox\'s Bazar\'s traditional Laldighi, Goldighi, markets and ponds, and building a multi-storey building for CoxDA.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The ongoing development schemes of the CoxDA are: building residential flats for CoxDA, sculpture and modern passenger shed at Moheshkhali, reforming and expanding the main road of Cox\'s Bazar (Holiday Crossing-Bazatghata-Larpara Bus Stand). UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-23 17:00:58', '2023-07-23 17:00:58'),
(8149, 8149, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The death toll from a massive landslide in India\'s Maharashtra state jumped to 27 on Sunday, with at least 50 people still missing as rescue teams struggle in lashing rain, officials said.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The landslide was triggered by monsoon rains on Thursday, smashing into a village in Raigad district, a hilly and forested site about 100 kilometres (62 miles) from Mumbai.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Emergency teams have been digging for bodies under the mounds of earth and rubble.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We\'ve so far counted 27 bodies, and about 50 to 60 people are still missing, but there are multiple challenges for rescue work at the site,\" Raigad official Yogesh Mhase told AFP on Sunday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Mhase said the remote hamlet was about five kilometres from the nearest road.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"No heavy equipment can reach this site, we only have small machines and most work has to be done manually,\" he added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Non-stop heavy rains in the region are also making the entire operation much more challenging\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The top district official said he was not optimistic about finding survivors on the fourth day of the ongoing rescue.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Local media reports said that several families were entirely wiped out, while other survivors were the only ones left alive among their relatives.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">India has been battered by rains since the start of the monsoon season in June, and flooding and landslides have killed scores of people.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Monsoon rains are vital to replenishing rivers and groundwater, but the deluge also causes widespread destruction every year.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Experts say climate change is increasing the number of extreme weather events around the world, with damming, deforestation and development projects in India exacerbating the human toll. AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-23 17:07:00', '2023-07-23 17:07:00'),
(8150, 8150, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The Appellate Division of the Supreme Court today ordered Nobel laureate Dr Muhammad Yunus to pay Tk 12 crore tax on donations to the National Bureau of Revenue (NBR) after dismissing a leave-to-appeal in this regard.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A four-member bench of the Appellate Division, headed by Chief Justice Hasan Foez Siddique, passed the order after hearing the leave-to-appeal submitted by Dr Yunus against a High Court verdict.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Attorney General AM Amin Uddin represented the state during the hearing, while Fida M Kamal and Barrister Abdullah Al Mamun stood for Dr Yunus.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier on June 21, a leave-to-appeal was filed against the High Court verdict. On July 9, the chamber court set July 17 for hearing in the Appellate Division.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On July 17, the Appellate Division adjourned till July 23 the hearing on the appeal against the High Court verdict.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to the petition, NBR served three separate notices claiming Tk 12,28,74,000 tax against Tk 61.57 crore donation during 2011-2012 fiscal year, Tk 1.60 crore tax against Tk 8.15 crore donation in FY 2012-2013, and Tk 1.50 crore tax against Tk 7 crore donation in FY 2013-2014 as per the Donation Tax-1990.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Dr Yunus challenged the validity of NBR\'s notices and filed a case in the Appellate Tribunal. According to him, NBR cannot claim tax against donations as per law.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On November 20, 2014, his application was rejected. Then in 2015, he filed three income tax reference cases in the High Court.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">After that, the High Court ruled on May 31 that the tax imposed by the NBR against the money that he had donated to three trusts was valid.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">After the verdict on May 31, Attorney General AM Amin Uddin told reporters that Dr Yunus had donated Tk 77 crore to three institutions. “The petitions were dismissed. Now the tax demanded by the NBR will have to be paid. The NBR had demanded more than Tk 15 crore. He (Dr Yunus) has already given around Tk 3 crore. Now the remaining Tk 12 crore will have to be paid in taxes.” UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-23 17:10:44', '2023-07-23 17:10:44'),
(8151, 8151, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Australia and Bangladesh want to take the relationship between the two countries to a new height by strengthening partnership and expanding trade and investment in potential areas.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Both sides are also keen to explore opportunities and turn them into reality&nbsp;<span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">through collaboration in order to derive reciprocal benefits.</span></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">The willingness was expressed during a meeting between Australian Assistant&nbsp;<span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Minister for Trade Senator Tim Ayres and Bangladesh High Commissioner to&nbsp;</span><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Australia M Allama Siddiki accompanied by BGMEA President Faruque Hassan at the Commonwealth Parliamentary Office in Sydney yesterday, said a press release here today.</span></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">During the meeting, they had discussions about general trade issues, investment opportunities and areas of collaboration.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">They also stressed on the need for finding ways to enhance trade and investment flow for adding dynamism in economic ties.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">The issues of Bangladesh\'s economic development, LDC graduation and its&nbsp;<span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">associated challenges and preparations to overcome them were also discussed.</span></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Tim Ayres assured that Australia would continue duty free facility for&nbsp;<span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Bangladesh\'s exports even after graduation out of LDC in 2026.</span></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Faruque Hassan expressed thanks to Australia for supporting Bangladesh in its&nbsp;<span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">journey towards development, particularly for the decision of continuation of&nbsp;</span><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">duty free market access in the post LDC period.</span></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Highlighting the trade potential, he said Bangladesh considers Australia as a&nbsp;<span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">promising market for apparel exports, especially high-end fashion items.</span></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">The BGMEA President also pointed to Bangladesh\'s interest in enhancing&nbsp;<span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">exports of cotton and wool from Australia for its RMG sector, emphasizing the&nbsp;</span><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">need for enhancing industry connections between Australian exporters of raw&nbsp;</span><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">materials like cotton, wool and importers and manufacturers in Bangladesh.</span></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It would create a win-win situation for both the countries, he added. BSS</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh&nbsp;</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-23 18:23:04', '2023-07-23 18:23:04'),
(8152, 8152, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">In his first video appearance on social media since suffering medical emergency in April, Jamie Foxx seemed ultra emotional on Saturday. Teary-eyed Foxx informed fans about what he went through and refuted reports about him suffering blindness and getting paralysed. Hollywood stars like Will Smith, Dwayne Johnson, Justin Timberlake and others reacted to his video post.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In the video clip, Foxx thanked his fans and said \"First of all I want to say thank you to everybody...praying man !, sending messages. I cannot even begin to tell you how far it took me and how it brought me back. I went through something that I thought I would never ever go through. Lot of people were waiting, wanting to hear updates but to be honest with you, I just don\'t want you to see me like that, man\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"I want you to see me laughing, having a good time, partying, cracking a joke, doing a movie [or] television show. I didn\'t want you to see me with tubes running out of me and trying to figure out if I was going to make it through,\" Foxx continued.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Thank u a billion to everybody… been a long road but all the prayers great people and God got me through….,\" Foxx had captioned the video clip while narrating his health ordeal to his millions of fans.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Notably, the Oscar-winning star had got hospitalised on April 12 in Georgia where he was present for the filming of his Netflix movie, “Back in Action\". After his hospitalisation, Foxx\'s daughter Corinne had then taken to Instagram to inform his fans about the actor\'s health condition and requested privacy.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Foxx is still undergoing recovery from the undisclosed medical complication which he suffered. HT</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"13\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-23 18:37:14', '2023-07-23 18:37:14'),
(8153, 8153, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Three people sustained severe burn injuries in a gas explosion at a house in Fatullah upazila of Narayanganj early today.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The injured Alam, 35; Ramjan, 22; and Rifat, 22 are house painters by profession and hail from Cumilla district.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Neighbours said they heard a big bang from the house, owned by one Khalil Munshi, in Bashmuli area around 12 am. The three men living in the house were found burned, and the tin roof of the house was blown off.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The three were rushed to the Sheikh Hasina National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery in Dhaka and are now undergoing treatment, said Md Bachhu Mia, inspector at Dhaka Medical College Hospital police outpost.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Quoting the person who brought the three injured men to the hospital, the inspector said the explosion could have happened due to a gas cylinder leak in the house.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Dr Tariqul Islam, resident surgeon of the burn institute, said that Alam sustained 72 percent burn injuries, Ramjan 58 percent, and Rifat 28 percent burn injuries, and they are in critical condition.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Nure Azam Khan, officer-in-charge of Fatullah Model Police Station, said that on information, a team was sent to the site and action will be taken based on investigation. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-23 19:32:48', '2023-07-23 19:32:48'),
(8154, 8154, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">At least 12 people were killed and up to 40 more are missing following a flash flood caused by torrential rain in central Afghanistan, a government spokesman said Sunday.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Zabihullah Mujahid said urgent aid was being rushed to the disaster zone in the Jalrez district of Maidan Wardak province.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"With great sadness we have received the news that 12 of our compatriots have been martyred and 40 others are missing,\" he said in a statement.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Some financial losses have also been incurred.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Although Afghanistan lies on the western edge of the Asian monsoon footprint, flash floods happen regularly during the wet season as heavy rain courses down dry riverbeds. AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-23 19:54:42', '2023-07-23 19:54:42'),
(8156, 8156, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today left here for Rome, Italy on a three-day official visit to attend UN Food Systems Summit+2 Stocktaking Moment.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A regular commercial flight of Qatar Airways, carrying the premier and her entourage members, took off from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA) at 05:05am, PM’s Press Secretary Ihsanul Karim told BSS.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The flight is scheduled to land at Rome Fiumicino Airport of Italy at 02:05pm local time (06:05pm BST) after making around one hour stopover at Hamad International Airport in Doha of Qatar.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is joining the United Nations Food Systems +2 Stocktaking Moment (UNFSS+2) conference at the invitation of the United Nations (UN) Secretary General António Guterres.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The UNFSS+2 conference will be held at the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) headquarters in Rome, Italy on July 24-26 with the theme “Sustainable Food Systems for People, Planet and Prosperity: Diverse Pathways in a Shared Journey”.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In a media briefing on July 20, Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen said two Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) - “Cooperation in the Field of Energy” and “Cultural Exchange Programme” - are likely to be signed between Bangladesh and Italy.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said the prime minister is scheduled to address the official opening of the conference at the FAO Headquarters as the Special Guest Speaker on July 24.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Heads of state, heads of government, agriculture specialists, food producers, scientists, researchers and other stakeholders from different countries will attend the forum.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">After the opening ceremony, the premier will participate in the plenary session titled “Food Systems and Climate Action”.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On the evening of the same day, she will also join the inaugural ceremony of Bangladesh-Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Room in FAO headquarters.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">FAO Director General Qu Dongyu and President of International Fund of Agricultural Development (IFAD) Alvaro Lario will also pay courtesy call on the prime minister.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On July 25, the prime minister will attend the “Regional Envoys Conference” organised by Bangladesh ambassadors stationed in 15 European countries.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In addition, Sheikh Hasina is scheduled to hold a bilateral meeting with her Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni and the MoUs will be signed there.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She will also join a community reception hosted by the expatriate Bangladeshi in Italy.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen, Agriculture Minister Dr Muhammad Abdur Razzaque, Food Minister Sadhan Chandra Majumder, members of parliament and government high officials will join the UNFSS+2 as prime minister\'s entourage members.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The prime minister is scheduled to leave Rome for home on July 26.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">UNFSS+2 is commencing with the aim of reviewing the progress of the implementation of the recommendations adopted at the “United Nations Food Systems Summit” held on September 23, 2021.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">During the 2021 UN Food Systems Summit, the prime minister joined virtually and proposed five point recommendations. BSS</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-23 20:00:03', '2023-07-23 20:00:03'),
(8157, 8157, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Mild heat wave sweeping over&nbsp; Rajshahi, Dhaka, Panchagarh, Moulvibazar&nbsp; and Feni districts may continue for more days, according to Bangladesh Meteorological Department.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>It also predicted rains and thundershowers in parts of the country.</div><div><br></div><div>Light to moderate rain/thunder showers accompanied by temporary gusty wind is likely at many places in Rangpur, Mymensingh &amp; Sylhet divisions and at a few places over Rajshahi, Dhaka, Khulna, Barishal &amp; Chattogram divisions with moderately heavy falls at places over the country in 24 hours starting from 9 am on Sunday, said a BMD bulletin on Sunday.</div><div><br></div><div>Day and night temperature may remain nearly unchanged over the country.</div><div><br></div><div>The axis of monsoon trough runs through Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Odisha, Gangetic West Bengal to Assam across southern part of Bangladesh. Monsoon is less active over Bangladesh and moderate over North Bay.</div><div><br></div><div>The axis of monsoon trough runs through Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, Odisha, Gangetic West Bengal to Assam across southern part of Bangladesh.</div><div><br></div><div>Monsoon is less active over Bangladesh and moderate over North Bay, it said.</div><div><br></div><div>Country’s highest temperature was recorded in Rajshahi at 36.8 degrees Celcius. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-23 20:46:58', '2023-07-23 20:46:58'),
(8158, 8158, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>At least 16 civilians were killed in exchanged bombardment between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Nyala, the capital of Sudan\'s South Darfur State on Friday, the Darfur Bar Association announced on Saturday.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>The professional lawyers\' organization said in a statement that \"16 citizens were killed in Nyala, South Darfur, due to the fall of projectiles on citizens\' homes during exchanged artillery bombardment between the army and the RSF on Friday.\"</div><div><br></div><div>\"The battles in Nyala are taking place on the heads of citizens amid random shootings on streets and houses as well as killings with sniper bullets,\" according to the statement.</div><div><br></div><div>Nyala has been witnessing armed confrontations between the Sudanese army and the RSF over the past three days, the association said, adding that a number of the city\'s neighborhoods, including Al-Wohda and Karari, south of Nyala, were affected by the fighting on Friday.</div><div><br></div><div>The association called on the warring parties to immediately stop the war and avoid targeting the civilians.</div><div><br></div><div>Sudan has been witnessing deadly clashes between the Sudanese army and the RSF in Khartoum and other areas since April 15, resulting in over 3,000 deaths and more than 6,000 injuries, according to figures released by the Sudanese Health Ministry.</div><div><br></div><div>More than 3 million people have been forced into displacement, inside and outside Sudan, since the conflict broke out in the country, according to UN estimates. Source: XINHUANET</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-23 21:04:14', '2023-07-23 21:04:14'),
(8159, 8159, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">A game of chess can turn any dull day into an invigorating and fun-filled one. The game not only engages but also makes sure you put your thinking cap on and provide the much-needed workout to your brain. Especially if age is not on your side, and you have reached a phase where your brain needs constant stimulation, chess is the perfect game to play to avoid age-related brain disorders like Alzheimer\'s disease.</span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Dr. Neha Kapoor - Associate Director & Head-Neurology, Asian Hospital Faridabad on the occasion of International Chess Day (July 20), shares how the game can help improve cognitive abilities and boost overall well-being.</div><div><br></div><div>1. Improves memory</div><div>Playing chess can help you remember things better as while playing the game a player has to remember openings, strategies, and past moves, all the while anticipating future moves and planning. This mental exercise serves as a fantastic workout for the brain, enhancing both short-term and long-term memory. Regular chess practice can improve your ability to recall information, which prove to be beneficial in many aspects of life, such as academic pursuits and professional endeavours.</div><div><br></div><div>2. Critical thinking and problem-solving skills</div><div>Chess is renowned for its ability to enhance critical thinking and problem-solving skills. When playing chess, individuals must analyse the game’s current state, anticipate their opponent\'s moves, and devise effective strategies to outmanoeuvre them. This constant mental engagement strengthens one\'s ability to think critically, assess situations, and make informed decisions. These skills are transferable to real-life scenarios, helping individuals become better problem solvers in various domains.</div><div><br></div><div>3. Concentration and focus</div><div>Chess demands unwavering concentration and focus throughout the entire game. With numerous pieces on a board and countless possibilities at each turn, players must maintain their attention and avoid distractions. Regular chess practice can significantly improve concentration levels, making it easier to stay focused on tasks and goals in other areas of life. Enhanced concentration can also contribute to improved productivity and performance, whether at work, school, or personal projects.</div><div><br></div><div>4. Emotional intelligence</div><div>Chess is a game that teaches emotional intelligence and resilience. During a game, players experience a range of emotions, including excitement, frustration, and disappointment. Learning to manage these emotions and remaining composed under pressure is a valuable life skill that chess can help develop. By honing emotional intelligence, players can better cope with challenges and setbacks, both on and off the chessboard.</div><div><br></div><div>5. Stress relief and mental well-being</div><div>Engaging in chess can provide a welcome escape from the stresses of daily life. The intense focus required during a game diverts attention away from worries and anxieties, allowing players to experience a state of flow and relaxation. Chess has also been found to reduce stress levels and promote mental well-being by stimulating the production of dopamine and endorphins, the brain\'s \'feel-good\' chemicals. Additionally, chess can serve as a social activity, fostering connections and providing a sense of community among players.</div><div><br></div><div>6. Brain health and longevity</div><div>Research suggests that chess can have positive effects on brain health and contribute to cognitive longevity. Regular chess players have been found to exhibit higher brain activity and improved brain function compared to non-players. Chess engages multiple cognitive domains simultaneously, exercising memory, reasoning, problem-solving, and visualization skills. This mental workout may help reduce the risk of cognitive decline and age-related neurodegenerative diseases. Source: Hindustan Times</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', '<p>mental health<br></p>', 'News Desk', '[\"24\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-23 21:16:45', '2023-07-23 21:25:55'),
(8160, 8160, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan on Sunday warned that action will be taken if anyone tries to break law and create public suffering.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>“It is quite normal that action will be taken against those who don’t abide by law, and create public suffering,” he said while speaking at a programme on the occasion of the 40th anniversary of Bangladesh Crime Reporters Association (Crab) at Dhaka Reporters Unity.</div><div><br></div><div>Regarding arrest of BNP leaders and activists, he said those BNP leaders and activists have been arrested who were warranted in different cases.</div><div><br></div><div>People are not interested to see BNP in power and that’s why they failed to come to power, he said.</div><div><br></div><div>Referring to BNP’s political programmes, Asaduzzaman said police do not create any obstacle to their programmes anywhere, According to UNB reports</div><div><br></div><div>Replying to a question about the death of an activist of BNP in Laxmipur, the Home minister also said “After talking to the law enforcers and local administration it was known that the slain person was not an activist of BNP, and the person died due to previous enmity between two groups.”</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-23 21:25:00', '2023-07-23 21:25:00'),
(8161, 8161, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Law enforcers have arrested 10 suspects from different areas of the capital in connection with the killing of Jubo League activist Oliullah Rubel in Dhaka’s Gulbagh area early Friday.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>The arrestees are Habib Ahsan, Md Alif Hossain, Md Rabiul Sunny, Md Mehedi Hasan, Md Shahjal, Md Rafiqul Islam, Nur Alam, Md Sumon Mir, Adnan Asif and Md Shakil.</div><div><br></div><div>Of them, Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) arrested Asif and Shakil while Detective Branch (DB) rounded up the rest.</div><div><br></div><div>Both RAB and DB police disclosed these at separate press briefings in the capital on Sunday, two days after the murder.</div><div><br></div><div>Lt. Col Arif Mohiuddin Ahmed, commander of the RAB-3, at a press briefing at the force’s media center in the capital’s Karwan Bazar, said Rubel was killed following previous enmity with one Shahjalal over establishing supremacy in Shantibagh area.</div><div><br></div><div>Recently Rubel tried to start water supply business along with internet and egg businesses, he said adding, enmity with Shahjalal over establishing supremacy led to Rubel’s death .</div><div><br></div><div>Chief Md Harun-ur-Rashid at another press briefing at DMP media center said victim Rubel had a conflict with one Nibir and Shahjalal over establishing dominance in&nbsp; Shantibagh area.</div><div><br></div><div>Nibir and Shahjalal hired Habib to kill Rubel while Nibir gave Tk 4000 to Habib to buy machetes, he said.</div><div><br></div><div>As per the plan, Habib bought two machetes from Khilgaon Bazar, the DB officer said.</div><div><br></div><div>On the day of the killing, Habib Alif took position in front of the residence of Rubel on Malibagh Bazar road at Gulbagh and Mehedi and Sunny were on guard, Harun said.</div><div><br></div><div>Habib and Alif chased Rubel on his way home by a rickshaw and at one stage Alif chopped Rubel with a machete, the DB chief said, adding that Habib and Alif hacked him indiscriminately and left the scene immediately.</div><div><br></div><div>Victim’s wife Tajina Dewan filed a murder case with Shahjanpur police station in this connection, he added.</div><div><br></div><div>On Saturday, the DB chief said that they identified those involved in the killing of Rubel.</div><div><br></div><div>On Friday, Rubel was hacked dead at Gulbagh in Shahjahanpur in the capital.</div><div><br></div><div>Rubel was also former office secretary of Shahjahanpur Thana Chhatra League. He was involved with the local Jubo League without any official position. According to UNB reports</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-23 22:38:28', '2023-07-23 22:38:28');
INSERT INTO `news_details` (`id`, `news_id`, `details`, `ticker`, `representative`, `keyword`, `video_link`, `google_drive_link`, `audio_link`, `shoulder`, `created_at`, `updated_at`) VALUES
(8162, 8162, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Challenging times are ahead for smaller, lighter-colored butterflies as Earth’s climate continues to warm, a new study has found.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>Unlike their relatives with larger wings and darker colors, small butterflies with paler hues — particularly those belonging to the Lycaenidae family — have trouble regulating their body temperatures as the air temperature increases, according to the research.</div><div><br></div><div>Size often plays a role in heat tolerance for insects, but the impact of color was surprising and “may be a pattern specific to butterflies,” said lead study author Esme Ashe-Jepson, a doctoral student of zoology at the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom. Darker-winged butterflies, regardless of wing size, had consistently better outcomes throughout the research.</div><div><br></div><div>The findings, published July 12 in the Journal of Animal Ecology, offer more evidence of the outsize roles wings play in keeping butterflies cool — and why color matters.</div><div><br></div><div>How butterflies keep their cool</div><div><br></div><div>Butterflies need warmth from the sun to function. But when things really heat up, they adjust their body temperature in relation to the air temperature through strategies called thermal buffering and thermal tolerance.</div><div><br></div><div>Thermal buffering includes physical acts like moving into a cooler, shadier area or slanting wings out of the direct path of sunlight. Butterflies with larger wings can use that surface area to absorb heat when needed, but they may also be able to relocate to a cooler area faster than small-winged butterflies, according to the study.</div><div><br></div><div>Thermal tolerance, on the other hand, involves physiological processes like the production of heat shock proteins. “These are molecules that many animals, butterflies and humans included, produce to protect themselves from high temperatures,” Ashe-Jepson said. “They help to stabilise and repair proteins in your body that have been damaged by high heat.”</div><div><br></div><div>But that process uses up a butterfly’s resources, often at the cost of growth or reproduction. Results from this study backed up earlier research that demonstrated butterflies tend to rely on either thermal buffering or thermal tolerance — rather than using both — and that makes some species more vulnerable to increasing temperatures due to the climate crisis.</div><div>The ‘knockdown’ test</div><div><br></div><div>To test whether there was a relationship between thermal buffering and thermal tolerance in a variety of species of tropical butterflies, researchers from the University of Cambridge and the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute captured butterflies in many types of habitats around Panama during both the wet and dry seasons between February 2020 and March 2022.</div><div><br></div><div>For the thermal buffering test, the researchers caught, tested and released 1,334 butterflies representing 54 species from six butterfly families. “My team and I spent many long days running around the rainforest in Panama with butterfly nets,” Ashe-Jepson said. “Our goal was to catch a butterfly without chasing it.”</div><div><br></div><div>When the insects fly, their body temperatures can change. Since the butterflies were not forced into a stressful chase by the researchers, their temperatures were expected to remain at normal levels for the environmental conditions.</div><div><br></div><div>After capture, the team members placed a measuring device called a thermocouple — which looks like an exposed wire — through the net and then ever so gently against the butterfly’s thorax, which is the middle part of its body, to record its temperature.</div><div><br></div><div>The thorax “is where the muscles that power butterfly flight are, and so are important body parts to maintain the temperature of,” Ashe-Jepson said.</div><div><br></div><div>To test thermal tolerance, a smaller group of the captured butterflies was put to work one more time. Each one was held in a glass jar set up to keep the butterfly from dehydrating. Then the temperature was steadily raised inside the jar to test how much each could stand before falling after losing motor control, a state known as “knockdown.”</div><div><br></div><div>In both experiments, dark butterflies the researchers captured warmed up and cooled down better than their paler relatives. Larger, darker butterflies more effectively used thermal buffering strategies to their advantage, while the smaller and darker butterflies were “able to tolerate higher temperatures” during the in-glass thermal tolerance test,” Ashe-Jepson said. “This places these dark butterflies in a relatively good place to cope with climate change.”</div><div><br></div><div>She added that the difference between the lowest and highest heat tolerance levels — more than 18 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius) — really surprised her. “This is a massive difference for butterflies that live in relatively similar habitats,” Ashe-Jepson said, noting that one species survived temperatures of almost 140 degrees Fahrenheit (60 degrees Celsius). “For such a small animal, that is an incredible feat.”</div><div><br></div><div>Why butterfly color matters</div><div><br></div><div>During the knockdown test, the larger butterflies that had demonstrated the best thermal buffering abilities did not do as well as smaller-winged butterflies. Larger species tend to rely more on buffering strategies, leaving them vulnerable to temperature increases when they can’t change their position.</div><div><br></div><div>“This result implies that species with more stable body temperatures may be more vulnerable to increases in ambient temperatures,” said Akito Kawahara, professor and curator at the McGuire Center for Lepidoptera and Biodiversity at the University of Florida in Gainesville. He was not involved with the research.</div><div><br></div><div>Ashe-Jepson’s theory on why color makes such a difference is “it comes down to experience.” Dark-winged butterflies, basically, get used to handling higher temperatures since they absorb solar radiation faster than their pale counterparts. They also “radiate heat more effectively than pale surfaces, and … may also be more likely to reduce their body temperature fast enough so to avoid reaching deadly temperatures,” she explained.</div><div><br></div><div>Paler butterflies rarely end up having to deal with high temperatures — they typically fly off to a cooler microclimate when things heat up. If more forest habitat is lost amid the ongoing climate crisis, paler butterflies will be at higher risk. They’ll be “in a dangerous place to cope with moving between increasingly far apart forest fragments, and when an extreme weather event, such as a heatwave, occurs,” Ashe-Jepson said via email.&nbsp; If they can’t manage their body heat, effectively in those situations, they’ll be in trouble.</div><div><br></div><div>Though nobody is certain how climate change will ultimately impact butterflies, one certainty is that “many species are disappearing. (The study) could provide insight into which species may survive under harsh climatic conditions,” Kawahara said.</div><div><br></div><div>There is no predicting a timeline for the loss of butterfly species, according to Ashe-Jepson. “We are unlikely to lose this entire (Lycaenidae) family of butterflies,” she said. There could be, however, “rapid extinctions within this family if we do nothing to preserve their habitats and combat climate change, particularly in the face of extreme weather events such as heatwaves,” she added.</div><div><br></div><div>Recently, there has been ample evidence that extreme weather events are increasing. “This is rather frightening for this highly diverse group of butterflies,” Ashe-Jepson said, “but there is hope that with appropriate management, such as maintaining forests and microclimates, we can preserve this group of beautiful and unique butterflies before they are lost.” Source: CNN&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas&nbsp;</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-23 22:52:44', '2023-07-23 22:52:44'),
(8163, 8163, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Saudi Arabia on Saturday expressed its “strong condemnation and dissatisfaction” with a failure to take necessary measures to prevent the recurrence of incidents of violations against Islamic sanctities, the Kingdom’s foreign ministry announced.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Recent public desecrations of the Qur’an by ultranationalist groups in Sweden has sparked widespread anger among the international community, while on Friday a man set fire to a book purported to be the Qur’an in front of the Iraqi embassy in the Danish capital, Copenhagen.</div><div><br></div><div>The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said an “extremist group in Denmark burned a copy of the Holy Qur’an, and raised slogans of hatred and racism against Islam and Muslims, in front of the Embassy of the Republic of Iraq in the capital, Copenhagen.”</div><div><br></div><div>The incidents have prompted Middle Eastern nations to summon their Swedish and Danish diplomats in protest.</div><div><br></div><div>The ministry “expressed the Kingdom’s condemnation in the strongest terms of these acts that incite hatred and violence between religions,” and warned against “repeating these provocative acts” that affect millions of Muslims around the world and “are a flagrant violation of all international laws and norms.”</div><div><br></div><div>Jassem Albudaiwi, the secretary-general of the Gulf Cooperation Council, also expressed his strong condemnation and denunciation of the burning and desecrating of a copy of the Qur’an in Copenhagen.</div><div><br></div><div>In a statement issued on Saturday, he said that “the continuation of these heinous acts and irresponsible behavior reflects extremism and hatred of religions,” and called on Denmark to “take immediate action to hold those extremists accountable in accordance with international laws, treaties and norms that protect and preserve religions.”</div><div><br></div><div>Kuwait also condemned the recent incident and said “this provocative act deepens hatred, fuels extremism, and offends Muslims worldwide.”</div><div><br></div><div>The foreign ministry urged the Danish government to reveal the motives behind “this disgraceful act and to take all necessary legal actions to stop such irresponsible actions and behavior.”</div><div><br></div><div>It also called on the Danish government to work to prevent the “recurrence of such acts and to bring perpetrators to accountability,” arguing that “freedom of expression should not be used to insult Islam and all religions.”</div><div><br></div><div>The ministry called on the international community to step up efforts to counter these incidents, enact laws that criminalize offending religions and promote adherence to relevant international conventions and resolutions, including the recent UN Human Rights Council’s resolution on countering religious hatred that was adopted this month.</div><div><br></div><div>Tunisia issued a similar statement and called on all countries to respect sanctities so that “heinous crimes” that contradict the values ​​of coexistence and tolerance are not repeated to fuel extremism and terrorism. - Arab News&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-23 23:46:19', '2023-07-23 23:46:19'),
(8164, 8164, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Sunday arrived in Rome to attend the UN Food Systems Summit at the invitation of the UN Secretary-General.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>The three-day summit will open at Italy\'s capital city on Monday, July 24.</div><div><br></div><div>The premier and her entourage flew from Dhaka by a regular flight of Qatar Airways. It landed at Rome Fiumicino Airport at 1:40pm local time (05:40 pm BST).</div><div><br></div><div>The flight earlier departed Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA) at 05:05am.</div><div><br></div><div>The summit titled ‘United Nations Food Systems +2 Stocktaking Moment’ (UNFSS+2) will be held at the Headquarters of Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) with the theme of ‘Sustainable Food Systems for People, Planet and Prosperity: Diverse Pathways in a Shared Journey.’</div><div><br></div><div>During her stay in Italy, she will also hold a bilateral meeting with her Italian counterpart Giorgia Meloni on Tuesday, July 25.</div><div><br></div><div>On Monday, PM Hasina will address the opening ceremony of the summit as a special guest. UN Secretary-General António Guterres, among others, is expected to speak at the event, said officials accompanying her.</div><div><br></div><div>She will then attend a plenary session on food systems and climate action at FAO headquarters, hold talks separately with FAO Director General Qu Dongyu and President of International Fund of Agricultural Development (IFAD) Alvaro Lario, join the inauguration ceremony of the Bangladesh-Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Room at the FAO headquarters and attend a reception to be hosted by the FAO Director General the same day.</div><div><br></div><div>Two memorandums of understanding (MoUs) on ‘cooperation in the field of energy’ and ‘cultural exchange programme’ are expected to be signed between the two countries during her visit.</div><div><br></div><div>Besides, Hasina will join a regional envoy conference, which will be held with participation of 15 Bangladeshi envoys stationed in Europe, and a community event on Tuesday, July 25.</div><div><br></div><div>Hasina is expected to leave Rome for home wrapping up her visit on Wednesday, July 26. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-24 00:12:35', '2023-07-24 00:12:35'),
(8165, 8165, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Sunday alleged that the government is using \"internet shutdown\" as a weapon to suppress the movement of the opposition.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>Speaking at a press conference at the BNP Chairperson’s Gulshan office, he said the current regime is also using the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) as a modern tool to repress people, deprive them of their rights to have uninterrupted internet access and snatch their freedom of expression.</div><div><br></div><div>\"The government is using a new digital weapon, \'internet-shutdown\', to snatch people\'s right to have nonstop internet access and their freedom of expression out of its fear of a mass uprising,” the BNP leader said.</div><div><br></div><div>Apart from the internet shutdown, he said the government has continued various other forms of digital torture, including monitoring the smartphones of the opposition leaders, violating their personal privacy, and checking their cell phones. \"We strongly protest the abuse of digital technology.”</div><div><br></div><div>The BNP leader demanded the government immediately repeal the Digital Security Act (DSA) as not only the BNP leaders and workers but also the freethinkers are being subjected to harassment through it.</div><div><br></div><div>“Internet-shutdown incidents are terrible violations of civic rights. It is a crime similar to murder and enforced disappearance,” he said.</div><div><br></div><div>When a person is subjected to enforced disappearance, Fakhrul said, only one person is lost. “But if the internet is shut down somewhere, crores of people in the country and abroad become victims of it. Erasing people’s existence online is as much a crime as a murder. The fascist Awami League regime is continuously committing this crime.”</div><div><br></div><div>BNP’s media cell arranged the press conference to protest against all forms of digital torture, including internet shutdown.</div><div><br></div><div>Fakhrul highlighted the incident of shutting down mobile internet services during BNP’s rally in front of its Nayapaltan central office on July 12 last and during BNP’s divisional rallies in Khulna, Barisal, Faridpur, Sylhet, Cumilla, Rajshahi and Dhaka in November and December last year.</div><div><br></div><div>He alleged that though the interest services were disconnected in the Nayapaltan area on July 12 during BNP’s rally, the internet connection was normal on the same day during the ruling party’s rally in Baitul Mukarram National Mosque area.</div><div><br></div><div>According to a report released by digital rights watchdog Access Now this year, the BNP leader said Bangladesh ranked fifth in the world in terms of the number of internet shutdowns.</div><div><br></div><div>He said four countries---India 84 times, Ukraine 22 times, Iran 18 times, and Myanmar 7 times—shut down the internet due to a state of insurgency or a war-like situation.</div><div><br></div><div>The BNP leader questioned whether there was any war in Bangladesh for which the government was forced to shut down internet services six times. “Against whom the government is waging that war?.”</div><div><br></div><div>\"Internet services are now an essential means of expressing people’s opinions. Discontinuance of this service mainly hampers the freedom of expression,” he observed.</div><div><br></div><div>Stating that internet services are now not limited to social media entertainment only, the BNP leader said as these services have expanded to many important areas, including financial transactions, education, medical treatment, data collection, preservation, outsourcing, overseas travel, employment, and job interviews, and has become an indispensable part of life, reports UNB</div><div><br></div><div>“So, we believe that the incidents of blocking or controlling the Internet services are a clear violation of the civic rights of individuals, a clear violation of the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights and international agreements on civil and political rights,\" Fakhrul asserted.</div><div><br></div><div>He also said that the police are harassing ordinary people by illegally arresting them on the streets and searching their mobile phones.</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-24 02:42:38', '2023-07-24 02:42:38'),
(8166, 8166, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">A week-long \'National Fisheries Week-2023\' will begin from tomorrow highlighting the importance of fisheries resources in fulfilling nutritional and food demand of the country\'s ever increasing population.</span><br></div><div><br></div><div>\"The National Fisheries Week will be celebrated in the country like every year with a commitment of involving people in socio-cultural development through raising the production of the fisheries resources,\" according to an official release received here today.</div><div><br></div><div>President Mohammad Shahabuddin and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina issued messages on the eve of the event.</div><div><br></div><div>The week will be observed till July 30 with a theme of \"Nirapad Machhea Varbo Desh, Gorbo Smart Bangladesh (The country will be filled with safe fish, Build the Smart Bangladesh)\".</div><div><br></div><div>To mark the event, the concerned Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock has taken different programmes across the country. Besides, different programmes will also be observed locally in all upazilas and districts along with the central programmes.</div><div><br></div><div>On the first day of the week, a colorful street rally will be brought in the city\'s Manik Mia Avenue at 8am on July 24. Fisheries and Livestock Minister</div><div><br></div><div>SM Rezaul Karim will attend a press conference at Matsya Bhavan at 10.30am on the day.</div><div><br></div><div>On July 25, Speaker of the Jatiya Sangsad (JS) Dr Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury will attend the inaugural function of \"National Fisheries Week-2023\" as the chief guest at Osmani Memorial auditorium in the capital.</div><div><br></div><div>The National Fisheries Padak, 2023 will be awarded to some 21 individuals and organisations in eight categories recognizing their important contribution to the fisheries sector.</div><div><br></div><div>In addition to this, President Mohammed Shahabuddin as part of the central programme of the week will release fish fries at his official residence Bangababhan pond at 5pm on July 27.</div><div><br></div><div>Even, the colorful boat rally will also be held in the city\'s Hatirjheel and different newspapers will publish special supplements while Bangladesh Betar and Bangladesh Television (BTV) and private TV channels will air different documentaries highlighting the success of the sector. - BSS</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-24 02:45:01', '2023-07-24 02:45:01'),
(8167, 8167, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Although all quarters agree on the demand for risk-free roads, the rate of accidents has not yet come down to a tolerable level. Instead, several fatal accidents are happening every day across the country.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Around 16 major causes have been identified behind these accidents, according to a press release from the Shipping and Communications Reporters Forum (SCRF) today.</div><div><br></div><div>After 17 people died and at least 30 others were injured when a passenger bus lost control and fell into a pond in Jhalakathi on Saturday, questions over road safety have again emerged, the press release said.</div><div><br></div><div>According to SCRF, 2,898 people died and 4,720 were injured in 2,781 road accidents across the country in the first six months of this year.</div><div><br></div><div>Among them, 1,079 motorcycle accidents killed 1,088 people.</div><div><br></div><div>The SCRF observation says that the government\'s policymaking body is sincere in preventing road accidents. However, there is also a lack of accountability from some officials and employees of the concerned government organisations.</div><div><br></div><div>The influence of owners and labour leaders in the transport sector, interference from political leaders including public representatives, and a lack of awareness among drivers, workers, passengers, and pedestrians are also responsible for accidents.</div><div><br></div><div>SCRF identified 16 major causes of road accidents: unfit vehicles; unskilled, unaware and unwell drivers; reckless driving; overtaking in violation of prevailing law and regulations; exhausted drivers and helpers due to no fixed weekend leave and working hours; dilapidated roads; significant number of risky turning points on national highways and inter-district roads; large number of motorcycles used commercially on long-distance roads; slow-moving three wheelers on highways; unskilled youths and minors on motorcycles; lack of capacity of the BRTA and irregularities and corruption of many officials and employees concerned; poor traffic management and shortage of highway police and other resources; lack of awareness and knowledge of traffic laws among the general public; tendency of drivers and pedestrians to disobey traffic laws; laxity of authorities concerned in enforcing existing laws; and extortion from vehicles at terminals and several roads, including highways. - UNB</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-24 02:53:07', '2023-07-24 02:53:07'),
(8168, 8168, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Bangladesh reported 2,292 new dengue cases in the 24 hours till Sunday morning, the highest number of hospitalisation in a day from the mosquito-borne disease this year.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>During the period, nine more deaths were reported from dengue, raising the fatalities from the infection to 176.</div><div><br></div><div>Of the new patients, 1,064 were admitted to hospitals in Dhaka and the rest outside it, according to DGHS.</div><div><br></div><div>A total of 7,175 dengue patients, including 4,149 in the capital, are now receiving treatment at hospitals across the country.</div><div><br></div><div>So far, the DGHS has recorded 32,977 dengue cases and 25,626 recoveries this year.</div><div><br></div><div>The country logged 281 dengue deaths in 2022 – the highest on record after 179 deaths recorded in 2019. Also, it recorded 62,423 dengue cases and 61,971 recoveries last year. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-24 03:00:00', '2023-07-24 03:00:00'),
(8169, 8169, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>A SSC examinee died after falling off the seventh floor of a building in Khilgaon area in the capital on Sunday.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>The deceased was identified Mobasshar Hossain,16, son of Abdul Ghafur of Baliakandi village of Senbag upazila of Noakhali district. He appeared in the&nbsp; SSC examination from Noakhali Baliakandi Nabakrishna High School this year.</div><div><br></div><div>Victim’s cousin Kamal Hossain said Mobasshar, who came to Dhaka on July 8, caught fever on Saturday night.</div><div><br></div><div>Around 10:30 pm, Mobasshar accidentally fell from the balcony of the seventh floor and got seriously injured.</div><div><br></div><div>Later, the doctors at Dhaka Medical College Hospital declared him dead around 2.30 am.</div><div><br></div><div>DMCH&nbsp; camp police inspector Bachchu Mia said the body was sent to the hospital morgue for post-mortem. - UNB</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-24 03:12:48', '2023-07-24 03:12:48'),
(8170, 8170, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Tens of thousands of protesters marched into Jerusalem on Saturday evening in a last-ditch show of force aimed at blocking Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s contentious judicial overhaul, as more than 100 of Israel’s former security chiefs signed a letter pleading with the Israeli premier to halt the legislation.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>In scorching heat that reached 33 degrees Celsius (91 degrees Fahrenheit), the procession turned the city’s main highway into a sea of blue and white Israeli flags as marchers completed the last leg of a four-day, 70 kilometer (45-mile) trek from Tel Aviv to Israel’s parliament.</div><div><br></div><div>The marchers — who spent the last three nights along the way in rows of small white tents — were welcomed in Jerusalem by throngs of cheering protesters. They planned to camp outside the Knesset, or parliament, ahead of Monday’s expected vote. Meanwhile, tens of thousands flooded the streets of the coastal city of Tel Aviv, the country’s main hub.</div><div><br></div><div>Netanyahu and his far-right allies claim the overhaul is needed to curb what they say are the excessive powers of unelected judges. But their critics say the plan will destroy the country’s system of checks and balances and put it on the path toward authoritarian rule.</div><div><br></div><div>The proposed overhaul has drawn harsh criticism from business and medical leaders, and a fast-rising number of military reservists in key units have said they will stop reporting for duty if the plan passes, raising concern that the country’s security interests could be threatened.</div><div><br></div><div>Over 100 top former security chiefs, including retired military commanders, police commissioners and heads of intelligence agencies joined those calls on Saturday, signing a letter to Netanyahu blaming him for compromising Israel’s military and urging him to halt the legislation. The signatories included Ehud Barak, a former Israeli prime minister, and Moshe Yaalon, a former army chief and defense minister. Both are political rivals of Netanyahu. - AP</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-24 03:20:06', '2023-07-24 03:20:06'),
(8171, 8171, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>A dissemination seminar on “Early Detection of Liver Cancer Patient through Simple Blood Test” was held today at Holiday Inn Dhaka. The dissemination seminar is based on the article published in the high-impact peer-reviewed international journal Nature Communications.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>The test identifies liver cancer through distinctive DNA methylation signatures and has the potential to revolutionize liver cancer detection in high-risk populations (that includes people with liver diseases, type 2 diabetes and alcoholics), thereby decreasing morbidity and mortality rates associated with this cancer.</div><div><br></div><div>HKG Epitherapeutics Ltd., the International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b), Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, and a team of eminent Bangladeshi clinicians and scientists conducted the research work.</div><div><br></div><div>Professor Moshe Szyf, the Chairman of HKG Epitherapeutics Ltd., and a fellow of the Royal Society of Canada presented the keynote, Professor Dr Mamun Al Mahtab, Hepatologist, BSMMU discussed on Bangladesh and Global scenario regarding Hepatitis and liver cancer, and icddr,b scientist Dr Wasif Ali Khan discussed the protocol title.</div><div><br></div><div>Professor Dr Sharfuddin Ahmed, Vice-chancellor, BSMMU graced the event as the chief guest. Additionally, Dr Rafique-us-Saleheen, Programme Manager-1, Non-communicable Disease Control Program, DGHS, and Dr Afsana Alamgir Khan, Assistant Director (Project Coordination), DGHS were present as special guests and icddr,b’s Executive Director Dr Tahmeed Ahmed chaired the event.</div><div><br></div><div>Liver Cancer, a prevalent global cancer, is often detected at advanced stages, leading to treatment challenges and reduced survival rates. The developed assay uses sophisticated sequencing and multiplexing techniques to differentiate liver cancer samples from normal tissues, other blood samples, and non-liver cancer tumours, overcoming the limitations of traditional diagnostic methods.</div><div><br></div><div>The research group evaluated the assay on 554 clinical study participants, comprising liver cancer patients, non-liver cancer patients, individuals with chronic hepatitis B, and healthy controls. The results revealed a liver cancer detection sensitivity of 84.5% at 95% specificity, demonstrating its promising potential for early liver cancer detection (registered in ClinicalTrials.gov as NCT03483922, a registry of clinical trials run by the United States National Library of Medicine at the National Institutes of Health).</div><div><br></div><div>Professor Dr Sharfuddin Ahmed, Vice-chancellor, BSMMU said, “Today\'s dissemination seminar marks a remarkable stride in the field of healthcare, with the potential to transform liver cancer detection. As we unite to combat liver cancer, this innovative assay, rooted in distinctive DNA methylation signatures, holds the promise to positively impact high-risk populations, reducing the burden of this prevalent cancer.”</div><div><br></div><div>Professor Moshe Szyf, stated “Our developed high-throughput assay represents an innovative step forward in cancer detection. It contributes significantly to the early detection of HCC, with the potential to transform cancer diagnostics and patient outcomes.”</div><div><br></div><div>Professor Dr. Mamun Al Mahtab, Head of the Interventional Hepatology Division, BSMMU, who led this research from BSMMU, stated that “While further study is required, this development represents a substantial stride towards a standard early detection tool for individuals at high risk of liver cancer, with the ability to considerably reduce the disease\'s impact on people at risk of developing liver cancer”.</div><div><br></div><div>Dr. Wasif Ali Khan, a Scientist at the icddr,b and Principal Investigator of the research who led and coordinated the project, remarked “This breakthrough development is a critical milestone in liver cancer detection, with tremendous potential to save lives and improve healthcare in Bangladesh. Our unwavering commitment to advancing cancer diagnostics is reflected in this remarkable achievement, aimed at enhancing the well-being of our population. The test will significantly reduce the burden of liver cancer and create a healthier future for all.” - UNB</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-24 03:45:39', '2023-07-24 03:45:39'),
(8172, 8172, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The leader of Spain\'s opposition conservative party Alberto Núñez Feijóo has claimed victory in a snap election, but without the result he needed.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Even with the support of the far right, his Popular Party (PP) has fallen short of a majority in parliament.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The cheers at the rival Socialist camp were just as loud as Socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez declared: \"The reactionary bloc has failed.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">While both can claim success, Spain is left with an inconclusive result.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">But Mr Sánchez has been vindicated in his controversial decision to call the vote in the searing heat of a Spanish summer, when election-day temperatures reached 40C in some parts of the country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Turnout topped 70%, as voters sensed the importance of the election, breaking off from their holidays to vote in swimwear and with beach gear in tow.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"No pasarán,\" supporters chanted outside Socialist HQ - they shall not pass - referring both to far-right party Vox and the anti-fascist slogan of the Spanish civil war.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Nonetheless, Mr Feijóo told cheering conservative supporters that it was now his duty to try to form a government.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Spaniards know we have gone from being the second force to the party with the most votes,\" he said, adding: \"I hope this doesn\'t start a period of uncertainty in Spain.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">But that is what Spain is facing. Because with Vox on 33 seats and Mr Feijóo\'s PP on 136, they would be seven seats short of an absolute majority of 176 in parliament, so the most likely result of this election is another poll towards the end of the year.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">That is why Mr Sánchez\'s Socialists and his far-left allies Sumar appeared happiest.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"The reactionary bloc of regression, which set out a complete reversal of all the advances that we\'ve achieved over the past four years, has failed,\" he told supporters.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The right has repeatedly attacked Mr Sánchez because of a badly framed law on sexual consent, as well as reforms on abortion and transgender rights.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">But the opposition also targeted the support he received from Catalan and Basque nationalists, arguing that concessions he made to them threatened Spain\'s territorial unity.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Some PP supporters outside party HQ chanted Que te vote Txapote, an anti-Sánchez slogan meaning \"Let Txapote vote for you\", which referenced a militant who carried out killings for the defunct Basque group Eta.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">For much of the night the mood among PP supporters had been subdued and celebrations finally picked up when their party overtook the Socialists in the results. As their leader finished his speech, little groups of voters draped in Spanish flags asked each other what would happen next.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">These were not victorious activists celebrating. Despite the rhetoric from the balcony above, this felt like an empty win.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">One Spanish website, El Español, said that despite the PP\'s victory, Pedro Sánchez still had a chance of forming a government.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">But those very slim chances would require going even further than before in securing separatist support. He would also need the backing of a hardline pro-independence party, Together for Catalonia (Junts), which appears unwilling to support him.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The 70% turnout was higher than in November 2019, despite the summer heat. That was partly due to almost 2.5 million postal votes being cast, but polling stations were busiest in the morning before the heat took hold.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Vox remains the third biggest party, with the support of three million of Spain\'s 37 million voters, but not significantly ahead of Sumar and with a big drop in seat numbers. BBC</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-24 12:46:59', '2023-07-24 12:46:59'),
(8173, 8173, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Alex Telles left Manchester United for a reunion with former team-mate Cristiano Ronaldo at Saudi Arabian side Al Nassr on Sunday.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Telles is the latest star from a major European club to move to the Gulf state, having swapped the Premier League for the lure of the lucrative Saudi Pro League.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Brazilian left-back spent last season on loan at Sevilla and made 50 appearances for United in three years at Old Trafford.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Telles, 30, will be reunited with Portugal striker Ronaldo at Al Nassr after the Portugal forward\'s acrimonious departure from United last year.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Alex Telles has completed a permanent move from Manchester United to Al-Nassr,\" a United statement said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"The 30-year-old full-back has joined the Saudi Premier League outfit following 50 first-team appearances for the Reds.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We\'d like to thank Alex for his contributions to the club over the last three years and would like to wish him all the best for the future.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Telles struggled to hold down a regular place in the United after arriving from Porto in a o13.6 million deal in 2020.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">However, he impressed at Sevilla, where he won the Europa League with the Spanish club last season.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Telles\'s move to Al Nassr comes amid a shock exodus of top players to Saudi Arabia.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">France striker Karim Benzema quit Real Madrid to join Al-Ittihad, while a host of Premier League stars have headed to the Gulf state.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Chelsea\'s N\'Golo Kante linked up with compatriot Benzema at Al-Ittihad, with his former Blues team-mate Kalidou Koulibaly moving to Al-Hilal, who also signed Ruben Neves from Wolves.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Edouard Mendy was another Chelsea player to swap west London for Saudi Arabia as the Senegal keeper joined Al Ahli, where he will be joined by Liverpool forward Roberto Firmino.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Former Aston Villa manager Steven Gerrard accepted an offer to take charge of Al Ettifaq, who hope to sign Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson imminently. AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bndb24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"20\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-24 13:04:28', '2023-07-24 13:04:28'),
(8174, 8174, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Heavy rains caused flooding and a landslide in eastern China, leaving at least five people dead and three missing while over 1,500 were evacuated, state media reported Sunday.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">China National Radio said the floods swept through a village in the Fuyang district of the city of Hangzhou, engulfing many houses on Saturday afternoon.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The rain later led to a partial mountain collapse and mudslide, affecting multiple areas in the district and more than 1,600 households lost power, CCTV said. Over 1,500 people were evacuated, Xinhua news agency reported.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Every year, seasonal flooding hits large parts of China, particularly in the semitropical south. However, some northern regions this year have reported the worst floods in 50 years.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The torrents have hit different parts of the country this month and caused casualties. Earlier this month, at least 15 people were killed by floods in the southwestern region of Chongqing.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to CCTV on Sunday, torrential rain also turned many streets in Liaoning, a northeastern province, into rivers, forcing 5,590 people to be evacuated. About 30 houses and 54 hectares of crops were damaged, it added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In the central province of Hubei, rainstorms trapped some residents in their vehicles and homes. By Saturday night, authorities had rescued or evacuated some 220 people in Xianning city, state media People\'s Daily reported.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">China’s deadliest and most destructive floods in recent history were in 1998, when 4,150 people died, most of them along the Yangtze River.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In 2021, more than 300 people died in the central province of Henan. Record rainfall inundated the provincial capital of Zhengzhou on July 20 that year, turning streets into rushing rivers and flooding at least part of a subway line. AP/UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-24 14:30:25', '2023-07-24 14:30:25'),
(8175, 8175, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Ten people have died and one remained trapped after the roof of a school gym collapsed in northeastern China, state media reported Monday.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The gym at the No. 34 Middle School in Qiqihar, Heilongjiang Province collapsed just before 3 pm (0700 GMT) on Sunday, state news agency Xinhua said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">As of 5:30 am Monday, 14 people had been pulled from the wreckage, state broadcaster CCTV said, \"among whom four were pulled out without vital signs, and six died after treatment failed\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Footage aired by CCTV showed the entire roof collapsed onto the gym and rescue workers picking through the debris.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"A search and rescue operation involving nearly 160 firefighters and 39 fire trucks has been launched,\" CCTV said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">An initial investigation into the collapse found that construction workers had placed perlite -- a form of volcanic glass -- on the roof, Xinhua said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Heavy rain then led the perlite to expand, causing the roof to collapse, it added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Those in charge of the construction company have been taken into police custody,\" the state news agency reported.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Industrial accidents are common in China due to lax safety standards and poor enforcement.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">One of the worst such accidents took place in 2015 in Tianjin, where a gigantic explosion at a chemical warehouse killed at least 165 people. AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-24 14:58:22', '2023-07-24 14:58:22'),
(8176, 8176, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Russia said it thwarted a Ukrainian \"terrorist act\" on Moscow in the early hours of Monday, with the mayor of the Russian capital saying two drones had hit non-residential buildings in the city.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The attack came a day after Kyiv vowed to \"retaliate\" for a Russian missile attack on the Black Sea port of Odesa.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"A Kyiv regime attempt to carry out a terrorist act using two drones on objects on the territory of the city of Moscow was stopped,\" Russia\'s defence ministry said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Two Ukrainian drones were suppressed and crashed. There are no casualties.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The TASS news agency reported one drone crashed in Komsomolsky Prospekt, near Russia\'s defence ministry, while another hit a business centre on Likhacheva Street by one of Moscow\'s main ring roads.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said the drone strikes hit \"non-residential\" buildings around 4:00 am local time (0100 GMT).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said emergency services were working at the scene and also reported no casualties.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The RIA Novosti news agency posted a video of the business centre, with some damage visible to the top of the tall building.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The road around it was closed.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Moscow has been hit by several drone attacks this year, with one even hitting the Kremlin in May.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier this month, Russia said it had downed five Ukrainian drones that disrupted the functioning of Moscow\'s Vnukovo international airport. AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-24 15:01:30', '2023-07-24 15:01:30');
INSERT INTO `news_details` (`id`, `news_id`, `details`, `ticker`, `representative`, `keyword`, `video_link`, `google_drive_link`, `audio_link`, `shoulder`, `created_at`, `updated_at`) VALUES
(8177, 8177, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Nine people, including four soldiers, were killed Sunday evening when a civilian plane crashed in Sudan due to \"technical\" reasons, the army said, as the war in the east African country entered its 100th day.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The fighting has left millions trapped in their homes and some without water, particularly in the suburbs of the capital Khartoum where residents were calling for food donations to help them survive.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In a war-devastated district of the city, Abbas Mohammed Babiker says he and his family have only been able to eat once a day. Now even that is in doubt, but on Sunday a citizens\' support group issued an urgent appeal for donations to help people like him.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We only have enough for two more days,\" Babiker said from Khartoum North, where residents said at least one person, a local musician, has already died from hunger.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In Port Sudan, on the east coast largely spared by the war, the army said a child had survived the crash of an Antonov plane which killed nine others. Port Sudan airport is the only one still working in the country due to the conflict.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Since April 15, battles between the army led by Abdel Fattah al-Burhan and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF), headed by Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, have killed more than 3,900 people, according to the latest toll from the Armed Conflict Location &amp; Event Data Project (ACLED).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">More than 2.6 million people have been internally displaced, mostly from Khartoum, the International Organization for Migration said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Thousands who remain in the capital, particularly in Khartoum North, are trapped without water since the local water station was damaged at the start of the war.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Residents say there is only intermittent electricity and food has nearly run out.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Across the country, about one-third of the population already faced hunger even before the war began, said the United Nations\' World Food Programme. Despite the security challenges, the agency says it has reached more than 1.4 million people with emergency food aid as needs intensify.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"With the fighting, there is no market any more and anyway we have no money,\" said another resident of Khartoum North, Essam Abbas.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">To help them, the local \"resistance committee\", a pro-democracy neighbourhood group, issued an emergency appeal.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We have to support each other, give food and money and distribute to those around us,\" the committee wrote on Facebook.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In adjacent Omdurman, Khartoum\'s other battle-scarred sister city, locally known violinist Khaled Senhouri \"died from hunger\" last week, his friends wrote on Facebook.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In his own online posts, Senhouri had said he was unable to leave home because of the fighting and had tried to hang on with the supplies that he had. It wasn\'t enough. AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-24 15:04:38', '2023-07-24 15:04:38'),
(8178, 8178, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">President Joe Biden urged Israel in a statement Sunday not to rush increasingly \"divisive\" judicial reforms, given the other challenges facing the US ally.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In a statement first published by news site Axios and later shared with AFP by the White House, Biden said, \"It doesn\'t make sense for Israeli leaders to rush this - the focus should be on pulling people together and finding consensus.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"From the perspective of Israel\'s friends in the United States, it looks like the current judicial reform proposal is becoming more divisive, not less,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu seeks to bring his controversial proposal to curb the power of judges to a vote in the Knesset as soon as Monday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The proposal triggered dueling protests over the weekend between supporters of the proposal and those who fear it will undermine Israel\'s democracy.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The driving force behind the reforms, Justice Minister Yariv Levin, said the bill L put to lawmakers on Monday had undergone changes to accommodate critics, but added that the coalition was still open to \"understandings.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Netanyahu faced other challenges over the weekend, not the least of which was a trip to the hospital to have a pacemaker fitted after he was hospitalized for a reported spell of dizziness.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">His government, which includes far-right and ultra-Orthodox Jewish allies, argues that the proposed reforms will prevent overreach by unelected judges and ensure a better balance of power.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Opponents accuse the 73-year-old Netanyahu, who has been fighting corruption charges in court, of a conflict of interest and some protesters have labelled him the \"crime minister.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Some 20 legislators have lined up to speak against the bill, which would limit Supreme Court judges\' ability to strike down government decisions they deem \"unreasonable.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">If approved, the \"reasonability\" clause would be the first major component of the overhaul to become law. Other proposed changes include allowing the government a greater say in the appointment of judges. AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-24 15:07:24', '2023-07-24 15:07:24'),
(8179, 8179, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Twitter owner Elon Musk and the chief executive he brought aboard just a month ago say the social media network will ditch the bird logo, rebrand the platform with the name X and move quickly into payments, banking and commerce.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Powered by AI, X will connect us in ways we\'re just beginning to imagine,\" Twitter chief executive Linda Yaccarino tweeted Sunday afternoon.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Late Saturday night, Musk indicated he plans to jettison Twitter\'s blue cartoon bird logo.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Soon we shall bid adieu to the twitter brand and, gradually, all the birds,\" he tweeted around midnight, implying an end to the imagery from where the very word \"tweet\" stems.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Like this but X,\" the billionaire SpaceX boss said, above a picture of the Twitter bird over a black and white marbled background.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Yaccarino, an advertising sales executive at NBCUniversal whom Musk poached last month to become Twitter\'s CEO, said the social media platform is on the cusp of broadening its scope.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"X is the future state of unlimited interactivity - centered in audio, video, messaging, payments/banking - creating a global marketplace for ideas, goods, services, and opportunities,\" Yaccarino tweeted.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"There\'s absolutely no limit to this transformation. X will be the platform that can deliver, well... everything,\" she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Since Musk bought Twitter for $44 billion last October, the platform\'s advertising business has partially collapsed as marketers soured on the mass firings at the platform that gutted content moderation as well as on Musk\'s management style.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In response, the tycoon has moved toward introducing payments and commerce through the platform in a search for new revenue.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Twitter, founded in 2006 and whose name is a play on the sound of birds chattering, has used avian branding since its early days, when the company bought a stock symbol of a light blue bird for $15, according to the design website Creative Bloq.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The 52-year-old Tesla founder has previously said that his rocky takeover of Twitter last year was \"an accelerant to creating X, the everything app,\" a reference to the X.com company he founded in 1999, a later version of which went on to become PayPal, a payments giant.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Such an app could still function as a social media platform, and also include messaging and mobile payments.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Musk has already named Twitter\'s parent company the X Corporation.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"If a good enough X logo is posted tonight, we\'ll make (it) go live worldwide tomorrow,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Musk went on to make several other X-related comments, saying a new emblem should be \"of course, Art Deco\" style and that under the site\'s new identity a post would be called \"an X.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Twitter is thought to have around 200 million daily active users but it has suffered repeated technical failures since Musk bought the app and sacked much of its staff.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Since then, many users and advertisers alike have responded adversely to the social media site\'s new charges for previously free services, changes to content moderation and the return of previously banned right-wing accounts.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Musk said earlier this month that Twitter has lost roughly half of its advertising revenue since he took control in October.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Facebook parent Meta earlier this month launched its own text-based platform, called Threads, which has up to 150 million users according to some estimates.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">But the amount of time users spend on the rival app has plummeted in the weeks since its launch, according to data from market analysis firm Sensor Tower. AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"18\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-24 15:11:37', '2023-07-24 15:11:37'),
(8180, 8180, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Dhaka ranked third on the global list of cities with the worst air quality this morning.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The air in Dhaka city was classified as ‘unhealthy for sensitive groups’, with an AQI score of 143 at 9:10 am.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">South Africa\'s Johannesburg and Indonesia\'s Jakarta occupied the first and second spots on the list, with AQI scores of 160 and 155, respectively.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">An AQI between 151 and 200 is considered \'unhealthy\', while 201–300 is \'very unhealthy\', and 301+ is \'hazardous\', posing severe health risks to residents.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The AQI, an index for reporting daily air quality, informs people how clean or polluted the air of a certain city is and what associated health effects might be a concern for them.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The AQI in Bangladesh is based on five pollutants: particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5), NO2, CO, SO2, and ozone.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Dhaka has long been grappling with air pollution issues.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">As per the World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution kills an estimated seven million people worldwide every year, mainly due to increased mortality from stroke, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, and acute respiratory infections. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-24 15:14:26', '2023-07-24 15:14:26'),
(8181, 8181, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), whose reports establish scientific consensus on climate change, meets this week in Nairobi to elect a new chair.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">South Korean economist Hoesung Lee is stepping down after nearly eight years at the helm and the UN body set up in 1988 could now elect its first female leader.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Two women are among four candidates for the post -- Brazil\'s Thelma Krug, an IPCC vice-chair and former researcher at her country\'s national space institute, and South Africa\'s Debra Roberts, a biogeographer specialising in urbanisation issues and currently co-chair of an IPCC working group investigating the effects of climate change on societies and ecosystems.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Paleoclimatologist Valerie Masson-Delmotte, who heads one of three IPCC working groups, said it was \"important\" to have female candidates on the slate -- unlike in 2015 when all six hopefuls were men.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"It\'s not because they are women but because they are people of high scientific prowess who understand well the contrasting political and social stakes in the world\'s different countries,\" she told AFP, adding all four hopefuls had the vision to spearhead renewal at a time of \"many challenges\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Almost one in three contributors to the IPCC are women.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The two other candidates standing to head the body are Belgian Jean-Pascal van Ypersele, a climatologist who previously ran for the post in 2015 and Briton Jim Skea, a professor of renewable energy at Imperial College in London.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Skea is also co-chair of an IPCC working group looking at how to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Whoever lands the top job will lead and oversee hundreds of experts through to the end of a crucial decade, considered to be the last for humanity to act to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, compared to preindustrial levels.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">- Shock reports -</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Masson-Delmotte stressed the importance of the role of chair in the functioning of the institution which encompasses 195 countries.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"They oversee the plenary meetings where all the decisions are taken. They also play a supervisory role in drawing up summary reports\" while acting as an interface with the diplomatic world.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The organisation\'s mission statement is to prepare reports on \"the state of scientific, technical and socio-economic knowledge on climate change, its impacts and future risks, and options for reducing the rate at which climate change is taking place\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The IPCC in 2007 received the Nobel peace prize accolade jointly with former US vice-president Al Gore.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Every five to seven years it publishes a group of peer reviewed reports which synthesise the latest climate change science.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The most recent synthesis report was published last March, and showed in no uncertain terms that previous synthesis reports had somewhat underestimated the effects of global warming.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Those authoritative reports become central to global climate negotiations, telling world leaders at COP international summits how much human activities have warmed the Earth, and how to mitigate global warming.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">COP28 will be held from November 30 to December 12 in Dubai.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Lee, an economist specialising in energy issues, succeeded India\'s Rajendra Pachauri, who resigned in February 2015 amid accusations of sexual harassment by a colleague in India and who died in 2020.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Nairobi meeting will be the IPCC\'s 59th plenary assembly which will also see the election of 34 members to the body\'s bureau. AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-24 15:43:18', '2023-07-24 15:43:18'),
(8182, 8182, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">At least 15 people were killed and 19 more were missing on Monday after a ferry sank off the coast of Indonesia\'s Sulawesi island, search and rescue officials said.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The boat sank with 40 people onboard just after midnight local time (1700 GMT on Sunday), the local office of Indonesia\'s search and rescue agency said in a statement.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Six people were rescued and taken to hospital for treatment, and the cause of the sinking was being investigated, it said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Provisionally, there are 19 people who are still being searched for,\" Muhamad Arafah, head of the local search and rescue agency in Kendari city in Southeast Sulawesi, said in the statement.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">One search team will dive around the accident site, while another will search the water\'s surface using boats, he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The ferry was crossing from Lanto village on Buton island to Lagili village on Muna island in Southeast Sulawesi, the agency said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It shared images of rescuers mobilising for the search effort, and several dead bodies covered by sarongs laid on tarpaulin at a local hospital.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It is common in Indonesia for the number of actual passengers on a boat to differ from the manifest.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Marine accidents occur frequently in the Southeast Asian archipelago nation of around 17,000 islands, where people rely on ferries and small boats to travel around despite poor safety standards.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In 2018, more than 150 people drowned when a ferry sank in one of the world\'s deepest lakes on Sumatra island.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In May last year, a ferry carrying more than 800 people ran aground in shallow waters off East Nusa Tenggara province and remained stuck for two days before being dislodged.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">No one was hurt in that accident. AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-24 17:46:55', '2023-07-24 17:46:55'),
(8183, 8183, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Bangladesh Ambulance Owners Welfare Association has called for an indefinite nationwide strike to press home their six-point demand, including the withdrawal of taxes imposed by Bangladesh Road Transport Authority(BRTA).</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The strike of private ambulance owners will begin on Tuesday if the demands are not met by today, said Gulam Mostafa, President of the Bangladesh Ambulance Owners Welfare Association on Monday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Not enough fuel allocation means no ambulance service at Faridpur General Hospital for 45 days</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Other demands include formation of a national policy on ambulances and the implementation of prime minister’s announced toll-free facility for ambulances.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The ambulance owners also demanded parking facilities at all hospitals in the country, the facility to fill up fuel at filling stations without having to wait in lines while transporting a patient, and uninterrupted travel on roads. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-24 17:51:10', '2023-07-24 17:51:10'),
(8184, 8184, '<p style=\"text-align: justify;\"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is joining the three-day UN Food Systems Summit+2 Stocktaking Moment (UNFSS+2) at the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) headquarters commencing this afternoon.</b><br></p><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The prime minister, who arrived here on Sunday afternoon, will also address the official opening of the conference as the special guest speaker.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Around 2000 participants from over 160 countries, including over 20 heads of state and government, are attending the summit to be held on 24-26 July in Rome.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The event, convened by the United Nations Secretariat, and hosted by Italy, in collaboration with the Rome-based UN Agencies (FAO, IFAD, WFP), will be officially inaugurated&nbsp; at 02:30 local time as UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, and Prime Minister of Italy, Giorgia Meloni will lead the high-level opening.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The opening segment will also have the participation of FAO Director-General QU Dongyu, and several heads of government, including the Prime Ministers of Ethiopia, Bangladesh, Samoa and Nepal.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The high-level meeting aims to create a conducive space for countries to review progress of the commitments made at the first Food Systems Summit in 2021, and identify successes, end bottlenecks and establish priorities.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will have a busy day today here. After the opening ceremony, she will participate in the plenary session titled “Food Systems and Climate Action”.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On the evening of the same day, she will also join the inaugural ceremony of Bangladesh-Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Room in FAO headquarters.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She will, as well, have bilateral meeting with her Nepalese counterpart Pushpa Kamal Dahal on the sidelines of the conference.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In addition, Italian Agriculture Minister Francesco Lollobrigida, FAO Director General Qu Dongyu, Executive Director of World Food Program Cindy Hensley McCain, President of International Fund of Agricultural Development (IFAD) Alvaro Lario, will also pay courtesy call on the Bangladesh premier.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to FAO statement, the UNFSS+2 stocktaking meeting will be an important occasion to further strengthen political commitment and pathways for implementation at global, national and sub-national levels.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“The historic task we are facing is clear: defining a holistic, coordinated and science based approach to make agrifood systems more efficient, more inclusive, more resilient and more sustainable, for better production, better nutrition, a better environment and a better life, leaving no one behind,” the FAO Director-General said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The event will also be an opportunity for countries to outline the work required to address some of the challenges they face to transform their agrifood systems. These include the impacts of conflicts and climate change as well as access to finance and other resources.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Summit comes at a time when up to 783 million people are facing hunger in the world, 122 million more since 2019 due to the pandemic and repeated climate shocks and conflicts, according to the latest state of food security and nutrition in the world report.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The capacity of people to access healthy diets has also deteriorated across the globe: more than 3.1 billion people in the world – or 42 percent – were unable to afford a healthy diet in 2021.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“If we project that to the future, we will have 600 million people chronically undernourished by 2030, far from the goal of Zero Hunger,” FAO Chief Economist, Máximo Torero, warned during a recent media briefing on the UNFSS+2. BSS</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-24 17:57:43', '2023-07-24 17:57:43'),
(8185, 8185, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu left hospital Monday after an operation to fit him with a pacemaker, the Sheba Medical Center said.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Netanyahu left \"five minutes ago,\" a spokesman for the hospital told AFP. The Israeli premier had been admitted at the hospital overnight Sunday. AFP</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"1\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-24 18:05:30', '2023-07-24 18:05:30'),
(8186, 8186, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The Supreme Court to take up at 11.15am Gyanvapi mosque management committee\'s plea against a survey of the mosque by the ASI.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>The Supreme Court on Monday stayed the Varanasi district court order until 5 pm on July 26 allowing scientific excavation of the Gyanvapi mosque complex survey by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to ascertain whether the masjid was built over a pre-existing Hindu temple.</div><div><br></div><div>The court requested the Allahabad high court to ensure the matter is taken up on July 26. A bench headed by Chief Justice DY Chandrachud ordered that no invasive work would be undertaken by the ASI to determine if the Gyanvapi mosque located next to the Kashi Vishwanath temple in Varanasi was built upon a temple and agreed to hear a plea moved by the mosque committee during the day.</div><div><br></div><div>The bench took note of the submissions made by senior advocate Huzefa Ahmadi, who appeared in the court on behalf of the mosque committee, that the matter be heard urgently.</div><div><br></div><div>The top court asked Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, who was representing the Uttar Pradesh government, to inform the ASI team that there should not be any \"invasive work\" or excavation at the site. According to Hindustan Times&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-24 18:24:08', '2023-07-24 18:24:08'),
(8187, 8187, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Uorfi Javed, who has been having a tough time after opting for undereye fillers recently, shared a long note talking about her journey with fillers in the last few years. Taking to Instagram on Monday, Uorfi posted a series of her photos giving a glimpse of her face after she opted for fillers.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">In the first photo, one of Uorfi\'s eyes was red. In the next picture, Uorfi smiled looking at the camera. She was also seen with lip fillers in a few photos. All the pictures were clicked by Uorfi herself.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>Uorfi talks about her journey with fillers</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Sharing the pictures, Uorfi captioned the post, \"Sharing with you all my lip filler journey. I’ve been getting lip fillers from the age of 18, I didn’t have that much money back then but I always felt my lips were too thin and I wanted bigger fuller lips. I went to dermat deni we’re ready to do it for less and these were the results at times! I had to get them dissolved and mind it it’s the most painful thing ever!!\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">She also added, \"I’m not telling people to not get them, but in fact what I’m trying to say is just be careful while getting fillers or Botox. I still very much have lip fillers just that I know what suits my face and I know now less is more. Encouraging everyone to thoroughly research before going to any doctor. I actually revvokend (recommend) fillers to everyone, if you have some insecurities about your face or body instead of hating yourself or your face it’s just better to opt for fillers or surgeries but but but from a very good doctor only.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Reacting to the post, fans thanked her for her honesty. A person wrote, \"To come out that clean and real being in this profession needs guts !!! @urfi\" A comment read, \"Thank you for being honest and real. And for people saying accept yourself for who you are. It\'s her body and if she likes it so be it. She doesn\'t recommend fillers or surgery to anyone. She\'s saying if they want to go for it, choose a good doctor. Natural is the best yes but if it doesn\'t make you happy then why not.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Sharing the post on her Instagram Stories, she wrote, “Bahot time se I was thinking to share this, padh lena guys (I was thinking of sharing this for a long time, do read guys).” She also wrote, “Botched lips (melting face emoji).”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b>Uorfi on undereye fillers</b></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Recently, she warned people to be careful while opting for fillers. On Instagram, she wrote, \"Will say this again, be very very careful before getting undereye fillers-my under eyes have bumps. The doctor ruined my under eyes even lips-I got my fillers dissolved so it\'s better! Now I have to get my undereye filler dissolved-the most painful thing ever-dissolving the filler.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">Uorfi, last week, had posted her picture on Instagram. She wrote, \"I was trolled so much because of my dark circles, I got under eye fillers and now my face looks f***ed up!! The under eyes are uneven and weird! Now even make-up can\'t hide my weird under eyes!! Why did I do this to myself.\" HT</div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"13\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-24 18:49:36', '2023-07-24 18:49:36'),
(8188, 8188, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>One of the most beautiful things in this world given to mankind by Allah is marriage. Having someone to confide in, grow with, learn from, cry to, and so much more is an experience that can help one get closer to Allah.</b></span></div><div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><br></span></div><div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"> That being said, not all marriages end well due to many reasons. The spouses may not be compatible in lifestyle, drive, or culture. There could be uncontrolled emotions that lead to violence or abuse. Maybe the extended families do not get along whatsoever. Whatever the reason, it happens, and it is important to make dua and ask Allah to help during trying times. For this reason, Allah allows for divorce, but under his laws. There are many verses regarding the manners and actions one must take during a divorce to ensure that peace is maintained. This article will focus on being mindful of Allah during the stressful times of divorce through 5 verses from the Quran.</span><br></div><div><br></div><div>1. Compensation before consummation</div><div>There is no blame if you divorce women before the marriage is consummated or the dowry is settled. But give them a ˹suitable˺ compensation—the rich according to his means and the poor according to his. A reasonable compensation is an obligation on the good-doers.</div><div><br></div><div>And if you divorce them before consummating the marriage but after deciding on a dowry, pay half of the dowry, unless the wife graciously waives it or the husband graciously pays in full. Graciousness is closer to righteousness. And do not forget kindness among yourselves. Surely Allah is All-Seeing of what you do. [2:236-237]</div><div><br></div><div>This situation refers to when two people get married but did not follow through with consummation or other parts of the marriage. In many cultures, this is seen as an unfortunate case, but it doesn’t have to be an end-all situation. One should do their best to appease both parties and make sure that there are no ill feelings. If it means paying the dowry, giving gifts to the family, connecting them to another spouse, or helping them with the after-effects. Whatever it takes to make sure everyone is happy! When Allah says “Graciousness is closer to righteousness” this is what he means. This can apply to all situations and Allah will know the intention even if the result doesn’t end up with everyone satisfied. One of the famous hadiths narrated by Umar bin al-Khattab (may Allah be pleased with him):</div><div><br></div><div>Actions are according to intentions, and everyone will get what was intended. [Bukhari &amp; Muslim]</div><div><br></div><div>So intending and putting in the effort gives the reward, regardless of the result!</div><div><br></div><div>2. Plan for the Iddah</div><div>O Prophet! ˹Instruct the believers:˺ When you ˹intend to˺ divorce women, then divorce them with concern for their waiting period, and count it accurately. And fear Allah, your Lord. Do not force them out of their homes, nor should they leave—unless they commit blatant misconduct. These are the limits set by Allah. And whoever transgresses Allah’s limits has truly wronged his own soul. You never know, perhaps Allah will bring about a change [of heart] later. [65:1]</div><div><br></div><div>In this verse, Allah tells men to think about the Iddah (waiting period) for women before a divorce. The iddah for divorce focuses on the number of menstruations. If the woman isn’t menstruating(such as a young girl or older woman), then the waiting period is 3 months. If they menstruate, then their iddah is 3 menstruations. If the woman is pregnant, then she must wait until she gives birth. During this period women have to stay at home unless it’s for an important reason and they are not allowed to beautify themselves. There are certain exceptions regarding the housing and items one can use. Please look at the source section for a more detailed explanation. The reason for the iddah is to make sure that there is no confusion regarding the father of the child.</div><div><br></div><div>As one can see sisters go through a hard time during this period, so Allah is asking the men to make sure that they think about this before divorcing their spouse. Ensure that they will have an easy time and short as well (try not to divorce right after intercourse). Allah says not to kick them out and be mindful of him. This patience by the grace of Allah may bring forth love once again.</div><div><br></div><div>3. Maintain your divorced wife</div><div>Let them live where you live ˹during their waiting period˺, according to your means. And do not harass them to make their stay unbearable. If they are pregnant, then maintain them until they deliver. And if they nurse your child, compensate them, and consult together courteously. But if you fail to reach an agreement, then another woman will nurse ˹the child˺ for the father. [65:6]</div><div><br></div><div>This verse speaks of the duties during the iddah. Specifically how one should continue to maintain their previous spouse by housing them, feeding them, and acting with grace. As Allah has said that kindness, honor, and graciousness are part of a true believer. It is important during this period to work together so that both families are satisfied. Even providing compensation for nursing is a command from Allah. If they don’t want to stay in the house after giving birth, then respect their opinion or work it out with them. Everything should be done civilly as that is what makes Allah happy.</div><div><br></div><div>4. Separate honourably</div><div>Then when they have ˹almost˺ reached the end of their waiting period, either retain them honourably or separate from them honourably. And call two of your reliable men to witness ˹either way˺—and ˹let the witnesses˺ bear true testimony for ˹the sake of˺ Allah. This is enjoined on whoever has faith in Allah and the Last Day. And whoever is mindful of Allah, He will make a way out for them [65:2]</div><div><br></div><div>This verse is a follow-up to a previous one. When their iddah is almost over, be respectful no matter the final result (separation or getting back together). Allah also asks for witnesses in these situations, so that there is no argument afterward. What is key is that Allah says one who has faith in him and believes in the last day has to do. These are two pillars of faith and are central to Islam. This shows that following laws made by Allah are acts of worship as one is being mindful of him. This mindfulness of Allah will open up doors that one didn’t initially see.</div><div><br></div><div>5. Retain the marriage to only cause harm</div><div>When you divorce women and they have ˹almost˺ reached the end of their waiting period, either retain them honourably or let them go honourably. But do not retain them ˹only˺ to harm them ˹or˺ to take advantage ˹of them˺. Whoever does that surely wrongs his own soul. Do not take Allah’s revelations lightly. Remember Allah’s favours upon you as well as the Book and wisdom He has sent down for your guidance. Be mindful of Allah, and know that Allah has ˹perfect˺ knowledge of all things. [2:231]</div><div><br></div><div>In this verse, Allah speaks of the attitude that a man should have when he decides that he will preserve the marriage after a divorce. He should not have an ulterior motive like trying to ruin her life or trying to take advantage of her property and so forth. There should be no ill will or feelings of vengeance between the spouses if preserving the marriage has been decided on. Allah points out that one who does this is just harming himself as they are going against Allah’s commands. Thoughts and intentions are known by Allah, so there is no point in bottling up these schemes. It is understandable to be upset during these types of situations, but two wrongs do not make a right. If one knows that they still have ill feelings, then do not retain the marriage. Otherwise, if both spouses want to put in the effort to make amends, then by Allah’s will it could make the marriage stronger than it was before the divorce.</div><div><br></div><div>Conclusion</div><div>Divorces can happen and Muslims must know the proper way of going about it when it happens. Of course, the goal is to avoid divorce if it’s not necessary. When it happens, sometimes children won’t have both parents with them frequently. It also makes it easier for Shaytan to cause problems as it’s easier for him to attack when the community is divided. The smallest unit in a community is the family, so if everyone keeps strong family bonds, it will inshaAllah turn into a strong community, then to a strong city, then to a strong nation, and so forth. Be healing for one another and remember Allah! By Sancheet Hoque</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'Islamic Desk', '[\"21\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-24 20:01:39', '2023-07-24 20:01:39'),
(8189, 8189, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Ten people have died and one remained trapped after the roof of a school gym collapsed in northeastern China, state media reported Monday.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>The gym at the No. 34 Middle School in Qiqihar, Heilongjiang Province collapsed just before 3 pm (0700 GMT) on Sunday, state news agency Xinhua said.</div><div><br></div><div>As of 5:30 am Monday, 14 people had been pulled from the wreckage, state broadcaster CCTV said, \"among whom four were pulled out without vital signs, and six died after treatment failed\".</div><div><br></div><div>Footage aired by CCTV showed the entire roof collapsed onto the gym and rescue workers picking through the debris.</div><div><br></div><div>\"A search and rescue operation involving nearly 160 firefighters and 39 fire trucks has been launched,\" CCTV said.</div><div><br></div><div>An initial investigation into the collapse found that construction workers had placed perlite -- a form of volcanic glass -- on the roof, Xinhua said.</div><div><br></div><div>Heavy rain then led the perlite to expand, causing the roof to collapse, it added.</div><div><br></div><div>\"Those in charge of the construction company have been taken into police custody,\" the state news agency reported.</div><div><br></div><div>Industrial accidents are common in China due to lax safety standards and poor enforcement.</div><div><br></div><div>One of the worst such accidents took place in 2015 in Tianjin, where a gigantic explosion at a chemical warehouse killed at least 165 people. - AFP</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-24 20:58:51', '2023-07-24 20:58:51'),
(8190, 8190, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">A fire engine driver collapsed with heart attack while rushing to a fire scene as the fire truck he was driving subsequently dashed a passenger bus, which killed a pedestrian when its driver lost control of his vehicle as well.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>&nbsp;Officials and witnesses said the firemen were called out after the fire broke out at a garments factory on the outskirts of this river port city while 50-year-old Jahangir Hossain was driving one of the fire engines.</div><div><br></div><div>&nbsp;The blaze of the Fakir Garments in Fatullah area was eventually doused without any casualty or major damage but the tragedy occurred as Hossain nearly reached the fire scene.</div><div><br></div><div>&nbsp;\"The cardiac arrest killed him almost instantly while the fire truck hit the backside of the Ananda Paribahan bus, causing to knock four pedestrians, one of them died on the spot as well,\" Narayanganj Bus-Minibus Owners Association president Didar Ahmed told reporters.</div><div><br></div><div>He said a pedestrian was also killed in the accident.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>The pedestrian could not be identified immediately.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Several thousand people cordoned off the spot and movement of all sorts of vehicle was halted for several hours during noon.</div><div><br></div><div>\"Police is taking action to ease the movement of the vehicles after removing all those ruins vehicles\", said Anisur Rahman, Office in Charge (OC) of Sadar Police Station.</div><div><br></div><div>The fire eventually has come under control as a total of eight fire fighting units rushed to the spot to bring the fire under control. According to BSS reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-07-24 21:17:06', '2023-07-24 21:17:06');
