INSERT INTO `news_details` (`id`, `news_id`, `details`, `ticker`, `representative`, `keyword`, `video_link`, `google_drive_link`, `audio_link`, `shoulder`, `created_at`, `updated_at`) VALUES
(9679, 9679, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Kazi Habibul Awal has urged field-level officials to carry out their duties with impartiality during the upcoming parliamentary election.&nbsp;</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>He was speaking today as the chief guest at a program on election management.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>He urged local officials to always keep in mind that they represent the government in their roles.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>“Organizing election is a challenging task. Since the responsibility lies also with you, this responsibility must be fulfilled with dedication. The election must gain acceptance among the people,” the CEC remarked.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>“It is essential to demonstrate to the people that the election has been conducted fairly. If we can ensure that people can freely exercise their voting rights, it will be a big success,” he further said.</div><div><br></div><div>Addressing the officials, Election Commissioner Ahsan Habib Khan said, “I prefer not to dwell on past criticisms. However, by learning from the past, let us collectively set an example of conducting fair elections for future generations,” reports UNB.</div><div><br></div><div>“In my opinion, you are the loyal assistants of the Election Commission at the field level, representing us. After we took oath, you have demonstrated 100 percent neutrality in the elections, cooperating sincerely with the returning officer. As a result, every election has been held without any incident of violence, in a festive atmosphere,” he added.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-14 09:09:58', '2023-10-14 09:09:58'),
(9680, 9680, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>India skipper Rohit Sharma on Saturday won the toss and elected to bowl first against Pakistan in a blockbuster World Cup match expected to be attended by 120,000 fans.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Opening batsman Shubman Gill returns to the team and takes the place of Ishan Kishan after recovering from dengue fever and missing the first two matches.</div><div><br></div><div>\"Cannot get bigger than this, fantastic atmosphere,\" Rohit said at the toss as the home crowd roared.</div><div><br></div><div>\"Sure lot of us are going to experience something really extraordinary.\"</div><div><br></div><div>Favourites India come into the match unbeaten with victories over five-time winners Australia and Afghanistan.</div><div><br></div><div>Pakistan, who also won their two matches against the Netherlands and Sri Lanka, come in unchanged from their previous win.</div><div><br></div><div>Against Sri Lanka, they chased down a World Cup record of 345 in Hyderabad.</div><div><br></div><div>Skipper Babar Azam said he would have also fielded first had he won the toss.</div><div><br></div><div>\"We also wanted to bowl first,\" he said. \"We have had good two wins, momentum and confidence is high. Jam-packed stadium, we will enjoy it.\"</div><div>The world\'s biggest cricket stadium was a sea of blue due to a largely Indian presence after Pakistan fans from across the boder were unable to secure visas.</div><div><br></div><div>Teams</div><div>India: Rohit Sharma (capt), Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer, KL Rahul (wk), Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj</div><div><br></div><div>Pakistan: Imam-ul-Haq, Abdullah Shafique, Babar Azam (capt), Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Saud Shakeel, Iftikhar Ahmed, Shadab Khan, Mohammad Nawaz, Hasan Ali, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Haris Rauf</div><div><br></div><div>Umpires: Marais Erasmus (RSA), Richard Illingworth (ENG)</div><div><br></div><div>TV Umpire: Richard Kettleborough (ENG)</div><div><br></div><div>Match Referee: Andy Pycroft (ZIM)</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'Sports Desk', '[\"20\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-14 09:26:38', '2023-10-14 09:26:38'),
(9681, 9681, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>More than 1,300 buildings in the Gaza Strip have been destroyed, the United Nations said Saturday, after nearly a week of fierce bombardment by Israeli forces.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>The UN\'s humanitarian agency OCHA said \"5,540 housing units\" in those buildings were destroyed and nearly 3,750 more homes were so badly damaged they were uninhabitable.</div><div><br></div><div>Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has said the bombardment is \"just the beginning\" as Israel seeks to retaliate against Hamas after their fighters killed more than 1,300 people a week ago.</div><div><br></div><div>At least 1,900 Gazans -- most of them civilians and including more than 600 children -- have been killed in missile strikes on the densely populated enclave, the Palestinian health ministry said.</div><div><br></div><div>\"According to the Gaza Ministry of Public Works, 1,324 residential and non-residential buildings, comprising 5,540 housing units, have been destroyed,\" OCHA said.</div><div><br></div><div>\"Another 3,743 housing units have been damaged beyond repair and rendered uninhabitable.\"</div><div><br></div><div>A further 55,000 housing units have been partially damaged, said OCHA.</div><div><br></div><div>The UN has been monitoring the number of people displaced from their homes within the Gaza Strip, with more than 423,000 recorded by the end of Thursday.</div><div><br></div><div>Israel then warned that some 1.1 million people in the north of the enclave quickly needed to evacuate to the south, ahead of an expected ground offensive.</div><div><br></div><div>As of 1800 GMT Friday, \"it is estimated that tens of thousands have fled\", OCHA said.</div><div><br></div><div>\"Currently, the precise scope of internally displaced persons in the Gaza Strip is unknown,\" it said.</div><div><br></div><div>Citing the Palestinian health ministry, it said \"vehicles of those evacuating the north were hit, killing more than 40 people and injuring 150 others.</div><div><br></div><div>\"These incidents prompted many people to abandon their evacuation efforts and return home.</div><div><br></div><div>\"No safe corridors were initially provided for people to safely comply with the orders to move southwards. Hundreds of people, including families, had to flee on foot.\"</div><div><br></div><div>OCHA said most people in the Gaza Strip were now without access to clean drinking water.</div><div><br></div><div>\"As a last resort, people are consuming brackish water from agricultural wells, triggering serious concerns about the spread of waterborne diseases.\"</div><div><br></div><div>OCHA said that since the start of hostilities, six water wells, three water pumping stations, one water reservoir, and one desalination plant serving over 1,100,000 people had been damaged by air strikes, reports AFP&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>The full electricity blackout has brought essential health, water and sanitation services \"to the brink of collapse\", and exacerbated food insecurity, it said.</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-14 09:46:16', '2023-10-14 09:46:16'),
(9682, 9682, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Three-and-a-half months after she was hospitalised with a bacterial infection that forced the cancellation of her 40th anniversary \"Celebration\" tour, Madonna returns on Saturday with the start of a 78-date tour.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>At 65, the singer looks set to put her health woes behind her with a six-month-long tour of Europe and North America starting at London\'s 02 Arena.</div><div><br></div><div>The tour will also take in the Accor Arena in Paris on November 12, 13, 19 and 20 and the Bell Center in Montreal on January 18 and 20, before winding up at the Palacio de los Deportes in Mexico on April 24.</div><div><br></div><div>The show promises to be a \"documentary through her vast career\" drawing on archive footage and studio recordings from the four decades since her breakthrough single \"Holiday\" in 1983, according to her musical director Stuart Price.</div><div><br></div><div>\"A greatest hit doesn\'t have to be a song. It can be a wardrobe, it can be a video, or a statement,\" Price told the BBC in an interview.</div><div><br></div><div>Madonna spent several days in intensive care in New York after being found unconscious in her New York apartment in June.</div><div><br></div><div>But the singer was back and fighting fit after her health scare, Price said.</div><div><br></div><div>\"The person that is going to take the stage looks incredible, sounds incredible, performs incredible,\" he said.</div><div><br></div><div>The star\'s hospital stay meant that the North American leg of the tour -- originally due to begin on July 15 in Vancouver -- had to be rescheduled with the European leg opening as planned on Saturday.</div><div><br></div><div>\"My first thought when I woke up in the hospital was my children,\" Madonna said in July in a social media post. \"My second thought was that I did not want to disappoint anyone who bought tickets for my tour.</div><div><br></div><div>\"My focus now is my health and getting stronger and I assure you, I\'ll be back with you as soon as I can!\" she added.</div><div><br></div><div>- \'Material Girl\' -</div><div><br></div><div>The Grammy-winning icon behind classics including \"Like A Virgin\" and \"Material Girl\" has asserted incalculable influence as one of music\'s top stars.</div><div><br></div><div>Her decades-long career, which has also taken in acting, film directing and business ventures, has made her one of the wealthiest artists on the planet.</div><div><br></div><div>In 2020 she underwent hip replacement surgery following an injury sustained on her \"Madame X\" tour.</div><div><br></div><div>Madonna, whose full name is Madonna Louise Ciccone, was born in August 1958 in Michigan, to parents of Italian and French-Canadian origins.</div><div><br></div><div>After starting out as a dancer in the late 1970s in New York with $35 in her pocket, she went on to win seven Grammy Awards and sell more than 300 million records worldwide.</div><div><br></div><div>The show\'s setlist has been kept a closely guarded secret with scores of hits to choose from.</div><div><br></div><div>The show is expected to feature around 45 songs, 25 in their entirety and extracts of around 20 more.</div><div><br></div><div>\"That was the big challenge,\" said Price. \"In two hours, can you get all of it in? That\'s hard. But every great moment she\'s had, we took a bit of it.\"</div><div><br></div><div>The singer known for her sometimes provocative outfits such as the pink conical bra outfit by Jean Paul Gaultier, will be dressed by the Georgian Guram Gvasalia, director of the young label Vetements.</div><div><br></div><div>For the first time since her early days, Madonna will not be performing alongside an on-stage band, added Price.</div><div><br></div><div>\"There are live musicians that perform at different parts of the show,\" Price said.</div><div><br></div><div>\"But what we realised is that the original recordings are our stars. Those things can\'t be replicated and can\'t be recreated, so we decided just to embrace that.\" According to AFP reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'Entertainment', '[\"13\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-14 10:07:40', '2023-10-14 10:07:40'),
(9683, 9683, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>BNP on Saturday started a three-hour token hunger strike in the city demanding its Chairperson Khaleda Zia\'s unconditional release from jail and her advanced treatment abroad.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>The programme formally began around 11:21am in front of the party’s Nayapaltan central office through the recitation from the verses of the holy Quran.</div><div><br></div><div>As part of its countrywide programme, BNP’s Dhaka south and north city units arranged the programme in the capital where party senior leaders, including secretary general Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, will deliver speeches.</div><div><br></div><div>BNP leaders and activists holding banners, festoons and placards joined the programme and chanted slogans to have their chairperson permanently freed from jail.</div><div><br></div><div>The token hunger strike is scheduled to end around 2pm.</div><div><br></div><div>Besides, a similar programme is being held in all district towns and metropolitan cities across the country.</div><div><br></div><div>On Monday last, BNP held rallies across the country, including in front of its central office in the capital, to press the same demand.</div><div><br></div><div>BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia, the 78-year-old former prime minister, has been undergoing treatment at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka under the supervision of a 15-member medical board, led by a specialist doctor, Professor Shahabuddin Talukder, since August 9.</div><div><br></div><div>The medical board at a press conference recently recommended that she be urgently sent to a multidisciplinary center abroad soon as there are now no treatment options available for her in Bangladesh.</div><div><br></div><div>Khaleda has been suffering from various ailments, including liver cirrhosis, arthritis, diabetes, kidney, lung, heart, and eye problems.</div><div><br></div><div>On September 5, Khaleda’s brother Shamim Iskandar submitted an application to the government to take her abroad for treatment, but it was turned down. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-14 11:07:01', '2023-10-14 11:07:01'),
(9684, 9684, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Hindus across the country are celebrating Mahalaya, the auspicious occasion that heralds the advent of Goddess Durga, on Saturday.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Considered as a ceremonial invocation of Goddess Durga, Mahalaya is observed a week prior to Durga Puja, the largest religious festival of the Hindu community.</div><div><br></div><div>Hindus believe the earth prepares itself and welcomes the coming of the Goddess and her children, through the celebrations.</div><div><br></div><div>Durga Puja will begin on October 20 on the day of Maha Shashthi.</div><div><br></div><div>On Mahalaya, the Mahanagar Sarbajanin Puja Committee arranged special programmes at Dhakeshwari Temple from 6am.</div><div><br></div><div>On this day, Hindus remember and pay homage to their deceased ancestors by performing a puja, and offering Brahmins clothes, food and sweets in their names.</div><div><br></div><div>This year there will be 32,407, Puja mandaps across the country, said Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal on Thursday requesting the country’s Hindu community to keep the number of Puja Mandops limited considering security issues.</div><div><br></div><div>Asaduzzaman said two lakh Ansar members will remain deployed at the Mandops and directives have been given to take special care instantly once calls from national emergency hotline services 999 would come.</div><div><br></div><div>The Puja committees have been asked to set up IP cameras along with CCTV cameras at the Mandops, he said, adding that directives were given for special surveillance so that rumours can’t be spread from Facebook and Youtube during the festival, reports UNB.</div><div><br></div><div>Moreover, there will be control rooms at police headquarters and all the districts to avoid unexpected incidents, he added.</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-14 11:57:02', '2023-10-14 11:57:02'),
(9685, 9685, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Saturday categorically said that the election will be held at any cost and people will exercise their voting rights freely defying moves of BNP to foil the election.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>“Election will be held in this country at any cost, and people will cast their votes freely,” she said.</div><div><br></div><div>The prime minister said this while addressing a grand rally organised by the Awami League Dhaka North City at Civil Aviation ground in the capital city’s Kawla area.</div><div><br></div><div>The rally was supposed to take place on October 7 on the occasion of soft opening of the Third Terminal of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport, but it was rescheduled due to inclement weather.</div><div><br></div><div>Hasina said that if looters, corrupt, killers, dacoits and thieves like BNP come to power they will just destroy the country.</div><div><br></div><div>“Let them not destroy the country, and only the symbol of the Boat can advance the country. My urge to you will be in the next election to cast your votes in favour of Boat,” she said.</div><div><br></div><div>She also mentioned that BNP is in a dilemma whether they will participate in the next election or not.</div><div><br></div><div>“It is not clear who is their leader to participate in the election, who will be their prime minister, that corrupt absconding criminal or the embezzler of orphans’ money?” she questioned.</div><div><br></div><div>Sheikh Hasina, also the president of ruling Awami League, alleged that for this reason BNP is trying to foil the next general election.</div><div><br></div><div>“They know it very well that if there is election votes will be cast for Boat, Awami League will come to power, and development of the country will be expedited more,” she said.</div><div><br></div><div>In this regard, she said that BNP wanted to foil the election and snatch away the voting rights of the people.</div><div><br></div><div>“I will request the people to remain vigil so that they (BNP) could not do that,” she said.</div><div><br></div><div>In this connection, she said that if the people cast their votes in favour of Boat, then she will be in power otherwise not.</div><div><br></div><div>“But I will continue my work for the welfare of the people,” she vowed.</div><div><br></div><div>She requested all to vote in favour of Boat to give Awami League a chance for serving the people of the country next time.</div><div><br></div><div>“If you want development then vote for voat, if you want destruction then go for BNP-Jamaat,” she said.</div><div><br></div><div>Regarding the BNP’s move to go to the foreign countries, she categorically mentioned that this move will not bring any result.</div><div><br></div><div>“Power of the people is the best power, I believe in the power of the people, I have faith and trust in the people,” she said.</div><div><br></div><div>AL general secretary and road transport and bridges minister Obaidul Quader, presidium members agriculture minister Dr Muhammad Abdur Razzaque, Shajahan Khan, and Jahangir Kabir Nanak, joint secretary and information and broadcasting minister Dr Hasan Mahmud, joint secretary AFM Bahauddin Nasim, organizing secretary Mirza Azam, home minister Asaduzzaman Khan, DNCC Mayor Atiqul Islam, local lawmaker (Dhaka-18) Habib Hasan, Awami Jubo League Chairman Sheikh Fazle Shams Parash, member of the parliament from Dhaka-17 constituency Mohammad Ali Arafat, and AL Dhaka South City President Abu Ahmed Mannafi also spoke.</div><div><br></div><div>With AL Dhaka North City President Sheikh Bazlur Rahman in the chair, its General Secretary SM Mannan Kochi moderated the rally.</div><div><br></div><div>Leaders and activists of AL along with its front and associates bodies wearing T-shirt and caps of different colours with colourful banners, festoons, and placards from the morning thronged to the rally ground to hear the prime minister.</div><div><br></div><div>The Prime Minister said that after a long struggle Awami League established democracy in the country.</div><div><br></div><div>“And if democratic trend continues and the party which believes in democracy remains in power, a country develops, we have proved that today,” she said.</div><div><br></div><div>She alleged that those who came into power after the assassination of the Father of the nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman wanted to erase the spirit of Liberation.</div><div><br></div><div>“They had started to play ducks and drakes with the fate of the people of this country,” she said.</div><div><br></div><div>She also said that their conspiracy was to make sure that Bangladesh never stood with dignity in the world arena.</div><div><br></div><div>The Prime Minister said that Bangladesh has witnessed massive development because the people voted for the AL in 2008, 2014 and 2018 elections.</div><div><br></div><div>In this regard, she referred to different mega projects such as the Padma bridge, metro rail, elevated expressway, Ruppoor nuclear power plant, third terminal of Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA), tunnel in Chattogram and many others.</div><div><br></div><div>“In addition to ease the hassle of people, a circular elevated expressway in Dhaka, underground train in Dhaka and other big development projects would be underway,” she said.</div><div><br></div><div>She also mentioned that the work of Bus Rapid Transit from the HSIA to Gazipur is near to completion, while Purbachal expressway has been constructed for the convenience of people.&nbsp; &nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>The head of government assured the inhabitants of Dhaka North City Corporation to construct overpasses on rail tracks so that people don’t need to face any obstacle for train movement.</div><div><br></div><div>The Prime Minister requested all to keep their house and adjacent areas clean to prevent the breeding of mosquitoes as well as other safety measures for their family members.</div><div><br></div><div>Referring to the Covid-19, Russia-Ukraine war and other global challenges, she reiterated her call to all of the country not to spare an inch of land rather bring all arable land under cultivation to produce their own food whatever they can.</div><div><br></div><div>The Premier also called upon the people to find out the hoarders and black-marketer, saying that the government will take stern action against them so that the people don’t face any sufferings, reports UNB.</div><div><br></div><div>Again expressing her goal to make Bangladesh a Smart country, she added “Bangladesh will be a Smart Bangladesh of 2041, where there will be smart population, smart government, smart economy and smart society.”</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-14 15:45:52', '2023-10-14 15:45:52'),
(9686, 9686, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Trashing Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader’s remark that the government had reached an agreement \'behind the scenes\' with foreign powers over the coming election, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Saturday said nothing actually happened behind the scenes, and the \'democratic world\' was sticking to their stance on -the resignation of the current regime\' for a credible election.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>Speaking at a token hunger strike, he also said BNP and other opposition parties will launch an \'unstoppable movement\' after the Durga Puja for the restoration of democracy and unconditional release of BNP chairperson Khaleda Zia.</div><div><br></div><div>“This is not an elected government. It can’t be called a government as it’s a ruler…they (govt) declared the largest political party BNP, which was in power thrice, as their enemy. It means they do not believe in democracy. If they believe in democracy, they can’t consider any political party an enemy,” the BNP leader said.</div><div><br></div><div>He said it has been proved again that the government does not believe in democracy and the rule of law as it arrested two Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal leaders of Narsingdi in a commando style violating the law from a students’ convention at the Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh on Thursday.</div><div><br></div><div>\"They’re now saying everything has been settled behind the scenes. Why do you say this again and again? The reason is that nothing actually happened. The entire democratic world is clearly asking them (govt) to step down and hold a free and fair election,\" Fakhrul said.</div><div><br></div><div>As part of its countrywide programme, BNP’s Dhaka south and north city units arranged a three-hour token hunger strike in the city demanding Khaleda Zia\'s unconditional release from jail and her advanced treatment abroad.</div><div>Several thousand BNP leaders and activists holding banners, festoons and placards joined the programme that began around 11am.</div><div><br></div><div>Fakhrul said the release of the Khaleda and the restoration of democracy are now synonymous and inseparable. “So, we’re waging a movement for the release of our leader Begum Khaleda Zia alongside the agitation for the restoration of democracy. We must build an irresistible mass movement combining these two demands in the coming days.”</div><div><br></div><div>The BNP leader urged the party leaders and workers to take a strong vow to continue their agitation until the fall of the current fascist regime and the permanent release of Khaleda.</div><div>He said they did not take any programme during the Durga Puja as BNP believes in a completely peaceful secular system.</div><div><br></div><div>“We don\'t want them (govt) to take advantage of the movement to create any problem. Police already obstructed a peaceful protest march by the Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council in Cumilla yesterday (Friday) and the Awami League terrorists attacked and injured them,” the BNP leader said.</div><div><br></div><div>He warned party leaders and workers to remain alert so that the ruling party could not create any trouble during the Durga Puja.</div><div><br></div><div>“We have now only one goal…we have no other alternative to defeating this regime to save our country, the economy and to protect all political leaders and workers, including our leader Begum Khaleda Zia,” Fakhrul said.</div><div><br></div><div>Later, Fakhrul broke the hunger strike by drinking juice offered by Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) president Oli Ahmed around 2pm. Former vice chancellor of Dhaka University Prof Anwarullah Chowdhury and Prof Mahbub Ullah fed juice to the standing committee members.</div><div><br></div><div>Khaleda Zia, the 78-year-old former prime minister, has been undergoing treatment at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka under the supervision of a 15-member medical board, led by a specialist doctor, Professor Shahabuddin Talukder, since August 9.</div><div><br></div><div>The medical board at a press conference recently recommended that she be urgently sent to a multidisciplinary centre abroad as there are now no treatment options available for her in Bangladesh.</div><div><br></div><div>Khaleda has been suffering from various ailments, including liver cirrhosis, arthritis, diabetes, kidney, lung, heart, and eye problems.</div><div><br></div><div>On September 5, Khaleda’s brother Shamim Iskandar submitted an application to the government to take her abroad for treatment, but it was turned down. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-14 16:31:11', '2023-10-14 16:31:11'),
(9687, 9687, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader on Sunday said the government will only consider dialogue with BNP if and when the party withdraws its conditions.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>\"BNP says they want the PM\'s resignation, the parliament\'s dissolution, a caretaker government and the cancellation of the Election Commission. We will think of dialogue [with BNP] only if they withdraw their conditions,” Quader said. “We don\'t care about any conditional dialogue,\" he said while talking to reports at the secretariat.</div><div><br></div><div>Earlier, the US pre-election observation team published a statement calling for “good faith dialogue” among the political parties to end the political stand-off ahead of the upcoming general election.</div><div><br></div><div>“The best way to end the stalemate is through good faith dialogue, in the run-up to the January 2024 elections and beyond,” said Karl F. Inderfurth (NDI Co-Chair).</div><div><br></div><div>In response to a question regarding the statement, Quader said, “They (US pre-election assessment team) have not discussed anything regarding dialogue [with other political parties] with us. We spoke to them and briefed the journalists. Journalists also asked questions. They didn\'t say anything about the dialogue. Now if they think [dialogue is necessary] it\'s up to them.”</div><div><br></div><div>On possible dialogue with the BNP, Quader, also the Road Transport and Bridges Minister, saidthe government is not the reason behind the conflict with the BNP.</div><div><br></div><div>He reiterated that the upcoming election will be held as per the constitution, reports UNB.</div><div><br></div><div>“We will hold the election in accordance with the Constitution. We will hold elections the way elections are held in other democratic countries of the world,” Quader said.</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-15 09:31:38', '2023-10-15 09:31:38'),
(9688, 9688, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>The High Court today (October 15, 2023) expressed dissatisfaction over the probe report submitted by the high-level investigation committee on the death of Union land office employee Sultana Jasmine in RAB custody in Naogaon.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>\"The report is unclear,\" the High Court said. “It did not include anything regarding the process of detaining Sultana Jasmine. The report also failed to say whether her relatives were informed after her (Jasmine) detention. Therefore, the court is not satisfied with the report.”</div><div><br></div><div>The HC bench of Justice Farah Mahbub and Justice Muhammad Mahbub-ul-Islam made the remarks on Sunday.</div><div><br></div><div>Later, the High Court bench directed the preparation of the rule for the upcoming hearing on this matter. The court scheduled the hearing for the rule for November 29.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Advocate Manoj Kumar Bhowmick appeared for the writ petitioner in the court. Deputy Attorney General Samarendra Nath Biswas, Assistant Attorney General Abul Kalam Khan Dawood and Assistant Attorney General Taufiq Sajwar Partha were present on behalf of the state.</div><div><br></div><div>Advocate Manoj Kumar Bhowmick said the High Court was dissatisfied over the probe report as some key information was missing from the report.</div><div><br></div><div>Earlier on May 22, the Cabinet Division formed a high-level investigation committee to investigate the death of land office employee Sultana Jasmine in RAB custody in Naogaon based on the High Court’s directive.</div><div><br></div><div>The High Court ordered the committee to complete the investigation and submit its report within 60 days.</div><div><br></div><div>On August 14, the committee submitted a 302-page report to the High Court.</div><div><br></div><div>Union land office employee Sultana was detained by RAB from Muktirmor area of Naogaon city on March 22. She was admitted to Naogaon hospital the same day after she fell ill and later died at Rajshahi Medical College Hospital on March 24.</div><div><br></div><div>According to the postmortem report submitted by the Forensic Department of Rajshahi Medical College Hospital, Sultana Jasmine died from brain haemorrhage.</div><div><br></div><div>Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) said Jasmine was arrested for interrogation as there was an accusation of fraudulence against her. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-15 09:47:58', '2023-10-15 09:47:58'),
(9689, 9689, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">England won the toss and decided to bowl first in the World Cup match against Afghanistan at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Sunday where star batsman Ben Stokes was again absent.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>Stokes has still not recovered from the hip injury which kept him out of the first two games, a defeat to New Zealand and victory over Bangladesh.</div><div><br></div><div>England are unchanged from the side which defeated Bangladesh by 137 runs last time out.</div><div><br></div><div>\"It looks a pretty good batting wicket,\" said England captain Jos Buttler.</div><div><br></div><div>\"We\'re playing a talented, tough team but we\'ll focus on ourselves. We improved a lot from the first game to the second game.\"</div><div><br></div><div>Afghanistan have suffered heavy defeats in both of their opening games, by six wickets to Bangladesh and by eight wickets to India.</div><div><br></div><div>They have made one change with Najibullah Zadran losing his place in the middle order to Ikram Alikhil.</div><div><br></div><div>The two countries have only met twice before with England winning convincingly on both occasions -- by nine wickets at the 2015 World Cup in Sydney and 150 runs in Manchester four years ago.</div><div><br></div><div>Teams</div><div>England: Jonny Bairstow, Dawid Malan, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jos Buttler (capt/wk), Liam Livingstone, Sam Curran, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood, Adil Rashid, Reece Topley</div><div><br></div><div>Afghanistan: Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Ibrahim Zadran, Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi (capt), Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Ikram Alikhil (wkt), Rashid Khan, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Naveen-ul-Haq, Fazalhaq Farooqi</div><div><br></div><div>Umpires: Rod Tucker (AUS) and Sharfuddoula (BAN)</div><div><br></div><div>TV Umpire: Paul Reiffel (AUS)</div><div><br></div><div>Match Referee: Jeff Crowe (NZL) - AFP</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'Sports Desk', '[\"20\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-15 10:21:45', '2023-10-15 10:21:45'),
(9690, 9690, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen on Sunday said they have nothing to make any comment like - yes or no - regarding the recommendations made by the US pre-election assessment delegation comprised of representatives from International Republican Institute (IRI) and National Democratic Institute (NDI).</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>\"They have given their opinion. It\'s their opinion. These are nothing different. We don\'t think it is very important,\" he told reporters while responding to a question.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Momen said many foreigners take fun of discussing elections issues and some media also inspire them.</div><div><br></div><div>He said they are always ready to discuss with all and in the MoFA they are having continous dialogue.</div><div><br></div><div>Responding to another question, Momen said they want voters, not depending on foreign observers.</div><div><br></div><div>He also said they do not go to the foreigners but foreigners come to Bangladesh to discuss bilateral and Rohingya issues.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>The bipartisan and international pre-election delegation comprised of representatives from IRI and NDI on Sunday said that it is the people of Bangladesh who will ultimately determine the credibility and legitimacy of their elections and their country’s democratic development.</div><div><br></div><div>The delegation offered their pre-election statement in the \"spirit of supporting and strengthening\" democratic institutions in Bangladesh.</div><div><br></div><div>The delegation offered the recommendations below as a roadmap for progress toward credible, inclusive, participatory, and nonviolent elections that can advance #Bangladesh’s democracy.</div><div><br></div><div>They are outlined as</div><div><br></div><div>·&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Moderate rhetoric and engage in open and substantive dialogue on key election issues.</div><div><br></div><div>·&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Protect freedom of expression and ensure an open civic space where dissent is respected.</div><div><br></div><div>·&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Commit to nonviolence and hold perpetrators of political violence accountable.</div><div><br></div><div>·&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Create conditions to allow all parties to engage in meaningful political competition, including bolstering independent election management.</div><div><br></div><div>·&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Promote a culture of inclusive and active electoral participation among citizens. According to UNB reports</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-15 16:11:12', '2023-10-15 16:11:12'),
(9691, 9691, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">In pursuit of 285, England stumbled, losing six wickets for 138 runs against Afghanistan in their third match of the ICC World Cup on Sunday.</span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Afghanistan took the batting initiative and set a challenging total of 284—marking their second-highest score in a World Cup match.</div><div><br></div><div>Rahmanullah Gurbaz led the charge, scoring 80 runs, while Ikram Alikhil also achieved a half-century.</div><div><br></div><div>In response, England lost Jonny Bairstow to Fazalhaq Farooqi in the second over.</div><div><br></div><div>Following this initial dismissal, England never seemed settled in the middle, consistently losing wickets.</div><div><br></div><div>With 138 runs on the board, the current world champions faced the daunting task of chasing down the target with only four wickets remaining.</div><div><br></div><div>Right-handed all-rounder Mohammad Nabi secured two wickets, conceding 14 runs in 5 overs.</div><div><br></div><div>Before this match, Afghanistan had encountered England twice in World Cups, yet on both occasions, they ended up on the losing side. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'Sports Desk', '[\"20\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-15 16:14:10', '2023-10-15 16:14:10'),
(9692, 9692, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The Israeli army is awaiting a \"political decision\" on the timing of a major ground offensive on the Gaza Strip, military spokesmen said Sunday as civilians stepped up desperate efforts to flee northern Gaza.</span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Israel has told 1.1 million people in northern Gaza to leave for the south of the territory and thousands were still using safe routes designated by Israel to seek safety on Sunday.</div><div><br></div><div>Israel has faced pressure from the United Nations and its allies to hold back on any invasion until civilians have been given every chance to leave. The military has not said when the safe passage windows will close.</div><div><br></div><div>Military spokesmen Lieutenant Richard Hecht and Daniel Hagari told separate briefings on Sunday that \"a political decision\" will set off any action against Hamas after its October 7 attacks that left at least 1,300 dead in Israel.</div><div><br></div><div>\"We will be holding discussions with our political leadership,\" Hecht told one briefing.</div><div><br></div><div>Israel has massed tens of thousands of troops around Gaza and officials say that all necessary military supplies have been carried out. Thousands of air raids have been staged in Gaza since the October 7 attacks, claiming more than 2,300 lives in the densely populated territory.</div><div><br></div><div>Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told troops near the Gaza border on Saturday that \"more is coming.\" But he did not say when any ground operation would start. Netanyahu has been holding regular security meetings with key ministers and military leaders.</div><div><br></div><div>Defence Minister Yoav Gallant discussed the evacuation of Gaza civilians and \"humanitarian issues\" in talks with US senators today, his department said.</div><div><br></div><div>Gallant stressed \"Israel\'s military power and our determination to destroy the enemy.\"</div><div><br></div><div>Military spokesmen have told reporters that any invasion would aim to eradicate Hamas\' militant network and leadership so that it cannot stage more attacks.</div><div><br></div><div>The Israeli military has particularly singled out Yahya Sinwar, the chief of Hamas in Gaza they blame for the October 7 attacks. \"That man is in our sights,\" Hecht said on Saturday. \"He is a dead man walking and we will get to that man.\" - AFP&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-15 16:15:50', '2023-10-15 16:15:50'),
(9693, 9693, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Skygazers across the Americas turned their faces upwards Saturday for a rare celestial event: an annular solar eclipse.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>A crowd of people wearing protective eyewear gathered in Albuquerque, New Mexico, one of many across the western United States watching as the Moon passed between the Sun and Earth at its furthest point from our planet.</div><div><br></div><div>Since it is so distant, it did not cover the Sun completely, creating a \"ring of fire\" effect that brought cheers from the crowd in Albuquerque.</div><div>\"It\'s majestic. We\'re in awe,\" said one viewer, Shannon Cozad.</div><div><br></div><div>In the course of just a few hours the most striking \"path of the annularity\" was crossing a handful of major cities, including Eugene, Oregon and San Antonio, Texas, with partial eclipse phases lasting an hour or two before and after.</div><div><br></div><div>\"It\'s kind of like a black hole,\" said Mubaraq Sokunbi, an excited eight-year-old who was at a hot air balloon festival in Albuquerque with his family. \"The moon covers the sun and then there\'s a ring around it.\"</div><div><br></div><div>At any given location, the eclipse was visible from between 30 seconds and five minutes -- but people were urged to take safety precautions and use solar viewing glasses, and never regular sunglasses, to preserve their vision.</div><div><br></div><div>The eclipse crossed into Mexico and Central America, then into South America through Colombia and northern Brazil before ending at sunset in the Atlantic Ocean.</div><div><br></div><div>\'A beautiful memory\'</div><div>At the Bogota Planetarium, a crowd gathered around noon, holding their breath for the clouds to clear.</div><div><br></div><div>When they did -- and in time to see the eclipse -- some observers shed tears, overwhelmed by emotion.</div><div><br></div><div>\"It was at first distressing not to be able to see it, then very moving\" when it appeared, Xiomara Cifuentes, a 41-year-old civil servant who came with her husband and their three children, told AFP. \"It will be a beautiful memory,\" she added.</div><div><br></div><div>It was \"a pretty beautiful moment... an indescribable thing, without words,\" said Jhoan Vinazco, a 25-year-old university student who had never seen an eclipse before.</div><div><br></div><div>In the town of Penonome, Panama, about 160 kilometres (100 miles) from Panama City, Carlos Ramirez watched the eclipse dressed as an astronaut -- something he dreamed of becoming as a child.</div><div><br></div><div>\"I found the event here in Panama spectacular,\" the 55-year-old tour guide told AFP.</div><div><br></div><div>Sounding rockets</div><div><br></div><div>The event also served as a dress rehearsal ahead of a total eclipse set for April 2024.</div><div><br></div><div>Both eclipses are going to be \"absolutely breathtaking for science,\" said Madhulika Guhathakurta, a heliophysics program scientist at NASA.</div><div><br></div><div>Solar eclipses have a noticeable effect on the upper atmosphere, such as the ionosphere, which is full of charged particles and responsible for reflecting and refracting radio waves.</div><div><br></div><div>\"Although the atmospheric effects of solar eclipses have been studied for over 50 years, many unanswered questions remain,\" said Guhathakurta.</div><div><br></div><div>To study these effects, NASA planned three rocket launches on Saturday from the White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico to gather data on the electric and magnetic fields, electron density and temperature.</div><div><br></div><div>A total eclipse took place in 2017 in the United States. After next April\'s total eclipse, there will not be another until 2044, while the next annular eclipse will be in 2046. -AFP </div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', '<p>Ring of Fire<br></p>', 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-15 16:18:52', '2023-10-15 16:21:39'),
(9694, 9694, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Commerce Minister Tipu Munshi on Sunday said imported eggs will be available in the market in the current week.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>He said considering the market situation the government allowed 15 traders to import around 15 crore eggs in order to price control through increasing the supply of eggs in the domestic market.</div><div><br></div><div>Munshi said this while speaking as the chief guest in the opening of selling 5 subsidised products among one crore family card holders nationwide in the month of October by Trading Corporation of Bangladesh (TCB) at Dhanmondi in the capital.</div><div><br></div><div>Out of 15 traders, seven have opened Letters of Credit (LCs) and the first shipment of imported eggs is expected to enter the country this week, he said.</div><div><br></div><div>Several conditions were given for importing eggs, he said adding one of which is the eggs must be free from avian influenza or bird flu virus and harmful bacteria and the exporting country&nbsp; must submit a certificate a certificate&nbsp; on it to the government, reports UNB.</div><div><br></div><div>Munshi also said that to ensure transparency and accountability in the distribution of TCB cards, the work of converting one crore cards into smart cards is in the final stage.</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-15 16:21:07', '2023-10-15 16:21:07'),
(9695, 9695, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">An earthquake was felt in India’s capital New Delhi, and its surrounding areas on Sunday afternoon, news agency ANI reports.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>New Delhi shook for a few moments at 4:08 pm (local time). This is the second earthquake in Delhi in two weeks.</div><div><br></div><div>The National Center for Seismology (NCS) of India reported that the magnitude of the quake was 3.1 on the Richter scale. The earthquake had its epicenter 9 km away from Haryana’s Faridabad and 10 km below the surface.</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-15 16:24:50', '2023-10-15 16:24:50');
INSERT INTO `news_details` (`id`, `news_id`, `details`, `ticker`, `representative`, `keyword`, `video_link`, `google_drive_link`, `audio_link`, `shoulder`, `created_at`, `updated_at`) VALUES
(9696, 9696, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Monday (October 16, 2023) asked the officials concerned to make sure that developments projects don’t impede the free flow of&nbsp; water bodies, including rivers and canals.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>“We have to ensure the uninterrupted flow of rivers. Keeping that in mind, we have to carry out our projects and development activities,” she said.</div><div><br></div><div>The prime minister said this while inaugurating various projects under the ministries of water resources and health.</div><div><br></div><div>She joined the programme from her official residence, Ganabhaban, through video link.</div><div><br></div><div>She said that in the name of development it is often seen that all water bodies are filled up.</div><div><br></div><div>“I think that this is very fulsome. All have to take step to save the water resources whenever any project is taken up or implemented,” she stressed.</div><div><br></div><div>Hasina also put importance on preserving water during the monsoon season.</div><div><br></div><div>She put emphasis on continuous capital dredging and maintenance dredging whichever is needed for the water bodies.</div><div><br></div><div>The PM also said that the natural flow of the rivers, canals, beels (lake-like wetland) and other water bodies must not be hindered during implementation of any development project.</div><div><br></div><div>She asked the relevant authorities to ensure having at least one water reservoir in every development project.</div><div><br></div><div>Mentioning water as the biggest resource for the country, she said that all water bodies must have to be protected.</div><div><br></div><div>“The nature will flow by its own course, and we have to take steps to save our resources going with that flow,” she said.</div><div><br></div><div>Health and Family Welfare Minister Zahid Maleque and State Minister for Water Resources Ministry Zaheed Farooque also spoke at the programme.</div><div><br></div><div>Two separate video documentaries on the activities of the Health and Family Welfare Ministry and Water Resources Ministry were screened on the occasion.</div><div><br></div><div>Sheikh Hasina virtually inaugurated \"65 community eye centres\" at 65 Upazila Health Complexes in 28 districts, in the fourth phase, as part of the move to set up the facility at every upazila across the country under Health and Family Welfare Ministry.</div><div><br></div><div>From the same programme, she also opened 80 developed schemes and re-digging of 430 small rivers, canals and water bodies and laid the foundation stone of 20 new development projects under the Water Resources Ministry.</div><div><br></div><div>Sharsha Upazila of Jashore, Sathià Upazila of Pabna and Shreemongol Upazila of Moulovibazar district were connected virtually to the programme.</div><div><br></div><div>The prime minister unveiled the cover of a book titled \"Joyjatra\" featuring the development schemes implemented in the last 15 years.</div><div><br></div><div>Later, she talked to different beneficiaries through videoconferencing. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-16 09:09:57', '2023-10-16 09:09:57'),
(9697, 9697, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen is currently in Bangkok, Thailand to attend a high-level regional meeting on Rohingya refugees, which will take place on October 17.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>Momen reached Bangkok today to join the closed-door meeting, an official said.</div><div><br></div><div>The meeting will seek international support for over a million Rohingya refugees and their hosting communities -- most of them in Bangladesh -- in the lead up to the Global Refugee Forum (GRF) in Geneva, December 2023.</div><div><br></div><div>The UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi, is also visiting Thailand to attend the meeting.</div><div><br></div><div>As part of the visit, Grandi will be opening the high-level regional meeting on Rohingya refugees on October 17.</div><div><br></div><div>UK\'s Minister of State for Indo-Pacific and the US Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of Population, Refugees and Migration are among the key delegates attending the high-level meeting, according to UNHCR.</div><div><br></div><div>Bangladesh is hosting over 1.1 million Rohingyas in Cox’s bazar district and Bhasan Char. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-16 09:59:31', '2023-10-16 09:59:31'),
(9698, 9698, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Monday said their party has no time to look back as they are going to initiate the final phase of their movement soon to topple the Awami League government.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Speaking at a rally of youth, he also called upon the BNP rank and file to make all-out preparations to make their movement a success by putting their all efforts and strength on the streets.</div><div><br></div><div>\"Our only goal is to ensure the fall of the current regime and free our leader Begum Khaleda Zia for sending her abroad for treatment through an unstoppable movement,” he said.</div><div><br></div><div>The BNP leader also said the mammoth rally of the youth wing of the BNP will help strengthen the ultimate movement of the opposition that will begin in the next few days after Durga Puja</div><div><br></div><div>“We’re fighting by risking our lives as many of our brothers have sacrificed their lives and blood, many of our mothers and sisters have been tortured, many of our children have lost their fathers and many of our mothers have lost their children. So, we have no time to look back,” he observed.</div><div><br></div><div>Jatiyatabadi Jubo Dal arranged the rally in front of BNP’s Nayapaltan central office demanding Khaleda’s release and sending her abroad for advanced treatment and BNP’s one-point demand that includes the resignation of the government and holding the next election under a non-party-government.</div><div><br></div><div>Thousands of youths from different parts of the country wearing red and green caps joined the rally that stretched from Bijoynagar to Fakirapool crossing. Many of them were seen sitting in the rally with white shrouds on their heads.</div><div><br></div><div>Terming the youth’s massive gathering a \'historic\' one, Fakhrul said the rally will surely inspire the country’s people to participate in the final movement with fresh vigour and aspirations.</div><div><br></div><div>\"Insha\'Allah, we will be able to defeat this terrible fascist regime that is sitting on our chest like a big stone through our peaceful movement,” he said.</div><div><br></div><div>Referring to his ruling party counterpart Obaidul Quader comment on talks with BNP if it withdraws conditions, Fakhrul questioned whether the government is constitutionally legal. “You (AL) have to prove it. I am saying you’re not constitutionally illegitimate.”</div><div><br></div><div>He alleged that the government has been in power illegally by bringing the 15th amendment to the constitution unconstitutionally.</div><div><br></div><div>The BNP leader said former chief justice ABM Khairul Haque first gave a short verdict saying two more national elections could be held under the caretaker government in the interests of the country and its people., but he unethically gave the full verdict changing the short one 16 months after his retirement.</div><div><br></div><div>“This Awami League passed the 15th amendment in the parliament by completely deceiving the people before the release of the full verdict. As you’re saying the election should be based on the constitution, you (govt) must resign first of all. Because you are illegal,\" Fakhrul said.</div><div><br></div><div>He warned that people will not forgive the current government for violating the Constitution and staying in power by deceiving people.</div><div><br></div><div>The BNP leader called upon the government to quit power by handing over power to a neutral government to pave the way for holding the next election in a fair and credible manner. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-16 16:11:21', '2023-10-16 16:11:21'),
(9699, 9699, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Recalling the dire consequences of Hefazat e Islam\'s rally in Dhaka’s Shapla Chattar on May 5 in 2013, Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader warned on Monday that the BNP will face even worse more consequences if they (BNP) start agitating in the name of movement.</span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Quader, also road, transport and bridges minister, came up with the heated remarks while addressing a rally organised by the party’s youth wing Jubo League in front of the party’s central office in Dhaka on Monday afternoon.</div><div><br></div><div>“What happened from the Shapla Chattar at the end of the night, didn\'t you flee? We don’t want to tell, BNP will face more consequences. Sheikh Hasina doesn’t bow down her head and fear nobody except Allah,” the party’s general secretary said.</div><div><br></div><div>Addressing Awami League’s preparation ahead of the election, Quader said, “We are also ready. BNP will get blocked once they block. BNP will be blocked and will have no paths to flee.”</div><div><br></div><div>He warned that BNP won’t be spared anymore and tough games will be played compared to December with actions from Awami League and Jubo League.</div><div><br></div><div>Quader ordered party leaders and activists to throng at all gates of Baitul Mukarram National Mosque on October 18, a prescheduled date for a BNP rally in Dhaka.</div><div><br></div><div>Criticizing the BNP’s ongoing movement, the Awami League leader alleged that BNP Secretary General Fakhul has been telling lies over the movement.</div><div><br></div><div>“The western world, those who came to Bangladesh, talked to us (in Bangladesh), talked abroad, they told us that they don’t support any political party of Bangladesh. This talk America and Europe also told. Fakhrul from where brought this lie and ridiculous news,” he said this about BNP’s foreign support.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Quader claimed they were getting courage for the movement from foreign surveys that 70 percent of the people of Bangladesh support Awami League.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Chaired by Jubo League President Sheikh Fazle Shams Parash, Awami League Presidium Member Jahangir Kabir Nanak, Organizing Secretary Mirza Azam and Jubo League General Secretary Mainul Hasan Nikhil, among others spoke at the rally.</div><div><br></div><div>Joydev Nandi, publicity secretary of the youth wing, conducted the rally with the participation of huge fellows. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-16 16:15:27', '2023-10-16 16:15:27'),
(9700, 9700, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Ambassador of Norway to Bangladesh Espen Rikter-Svendsen on Monday said access to capital is so important to develop the renewable energy industry.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>\"Reliable and experienced financial partners are key to facilitate for further developments in renewable power generation,\" he said.</div><div><br></div><div>The Ambassador also stressed on removing obstacles and create a dynamic business climate for renewable energy by improving governance and transparency, well-regulated markets and smart incentives that promote the right kind of investments.</div><div><br></div><div>The Norwegian Embassy in Dhaka, in collaboration with Norfund and the Nordic Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Bangladesh (NCCI), hosted the seminar to introduce the Climate Investment Fund (CIF) to Bangladesh.</div><div><br></div><div>The event highlighted Norway\'s significant commitment to support the transition to renewable energy in Bangladesh.</div><div><br></div><div>The event shed light on Bangladesh\'s green energy transition including increased investments in renewable energy, the development of conducive policies to facilitate green energy investments, the removal of fiscal barriers to renewable energy accessories, and collaboration with development partners for technical and financial support to accelerate the transition.</div><div><br></div><div>Saber Hossain Chowdhury, MP, Special Envoy to the Prime Minister for Climate Change and Chairperson, Parliamentary Standing Committee on the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change spoke as the chief guest.</div><div><br></div><div>He said Bangladesh is one of the most climate vulnerable countries in the world and climate change impact is causing the country to lose 2% of its gross domestic product.</div><div><br></div><div>\"Bangladesh is not only in need of investments in tackling climate impacts but also required technical assistance in building knowledge and capacity and The Nofund Climate Investment Fund can be a great facilitator,\" Saber said.</div><div><br></div><div>In his welcome remarks, NCCI President Tahrin Aman said Bangladesh\'s energy and power sector is in the midst of a profound transition, shifting from traditional fossil fuels to renewable energy sources.</div><div><br></div><div>\"This transition is not merely a change in our energy sources; it is a testament to our determination to build a sustainable and resilient future.\"</div><div><br></div><div>\"Mujib Climate Prosperity Plan reflects our nation\'s unwavering commitment to a green, prosperous, and sustainable future. Over the years, various stakeholders, including NGOs, think tanks, financial institutions, the private sector, and energy experts have been relentless in their efforts to push the green energy agenda. Their dedication, their passion, and their collective vision are the driving force behind our transition to green energy,” NCCI President added.</div><div><br></div><div>The Climate Investment Fund (CIF) managed by Norfund, marks a \"significant step\" in Norway\'s commitment to global energy transition.</div><div><br></div><div>The CIF, with an allocation of 10 billion NOK (Norwegian Krone) from 2022 to 2027, is dedicated to invest in renewable energy and low-carbon technologies in developing countries with significant emissions from coal and other fossil fuel power production. Among them, Bangladesh holds a prominent position.</div><div><br></div><div>The fund is targeted to invest in a wide range of renewable energy projects, including large-scale endeavors like solar power plants and wind farms, as well as smaller opportunities such as rooftop solar installations.</div><div><br></div><div>Additionally, the CIF supports enabling technologies with substantial climate impact, such as energy storage and transmission infrastructure.</div><div><br></div><div>The seminar served as a platform to introduce the Climate Investment Fund and Norfund\'s role in advancing renewable energy in Bangladesh.</div><div><br></div><div>It brought together key stakeholders, including government officials, industry experts, investors, and thought leaders, to explore opportunities for collaboration and investment in the green energy transition.</div><div><br></div><div>Bangladesh\'s energy and power sector is undergoing a transformative shift from traditional fossil fuels to renewable energy sources. - UNB</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-16 16:17:49', '2023-10-16 16:17:49'),
(9701, 9701, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Lebanon’s Hezbollah movement has warned that it is fully ready to fight against Israel after its fighters exchanged fire for days with Israeli soldiers on their border.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Both parties have traded shelling and rocket fire across their borders since the Palestinian armed faction Hamas attacked Israel on October 7 and killed about 1,400 people.</div><div><br></div><div>As violence escalates, observers fear that Hezbollah may open a new front against Israel at the behest of its leaders and their Iranian backers. That scenario may relieve pressure on Hamas and beleaguered civilians in Gaza, but it would be devastating for Lebanon and costly for Israel, analysts told Al Jazeera.</div><div><br></div><div>Here’s all you need to know about Hezbollah’s military capabilities:</div><div><br></div><div>Has Hezbollah fought Israel before?</div><div>In July 2006, Hezbollah captured two Israeli fighters on its border which triggered a massive military response from Israel. The war lasted 34 days and resulted in the death of more than 1,100 Lebanese nationals and 165 Israelis.</div><div><br></div><div>Nobody conclusively won the war, but Lebanese civilians were the clear losers. Israel destroyed or damaged about 30,000 homes, 109 bridges and 78 medical facilities, according to the International Committee for the Red Cross.</div><div><br></div><div>Nicholas Blanford, an expert on Hezbollah with the Atlantic Council, a think tank in Washington, DC, said the group had 3,000 to 5,000 fighters and short-range missiles to hit Israel.</div><div><br></div><div>But over the last 17 years, Hezbollah has significantly improved its military capabilities.</div><div><br></div><div>“I think Hezbollah today has the ability to inflict the greatest damage on Israel [since the Jewish state was established] in 1948,” Blanford told Al Jazeera.</div><div><br></div><div>How strong is Hezbollah today?</div><div>Blanford estimated that Hezbollah has at least 60,000 fighters, including full-time and reservists. The group also increased its stockpile of missiles from 14,000 in 2006 to about 150,000 now, he said.</div><div><br></div><div>Most are short-range, Hezbollah also has Iranian precision-guided missiles that have a range of 300km (186 miles). Blanford added that Hezbollah’s “special forces” unit is trained to infiltrate Israel in the event of a war.</div><div><br></div><div>“It’s not a surprise perhaps that Israeli officials have over the last few years considered Hezbollah to be their primary threat,” he told Al Jazeera.</div><div><br></div><div>Randa Slim, the director of the Conflict and Resolutions Program at the Middle East Institute, also told Al Jazeera that the Syrian war – where Hezbollah intervened on the side of President Bashar al-Assad – enabled the group to improve its combat capabilities.</div><div><br></div><div>“In Syria, which was a prolonged war, they gained new skills in terms of urban warfare and intelligence. Their intelligence systems improved a lot,” she told. Source: Al Jazeera&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-16 16:23:00', '2023-10-16 16:23:00'),
(9702, 9702, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Tuesday called for ending all wars, including the latest one between Israel and Palestine.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>“We do not want these wars. As a mother-- not as a woman politician or female prime minister --I will urge the world leaders to just stop these wars,\" she said.</div><div><br></div><div>\"Stop these games of weapons and arms race as these cause most sufferings for the women and children,” she said.</div><div><br></div><div>The prime minister said this while addressing a programme after inaugurating newly constructed 12-storey Joyita Tower at Dhanmondi. The programme was held at her official residence Ganabhaban.</div><div><br></div><div>Hasina said that all are witnessing rattle of wars across the globe right now.</div><div><br></div><div>“Earlier Ukrine- Russia war, now Israel attacked Palestine, and Israel already grabbed more than half of the Palestine,” she said.</div><div><br></div><div>She mentioned that her family members and she had the bad experience of war and killings.</div><div><br></div><div>“During the Liberation War we were under captivity of the occupying forces while after the August 15, 1975 we saw the brutality of a refugee life,” she said.</div><div><br></div><div>State Minister for Women and Children Affairs Ministry Fazilatun Nessa Indira, PM’s principal secretary M Tofazzel Hossain Miah and chairman of Parliamentary Standing Committee on Women and Children Affairs Ministry Meher Afroz Chumki Secretary Nazma Mobarek and Joyeeta Foundation Managing Director Afroja Khan also spoke at the programme.</div><div><br></div><div>Earlier, the prime minister went to the Dhanmondi 27 and unveiled the inaugural plaque of Joyita Tower and also opened Jamdani Gallery and Joyita Market Place in Joyita Tower. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-17 09:18:20', '2023-10-17 09:18:20'),
(9703, 9703, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in China on Tuesday to meet his \"dear friend\" Xi Jinping and bolster their relationship at a summit that will be overshadowed by the Israel-Hamas war.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>China this week welcomes representatives of 130 countries for a forum of President Xi\'s vast trade and infrastructure Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).</div><div><br></div><div>At the top of the guest list is Putin, who is on his first trip to a major global power since the Ukraine invasion threw his regime into international isolation.</div><div><br></div><div>He is due to hold talks with Xi on the sidelines of the forum on Wednesday, the Kremlin said, with the war raging between Israel and Palestinian militant organisation Hamas looming large over the summit.</div><div><br></div><div>\"During the talks, special attention will be paid to international and regional issues,\" the Kremlin said in a statement, without elaborating.</div><div><br></div><div>Western countries led by the United States have rallied to Israel\'s side since October 7, when Hamas launched the deadliest attack in Israel\'s history, shooting, stabbing and burning to death more than 1,400 people, mostly civilians, in a shock offensive.</div><div><br></div><div>The United States has asked China to use its influence to help de-escalate the war, which has seen more than a million people in the blockaded Gaza Strip flee their homes under the relentless bombardment that Israel launched in retaliation for the attack.</div><div><br></div><div>China brokered an entente between key Hamas backer Iran and its regional foe Saudi Arabia earlier this year, and will send its Middle East envoy Zhai Jun to the volatile region this week.</div><div><br></div><div>No details have been given about where or when exactly Zhai would travel, though China\'s state broadcaster CCTV has said he will push for a ceasefire and peace talks.</div><div><br></div><div>Russia, which has traditionally maintained good relations with both Israeli and Palestinian authorities, has called for an \"immediate ceasefire\" in the conflict.</div><div><br></div><div>In Beijing, Putin is on a mission to strengthen the already strong bond with his communist neighbour, though experts say Moscow is increasingly the junior partner in the relationship.</div><div><br></div><div>China is Russia\'s largest trading partner, with trade between the nations reaching a record $190 billion last year, Beijing customs data shows.</div><div><br></div><div>Beijing has drawn criticism from Western countries for its stance on the Ukraine war, on which China insists it is neutral even as it refuses to criticise Moscow for launching its invasion.</div><div><br></div><div>While the BRI forum provides a fresh opportunity for Putin and Xi to showcase their alliance, experts do not expect any new major agreements to be announced.</div><div><br></div><div>\"Russia is aware that China doesn\'t want to sign any high publicity deals,\" Alexander Gabuev, director of the Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center, told AFP.</div><div><br></div><div>\"China holds all of the cards,\" he said.</div><div><br></div><div>- Friends reunited -</div><div>Xi kicked off the summit Tuesday with talks with Chilean and Kazakhstan Presidents Gabriel Boric and Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Chinese state media reported.</div><div><br></div><div>Ahead of the forum, China and Russia\'s top diplomats were singing from the same song sheet when they met in Beijing on Monday.</div><div><br></div><div>Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov thanked China for inviting Putin as the summit\'s \"chief guest\", according to a readout from Moscow, which later said the top diplomat would head to North Korea after Beijing.</div><div><br></div><div>Putin and Xi will discuss the countries\' ties \"in their entirety\" when they meet this week, Lavrov told Wang.</div><div><br></div><div>Wang, in turn, said China \"appreciates\" Russia\'s support for the BRI.</div><div><br></div><div>The two nations share a symbiotic alliance, with China appreciating Russia\'s role as a bulwark against the West, and Moscow increasingly reliant on Beijing\'s largesse in trade and geopolitical backing.</div><div><br></div><div>\"Since Moscow embarked on its all-out invasion of Ukraine, it has been put in a position where it is unprecedentedly dependent on China,\" Bjorn Alexander Duben of China\'s Jilin University told AFP.</div><div><br></div><div>At the heart of the deepening partnership is the relationship between Xi and Putin, who have described each other as \"dear friends\".</div><div><br></div><div>\"President Xi Jinping calls me his friend, and I call him my friend, too,\" Putin told Chinese state broadcaster CGTN ahead of his visit, according to a Kremlin readout. According to AFP reports</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-17 09:22:17', '2023-10-17 09:22:17'),
(9704, 9704, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Tuesday inaugurated the newly constructed 12-storeyJoyita Tower at Dhanmondi in the city.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>She unveiled the inaugural plaque of Joyita Tower in Dhanmondi, Jamdani Gallery and Joyita Market Place installed in Joyita Tower.</div><div><br></div><div>The prime minister attended the inauguration ceremony of Jayita Tower organised by Ministry of Women and Child Affairs at her official residence Ganabhaban.</div><div><br></div><div>On her arrival at the venue, she was received by State Minister for Child and Women Affairs, Fazilatunnesa Indira.</div><div><br></div><div>PM’s younger sister Sheikh Rehana was with her.</div><div><br></div><div>Artistes of Bangladesh Shishu Academy welcomed them with music and dance. The PM also took pictures with them.</div><div><br></div><div>Later, the prime minister visited different parts of the tower.</div><div><br></div><div>She also unveiled the book titled \'Contribution of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman to Economic Empowerment of Women\' at the inauguration ceremony.</div><div><br></div><div>According to ministry sources, Joyita Tower has been constructed with state-of-the-art physical infrastructure facilities.</div><div><br></div><div>This will help ensure women\'s economic empowerment by involving the country\'s women entrepreneurs in various business ventures under the Joyita brand.</div><div><br></div><div>Joyita Tower has the facilities for marketing various types of processed products, supply chain and services produced by women entrepreneurs of the country with universal accessibility.</div><div><br></div><div>In this building, physical infrastructural facilities have been provided for training women entrepreneurs based on knowledge, skills, business management and development strategies.</div><div><br></div><div>There are ample car parking facilities and a spacious lobby.</div><div><br></div><div>Besides, it will house the headquarters of Joyita Foundation.</div><div><br></div><div>Joyita Iconic Tower has Child Daycare Centre, Design Centre, Beauty Parlour, Gymnasium for Women, Swimming Pool for Women and Children, Multipurpose Hall, Seminar Hall, Bank, Food-Court and Cafe. E-Joita online market place has been launched.</div><div><br></div><div>PM Hasina laid the foundation stone for the construction of the 12-storey Joyita Tower on December 1, 2021.</div><div><br></div><div>It has been built at a cost of Tk 168.40 crore on one bigha land at 27 (old) road of Dhanmondi in the capital.</div><div><br></div><div>She also inaugurated the Joyita Foundation programme on November 16, 2011 with the aim of economic empowerment of women in Bangladesh.</div><div><br></div><div>In the meantime, the government has allotted one bigha of land to each division of the country at a token price for the foundation.</div><div><br></div><div>Joyita seeks to build a women-friendly separate marketing network across the country by launching its activities in every district and upazila. According to UNB reports</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-17 09:25:11', '2023-10-17 09:25:11'),
(9705, 9705, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>President Joe Biden will make a landmark trip to Israel in an \"ironclad\" show of US support, as efforts to ease a spiralling humanitarian disaster in Gaza intensify.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Secretary of State Antony Blinken described the visit as a statement of \"solidarity with Israel\" and an \"ironclad commitment to its security\", just days after Hamas fighters broke through the heavily fortified border, shooting, stabbing and burning to death more than 1,400 people, most of them civilians.</div><div><br></div><div>Biden\'s visit will also seek to avert a regional conflagration with Hamas backer Iran, which on Monday warned of a possible \"pre-emptive action\" against Israel \"in the coming hours\".</div><div><br></div><div>Repeated fire in recent days along Israel\'s northern border with Lebanon has claimed lives on both sides and compounded fears of a regional spillover of the war.</div><div><br></div><div>Biden\'s visit also comes amid frantic diplomatic efforts to ease the deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza after waves of Israeli retaliatory air strikes on the Hamas-ruled enclave.</div><div><br></div><div>After Israel, Biden will travel to Jordan where he will meet Jordanian King Abdullah II, Palestinian leader Mahmud Abbas and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi.</div><div><br></div><div>Under relentless Israeli bombardment, thousands of Gazans have died and international agencies warn millions more face dwindling supplies of water, food and fuel -- even before a looming Israeli ground invasion.</div><div><br></div><div>Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Israeli military leaders have signalled their intent to destroy Hamas and eradicate the threat it poses after the militant group\'s attack which has been likened to 9/11.</div><div><br></div><div>Tens of thousands of regular Israeli troops and reservists have amassed at the border waiting for the order to go in.</div><div><br></div><div>An Israeli military spokesman said it was unclear how Biden\'s visit might change the timing of an Israeli ground offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip.</div><div><br></div><div>Several notable Hamas figures have already been killed in air strikes, including, on Monday, Osama Mazini, who the Israeli Air Force said was part of a top council and \"responsible for Hamas prisoners.\"</div><div><br></div><div>Hamas is proscribed as a terrorist organisation by the United States and several other Western governments, while Israel has likened it to the Islamic State group.</div><div><br></div><div>But the air strikes have flattened entire neighbourhoods in the blockaded Gaza Strip and killed at least 2,750 people, most of them civilians.</div><div><br></div><div>The bombardment, coupled with an Israeli order to evacuate the north of the Gaza Strip that borders Israel, has forced more than a million Palestinians to flee their homes for the south of the enclave since the 10-day conflict began, according to the UN agency serving Palestinian agencies (UNRWA).</div><div><br></div><div>International aid agencies have called for aid to urgently be allowed into the territory, and for Gaza\'s border with Egypt to be open to allow civilians to leave.</div><div><br></div><div>World Health Organization regional director Ahmed Al-Mandhari told AFP that Gaza was barrelling toward \"real catastrophe\".</div><div><br></div><div>\"There are 24 hours of water, electricity and fuel left\" he said.</div><div><br></div><div>- \'Out of harm\'s way\' -</div><div>Washington has backed Israel\'s right to strike back at Hamas, but it has also urged measures to ease the impact on ordinary Palestinians caught in the crossfire.</div><div><br></div><div>Speaking after marathon talks with Netanyahu in Tel Aviv, Blinken signalled there was no firm agreement yet on humanitarian relief.</div><div><br></div><div>But there was a \"commitment\" to work on a nascent plan ahead of and during Biden\'s visit, he said.</div><div><br></div><div>\"At our request, the United States and Israel have agreed to develop a plan that will enable humanitarian aid from donor nations and multilateral organizations to reach civilians in Gaza,\" Blinken said.</div><div><br></div><div>He said the two sides were discussing the \"possibility of creating areas to help keep civilians out of harm\'s way.\"</div><div><br></div><div>Blinken said the US president hopes to \"hear from Israel how it will conduct its operations in a way that minimises civilian casualties and enables humanitarian assistance to flow to civilians in Gaza in a way that does not benefit Hamas.\"</div><div><br></div><div>Israel has issued an ultimatum to more than one million people in northern Gaza that they should flee ahead of an expected ground offensive.</div><div><br></div><div>Entire families, young children and the elderly have packed what belongings they can to flee to the southern Gaza Strip, bedding down in any available space, indoors and out.</div><div><br></div><div>In the city of Khan Yunis in southern Gaza the normal population of 400,000 has roughly doubled.</div><div><br></div><div>Thousands more Palestinians have massed at the Rafah border crossing with Egypt in an effort to flee.</div><div><br></div><div>\"The situation is catastrophic beyond what I could have imagined,\" said Jamil Abdullah, a Palestinian-Swede who is hoping to leave after being forced to sleep on the street.</div><div><br></div><div>\"There are corpses in the streets. Buildings are crashing down on their inhabitants. Blood is everywhere. The smell of the dead is everywhere.\"</div><div><br></div><div>AFP reporters in Gaza said morgues were overflowing, and corpses wrapped in white body bags were even being stored in an icecream truck.</div><div><br></div><div>But Gazans are effectively trapped, with neighbouring Arab nations fearful that if Palestinians leave the Strip they could be permanently exiled.</div><div><br></div><div>- Missing -</div><div>In Israel, about 500,000 people have been displaced or evacuated from communities around the Gaza Strip and Israel\'s northern border with Lebanon, the Israeli military said Tuesday.</div><div><br></div><div>Across the country Israelis are still reeling from what is the worst attack in the country\'s 75-year history, and one that shattered faith in the country\'s government and much-vaulted security forces.</div><div><br></div><div>Merav Leshem Gonen is among those still anxiously waiting for news of loved ones.</div><div><br></div><div>Her daughter was kidnapped at a music festival near the Gaza border on October 7, one of hundreds of hostages taken by Hamas or other groups.</div><div><br></div><div>\"We don\'t know anything else. She\'s missing. That\'s all we know, and we want her back alive. We want her to come back healthy,\" she said.</div><div><br></div><div>Hamas\'s military wing has said the group was holding 200 people, with about 50 more held by other \"resistance factions and in other places\".</div><div><br></div><div>A video on the Hamas\'s official Telegram channel purported to show \"one of the prisoners in Gaza\" -- a young woman speaking Hebrew and receiving treatment to an arm injury.</div><div><br></div><div>According to the caption, she was abducted on October 7. The video has not been verified by AFP.</div><div><br></div><div>- \'Time running out\'? -</div><div>UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has warned that the entire Middle East region was \"on the verge of the abyss\".</div><div><br></div><div>There are deep fears that the conflict could spread to the Palestinian West Bank or to Lebanon, drawing regional foes deeper into the conflict.</div><div><br></div><div>Israel on Tuesday said it had launched strikes overnight on Hezbollah \"terrorist\" targets in Lebanon.</div><div><br></div><div>Iran backs Hezbollah and Hamas, but has denied involvement in the October 7 attack.</div><div><br></div><div>It has warned Israel about the potential for the conflict to spread in the volatile region.</div><div><br></div><div>Western governments, including Germany whose chancellor heads to Israel on Tuesday, have urged Tehran not to fan the flames of the conflict.</div><div><br></div><div>\"Lebanese officials have a responsibility... to do everything possible to prevent Lebanon from being dragged into\" a war with Israel, France\'s Foreign Minister Catherine Colonna said in Beirut Monday.</div><div><br></div><div>But Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said \"time is running out for political solutions\". According to AFP reports </div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-17 09:35:23', '2023-10-17 14:00:41'),
(9706, 9706, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The UK Minister for the Indo-Pacific, Anne-Marie Trevelyan, today announced further UK funding of £4.5 million to provide vital humanitarian services to Rohingya refugees and host communities in Bangladesh.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>She made the announcement at a UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) regional conference in Bangkok on the Rohingya crisis.</div><div><br></div><div>The UK minister is attending the conference alongside Bangladesh’s Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen and UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi.</div><div><br></div><div>Trevelyan said that the UK is committed to finding a long-term solution to the Rohingya crisis. This includes their safe, voluntary and dignified return to Myanmar, when the conditions there allow it, she said.</div><div><br></div><div>“Until the Rohingyas can safely return to their homeland, we are committed to providing ongoing humanitarian support. That is why we are announcing £4.5 million of further UK support for protection services, healthcare and clean energy to the refugees in Bangladesh,” she said.</div><div><br></div><div>“Today’s conference is an important opportunity to discuss sustainable solutions in Myanmar, and support for the Rohingya and their host countries,” the UK minister added.</div><div><br></div><div>The £4.5 million funding includes:</div><div><br></div><div>• £2.1 million through the International Organization for Migration (IOM) for healthcare and clean energy for the Rohingya refugees and host communities.</div><div><br></div><div>• £2 million through NGOs for the protection of refugees and host communities. The NGOs include the Norwegian Refugee Council, Danish Refugee Council, International Rescue Committee, and Humanity and Inclusion.</div><div><br></div><div>• £450,000 through the UN Population Fund (UNFPA) to prevent and respond to gender-based violence and provide sexual and reproductive health services.</div><div><br></div><div>Minister Trevelyan will meet Foreign Minister Momen and UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi during the conference.</div><div><br></div><div>Since 2017, the UK has provided £370 million to support Rohingya refugees and host communities in Bangladesh, and nearly £30 million to support Rohingya and other Muslim minorities in Myanmar’s Rakhine State.</div><div><br></div><div>This has included food, water and sanitation, healthcare and protection services that are vital for women and girls in the camps.</div><div><br></div><div>The UK has also said it supports “peace and stability” across the Indo-Pacific and continues to stand with the people of Myanmar, according to a statement from the British High Commission in Dhaka.</div><div><br></div><div>“We reiterate our call for an end to all violence and for the protection of civilians and safe and unhindered humanitarian access to all those in need,” the UK minister was quoted as saying.</div><div><br></div><div>The UK’s sustained support for the Rohingyas demonstrates its long-term commitment to the Indo-Pacific region, critical to the prime minister’s priority of growing the economy, in line with the Integrated Review Refresh published in March 2023, said the British government. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-17 09:56:15', '2023-10-17 09:56:15'),
(9707, 9707, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>For hours and hours, Moen Abu Aish digs through the rubble of demolished homes to find survivors of Israeli airstrikes, toiling in a vast and desperate search complicated by the shortage of critical supplies and the sheer scope of destruction across the Gaza Strip.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Even as rescue worker Abu Aish, 58, and his colleagues struggle to pry lifeless bodies from the concrete and twisted metal where residential towers once stood, the death toll keeps rising. Gaza\'s Health Ministry has reported that Israel\'s bombardment — launched after Hamas mounted a bloody, unprecedented attack on Israel on Oct. 7 — has killed more than 2,700 Palestinians, many of them women and children.</div><div><br></div><div>But far more Palestinians have been killed than have been officially reported, with 1,200 people, among them some 500 minors, believed to be trapped under the rubble awaiting rescue, or recovery, health authorities said. They based their estimates on distress calls they received.</div><div><br></div><div>“So many times medics say they hear victims scream but they cannot do anything about it,\" said Mohammed Abu Selmia, general director of Shifa Hospital, Gaza\'s biggest medical center.</div><div><br></div><div>The untold scores of victims buried beneath destroyed buildings shed light on the struggles of rescue teams in Gaza trying to save lives, while cut off from the internet and mobile networks, running out of fuel and exposed to unceasing airstrikes.</div><div><br></div><div>Israel imposed a siege on Gaza after the Hamas attack, severing the crowded strip\'s access to water, power and fuel. Health authorities have warned that without humanitarian aid, hospitals and emergency services will soon break down. Hospitals running on backup generators say they have enough fuel for another day or two at most.</div><div><br></div><div>“The destruction is so intense, there are hundreds of dead under the rubble as we speak,” said Mahmoud Basal, the spokesperson for the Palestinian Civil Defense, which provides emergency service, his voice cracking as he fought back tears. “Where are the Arab countries? Where is the rest of the world? We are begging you, please, save us from this madness.”</div><div><br></div><div>At dawn Monday, Israeli warplanes struck the headquarters of the Civil Defense in Gaza City, killing seven paramedics as they prepared for a rescue mission, the Interior Ministry said. In widely shared videos of the aftermath, medics, shell-shocked and exhausted, crouched on the back of their blood-smeared ambulance with their heads in their hands.</div><div><br></div><div>“They targeted a center for ambulances,” one of them cried out, his voice frantic. “There are no weapons. There are no militants. There is nothing, nothing but civilians.\"</div><div><br></div><div>The Israeli military did not immediately comment on the airstrike but has alleged in the past that Hamas militants use hospitals and rescue services as protective cover. It says it only targets sites and infrastructure used by Hamas and other militant groups.</div><div><br></div><div>Since the start of this war, 10 other medics have been killed on the job, the Health Ministry said.</div><div><br></div><div>“I’m terrified all the time, of course I am. I\'m human,” Abu Aish said from Al Awda Hospital in northern Gaza, where doctors had refused an Israeli military order to evacuate earlier this week. “I see the worst things you could imagine.”</div><div><br></div><div>Like most medics, Abu Aish has spent the past days in the hospital’s ambulance bay, sleeping a few hours before returning to his grueling work. The massive blasts ripping through the northern Jabaliya refugee camp where he lives have been bad enough, he said.</div><div><br></div><div>What made them worse was not knowing how his loved ones fared.</div><div><br></div><div>Since Israeli bombardment destroyed two of Gaza’s three main lines for mobile communication last week, he hasn’t spoken to his family in five days.</div><div><br></div><div>“I miss them so much it hurts,” he said of his seven kids and 10 grandchildren. “But this is my mission. I respect it.”</div><div><br></div><div>At the hospital, distress calls follow the nearby thunder of explosions. Abu Aish drives as far as he can in the ambulance and jumps out when the roads buckle so badly they cannot be used. Rushing in the opposite direction of panicked families, he and his team arrive by foot to ravaged homes with little more than flashlights, shovels and other amateur tools, like pickaxes, saws, backhoes and blowtorches to cut metal bars.</div><div><br></div><div>The rescue crews in their bright vests and white helmets largely lack excavators, ladders and heavy machinery — the outcome of a blockade imposed by Israel and Egypt in 2007 to prevent Hamas from digging tunnels and rearming itself. Often Abu Aish uses his bare hands to sort through chunks of concrete mixed with residents’ belongings and personal mementos.</div><div><br></div><div>But as the rescuers work, they hear bombardment crashing in the distance. Another block of homes, flattened. More people who need their help, urgently.</div><div><br></div><div>Residents say it often takes rescue crews many hours to reach the site of an attack and search for victims. By that point, the chances of finding additional survivors are slim.</div><div><br></div><div>Ali Ahad, a 37-year-old resident of Gaza City, said that when airstrikes leveled the residential building next door, rescuers never came.</div><div><br></div><div>He and his friends sprinted outside in their slippers, sifted through the rubble and struggled to lift men and women coated in blood out of the ruins with blankets. When they saw an ambulance racing down the street to Shifa Hospital they chased it, pounding on its windows to make it stop so they could squeeze their neighbors inside.</div><div><br></div><div>“You have people like us using our hands and we have zero experience doing such things,” he said. “There is no infrastructure. There is no capacity.\"</div><div><br></div><div>Rescuers say they try to save as many lives as they can. But at any point, they may have to save themselves.</div><div><br></div><div>Among the 10 medics killed over the past week were four workers with the Palestinian Red Crescent. Airstrikes last Wednesday slammed into their ambulances in two different places.</div><div><br></div><div>Three of those killed that day had been waiting to evacuate civilians in Jabaliya. “I was traumatized by that loss,\" said their colleague, Salem Abu Al-Khair. As he spoke from the ambulance center, the roar of airstrikes could be heard.</div><div><br></div><div>“Even during this interview we are being bombed,\" he said. “This is the extent of the danger.”</div><div><br></div><div>Good news is rare for Gaza\'s medics. On Thursday, after airstrikes hit Jabaliya, Abu Aish found a mother hugging a small child under the rubble. The mother had been killed, along with the rest of the family members in the collapsed building.</div><div><br></div><div>But the child, a boy no more than 3 years old, was alive.</div><div><br></div><div>Abu Aish pulled him out of the rubble and took him to the ambulance. He was covered in dirt but completely healthy, he said.</div><div><br></div><div>“Those moments give me the will to carry on,” he said. \"That\'s my work. I never want to let one child like that die.”</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-17 09:59:00', '2023-10-17 09:59:00');
INSERT INTO `news_details` (`id`, `news_id`, `details`, `ticker`, `representative`, `keyword`, `video_link`, `google_drive_link`, `audio_link`, `shoulder`, `created_at`, `updated_at`) VALUES
(9708, 9708, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Tuesday urged the people to vote her Awami League party to power again in the upcoming general election for the sake of sustaining the country’s development momentum.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>“The people of the country got freedom by voting for the boat ( AL election symbol). Today, Bangladesh got the status of a developing country because it voted for the boat,” she said</div><div><br></div><div>while addressing a programme after inaugurating newly constructed 12-storey Joyeeta Tower at Dhanmondi.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>The programme was held at her official residence Ganabhaban.</div><div><br></div><div>She said her government has ensured empowerment of women besides generating employment for them. “So let this progress continue,” she said.</div><div><br></div><div>Hasina said that Bangladesh today is witnessing democracy as her party is in power.</div><div><br></div><div>“People\'s rights are now guaranteed, economic progress is being ensured, the country is moving forward,” she said.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>She also said that through the empowerment of women, the government has been able to ensure the rights of women everywhere.</div><div><br></div><div>She asked the country’s women to fight for their rights instead of waiting for others to give it.</div><div><br></div><div>\"Don’t just say ‘give us our rights, give us our rights’. Women should attain their rights themselves,” she said.</div><div><br></div><div>State Minister for Women and Children Affairs Ministry Fazilatun Nessa Indira, PM’s principal secretary M Tofazzel Hossain Miah and chairman of Parliamentary Standing Committee on Women and Children Affairs Ministry Meher Afroz Chumki Secretary Nazma Mobarek and Joyeeta Foundation Managing Director Afroja Khan also spoke at the programme.</div><div><br></div><div>Earlier, the prime minister went to Dhanmondi 27 and unveiled the inaugural plaque of Joyeeta Tower and also opened Jamdani Gallery and Joyeeta Market Place in Joyeeta Tower. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-17 10:18:10', '2023-10-17 10:18:10'),
(9709, 9709, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Cristiano Ronaldo struck twice as Roberto Martinez\'s relentless Portugal thrashed Bosnia and Herzegovina 5-0 on Monday in Euro 2024 qualifying.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Portugal, who booked their place at the tournament in Germany next summer with a win over Slovakia last Friday, continued their superb form under the Spanish coach with their eighth victory in eight games since he arrived.</div><div><br></div><div>Ronaldo netted his 126th and 127th Portugal goals, further extending his record as the top all-time men\'s international goalscorer.</div><div><br></div><div>Manchester United\'s Bruno Fernandes added the third before Barcelona duo Joao Cancelo and Joao Felix joined in the fun, all before half-time.</div><div><br></div><div>Bosnia, led by veteran target-man Edin Dzeko, languish fifth and can no longer progress from the group, after Slovakia beat Luxembourg 1-0.</div><div><br></div><div>Bosnia have two games remaining and are seven points behind second-placed Slovakia in Group J, with Portugal the runaway leaders.</div><div><br></div><div>Martinez\'s side have scored 32 goals and only conceded twice, racking up all 24 points possible so far.</div><div><br></div><div>Al-Nassr striker Ronaldo, 38, opened the scoring from the penalty spot and dinked home his second with a neat finish, but was replaced by Martinez after 65 minutes, while still in search of his hat-trick.</div><div><br></div><div>The former Real Madrid forward was also confronted by a pitch invader shortly before half-time, but stewards swiftly intervened.</div><div>Fernandes and Cancelo finished with sublime accuracy and power as the hosts\' defence crumbled miserably, while Felix stroked in the fifth.</div><div><br></div><div>Bosnia tightened up in the second half but it was far too little, far too late. According to AFP reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'Sports Desk', '[\"20\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-17 10:20:45', '2023-10-17 10:20:45'),
(9710, 9710, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Taylor Swift’s record-breaking Eras Tour is now breaking records in theatres as well. The American popstar’s upcoming concert film Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour has now sold tickets worth more than $100 million worldwide, according to a report by Variety.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Swift’s concert film is being screened in more than 100 countries with more than 8,500 screens across the globe. AMC Theatres - the official global distributor of the film - confirmed to the news outlet, that these revenues came across all showtimes and circuits that are playing the film, which also includes Pakistan.</div><div><br></div><div>Earlier, the film surpassed expectations by breaking the single-day ticket sales record of all-time for AMC Theatres with sales worth $26m in North America. The record was previously held by Marvel’s Spider-man: No Way Home with $16.9m in sales.</div><div><br></div><div>It is also expected that the film would surpass $100m in sales just in North America during its opening weekend; a feat that only five films have accomplished in 2023 namely Barbie, The Super Mario Bros. Movie, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania, and Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3.</div><div><br></div><div>Whereas, the film has also broken the domestic pre-sale records “with more than 10 times higher pre-sales than any other cinema engagement event,” for Cinemark theatres, according to a press release by the North American chain.</div><div><br></div><div>Taylor Swift: The Eras Tour comes out on October 13 and will be screened by Cinepax Theatres across major cities in Pakistan. - Dawn&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'Entertainment', '[\"13\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-17 10:32:32', '2023-10-17 10:32:32'),
(9711, 9711, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Health Minister Zahid Maleque on Tuesday said mosquito control is needed to curb dengue and&nbsp; &nbsp;the city corporations and the municipalities should take long term progammes in this regard.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>The health minister said these while speaking at a press briefing at the secretariat.</div><div><br></div><div>Replying to a question about any negligence in dengue control, Zahid said “It would be logical if you (journalists) ask this question to the municipalities or city corporations. It is the responsibility of those who exterminate mosquitoes, those who clear garbage and drains, and those who transport garbage. It is not the responsibility of the health ministry.”</div><div><br></div><div>\"If you talk big, dengue will not decrease. Necessary steps should be taken for controlling dengue. The steps being taken are not enough. If those were enough, 250,000 people would not have been affected by this disease. So far, 1,100 people have died of dengue,” he added.</div><div><br></div><div>Claiming that there is no accommodation and medical services problem, the minister said separate units have been opened in the hospitals in districts and upazilas to provide healthcare and there is sufficient fluid and saline as the government gave approvals to the private agencies to import saline if needed.</div><div><br></div><div>He also claimed that there is no negligence on the part of the ministry in providing healthcare services to the people amid dengue surge.</div><div><br></div><div>So far, the DGHS has recorded 2,42,089 dengue cases and 2,32,759 recoveries this year. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'Health Desk', '[\"6\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-17 11:41:38', '2023-10-17 11:41:38'),
(9712, 9712, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>US Deputy Assistant Secretary Afreen Akhter on Tuesday said she stressed the importance of \"free and fair\" elections in Bangladesh during her discussion with Bangladesh government officials.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Talking to reporters, she highlighted that the elections need to be held in a peaceful manner.</div><div><br></div><div>\"We believe it is incredibly important that elections are conducted in a free, fair and peaceful manner to support Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s stated commitment,\" said the US official.</div><div><br></div><div>Afreen, who did not make any comment after her meeting with Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen on Monday in Dhaka, said they also discussed about allowing space for the civil society, media and all other actors to engage in democratic process freely.</div><div><br></div><div>\"We have discussed wide range of issues including on broad multifaceted relationship with Bangladesh which includes economic growth, trade and investment, our longstanding development partnership, women\'s economic empowerment and whole host of other issues,\" she said.</div><div><br></div><div>\"Bangladesh and the United States want free and fair elections conducted in a peaceful manner,\" said the US Embassy in Dhaka after Akhter’s meeting with Foreign Secretary Masud Bin Momen.</div><div><br></div><div>US Ambassador to Bangladesh Peter Haas and senior officials of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs were present.</div><div><br></div><div>They discussed the \"strong multifaceted\" bilateral relationship between the two countries and its many aspects.</div><div><br></div><div>The US direct investment and trade, longstanding development partnership, the Middle East, the recent visit of the independent and nonpartisan election survey team, and supporting Rohingya refugees came up for discussion.</div><div><br></div><div>Referring to her meeting with RRRC Mizanur Rahman on Tuesday, Akhter said any repatriation of the Rohingyas should be \"voluntary, dignified and safe.\"</div><div><br></div><div>She said there should not be any forcibly done efforts at repatriation as the conditions in Myanmar are not conducive for repatriation at the moment.</div><div><br></div><div>\"We will continue to work closely with the government of Bangladesh and the international community to find a lasting solution that includes their safe repatriation,\" Afkhter said.</div><div><br></div><div>She appreciated Bangladesh’s efforts and its \"incredible generosity\" in hosting the Rohingyas. \"We really appreciate the generosity.\"</div><div><br></div><div>Bangladesh is hosting over 1.1 million Rohingyas who fled their homes in Myanmar to escape a 2017 crackdown. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-17 12:38:31', '2023-10-17 12:38:31'),
(9713, 9713, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>India’s top court on Tuesday said it cannot legalise same-se* marriages, with the chief justice of the country saying making such a law is the domain of parliament.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>A five-judge bench headed by the Chief Justice of India, D.Y. Chandrachud, heard arguments in the case between April and May this year and pronounced its verdict on Tuesday.</div><div><br></div><div>Chandrachud said there was a degree of “agreement and disagreement on how far we have to go” on same-sex marriages as he began reading his order.</div><div><br></div><div>Two of the other four judges agreed with Chandrachud on the court not legalising same-sex marriages, making it a majority.</div><div><br></div><div>Two other judges are yet to speak.</div><div><br></div><div>The court ruling comes five years after a historic 2018 judgement when the Supreme Court scrapped a colonial-era ban on gay se*.</div><div><br></div><div>Only Taiwan and Nepal allow same-sex unions in Asia, where largely conservative values still dominate politics and society.</div><div><br></div><div>Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government had opposed the petitions, calling them “urban elitist views” and stating that parliament is the right platform to debate and legislate on the matter.</div><div><br></div><div>It had also said that such marriages are not “comparable with the Indian family unit concept of a husband, a wife and children”. - Reuters&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-17 13:35:55', '2023-10-17 13:35:55'),
(9714, 9714, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Law Minister Anisul Huq on Tuesday said Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will determine the size of the election-time government .</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>\"She can reduce its size or maintain the current size if deemed necessary,” he said.</div><div><br></div><div>The minister made the remarks while talking to reporters after a meeting with a delegation of the International Labor Organization (ILO) at his office at the secretariat.</div><div><br></div><div>“Nothing was mentioned in the constitution&nbsp; about the election-time government. As I’ve mentioned before and saying again now, the Prime Minister has the authority to decide the number of ministers required during the election. If all are necessary, all will remain. If a smaller size is preferred, that can be arranged as well. It is within the Prime Minister\'s discretion, as the constitution grants her this power.”</div><div><br></div><div>Responding to a question about the Labor Law, he said, “The cabinet has approved amendments to the Labor Law. The ILO has provided input into the current amendments. The ILO Country Director has conveyed their perspectives, and I have addressed some issues today. Further discussions on certain matters will take place on October 22,” reports UNB.</div><div><br></div><div>“Discussions were held regarding the formation of trade unions. Originally, 30 percent of workers\' signatures were required for a group of companies to establish a trade union. This is now being revised to 20 percent. We made a commitment to the ILO to phase out this requirement,” he explained.</div><div><br></div><div>He also said, “Trade unions can now be formed with the signatures of 15 percent of workers in companies employing more than 3,000 workers. I don\'t believe their area of concern is extensive, and I am optimistic that it can be resolved.”&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-17 13:59:59', '2023-10-17 13:59:59'),
(9715, 9715, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Information and Broadcasting Minister and Awami League (AL) Joint General Secretary Dr Hasan Mahmud today urged the AL men and cultural activists to put the state on guard for the next 100 days as BNP wants to hand over the country to their foreign master.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>“People are the safeguard of state power. But you have to be vigilant to save the country, as BNP-Jamaat wants to hand it over to their foreign masters,” he said.</div><div><br></div><div>The minister said this while addressing a meeting at an auditorium of the Jatiya Press Club (JPC) here.</div><div><br></div><div>Bangabandhu Sangskritik Jote (BSJ) organised the discussion marking the 60th birthday of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s youngest son, Shaheed Sheikh Russell.</div><div><br></div><div>Dr Hasan said that the BNP knows very well that they will not be able to go to power through an election. Their ultimate goal is to hatch a conspiracy to topple Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, he said.</div><div><br></div><div>The information minister said BNP and Jamaat will become extreme Muslims when the polls come, giving different statements against the Awami League. But BNP and Jamaat are not concerned about the real problem of Muslims. He added that they are actually taking sides in favor of Israel, brutality, and war crimes.</div><div><br></div><div>Hasan Mahmud said BNP leaders remain silent when innocent Palestinians and children are being killed like birds. They are silent in fear of annoying big powers; that means they are in favor of Israel, he said.</div><div><br></div><div>Urging the BNP leaders, including Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir, not to act as the leader of the ‘lathiyal bahini’ of Begum Khaleda Zia and Tarique Rahman, the minister said, “Please act as a politician... do work for the country.”</div><div><br></div><div>Hasan said that Mirza Fakhrul, after being elected as a lawmaker in the 2018 election, was barred from taking an oath by his supreme leader. All BNP lawmakers were forced to resign from the parliament at their directives.</div><div><br></div><div>In fact, Hasan Mahmud said that Begum Zia and Tarique Rahman don’t want the other leaders of the party (BNP) to go to the election and be elected as lawmakers.</div><div><br></div><div>The minister said it is not possible to topple the government by holding rallies or forming a human chain. Their same attempt went futile in 2013 and 2014, he said.</div><div><br></div><div>Hasan said the government of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is pledged to hold a free, fair, neutral, and transparent election.</div><div><br></div><div>The people of the country would take part in the next election with enthusiasm, he said, hoping that the BNP would also take part in the poll.</div><div><br></div><div>Earlier, the minister paid glowing tribute to Shaheed Sheikh Russell and prayed for the eternal peace of the departed soul.</div><div><br></div><div>He said Russell was brutally assassinated along with most of his family members, including his father Bangabandhu, on August 15, 1975.</div><div><br></div><div>Dr Hasan said if Sheikh Russell had been alive today, he could have contributed a lot to national life. But the killers did not spare him, he added.</div><div><br></div><div>He said the killing of Russell will remain a heinous crime in history. The trial of the killers has been done, but it is not sufficient. The masks of the kingpins of the brutality, including Ziaur Rahman, should be exposed, said Hasan.</div><div><br></div><div>AL national committee member Advocate Boloram Poddar, Ekushey Padak winner Dr Arup Ratan Chowdhury, Dhaka Union of Journalists (DUJ) vice president Manik Lal Ghosh, BSJ leader SD Rubel, journalist Redowan Khandaker, and Muhammad Rokan, among others, addressed the meeting with BSJ executive president Md Rafiqul Alam in the chair. BSJ general secretary Arun Sarker Rana conducted it. - BSS</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-17 14:57:05', '2023-10-17 14:57:05'),
(9716, 9716, '<div><b><br></b></div><div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Inspector General of Police (IGP) Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun on Tuesday called on the field-level police officers to remain alert and perform their duties with caution, maintaining professionalism.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>He also instructed them to perform their responsibilities properly and lawfully and directed them to investigate cases carefully.</div><div><br></div><div>The IGP gave the orders while addressing the day-long Police Headquarters Quarterly Conference at the Bangladesh Police Auditorium at Rajarbagh Police Lines in the capital on Tuesday.</div><div><br></div><div>About the issue of the law and order situation in the upcoming Durga Puja, the IGP said the policemen have to remain alert so that Durga Puja can be observed with religious solemnity. Besides, it has to be ensured that no one spreads rumours.</div><div><br></div><div>The IGP directed the police officers to discharge their duties by maintaining good relations and coordination with all agencies at the field level.</div><div><br></div><div>Additional IGP (Crime and Operations) of the Police Headquarters, Md Atiqul Islam, presented the overall crime situation of the April-June 2023 and July-September 2023 quarters, such as robbery, murder, rape, and women and child abuse, among others, in the conference.</div><div><br></div><div>By reviewing the data of various cases presented in the meeting, it was informed that the incidents of robbery, murder, and rioting have decreased in the two quarters of this year compared to the previous July–September 2022 quarter.</div><div><br></div><div>Additional IGP (Administration) Md. Kamrul Ahsan and Additional IGP of Special Branch Md Monirul Islam also addressed the conference.</div><div><br></div><div>Among others, additional IGPs, heads of various units of Dhaka Police, all Metropolitan Police Commissioners, Range DIGs, and District Superintendents of Police (SPs) attended the conference. According to UNB reports </div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-17 16:03:06', '2023-10-17 16:04:25'),
(9717, 9717, '<p style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Wednesday paid homage to Shaheed Sheikh Russell, the assassinated youngest son of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, to mark his 60th birthday.</span><br></p><p style=\"text-align: justify; \">Russel, the youngest brother of Hasina, was brutally killed along with Bangabandhu and most of his family members in a carnage on August 15 in 1975. He was then only 10 years old and a grade four student at University Laboratory School.</p><p style=\"text-align: justify; \">October 18 is observed as Sheikh Russel Day as per a Cabinet Division decision taken in 2021.</p><p style=\"text-align: justify; \">On Wednesday morning, the prime minister along with her younger sister Sheikh Rehana went to Banani graveyard and placed wreath on the grave of Russel. They also spread flower petals on the graves of all martyrs of Bangabandhu’s family.</p><p style=\"text-align: justify; \">Hasina and Rehana offered fateha and joined a special munahat seeking eternal peace of the departed souls of the Farher of the Nation Bangabandhu, Bangamata and other martyrs of the August 15 carnage.</p><p style=\"text-align: justify; \">The two daughters of Bangabandhu escaped the mayhem as they were travelling abroad at that time.</p><p style=\"text-align: justify; \">Russell was born on October 18 in 1964 at the historic Bangabandhu Bhaban at Dhanmondi road number 32 in the capital. He was named after Bangabandhu\'s favourite writer, renowned philosopher and Nobel laureate Bertrand Russell, by Bangabandhu himself and Bangamata Sheikh Fazilatun Nesa Mujib.</p><p style=\"text-align: justify; \">To mark the day, government bodies, ruling Awami League, its associate bodies and different socio-cultural organisations have taken up various programmes at home and abroad. UNB</p><p style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/khPM Hasina remembers Sheikh Russel on his birthday</p><p style=\"text-align: justify; \">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Wednesday paid homage to Shaheed Sheikh Russell, the assassinated youngest son of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, to mark his 60th birthday.</p><p style=\"text-align: justify; \">Russel, the youngest brother of Hasina, was brutally killed along with Bangabandhu and most of his family members in a carnage on August 15 in 1975. He was then only 10 years old and a grade four student at University Laboratory School.</p><p style=\"text-align: justify; \">October 18 is observed as Sheikh Russel Day as per a Cabinet Division decision taken in 2021.</p><p style=\"text-align: justify; \">On Wednesday morning, the prime minister along with her younger sister Sheikh Rehana went to Banani graveyard and placed wreath on the grave of Russel. They also spread flower petals on the graves of all martyrs of Bangabandhu’s family.</p><p style=\"text-align: justify; \">Hasina and Rehana offered fateha and joined a special munahat seeking eternal peace of the departed souls of the Farher of the Nation Bangabandhu, Bangamata and other martyrs of the August 15 carnage.</p><p style=\"text-align: justify; \">The two daughters of Bangabandhu escaped the mayhem as they were travelling abroad at that time.</p><p style=\"text-align: justify; \">Russell was born on October 18 in 1964 at the historic Bangabandhu Bhaban at Dhanmondi road number 32 in the capital. He was named after Bangabandhu\'s favourite writer, renowned philosopher and Nobel laureate Bertrand Russell, by Bangabandhu himself and Bangamata Sheikh Fazilatun Nesa Mujib.</p><p style=\"text-align: justify; \">To mark the day, government bodies, ruling Awami League, its associate bodies and different socio-cultural organisations have taken up various programmes at home and abroad. UNB</p><p style=\"text-align: justify; \">bnbd24/kh</p>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-18 07:12:39', '2023-10-18 07:12:39'),
(9718, 9718, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>A public rally of BNP has begun in front of its Nayapaltan central office with the participation of a huge number of leaders and activists of the party and its associate bodies.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>The rally arranged by BNP’s Dhaka south and north city units formally began around 1:55 pm on Wednesday with the recitation from the holy Quran.</div><div><br></div><div>The rally is meant to mount pressure on the government to accept the party’s one-point demand which includes the resignation of the government and the unconditional release of party chief Khaleda Zia for her treatment abroad.</div><div><br></div><div>BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir will address the programme as the chief guest with the party’s Dhaka South city unit convener Abdus Salam in chair.</div><div><br></div><div>From the rally, Fakhrul is supposed to announce to hold a grand rally in Dhaka on October 28. He is also likely to give the government the last warning to accept their one-point demand to avoid fierce agitation.</div><div><br></div><div>BNP leaders and activists have started gathering before the party’s Nayapaltan central office with processions carrying banners, festoons, placards, and portraits of the party’s top leaders from different parts of Dhaka since Wednesday morning to join the rally.</div><div><br></div><div>The roads and alleys stretching from Fakirapul to Bijoynagar were crowded with BNP activists, halting traffic in the area. The expanding rally crowd spilled over onto nearby roads streets and spaces.</div><div><br></div><div>Apart from BNP, like-minded political parties and alliances are also arranging separate rallies in different city areas to press home the one-point demand.</div><div><br></div><div>A large number of members of law enforcement agencies have been deployed in the Nayapaltan area to maintain law and order.</div><div><br></div><div>Meanwhile, BNP senior joint secretary general Ruhul Kabir Rizvi alleged that the government tried to create panic among the BNP leaders and activists by arresting some party leaders and activists on Tuesday night ahead of the rally.</div><div><br></div><div>“But the government could not prevent our leaders and activists from joining the rally. Our rally has already tuned into a human sea,” he said.</div><div><br></div><div>Rizvi claimed that around 60 leaders and activists of their party, including BNP organising secretary Ruhul Quddus Talukder Dulu and Jatiyatabadi Tanti Dal convener Abul Kalam Azad, were arrested by the police in the capital as of Wednesday morning since Tuesday night. According to UNB reports </div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div><div><br></div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-18 08:50:42', '2023-10-18 08:51:32'),
(9719, 9719, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>The winners of the \"Battle of the Bands\" were announced at the 8th National Cultural Festival held at Notre Dame College in Dhaka.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Various competitions were the attractions of the festival organized by Notre Dame College Cultural Club.</div><div><br></div><div>Among these, the band music competition \"Battle of the Bands\" took the spotlight.</div><div><br></div><div>The finale of the “Battle of the Bands” took place on Friday (October 14), the final day of the three-day festival.</div><div><br></div><div>A total of 40 bands of school- and college-level students from all over the country participated in the competition.</div><div><br></div><div>After the preliminary selection, eight bands advanced to the final round. The \"Battle of the Bands\" was won by the band \"Protocol\". The second place went to \"Adyantar\" and the third place was won by \"Nam Chhyara Band\".</div><div><br></div><div>Popular musicians AK Rahul, Naveed Ehsan, and Sagar Ahmed Chowdhury were the judges in the final episode of “Battle of the Bands”.</div><div><br></div><div>The rest of the finalists in this battle of the bands under-18s were - Escape, Earblues, Rhythmless, Ancora, and Sound Pollution. Accoridng to UNB reports </div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'Entertainment', '[\"13\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-18 10:11:01', '2023-10-18 10:12:12'),
(9720, 9720, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Wednesday reiterated her call to the world leaders to come forward to stop the ongoing wars and arm races for the sake of the global welfare.&nbsp;</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>“The wars and arms race can’t bring the welfare of the people,” she said referring to Russia-Ukraine war and Tuesday’s bombing of a Palestine hospital that caused huge casualties.</div><div><br></div><div>The premier made the call while addressing the inauguration of Sheikh Russel Day-2023 and the awarding-ceremony of Sheikh Russel Medal-2023 at Bangabandhu International Conference Centre here in the city.</div><div><br></div><div>The event was organised to mark the 60th birthday of Sheikh Russel, the youngest son of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. Russel was one of the martyrs of the August 15 tragedy when he was just 10 years old.</div><div><br></div><div>Hasina said the children and women are the worst victims of the wars.&nbsp; Now Israel has started attack on Palestine. Many children were killed in Tuesday’s bombing attack on a hospital. The bloodstained images of children were seen there. Children were also killed in Israel, she added.</div><div><br></div><div>She said they can understand the pain and sufferings of the people who are losing their parents and children in the wars as they --- two sisters Sheikh Hasina and Sheikh Rehana--- had to lead such life and stay as refugees in foreign lands after 1975 bloodbath.</div><div><br></div><div>“So, we don’t want war. I call upon ... to stop the war,” said the prime minister.</div><div><br></div><div>She said the money&nbsp; spent for arms production and races should be used for ensuring food, healthcare and development of the world\'s children. “It is our demand. I also demand it,” she added.</div><div><br></div><div>“We want peace. Because, peace brings development and war causes destruction. We don’t want destruction, rather want development and peace,” she said, adding that Bangladesh has always been working for peace.</div><div><br></div><div>Focusing on her government’s steps for the welfare of children and success, Hasina said they took all necessary measures for the development of children. So, the rates of child mortality and maternal mortality declined as well as food and nutrition security was ensured for them, she said.&nbsp; &nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>She said the government has been working so that the children can be groomed properly by joining sports and cultural practices alongside education from their childhood.</div><div><br></div><div>“I’ve built Bangladesh as Digital Bangladesh. We want peace and progress of the country,” she said.</div><div><br></div><div>The PM asked the children to pursue their study as well as obey parents and the loved ones. “The education is the main strength for a person,” she said.</div><div><br></div><div>PM Hasina said she and her younger sister Rehana told their children that they can\'t leave nothing like money and assets for them and asked them to pursue education. They (their children) in fact pursued education and obtained the degrees from world-renowned universities, she added.</div><div><br></div><div>She said now their children are working behind the screen for the development of the country like building Digital Bangladesh, development of autistic children and various development programmes of the government.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>“They don’t come to the limelight. They’ve been working behind the screen for the country and its interests. They’ve been assisting us for the welfare of the country,” she said.</div><div><br></div><div>The premier asked the children to nurture a high aspiration to take the country forward making themselves worthy citizens and staying away from militancy, terrorism and drugs.</div><div><br></div><div>Talking about her government’s vision to make the country Smart Bangladesh by 2041, she said today’s children and adolescents would be soldiers of the Smart Bangladesh and would lead the country at that time.</div><div><br></div><div>The PM said the government will set up a Sheikh Russel digital lab in every school in phases throughout the country.</div><div><br></div><div>State Minister for Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Zunaid Ahmed Palak presided over the event, while ICT Division Secretary Md. Shamsul Arefin, acting president of Sheikh Russel Jatiyo Shishu Kishore Parishad Secretary Chowdhury Nafiz Sharafat, its secretary general KM Shahidullah, organizing secretary Fariduddin Ahmed Ratan and child speaker Amira Nayer Chowdhury spoke on the occasion.</div><div><br></div><div>A video message from Indian Colonel (retd) Ashok Kumar Tara, who had a good relation with Sheikh Russel, a video documentary on Sheikh Russel and a theme song marking Sheikh Russel Day-2023 were played at the event, moderated by organising secretary of the parishad Barrister Jahangir Hossain Rony.</div><div><br></div><div>In the function, the premier opened a number of projects and unveiled the foundation stones of some other projects of the ICT Division by swapping a smart card.</div><div><br></div><div>PM Hasina also unveiled a book titled “Sraroner Aborone Sheikh Russel” featuring his childhood.</div><div><br></div><div>The Sheikh Russel Day-2023 is being observed with the theme \"Sheikh Russell Diptimoy, Nirvik Nirmal Durjoy” (Sheikh Russel was enlightened, fearless and indomitable).</div><div><br></div><div>Russel was born on October 18, 1964, at the historic Bangabandhu Bhaban at Dhanmondi.</div><div><br></div><div>At the function, the premier distributed the Sheikh Russel Medal-2023 and Smart Bangladesh Medal-2023, as well as prizes of different painting, sports and cultural completions.</div><div><br></div><div>Inspector General of Police (IGP) Chowdhury Abdullah Al Mamun (on behalf of Bangladesh Police) and deputy commissioners (DCs) of Chittagong, Cox\'s Bazar, Dhaka, Panchagarh and Thakugaon districts received the Smart Bangladesh Padak-2023 from the prime minister. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-18 10:20:43', '2023-10-18 10:20:43'),
(9721, 9721, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>BNP on Wednesday announced to hold a grand rally in the capital on October 28 as part of the party’s final phase of action programme of their ongoing movement to topple the government.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir came up with the announcement at a rally in front of it’s Nayapaltan central office.</div><div><br></div><div>“It is our partial programme, will start our great journey from the grand rally, “ said Fakhrul&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>“Many obstacles will come, we’ll have to make our movement a success braving all these obstacles,” said the BNP leader.</div><div><br></div><div>Earlier, a public rally of BNP began in front of its Nayapaltan central office with the participation of a huge number of leaders and activists of the party and its associate bodies.</div><div><br></div><div>The rally is meant to mount pressure on the government to accept the party’s one-point demand which includes the resignation of the government and the unconditional release of party chief Khaleda Zia for her treatment abroad.</div><div><br></div><div>Apart from BNP, like-minded political parties and alliances are also arranging separate rallies in different city areas to press home the one-point demand. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-18 12:20:20', '2023-10-18 12:20:20'),
(9722, 9722, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Gas supply will remain suspended for 7 hours in different areas of Dhaka city on Thursday.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>According to Titas Gas Transmission and Distribution Company Limited, gas supply will remain off in those areas from am10 am to 5 pm for all categories of customers for emergency pipeline replacement works.</div><div><br></div><div>The areas included the north side of the railway line up to Moghbazar-Mouchak-Malibagh railgate, Nayatola, Gabtala, Greenway, Payarabag , Madhubag, Moghbazar T&amp;T Colony, Jahabox Lane, and Mirbagh.</div><div><br></div><div>The adjoining areas may experience low pressure in gas supply, said the Titas Gas regretting the temporary inconvenience of the consumers. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-18 12:36:56', '2023-10-18 12:36:56'),
(9723, 9723, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi has agreed to open the Rafah crossing into Gaza to allow a first batch of around 20 humanitarian aid trucks through, US President Joe Biden said Wednesday.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"He agreed to... let up to 20 trucks through to begin with,\" Biden told reporters after calling Sisi from Air Force One while returning from a visit to Israel, where he was showing solidarity over the October 7 Hamas attacks.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The shipment would likely not cross until Friday, as the road at the crossing needed repairs, Biden said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"They\'re going to patch the road. They have to fill in potholes to get these trucks through. And that\'s going to occur -- they expect it\'ll take about eight hours tomorrow,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The first 20 trucks will be a test of a system for distributing aid without allowing the Palestinian militant organization Hamas, which controls Gaza, to benefit, the US president said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The United Nations is set to distribute aid on the Gaza side of the border.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"If Hamas confiscates it or doesn\'t let it get through or just confiscates it, then it\'s going to end, because we\'re not going to be sending any humanitarian aid to Hamas if they\'re going to be confiscating it. That\'s the commitment that I\'ve made,\" Biden said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He added that the 20 trucks represented a \"first tranche,\" but \"150 or something\" trucks are waiting in total. Whether the rest are allowed to cross will depend on \"how it goes.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Biden had been due to meet Sisi on Wednesday at a four-way summit in Jordan, but it was canceled after a deadly strike on a Gaza hospital that caused anger across the Arab world.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said he had instead talked to Sisi from Air Force One for about half an hour.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"The bottom line is that he (Sisi) deserves some real credit because he was very accommodating,\" the US president added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Biden characterized his trip to the war zone as a success and said that while expressing US support for ally Israel, he was \"very blunt with the Israelis\" on the need to allow aid into Gaza.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"If you have an opportunity to alleviate the pain, you should do it. Period. And if you don\'t, you\'re going to lose credibility worldwide. And I think everyone understands that,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Asked by journalists about reports that his administration had told Israel that US forces would fight alongside Israeli troops in response to any attack by the powerful Lebanese movement Hezbollah against Israel, Biden said this was \"not true.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">However, he said that \"our military is talking with their military about what the alternatives are\" in the event of a Hezbollah attack. 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, '2023-10-19 06:51:42', '2023-10-19 06:51:42'),
(9724, 9724, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has relaxed several targets including foreign exchange reserves, revenue collection, automatic price adjustment of fuel for the $4.70 billion loan package for Bangladesh.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">At the beginning of this year, the IMF had set forex reserves target at $25.34 billion by September and $26.81 billion by June next year as conditions for the loan package.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">According to BPM6 – reserve calculation method – Bangladesh’s forex reserves stand at $21.15 billion.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On a net basis, this amount has further decreased to below $18 billion.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In this situation, the Finance Division officials requested the IMF to relax the target for forex reserves.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Considering the request, the IMF has relaxed the target. Bangladesh has committed to keep the reserves at $18.4 billion at the end of December this year, and at $20 billion at the end of June next year.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Last Tuesday and Wednesday, the visiting IMF delegation discussed the issues with the relevant officials of the Finance Division of the Ministry of Finance.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sources in the Finance Division said that after discussion, IMF agreed on being flexible on some conditions. Finance Secretary Md. Khairuzzaman Majumder led the meeting on behalf of the government. The IMF mission was led by Rahul Anand, head of the IMF’s Asia-Pacific division. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bndb24/kh</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-19 06:54:54', '2023-10-19 06:54:54'),
(9725, 9725, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">In another development milestone Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Thursday (October 19, 2023) opened 150 newly constructed bridges in 39 districts and 14 newly constructed overpasses of the Roads and Highways Department simultaneously.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>She also unveiled the foundation stones of 1,100-metre Kewatkhali Bridge and 1,471-metre Rahmatpur Bridge over Brahmaputra river in Mymensingh, while opened newly constructed DTCA Bhaban for Dhaka Transport Coordination Authority, BRTA Automated Motor Vehicle Fitness Test Centre of Bangladesh Road Transport Authority, BRTC Bus Depot and Training Centre of Bangladesh Road Transport Corporation as well as conferred the financial assistance to the road accident victims.</div><div><br></div><div>The premier inaugurated these infrastructures through a virtual platform from a programme in Sarak Bhaban in the city’s Tejgaon area.  The audiences were also connected virtually from Mymensingh Circuit House Ground and BRTA Office in Mirpur.</div><div><br></div><div>She also unveiled a mural of Bangabandhu in Sarak Bhaban, the office of Roads and Highways Department.</div><div><br></div><div>In less than one year since the simultaneous inauguration of 100 bridges across the country, the prime minister opened 150 more bridges  -- 40 bridges in Mymensingh Division, 32 in Dhaka Division, 27 in Chattogram, 22 in Rajshahi, 12 in Khulna, eight each in Barishal and Rangpur and one in Sylhet division.</div><div><br></div><div>Total length of the 150 bridges is 9.45km and the total length of 14 overpasses — eight in Rajshahi Division and six in Rangpur Division — is 689 meters.</div><div><br></div><div>The 1100-metre Kewatkhali bridge, which is set to be the largest steel-arch bridge in the country, will be constructed at a cost of Tk 3263.63 crore, while the 1471-metre Rahmatpur bridge will be constructed at a cost of Tk 358 crore by June 2025.</div><div><br></div><div>On 7 November 2022, PM Hasina opened the 100 bridges in 25 districts. The total length of the bridges was 5.5km.</div><div><br></div><div>Among the 150 bridges constructed with a total cost of Tk 3,287 crore, the notable ones include Garakola and Nayarhat bridges in Gopalganj, Chapair bridge in Gazipur, Titas bridge in Brahmanbaria, Muhuri bridge in Feni, Matamuhuri bridge in Cox’s Bazar, Machrong bridge in Barishal, Tulalampur bridge in Narail, Simakhali bridge in Magura, Arialkhar bridge in Bogura, Bahagili bridge in Nilphamari, Chatak-Surma bridge in Sylhet.</div><div><br></div><div>Eight of the new overpasses were constructed on Elenga-Hatikamrul-Rangpur Highway.</div><div><br></div><div>The premier opened the distribution of financial assistance among the road accident victims and family members. A total of 162 victims or family members –-42 persons from Dhaka Division, 39 from Chattogram, 26 from Rajshahi, 18 from Rangpur, 11 from Khulna, 10 each from Mymensingh and Sylhet and  six from Barishal division—received the financial assistance in the function.</div><div><br></div><div>Tk 5 lakh was given for a death victim\'s family, while Tk 3 lakh was provided to a seriously injured person and Tk 1 lakh to an injured person.</div><div><br></div><div>The distribution of the financial assistance among the road crash victims will continue.</div><div><br></div><div>Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader, Chairperson of Parliamentary Standing Committee on the Ministry of Road Transport and Bridges Rowshan Ara Mannan and Secretary of Road Transport and Highways Division ABM Amin Ullah Nuri spoke at the event, while Chief Engineer of Roads and Highways Department Syed Moinul Hasan delivered the welcome speech. According to UNB reports </div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-19 08:59:23', '2023-10-19 15:02:30');
INSERT INTO `news_details` (`id`, `news_id`, `details`, `ticker`, `representative`, `keyword`, `video_link`, `google_drive_link`, `audio_link`, `shoulder`, `created_at`, `updated_at`) VALUES
(9726, 9726, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>The permanent observer of the State of Palestine to the UN on Wednesday expressed disbelief that “some still speak of the right to self-defense of a power that seeks the forced transfer and annihilation” of Palestinians.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Riyad Mansour was speaking during a Security Council meeting to discuss the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. It followed a vote in which the US vetoed a draft resolution that called for “humanitarian pauses” in the conflict and condemned the attack on Israel by Hamas on Oct. 7. As justification for the decision, America’s envoy cited the failure of the resolution to mention “Israel’s right to self-defense.”</div><div><br></div><div>The meeting took place amid the biggest escalation in the war since it began, a day after an attack on Al-Ahli Hospital in Gaza on Tuesday that killed hundreds of patients and civilians who had been asked to shelter in the hospital. Israel accuses the Palestinian armed group Islamic Jihad of carrying out the attack.</div><div><br></div><div>“Had this council called for a ceasefire two days ago, it would have saved hundreds of lives,” Mansour told council members, referring to a previous draft resolution proposed by Russia on Monday. It had also called for a ceasefire on humanitarian grounds but was similarly voted down by the council. Those members who voted against it cited as their reason its failure to mention Hamas.</div><div><br></div><div>“Stop the bloodshed. I repeat, stop the bloodshed,” Mansour told the council, adding that “killing Palestinians will never, never make Israel more secure.”</div><div><br></div><div>He urged members to “heed the call of the UN secretary-general, of religious leaders around the world, the Pope, the Arab states, Muslim countries of the global south, billions of people around the world, including millions who marched in your streets. Listen to them and stop the bloodshed. Stop it now.”</div><div><br></div><div>Speaking on behalf of Gulf Cooperation Council member states, Omani envoy Mohammed Al-Hassan told the Security Council that its failure to stand united has resulted only in more bloodshed.</div><div><br></div><div>“For decades, this council has been unable to find a lasting, fair solution to the question of Palestine on the basis of the international law, including resolutions adopted by the council itself. The result is victims on both sides and full lack of security,” he said</div><div><br></div><div>He added that “double standards have led Israel to defy this council and its resolutions. Countless times, (Israel) has committed massacres against Palestinians.”</div><div><br></div><div>The massacre at Al-Ahli Hospital is a “dangerous escalation, and a violation of international law and international humanitarian law,” Al-Hassan said.</div><div><br></div><div>“Israel (is) tearing Palestinian civilians to pieces before the eyes of the world. Isn’t this a terrorist act and a flagrant violation of international law?” he asked the ambassadors.</div><div><br></div><div>“Israeli criminal acts, from causing famine to collective punishment, were practiced by Nazis in World War II and have no place in today’s world.”</div><div><br></div><div>He called for the council to uphold international law and added: “Prove to us that no one is above the law, even if it’s Israel.”</div><div><br></div><div>Speaking on behalf of the Arab Group at the UN, Jordanian envoy Mahmoud Hmoud said Arab countries condemn “in the strongest terms the massacre by the criminal IDF (Israel Defense Forces) of innocent civilians who were receiving care” in Al-Ahli Hospital. Israel is solely responsible for “this heinous war crime,” he added.</div><div><br></div><div>Hmoud, whose country currently holds the rotating presidency of the Arab Group, urged the Security Council to take “immediate action for an immediate ceasefire and end Israeli aggression on Gaza.”</div><div><br></div><div>He said the Israeli occupation is the reason that lies behind this conflict, and called for an independent Palestinian state to be established based on 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital, “if we want peace and security.”</div><div><br></div><div>Egypt’s permanent representative to the UN, Osama Abdelkhalek, described the attack on Al-Ahli Hospital as an “attempt to uproot Palestinian people and drive them away from their territority.”</div><div><br></div><div>He added: “This war did not begin on Oct. 8 but much earlier than that. It began when occupation began.”</div><div><br></div><div>He warned that “occupation cannot go on. Israel’s crimes cannot be overlooked.”</div><div><br></div><div>Gilad Erdan, Israel’s ambassador to the UN, asked council members: “What is going on here? The most barbaric terrorist attacks in decades, bigger than 9/11, happened 10 days ago and it seems this council has already forgotten it, and I must remind some of you what happened.</div><div><br></div><div>“Hamas killed Holocaust survivors who escaped Nazis only to be killed in their living room.”</div><div><br></div><div>Dismissing calls for a two-state solution, he said the only solution for “curing a cancer is the evisceration of every cancerous cell, just as it was done with ISIS and Al-Qaeda.” ISIS is an alternative name for the terrorist group Daesh.</div><div><br></div><div>Erdan condemned the Security Council for not having done “the most basic thing,” adding: “You have not condemned, as a council, Hamas’ brutal terror attacks. It is unfathomable that you cannot unite even on that basic thing.”</div><div><br></div><div>He also accused council members of playing “the exact role that Hamas has written for you in their script of death and terror.”</div><div><br></div><div>He added: “Where was the UN when Hamas exploited billions of dollars in international aid to embed terror infrastructure within and below densely populated residential areas? Where were you? The UN knew all of this but remained silent.”</div><div><br></div><div>Erdan said it is “ludicrous” that the council is discussing humanitarian corridors instead of condemning Hamas atrocities.</div><div><br></div><div>“Calling for calm restraint and a ceasefire is like putting a band aid on a bullet wound,” he added.</div><div><br></div><div>Regarding the attack on Al-Ahli Baptist Hospital on Tuesday, Erdan accused the Security Council, and UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, of taking claims made by “baby-killing terrorists at face value, without a second thought.”</div><div><br></div><div>The hospital was hit by, “and only by,” a Palestinian Islamic Jihad rocket, he added, and Israel has footage to prove this “beyond any doubt.” According to Arab News reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-19 10:40:15', '2023-10-19 10:40:15'),
(9727, 9727, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Thursday labeled BNP as a “terrorist party that kills people.”</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>“BNP is a terrorist party and a party that kills people. They everyday want our resignation and topple us through movement. It’s fine. Let them continue their movement,” she told an event at Sarak Bhabhan in the city’s Tejgaon area.</div><div><br></div><div>The premier said she won’t like to call BNP as an opposition party as it has no representation in the4 parliament. “In a democratic system the opposition party is the one which has seats in parliament,” she said.</div><div><br></div><div>The premier was addressing the programme arranged to mark the opening of 150 newly constructed bridges in 39 districts and 14 newly constructed overpasses of the Roads and Highways Department simultaneously.</div><div><br></div><div>She said the government has no objection to BNP’s movement, but will act tough against any possible arson violence for the sake of protecting the people.</div><div><br></div><div>“I don’t have any objection if they wage movement…. But they can’t be allowed to cause any harm to the people.&nbsp; I think you all should be vigilant to some extent in this regard,” she said.</div><div><br></div><div>She said it is fine that BNP and Jamaat are now waging movement. “If they go for setting bus on fire, I’ve asked all, including police and intelligences to take action instantly so that they can’t cause any harm to the people and can go for arson violence,” she added.</div><div><br></div><div>The PM said she won’t like to call BNP as an opposition party as the opposition party is one who has seats in Parliament in a democratic system.</div><div><br></div><div>She said she has nothing other than the people. “I lost all --parents and brothers. I have nothing to lose. My only goal is to ensure welfare of the people of my country. We’ve tirelessly been doing so,” she said.</div><div><br></div><div>Noting that BNP secured only 29 seats in the 2008 general election and later another in the by-election, she said its 30 seats out of 300 constituencies reflected the sorry state of their acceptance to the people.</div><div><br></div><div>“Now they say many things about free and fair election. Everything of them –words and works – is destructive. I would like to warn the people of the country about the matter,” she said.</div><div><br></div><div>The prime minister said the development works and achievements should not be spoiled.</div><div><br></div><div>In the function,&nbsp; Hasina also unveiled the foundation stones of 1,100-metre Kewatkhali Bridge and 1,471-metre Rahmatpur Bridge over Brahmaputra river in Mymensingh, opened newly constructed DTCA Bhaban for Dhaka Transport Coordination Authority, BRTA Automated Motor Vehicle Fitness Test Centre of Bangladesh Road Transport Authority, BRTC Bus Depot and Training Centre of Bangladesh Road Transport Corporation as well as conferred the financial assistance to the road accident victims.</div><div><br></div><div>The PM inaugurated the infrastructures through a virtual platform from a programme, while the audiences were also connected virtually from Mymensingh Circuit House Ground and BRTA Office in Mirpur in the capital. - UNB</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-19 11:03:29', '2023-10-19 11:03:29'),
(9728, 9728, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Despite a promising start, Bangladesh struggled to set a challenging total against India in their World Cup 2023 clash in Pune on Thursday.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>Bangladesh won the toss and chose to bat first.</div><div><br></div><div>They managed to score 256 for eight in their allotted 50 overs. While Bangladesh were off to a strong start, reaching 90 for none after the 14th over, it was anticipated that they would surpass the 300-run mark.</div><div><br></div><div>In the initial 10 overs, Bangladesh accumulated 63 runs without losing a wicket. Litton Das and Tanzid Hasan Tamim laid a solid foundation after a somewhat shaky start in the first 4-5 overs. At the five-over mark, Bangladesh was at a mere 10 runs.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>The following five overs saw an acceleration, with Bangladesh scoring 53 runs—well over 10 runs per over.</div><div><br></div><div>Tanzid’s performance was particularly impressive. He achieved his inaugural fifty in just 41 balls, including three sixes and five fours. This marked the first half-century by a Bangladesh opener in this World Cup.</div><div><br></div><div>However, Litton, after hitting a fifty, struggled to accelerate when Bangladesh needed it most. He fell victim to a loose shot towards long on.</div><div><br></div><div>The middle-order, including Najmul Hossain Shanto and Mehidy Hasan Miraz, failed to impress, indicating that frequent changes in their batting positions may have impacted their performance.</div><div><br></div><div>Towhid Hridoy made a somewhat steady start, but despite playing 35 balls, he never looked settled in the middle. He made 16.</div><div><br></div><div>While Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammad Siraj were impressive, each taking two wickets, Bumrah conceded 41 runs in 10 overs, while Siraj gave away 60 off his 10 overs.</div><div><br></div><div>Mushfiqur Rahim and Mahmudullah Riyad promised a strong partnership in the last 10 overs, but with Mushfiqur’s dismissal, Bangladesh missed that opportunity. He fell for 38. Mahmudullah played until the second ball of the last over. He survived a close call with an lbw appeal off the first ball of the last over.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>In the next ball, one of the best in the innings, Mahmudullah lost his stumps to Bumrah, illustrating a textbook yorker.</div><div><br></div><div>Before falling to Bumrah, Mahmudullah hit 46 off 36 balls, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure even at the age of 37— which nearly barred him from participating in this World Cup.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Shorfiul Islam hit a big six off the last ball of the innings, bringing Bangladesh\'s total to 256.</div><div><br></div><div>While not a massive total, it provides Bangladesh\'s bowlers with something to defend.</div><div><br></div><div>Bangladesh are playing without their regular captain Shakib Al Hasan, who suffered a muscle injury in the last match against New Zealand and was ruled out of this game. Nasum Ahmed was added to replace him. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'Sports Desk', '[\"20\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-19 13:58:12', '2023-10-19 13:58:12'),
(9729, 9729, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Habibur Rahman on Thursday said that there is no specific security threat during the Durga puja and all necessary measures have been taken in this regard.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>“There is no specific threat in the Dhaka metropolitan area on the occasion of puja. However, our plan has been taken keeping all kinds of concerns in mind and we are ready to deal with all kinds of threats,” he said.</div><div><br></div><div>He made the remarks while replying to a question from reporters after visiting the Dhakeshwari Central Puja mandap in the capital\'s Old Dhaka on Thursday.</div><div><br></div><div>The DMP commissioner said adequate measures have been taken to provide security in all of 248 mandaps across Dhaka metropolitan area.</div><div><br></div><div>Durga puja, the biggest festival of Hindu community in the country, will begin with Shasthi puja on October 20 and will end with Vijaya Dashami on October 24.</div><div><br></div><div>Security measures will be taken out throughout the period from Maha Shashti to Vijaya Dashami with the help of security forces including Bangladesh Ansar.</div><div><br></div><div>\"Plainclothes police have also been deployed. We have had several meetings with the puja organizers. We hope to be able to complete the puja festival perfectly in the next five days,\" said the DMP chief.</div><div><br></div><div>All 248 mandaps have been divided into two categories in terms of importance, he said adding, “We have kept only seven puja mandaps in the less important category and all the remaining puja mandaps have been given utmost importance in terms of security.”</div><div><br></div><div>Referring to the Dhakeshwari Puja mandap, the DMP commissioner said, “Since it is the central puja mandap and the Prime Minister comes here during the Durga puja, special security arrangements have been made here.”</div><div><br></div><div>There will be archways and special teams at every location. CCTV cameras have been arranged in every puja mandap, he added.</div><div><br></div><div>Replying to another question, Habibur Rahman said some groups always try to destroy communal harmony using online platforms to achieve their vested interests.</div><div><br></div><div>Dhaka Metropolitan Police has taken measures to prevent it, he added.</div><div><br></div><div>The DMP commissioner has urged the puja organising committees to complete immersion of idols within the stipulated time.</div><div><br></div><div>Dhaka Mahanagar Sarbajanin Puja Committee president Manindra Kumar Nath, general secretary Ramen Mondal, additional commissioner of DMP and senior officials of DMP were present on the occasion. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-19 14:21:29', '2023-10-19 14:21:29'),
(9730, 9730, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi on Thursday claimed that many of the ruling Awami League leaders have started fleeing the country sensing that they will not be able to hold the next polls unilaterally using the law enforcers.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>“Election by using the police will no longer be held in the country. The people of the country won’t let it happen. We’ve heard many of their (AL’s) leaders and activists have started leaving the country,” he said.</div><div><br></div><div>Speaking at a press conference at the party’s Nayapaltan central office, the BNP leader also said many other Awami League leaders, including its general secretary Obaidul Quader, have already collected visas in their passports to leave the country anytime.</div><div><br></div><div>Rizvi said the ruling party leaders and activists know it very well that people will not cast their votes for the boat, the election symbol of the Awami League. “Only police can give their votes to ensure the victory of Sheikh Hasina and Awami League, but voters won’t do this.\"</div><div><br></div><div>He also said Sheikh Hasina was elected by the votes of police in 2014 and 2018. “They (AL leaders) are trying to hold that type of election in the coming days. But that plan will not be implemented this time. It won\'t be possible to hold the next election by force.&nbsp; As the Awami League leaders and workers understood it, they kept their visas ready as they might leave the country anytime.”</div><div><br></div><div>The BNP leader said it is the tradition and trait of the Awami League to usurp power by holding unilateral elections and snatching the people’s rights.</div><div><br></div><div>He said people have woken up to regain ownership of the country and get back the voting rights snatched by the Awami League.</div><div><br></div><div>Rizvi said the government has got so afraid of losing power that it arrested over 300 leaders and workers of BNP and its associate bodies centring Wednesday’s public rally of the party in the capital.</div><div><br></div><div>“The government took a foul strategy to obstruct our leaders and activists from joining our rally. But what have they gained? A mass wave was created at Nayapaltan yesterday (Wednesday) foiling all the nasty strategies of the government,” he said.</div><div><br></div><div>He strongly condemned and protested the arrest of the BNP leaders and activists and demanded their immediate release. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-19 14:36:09', '2023-10-19 14:36:09'),
(9731, 9731, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Israeli airstrikes pounded locations across the Gaza Strip on Thursday, including parts of the south that Israel had declared as safe zones, heightening fears among more than 2 million Palestinians trapped in the territory that nowhere was safe.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>In the nearly two weeks since a devastating Hamas rampage in southern Israel, the Israeli military has relentlessly attacked Gaza in response. Even after Israel told Palestinians to evacuate the north and head to what it called “safe zones” in the south, strikes continued across the territory overnight and Palestinian militants continued firing rockets into Israel.</div><div><br></div><div>A residential building in Khan Younis, a city in southern Gaza where hundreds of thousands of Palestinians had sought shelter, was among the places hit. Medical personnel at Nasser Hospital said they received at least 12 dead and 40 wounded.</div><div><br></div><div>The bombardments came after Israel agreed Wednesday to allow Egypt to deliver limited humanitarian aid to Gaza, the first crack in a punishing 11-day siege. Many of Gaza\'s residents were down to one meal a day and drinking dirty water.</div><div><br></div><div>The announcement of a plan to bring water, food and other supplies into Gaza came as fury over a Tuesday night explosion at Gaza City’s al-Ahli Hospital spread across the Middle East. There were conflicting claims of who was behind the blast, which health authorities in Hamas-run Gaza said had killed hundreds of Palestinians.</div><div><br></div><div>Hamas officials in Gaza blamed an Israeli airstrike. Israel denied it was involved and released a flurry of video, audio and other information that it said showed the blast was caused by a rocket misfire by Islamic Jihad, another militant group operating in Gaza. Islamic Jihad dismissed the Israeli claim.</div><div><br></div><div>The Associated Press has not independently verified any of the claims or evidence.</div><div><br></div><div>U.S. President Joe Biden, who visited Israel on Wednesday, said data from his Defense Department showed the explosion was not likely caused by an Israeli airstrike. The White House later said an analysis of “overhead imagery, intercepts and open-source information” showed Israel was not behind the attack. But the U.S. continues to collect evidence.</div><div><br></div><div>Video from the scene showed the hospital grounds strewn with torn bodies, many of them young children. Hundreds of wounded were rushed to Gaza City’s main hospital, where doctors already facing critical supply shortages were sometimes forced to perform surgery on the floors, without anesthesia.</div><div><br></div><div>More than 1 million Palestinians, roughly half of Gaza’s population, have fled their homes in Gaza City and other places in the northern part of the territory since Israel told them to evacuate. Most have crowded into U.N.-run schools-turned-shelters or the homes of relatives.</div><div><br></div><div>Following airstrikes early Thursday, sirens wailed as emergency crews rushed to rescue survivors from a building in Khan Younis, where many residents were believed trapped under misshapen bed frames, broken furniture and cement chunks.</div><div><br></div><div>A small, soot-covered child, unconscious and dangling in the arms of a rescue worker, was taken out of a damaged building and rushed toward a waiting ambulance.</div><div><br></div><div>Gaza’s Hamas-led government said several bakeries in the territory were hit in the overnight strikes, making it even harder for residents to get food.</div><div><br></div><div>The Israeli military said it killed a top Palestinian militant in Rafah, near the Egyptian border, and hit hundreds of targets across Gaza, including militant tunnel shafts, intelligence infrastructure and command centers. It said it also hit dozens of mortar-launching posts, most of them immediately after they launched shells at Israel. Palestinians have launched barrages of rockets at Israel since the fighting began.</div><div><br></div><div>Israel has said it is attacking Hamas militants wherever they may be in Gaza, and accused the group’s leaders and fighters of taking shelter among the civilian population, leaving Palestinians feeling in constant danger.</div><div><br></div><div>The Musa family fled to the typically sleepy central Gaza town of Deir al-Balah and took shelter in a cousin’s three-story home near the local hospital. But at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, a series of explosions, believed to be airstrikes, rocked the building, turning the family home into a mountain of rubble that they said buried some 20 women and children.</div><div><br></div><div>The dead body of Hiam Musa, the sister-in-law of Associated Press photojournalist Adel Hana, was recovered from the wreckage Wednesday evening, the family said. They don’t know who else is under the rubble.</div><div><br></div><div>“It doesn’t make sense,” Hana said. “We went to Deir al-Balah because it’s quiet, we thought we would be safe.”</div><div><br></div><div>The Israeli military said it was investigating.</div><div><br></div><div>In northern areas that Israel warned to evacuate, airstrikes also hit three residential towers in al-Zahra, the Hamas-led Interior Ministry in Gaza said, as well as homes along the border with Israel. Israel has massed troops in the area and is expected to launch a ground invasion into Gaza, though military officials say no decision has been made.</div><div><br></div><div>The Gaza Health Ministry said 3,785 people have been killed in Gaza since the war began, the majority of them women, children and older adults. Nearly 12,500 others were injured, and another 1,300 people were believed buried under the rubble, health authorities said.</div><div><br></div><div>More than 1,400 people in Israel have been killed, mostly civilians slain during Hamas’ deadly incursion on Oct. 7. Roughly 200 others were abducted. The Israeli military said Thursday it had notified the families of 203 captives.</div><div><br></div><div>Violence between Israel and Hezbollah militants in Lebanon has also flared in recent days amid fears the Hamas-Israel conflict could spread across the region. In the West Bank, where scores of Palestinians have been killed since the war started, 10 Palestinians were killed over last two days, nine by Israeli forces and one by a settler, according to the Palestinian Health Ministry.</div><div><br></div><div>The deal to get aid into Gaza remained fragile, while hospitals in the sealed territory say they are on the verge of collapse.</div><div><br></div><div>Biden said Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi agreed to open the Rafah crossing to let in an initial group of 20 trucks with humanitarian aid. If Hamas confiscates aid, “it will end,” he said. The aid was expected to start moving Friday at the earliest, White House officials said.</div><div><br></div><div>Egypt must still repair the road across the border, which was cratered by Israeli airstrikes. More than 200 trucks and some 3,000 tons of aid are positioned at or near the crossing, Gaza’s only connection to Egypt, said the head of the Red Crescent for North Sinai, Khalid Zayed.</div><div><br></div><div>Supplies will go in under supervision of the U.N., Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry told Al-Arabiya TV. Asked if foreigners and dual nationals seeking to leave would be let through, he said: “As long as the crossing is operating normally and the (crossing) facility has been repaired.”</div><div><br></div><div>Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said the decision was approved after a request from Biden. It said Israel “will not thwart” deliveries of food, water or medicine from Egypt, as long as they are limited to civilians in the south of the Gaza Strip and don’t go to Hamas militants. The statement made no mention of fuel, which is badly needed for hospital generators.</div><div><br></div><div>Relatives of some of the people who were taken hostage and forced back to Gaza during the Oct. 7 Hamas attack reacted with fury to the aid announcement.</div><div><br></div><div>“Children, infants, women, soldiers, men, and elderly, some with serious illnesses, wounded and shot, are held underground like animals,” said a statement from the Hostage and Missing Families Forum. But “the Israeli government pampers the murderers and kidnappers.”</div><div><br></div><div>In his brief visit, Biden tried to strike a balance between showing U.S. support for Israel, while containing growing alarm among Arab allies. He also announced $100 million in humanitarian aid for Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank.</div><div><br></div><div>King Abdullah II of Jordan planned to meet in Egypt with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi to discuss the conflict. The two countries have peace agreements with neighboring Israel and are dealing with anger from their populations over the hospital blast.</div><div><br></div><div>British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak arrived in Israel on Thursday in a trip aimed at showing solidarity after the Hamas attack and preventing the war from escalating.</div><div><br></div><div>The people of Israel had “suffered an unspeakable, horrific act of terrorism and I want you to know that the United Kingdom and I stand with you,” he said on arriving. Accoridng to AP reports </div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-19 15:19:53', '2023-10-21 15:54:59'),
(9732, 9732, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Durga Puja, the biggest religious festival of the Hindu community, is set to begin on Friday with Maha Sashthi puja at temples across the country.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Preparations at all the puja mandaps have nearly been completed.</div><div><br></div><div>Centering the festival, devotees and artisans are busy in decorating the temples and pandals across the country.</div><div><br></div><div>A mood of festivities persists among the devotees irrespective of ages marking the festival while adequate security measures have already been taken in the puja pandals across the country.</div><div><br></div><div>The five-day festival starts with \'Bodhon\' of the Goddess Durga marking Sashthi while the festival will come to an end with the immersion of the idols of the Goddess Durga in the nearby rivers and water bodies across the country on October 24.</div><div><br></div><div>Earlier, on October 16, Police Headquarters issued&nbsp; an advisory to the Hindu community for the smooth celebration of Durga Puja, the biggest festival of Hindu community in the country.</div><div><br></div><div>The PHQ urged the Hindu community to remain aware about those involved in spreading rumour in the social networking sites including Facebook, YouTube and Twitter in a bid to harm religious harmony.</div><div><br></div><div>It also asked the puja organisers to set up separate entry ways for female and male devotees.</div><div><br></div><div>All were asked to refrain from carrying any bags at the puja mandaps.</div><div><br></div><div>It also asked to ensure CCTV cameras and fire extinguishers and established archways in important puja Mandaps.</div><div><br></div><div>The PHQ also asked the authorities concerned to keep sufficient lights on the immersion day and keep generator, charger lights standby for any emergency, if possible.</div><div><br></div><div>It also asked the authorities concerned to appoint volunteers for security.</div><div><br></div><div>The PHQ also asked to refrain from firecrackers during puja.</div><div><br></div><div>It also asked to use designated routes for immersion of idols and ensure attendance of volunteers at the Puja mandaps.</div><div><br></div><div>In any emergency, PHQ asked to call the police headquarters, DMP control room or Rapid Action Battalion control room.</div><div><br></div><div>The control room numbers are—01320001299, 01320001300, 01-55102666, 02-223381188, 02-47119988, 01320037845-46, 02-48963117 and 01777720029.</div><div><br></div><div>Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Habibur Rahman on Thursday said that there is no specific security threat during the Durga puja and all necessary measures have been taken in this regard.</div><div><br></div><div>“There is no specific threat in the Dhaka metropolitan area on the occasion of puja. However, our plan has been taken keeping all kinds of concerns in mind and we are ready to deal with all kinds of threats,” he said.</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-19 15:57:55', '2023-10-19 15:57:55'),
(9733, 9733, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">&nbsp;China has more than 500 operational nuclear warheads in its arsenal and will probably have over 1,000 warheads by 2030, the Pentagon said in its annual report on Beijing’s military that was released on Thursday.</span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Despite the growing number of China’s nuclear weapons, they are still much lower than what Russia and the US have.</div><div><br></div><div>The US has a stockpile of about 3,700 nuclear warheads, of which roughly 1,419 strategic nuclear warheads were deployed.</div><div><br></div><div>Russia has about 1,550 nuclear weapons deployed and according to the Federation of American Scientists, a stockpile of 4,489 nuclear warheads.</div><div><br></div><div>In the wide ranging report, the Pentagon said China’s more than 500 warheads as of May 2023 were on track to exceed projections.</div><div><br></div><div>In a previous report, the Pentagon estimated that Beijing had more than 400 operational nuclear warheads in 2021.</div><div><br></div><div>“We see the PRC (People’s Republic of China) continuing to quite rapidly modernise and diversify and expand its nuclear forces,” a senior US official told reporters during a briefing on the report.</div><div><br></div><div>“What they’re doing now if you compare it to what they were doing about a decade ago, it really far exceeds that in terms of scale and complexity,” the official said.</div><div><br></div><div>The report added that China’s Navy had more than 370 ships and submarines, up from the 340 ships they had last year.</div><div><br></div><div>The expanding naval force is central to President Xi Jinping’s bid to make China the preeminent military power in the region and Beijing already has the largest Navy in the world.</div><div><br></div><div>The report reiterated concern about pressure by Beijing on self-ruled Taiwan, an island China sees as a breakaway province.</div><div><br></div><div>Relations between China and the US have been tense, with friction between the world’s two largest economies over everything from Taiwan and China’s human rights record to its military activity in the South China Sea.</div><div><br></div><div>But Washington has been eager to revive military-to-military communications with China.</div><div><br></div><div>Last week the Pentagon said it had accepted an invitation to attend China’s top annual security forum in late October, the latest sign of potentially warming ties between the two countries’ militaries. - Reuters&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-19 16:00:00', '2023-10-19 16:00:00'),
(9734, 9734, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Bangladesh Bank (BB) expects to receive $681 million in the second tranche of a $4.7 billion loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) in December, after the global lender of last resort\'s board meeting.</span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Executive Director and Spokesperson of BB Md Mezbaul Haque on Thursday in a briefing on the IMF and the central bank meeting disclosed as much.</div><div><br></div><div>He said the IMF had several conditions and the BB worked with these conditions, some of the conditions already have been met.</div><div><br></div><div>However, in the last meeting, both sides agreed on several issues. So, it is expected that Bangladesh will receive the second part of the loan of $681 million. The IMF will decide on this in its board meeting in December, he said.</div><div><br></div><div>In response to a query, the spokesperson said: \"The IMF had given us some conditions while approving the loan. Some of these conditions are fulfilled. There are failures in two areas. These are – low foreign exchange reserves and a shortfall of revenue collection.\"</div><div><br></div><div>“But many of the IMF’s desires have been met. The financial stability report of the banks was supposed to be released, but the central bank released it. Reserves are being calculated as per BPM-6,” Mezbaul said.</div><div><br></div><div>Besides, market-determined exchange rates of currencies were introduced. New rules of interest have been introduced, he said.</div><div><br></div><div>In January this year, the IMF approved a loan proposal of USD $4.70 billion to Bangladesh. In the first part of the loan, Bangladesh received $476.2 million last February. - UNB</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-19 16:03:37', '2023-10-19 16:03:37'),
(9735, 9735, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">President Joe Biden made an impassioned call for the United States to show global leadership by backing Israel and Ukraine, saying in a speech from the Oval Office Thursday that defeating Hamas and Russia was a vital US interest.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Biden, 80, said he would make an \"urgent\" request to Congress on Friday for funding to help Ukraine and Israel, arguing that this was an investment for the United States\' future on the world stage for decades to come.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"American leadership is what holds the world together,\" Biden said in just the second primetime speech to the nation of his presidency from behind the historic Resolute Desk.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Hamas and Russian President Vladimir Putin \"represent different threats, but they share this in common: They both want to completely annihilate a neighboring democracy,\" he added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We cannot and will not let terrorists like Hamas and tyrants like Putin win. I refuse to let that happen.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Fresh from a whirlwind trip to Israel this week, the Democratic president wants to win over war-weary voters and hardline Republicans as he ramps up his 2024 reelection bid.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">His 15-minute speech was a call to Americans to overcome deep political divisions and unite behind support for two conflicts that he said posed a critical threat to the US despite being an ocean away.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">- \'Beacon to the world\' -</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We can\'t let petty partisan angry politics get in the way of our responsibility as a great nation,\" said Biden said, with the Stars and Stripes and a flag of the US presidential seal behind him.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"America is a beacon to the world. Still. Still,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Biden also called for an end to a surge in both anti-Semitism and anti-Muslim prejudice in the United States, especially after the killing of a six-year-old Palestinian-American boy in an alleged hate crime linked to the Israel-Hamas conflict.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"To all of you hurting, I want you to know, I see you,\" he said. \"You\'re all American.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The White House is said to be teeing up a huge request to Congress for a package of more than $100 billion. The package includes $60 billion for weapons for Ukraine and $14 billion for Israel, the New York Times reported.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It also includes $7 billion in security assistance for Taiwan and the Indo-Pacific region to counter threats from China, $14 billion for security on the southern US border with Mexico and $10 billion in humanitarian aid for conflict zones, it said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Biden said the money was a \"smart investment that\'s going to pay dividends for American security for generations.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Presidents traditionally reserve speeches from the solemn setting of the Oval Office for moments of key national significance.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Biden\'s only previous address from there was in June when he hailed a deal with Congress to avert what would have been a catastrophic US debt default.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">- \'Appetite for power\' -</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">But Congress has now been paralyzed for more than two weeks as divided Republicans, who hold the majority in the House, fail repeatedly to agree on electing a House speaker.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Hard-right Republicans, and a growing number of voters, are also strongly opposed to adding to the $43.9 billion in security assistance that the United States has committed to Ukraine since Moscow launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Just before the speech, Biden spoke to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, whom he visited on a top secret trip to Kyiv in February.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Zelensky welcomed the recent delivery of ATACMS long-range missiles from the United States, adding: \"Ukraine is grateful for the vital and enduring US support.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In his speech, Biden took aim again and again at Russia\'s Putin, warning that \"if we don\'t stop Putin\'s appetite for power and control in Ukraine, he won\'t limit himself just to Ukraine.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Biden will be hoping his strong tone on the Israel-Hamas war plays well with an eye on US voters where there is strong support for Israel -- even if leftwing Democrats oppose his stance.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In Tel Aviv on Wednesday, Biden backed Israel as it gears up for a ground invasion of Gaza after the October 7 attacks by Hamas which killed more than 1,400 people.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">But he also brokered a deal to get some aid through Egypt into the Gaza Strip, where Israeli bombing since has killed at least 3,785 Palestinians, most of them civilians, according to the Hamas health ministry.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The threat of a wider Middle Eastern conflict meanwhile looms in the background.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The United States has already moved two aircraft carriers into the eastern Mediterranean to deter Iran or Lebanon\'s Hezbollah, both allies of Hamas, from getting involved. 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, '2023-10-20 08:35:33', '2023-10-20 08:35:33'),
(9736, 9736, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Shahab Uddin has underscored the need for mutual exchange of the benefit of advanced green technologies among all the developing Muslim countries aiming to drive a wider structural shift and foster sustainable transition in particularly climate vulnerable countries like Bangladesh.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Public funds from multilateral sources have to be prioritized...the benefit of clean, green, and advanced green technologies needs to be shared with all the developing Muslim countries for the greater benefit of climate vulnerable countries like Bangladesh,\" Shahab Uddin said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The minister made this appeal while attending the 9th conference of Environment Ministers in Saudi Arabia\'s port city Jeddah on Thursday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We look forward to enhance our collaboration in the areas of environment, climate change and energy\", he told the first scientific session of the conference titled \'Green Transformation in the Islamic World: Challenges and Opportunities\'.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;\"We urge Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization or ICESCO, a specialized organization, to consolidate our partnership to ensure environment-friendly green growth and make the world a safer and better place for our future generation,\" Shahab Uddin added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The minister said Bangladesh government strongly condemns atrocities by occupying Israel forces in Palestine, Indiscriminate Killing of civilian people, Large Scale destruction causing unprecedented sufferings of millions of Philistines in front of the Whole world.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The government of Bangladesh, under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, is trying its best to make the country climate resilient, the minister noted.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Abdulrahman Al-Fadley, Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Dr. Salim M. Almalik, Director General of ICESCO were present on the occasion.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Iqbal Abdullah Harun, additional secretary (admin), Mohammad Abdul Wadud Chowdhury, (joint secretary-environment), and Md. Akhteruzzaman, Private Secretary to the minister were present at the function. 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, '2023-10-20 08:54:11', '2023-10-20 08:54:11'),
(9737, 9737, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Saturday expressed deep shock and sorrow over the death of Patuakhali -1 constituency MP and former state minister for religious affairs&nbsp; advocate Md Shahjahan Mia.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In a condolence message, she said Shahjahan Mia was a dedicated leader of Bangladesh Awami League.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He performed various responsibilities of the party, including as the president of Patuakhali district Awami League, with loyalty, she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“At his death, the party lost a skilled politician. I have lost a loyal political comrade.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Prime Minister prayed for the eternal peace of the departed soul and expressed sympathy to the bereaved family members. UNB</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, '2023-10-21 07:57:52', '2023-10-21 07:57:52');
INSERT INTO `news_details` (`id`, `news_id`, `details`, `ticker`, `representative`, `keyword`, `video_link`, `google_drive_link`, `audio_link`, `shoulder`, `created_at`, `updated_at`) VALUES
(9738, 9738, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Saturday&nbsp; warned against any sort of anarchy and vandalism in the name of movement, saying her government will not tolerate destructive activities.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Referring to the street protests by BNP-Jamaat and their allies the premier said, \"Let them do their agitation programmes.\"</div><div><br></div><div>\"But if they again start arson terrorism, destructive activities, if any one engages in criminal activities, we will not spare them, and that\'s the reality,” she declared.</div><div><br></div><div>The PM was addressing a Lawyers’ Grand Rally organised by Bangabandhu Awami Ainjibi Parishad at historic Suhrawardy Udyan after inaugurating the newly constructed 15-storey building of Bangladesh Bar Council.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>She said in the 29 years from 1975-1996 and 2001-2008 the people of Bangladesh saw no change for their betterment.</div><div><br></div><div>“Those in power were busy to change their own fate. They did nothing for the people of the country. The people\'s condition started improving only after Awami League came&nbsp; to&nbsp; power ,” she said.</div><div><br></div><div>&nbsp;Hasina, also the chief of ruling Awami League, said that she never does politics for her own gain.</div><div><br></div><div>“I do politics for the welfare of the people of this country,” she said.</div><div><br></div><div>Convener of Bangabandhu Awami Ainjibi Parishad Advocate Yusuf Hossain Humayun, member secretary of Bangabandhu Awami Ainjibi Parishad Barrister Sheikh Fazle Noor Taposh, Bangladesh Bar Council chairman Abu Mohammad Ami&nbsp; Uddin, Vice-Chairman Syed Rezaur Rahman, Legal Affairs Secretary Advocate Najibullah Hiru and Law and Justice Division Secretary Md Golam Sarwar also spoke at the rally.</div><div><br></div><div>The prime minister unveiled the cover of a book titled ‘ Bangabandhu’s Legal Philosophy’ published by the Law Ministry.</div><div><br></div><div>A video documentary on various features of the newly opened Bangladesh Bar Council building was screened at the programme.</div><div><br></div><div>The PM also witnessed a cultural programme organised by Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-21 09:21:03', '2023-10-21 09:21:03'),
(9739, 9739, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Saturday urged a \"humanitarian ceasefire\" in the Gaza war between Israel and Hamas and called for global \"action to end this godawful nightmare\".</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>The war has left thousands dead and displaced a million Palestinians, who Guterres said need \"much more\" than the 20 trucks that were entering the besieged territory of 2.4 million people.</div><div><br></div><div>The Palestinians need \"a continuous delivery of aid to Gaza at the scale that is needed\", he told regional leaders at Cairo\'s \"Summit for Peace\". - AFP&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-21 11:09:54', '2023-10-21 11:09:54'),
(9740, 9740, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Habibur Rahman today said that DMP will take decisive action against anyone attempting to incite violence during BNP\'s rally on October 28.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>He said this while responding to questions from reporters at the Uttara Metro Rail Station after inspecting the activities of the MRT police, responsible for metro rail security.</div><div><br></div><div>Habibur Rahman said, “Bangladesh is a democratic country, and according to the constitution, political parties have the right to peacefully organise political events, processions, and gatherings. In such instances, the police are responsible for providing security. However, if anyone attempts to exploit the October 28 programme as a pretext for violence, and pose a threat to the lives and properties of Dhaka\'s 2.24 crore residents, DMP will take strict measures to maintain law and order.”</div><div><br></div><div>Addressing rumours surrounding BNP\'s programme on October 28, he noted that there are groups with vested interests disseminating false information to mislead the public.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>“These rumours extend beyond the October 28 event and are being propagated on various social media platforms, including Facebook and YouTube. We believe the people of Dhaka and the entire country will remain vigilant against rumours. Electronic and print media will have to play a crucial role. We will dispel misinformation and ensure the safety of lives and property,” the DMP chief said.</div><div><br></div><div>Regarding the threat of violence, he mentioned that similar incidents occurred in 2013/14, not only in Dhaka but across the entire country.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>“During those times, the Bangladesh police thwarted them and defeated the terrorists. In the future, the people and the police will unite against any such attempt, Inshallah,” he added.</div><div><br></div><div>BNP will hold a grand rally in the capital on October 28 as part of the party’s final phase of ongoing movement against the government. - UNB</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-21 11:40:12', '2023-10-21 11:40:12'),
(9741, 9741, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Humanitarian aid trucks started entering the besieged Gaza Strip from the Rafah crossing in Egypt, reported Egyptian media.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>The relief aid convoy included 20 trucks that carry medicine, medical supplies, and a limited amount of food supplies, Hamas\'s media office said.</div><div><br></div><div>Seven trucks have begun arriving inside Gaza Saturday afternoon, reported the World Health Organization (WHO).</div><div><br></div><div>Supplies included trauma medicines and supplies for 1200 people and 235 portable trauma bags for on-the-spot stabilization of injured patients, the WHO said as it confirmed working with Egyptian and Palestinian Red Crescent Societies to ensure safe passage of supplies.</div><div><br></div><div>Egyptian state TV showed trucks that have been waiting for days entering the border crossing area from Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula.</div><div><br></div><div>Egyptian media earlier said preparations were underway to open the Rafah crossing to allow the passage of trucks carrying humanitarian aid to Palestinians in Gaza.</div><div><br></div><div>Televised footage showed trucks moving towards the crossing in what appeared to be preparation to let trucks carrying humanitarian aid enter Gaza from Egypt.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>An AFP journalist on the Palestinian side of the crossing saw 36 empty trailers entering into the terminal and heading towards the Egyptian side, where they were to be loaded with the incoming aid.</div><div><br></div><div>Hamas said that expected truckloads of aid ‘will not change the catastrophic medical conditions in Gaza’.</div><div><br></div><div>The US Embassy in Israel said the Gaza-Egypt border may open on Saturday, suggesting that such a move would enable foreigners to leave the besieged Palestinian enclave.</div><div><br></div><div>In a social media post, the embassy said it had “received info” that the Rafah crossing would open at 10 a.m. (0700GMT).&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>“We do not know how long it will remain open for foreign citizens to depart Gaza,” it added.</div><div><br></div><div>Israel blockaded the territory and launched waves of punishing airstrikes following the Oct. 7 rampage by Hamas militants on towns in southern Israel.</div><div><br></div><div>Many in Gaza, reduced to eating one meal a day and without enough water to drink, are waiting desperately for the aid. Hospital workers were also in urgent need of medical supplies and fuel for their generators as they treat huge numbers of people wounded in the bombings.</div><div><br></div><div>Hundreds of foreign passport holders also waited to cross from Gaza to Egypt to escape the conflict.</div><div><br></div><div>Israel and Palestinian militants traded fire on Saturday after Hamas released an American woman and her teenage daughter, the first of some 200 captives to be freed after the militant group’s Oct. 7 rampage into Israel.</div><div><br></div><div>Israel has sealed off the territory for two weeks, forcing Palestinians to ration food and to drink filthy water from wells. Hospitals say they are running low on medicine and fuel for emergency generators amid a territory-wide blackout.</div><div><br></div><div>A line of empty flatbed trucks could be seen moving on the Gaza side, perhaps in preparation for bringing in the desperately needed aid.</div><div><br></div><div>The release came amid growing expectations of a ground offensive that Israel says is aimed at rooting out the militant group, which has ruled Gaza for 16 years. Israel said Friday it does not plan to take long-term control over the tiny territory, home to some 2.3 million Palestinians. - Arab News&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas&nbsp;</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-21 12:05:10', '2023-10-21 12:05:10'),
(9742, 9742, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>At least two civilians were killed and others wounded across Ukraine as Russian forces continued to shell frontline areas and other parts of the country, local Ukrainian officials reported Saturday.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>In Kryvyi Rih, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy\'s hometown in central Ukraine, a 60-year-old man died on Friday evening when a Russian missile slammed into an industrial facility, according to Telegram posts by Mayor Oleksandr Vilkul. Vilkul added that the man\'s wife was hospitalized with serious shrapnel wounds.</div><div><br></div><div>Early on Saturday, Vilkul reported that Russian missiles and drones overnight hit the same site again, causing unspecified damage and sparking a fire that was put out by morning. Vilkul did not elaborate on the site\'s nature or whether it was linked to Ukraine\'s war effort. He said nobody was hurt in the second strike.</div><div><br></div><div>In Ukraine\'s front-line Kherson region in the south, one civilian was killed and another suffered wounds as Russian forces launched “mass shelling” attacks, Gov. Oleksandr Prokudin reported on Saturday. In a Telegram post, Prokudin said that Russian troops used mortars, artillery, tanks, drones, and multiple-rocket launchers to target the province, striking some residential areas.</div><div><br></div><div>Russian shelling over the past day also wounded one civilian in the front-line city of Avdiivka, in Ukraine’s eastern Donetsk region, acting local Gov. Ihor Moroz reported on Saturday. Avdiivka has been fiercely contested by Russian and Ukrainian forces over the past weeks as Kyiv’s forces try to hold off waves of Russian attacks. Moroz said that exploding drones, missiles, mortars and artillery shells fired by Russian troops also struck other parts of the province.</div><div><br></div><div>In the northeastern Kharkiv region, a 39-year-old civilian man was hospitalized with wounds as Russian shelling hit two village homes near the embattled town of Kupiansk, local Gov. Oleh Syniehubov reported on Saturday. Russian forces have for weeks been pressing an offensive to retake territory near Kupiansk and the nearby town of Lyman.</div><div><br></div><div>Local Ukrainian authorities also reported Russian attacks on Friday and overnight on the northern Sumy and southern Zaporizhzhia provinces, but made no mention of casualties. - AP&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-21 12:16:20', '2023-10-21 12:16:20'),
(9743, 9743, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Myanmar’s ruling junta ordered air strikes and troop reinforcements as it tried to recover lost outposts near the Chinese border from rebels, the military said.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>The toppling of Aung San Suu Kyi’s civilian government in a 2021 coup sparked a huge backlash and the military junta is now battling opponents across swathes of the country.</div><div><br></div><div>The Kachin Independence Army (KIA) attacked Myanmar military positions around Muse district in northern Shan state on Thursday and near the remote town of Laiza in Kachin state yesterday.</div><div><br></div><div>The military was forced to retreat yesterday afternoon and ordered air strikes, as well as artillery and troop reinforcements, the junta said in a statement shortly before midnight yesterday.</div><div><br></div><div>The KIA said today that the military had counter-attacked with air strikes and ground artillery.</div><div><br></div><div>It added that the junta had suffered some fatalities in the latest clashes this week but did not provide a death toll.</div><div><br></div><div>“We seized a lot of guns and other equipment from the military,” KIA colonel Naw Bu told AFP.</div><div><br></div><div>The KIA controls large parts of the Christian-majority Kachin state and has clashed with Myanmar’s military for decades.</div><div><br></div><div>The region has seen intense fighting since the coup, and the junta accuses the KIA of training People’s Defence Forces that have sprung up in resistance.</div><div><br></div><div>Muse lies on the path of a proposed US$8.9 billion high-speed rail link from China’s landlocked Yunnan province to Myanmar’s west coast, a key part of Beijing’s Belt and Road Initiative.</div><div><br></div><div>The junta has been accused of carrying out multiple bloody attacks on civilians as it struggles to crush resistance to its 2021 coup.</div><div><br></div><div>Nearly 30 people were killed and dozens were wounded this month after a military strike on a camp for displaced people near Laiza.</div><div><br></div><div>Amnesty International said the deadly attack on the camp was likely the result of the Myanmar military using a large unguided aerial-delivered bomb, while the junta blamed the explosion on a store of rebel bombs. According to AFP reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-21 12:24:16', '2023-10-21 12:24:16'),
(9744, 9744, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>A crucial meeting on climate “loss and damages” ahead of COP28 ended in failure today, with countries from the global north and south unable to reach an agreement, according to sources involved in the talks.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>The agreement to set up a dedicated fund to help vulnerable countries cope with climate “loss and damage” was a flagship achievement of last year’s COP27 talks in Egypt.</div><div><br></div><div>But countries left the details to be worked out later.</div><div><br></div><div>A series of talks held this year have tried to tease out consensus on fundamentals like the structure, beneficiaries and contributors – a key issue for richer nations who want China to pay into the fund.</div><div><br></div><div>A transition committee on the establishment of the fund met late yesterday and today in Aswan, in southern Egypt.</div><div><br></div><div>But the delegates were unable to reach an agreement and deferred the decision to another meeting due Nov 3 to 5 in the UAE, according to a webcast of the debate on the official YouTube channel of the United Nations.</div><div><br></div><div>Ahead of the breakdown, the discussion hit a hurdle over where the funds should be held.</div><div><br></div><div>There was a divide over it being managed by the World Bank, accused of being in the hands of the west, or in a new independent structure, called for by many developing nations, but would be time consuming and complex to replenish with new funds.</div><div><br></div><div>The failure “is a clear indication of the deep chasm between rich and poor nations”, Harjeet Singh, head of global political strategy for Climate Action Network International, said in a statement to AFP today.</div><div><br></div><div>“Developed countries must be held accountable for their shameless attempts to push the World Bank as the host of the fund, their refusal to discuss the necessary scale of finance, and their blatant disregard for their responsibilities” under the terms of already established international climate agreements, he said.</div><div><br></div><div>Rachel Cleetus with the Union of Concerned Scientists said that “today’s disappointing outcome is a blow to communities … facing an unrelenting onslaught of climate impacts”, reports AFP.</div><div><br></div><div>“The US and other rich countries seem more focused on evading or minimising their responsibility than engaging in good faith negotiations,” she told.</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-21 12:28:24', '2023-10-21 12:28:24'),
(9745, 9745, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Information and Broadcasting Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud on Saturday said vultures have turned their attention on the country when it is moving forward.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>“The country has to be protected from these vultures and the crows of politics,” he said while addressing the prize distribution ceremony of the cultural competition organised by Bangabandhu Shishu-Kishor Mela of Chattogram North District at Shilpakala Academy Auditorium in the port city of Chattogram on Saturday afternoon.</div><div><br></div><div>\"When Ziaur Rahman formed the BNP, leaders of different parties gathered like crows to accept the evil. They are the crows of politics. When the eyes of foreign vultures have fallen on the country, the crows of politics have become their allies,” said Hasan, also Awami League Joint General Secretary.</div><div><br></div><div>\"BNP will start the journey to topple the government on October 28, on December 10 last year, it wanted to start the journey to topple the government from front of the Nayapaltan office, it died in the cattle market of Golapbagh,” he added.</div><div><br></div><div>\"This time too, the BNP will start its journey to topple the government and drown in the Jamuna or Buriganga river. And if you do it in Chattogram, it will be submerged in the Karnaphuli River or the Bay of Bengal. In fact, the BNP wants to have a big picnic on the 28. We will send them from the picnic to Buriganga for a boat race,” said the AL leader.</div><div><br></div><div>\"Awami League is a party of people and streets. Awami League was born to fight against misrule. We fought against the dictatorship by being in the opposition for 21 years. We know how to deal with who is on the streets,” said the minister.</div><div><br></div><div>The information minister once again criticised the BNP on the Palestinian issue. Hasan said, “BNP does not talk about the idea that \'vultures\' can be unhappy when the whole world is protesting against crimes against humanity every day, including the killing of children in Palestine, the killing of 800 people in hospital bombings, the killing of 18 people by attacking churches. Even if the \'vultures\' loot all the wealth of the country, BNP will remain silent. They dream of running the country again. The country cannot be handed over to them. We have to protect the country from them.”</div><div><br></div><div>Bangabandhu Shishu-Kishor Mela Central Committee General Secretary Sheikh Moniruzzaman Liton, Vice President Engineer Golam Nowsher Ali, Chattogram North District Adviser Mohammad Akhter Hossain Khan, among others, addressed the function as special guests.</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-21 12:49:23', '2023-10-21 12:49:23'),
(9746, 9746, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Bangladesh\'s dependence on India and China will increase if the United States and potentially other Western countries go for further pressure and sanctions, such as visa bans on top officials, the International Crisis Group has said.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>\"It could also cause the government to increase its dependence on India and China, as the US (and potentially other Western countries) will probably respond with sanctions, such as visa bans on top officials,\" according to the October 2023-March 2024 edition of \"On the Horizon\" report of the Crisis Group.</div><div><br></div><div>The International Crisis Group is an independent organisation working to prevent wars and shape policies aiming for a more peaceful world.</div><div><br></div><div>BNP has declared October 28 for a movement to topple the government and the ruling party Awami League says BNP\'s downfall will start on that day.</div><div><br></div><div>So far, a peaceful atmosphere prevails in the country.</div><div><br></div><div>A disputed election could trigger fierce anti-government protests, according to the International Crisis Group.</div><div><br></div><div>Election-related activities, such as campaigning and voting, could become flashpoints for violent attacks; spillover could also increase from restive states in India’s northeast, it said.</div><div><br></div><div>What to watch for in the coming weeks and months as mentioned by the Crisis Group</div><div><br></div><div>1. A high-stakes and potentially violent election in January 2024.</div><div><br></div><div>2. The ruling Awami League is expected to ignore calls for it to step down and hand power to a caretaker government that would oversee the election.</div><div><br></div><div>3. Rival supporters could clash in street battles or attack party offices or candidates.</div><div><br></div><div>4. Islamist groups could become more active in opposing the government.</div><div><br></div><div>5. Facing the prospect of a disputed poll, the opposition will probably boycott the election and could become radicalised, adopting more violent tactics.</div><div><br></div><div>6. Lack of hope, insecurity and poverty threaten to create a vicious cycle in which desperate Rohingyas – particularly young men – could join criminal gangs and armed groups, further fuelling the violence. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-21 12:56:05', '2023-10-21 12:56:05'),
(9747, 9747, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">From fake accounts impersonating journalists to war-themed video games fueling false narratives, tech platforms are struggling to contain a tsunami of misinformation around Palestinian-Israeli hostilities after rolling back content moderation policies.</span><br></div><div><br></div><div>While major world events typically trigger a deluge of falsehoods, researchers say the scale and speed with which misinformation proliferated online following the weekend\'s deadly assault on Israel by the Palestinian militant group Hamas was unlike ever before.</div><div><br></div><div>The conflict, experts say, offers a grim case study of the diminished ability of prominent platforms such as Meta-owned Facebook and X, formerly known as Twitter, to combat false information in a climate of layoffs and cost-cutting that have gutted trust and safety teams.</div><div><br></div><div>Aggravating the problem on the Elon Musk-owned X, in particular, are a slew of contentious measures such as the restoration of accounts pushing bogus conspiracies and an ad revenue sharing program with content creators that researchers say incentivizes engagement instead of accuracy.</div><div><br></div><div>Experts fear these moves have increased the risk of misinformation provoking real-world harm, amplifying hate and violence especially in a fast-evolving crisis scenario such as the one unfolding in Israel and Gaza.</div><div><br></div><div>\"Social media platforms are struggling to keep up with the constant churn of misinformation and incitements to violence,\" Andy Carvin, from the Atlantic Council\'s Digital Forensic Research Lab (DFRLab), told AFP.</div><div><br></div><div>\"It\'s a trend that\'s been building for some time now, and it\'s only gotten worse with layoffs impacting trust and safety teams, hampering their ability to keep up with the chaos.</div><div><br></div><div>\"And in the case of X, changes to the platform have utterly shattered what was previously one of its greatest strengths -- monitoring breaking news and helping users separate fact from fiction.\" According to AFP reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-21 13:28:22', '2023-10-21 13:28:22'),
(9748, 9748, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Heinrich Klaasen\'s explosive 67-ball 109, complemented by Marco Jansen\'s blistering 42-ball 75, propelled South Africa to a commanding 399/7 in their 50 overs in their ICC World Cup 2023 showdown against England on Saturday in Mumbai.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>This marked the third-highest ODI total for South Africa in World Cup history.</div><div><br></div><div>England won the toss and chose to bowl. While they secured an early wicket in the first over— removing Quinton de Kock for four, it proved to be a misleading sign of things to come.</div><div><br></div><div>Reeza Hendricks and Rassie van der Dussen forged a formidable partnership of 121 runs in the second wicket. Adil Rashid ended Dussen\'s stint to break the stand.</div><div><br></div><div>Aiden Markram, standing in as captain for Temba Bavuma, notched up 42 off 44 balls, but David Miller departed quickly after a 5-run contribution.</div><div><br></div><div>Then came the explosive combination of Klaasen and Jansen, amassing a formidable 151 off 77 balls. Klaasen\'s blistering 69 off 36 balls, along with Jansen\'s dynamic 74 off 41 balls, proved pivotal.</div><div><br></div><div>In the final two overs, they added 31 runs, albeit losing two wickets in the last over delivered by Gus Atkinson.</div><div><br></div><div>Reece Topley shone for England with three crucial wickets, while Atkin and Rashid chipped in with two apiece.</div><div><br></div><div>England never scored more than 338 in the second innings in World Cup history. Reports UNB.</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'Sports Desk', '[\"20\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-21 13:38:42', '2023-10-21 13:38:42'),
(9749, 9749, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan has said the BNP is trying to create instability in the country ahead of the 12th parliamentary election.</span><br></div><div><br></div><div>“They have now become a party detached from people. People have seen how they have set fire, killed people. So the people are not responding to BNP’s call in any way,” he said, while talking to reporters after exchanging views with the officials and employees of Raipur Upazila Administration in Lakshmipur on Saturday afternoon.</div><div><br></div><div>Also read: Govt has no bar for BNP to hold peaceful demonstrations: Home Minister</div><div><br></div><div>The programme was held at Raipur Upazila Parishad auditorium.</div><div><br></div><div>“The BNP has now threatened to bring everything to a standstill. They will terrorise again, they will kill people again. The people of this country do not like these threats. The people of this country have rejected militancy and terrorism forever,” said the minister.</div><div><br></div><div>“So if BNP wants to do something like fire terrorism, killing people, the people will resist them, the people will give them an answer. The government has all the resources to deal with any situation,” he added.</div><div><br></div><div>The home minister said, “BNP’s allegations of disappearance are baseless. The aggrieved people affected by them have filed cases against BNP leaders and activists. They can.”</div><div><br></div><div>Asaduzzaman also pointed to the fact that since the present government came to power, the number of puja pandals has increased every year across the country, including this year. To go with the increase, six lakh Ansar have been deployed along with police to maintain peace and order for the pandals.</div><div><br></div><div>Presided over by Deputy Commissioner Suraiya Jahan, the function was addressed by Lakshmipur-2 (Raipur) MP Advocate Nur Uddin Chowdhury Nayan and Chattogram Range DIG Nur-e-Alam Mina, among others. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-21 14:31:07', '2023-10-21 14:31:07'),
(9750, 9750, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>About 100,000 people joined a pro-Palestinian demonstration in central London today, marching through the British capital to demand an immediate ceasefire in Gaza following the Hamas attack on Israel two weeks ago.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Chanting “Free Palestine”, holding banners and waving Palestinian flags, the protesters moved through London before massing at Downing Street, the official residence and office of British prime minister Rishi Sunak.</div><div><br></div><div>Police estimated 100,000 people had taken part in the “National March for Palestine” demonstration, organised by the Palestine Solidarity Campaign.</div><div><br></div><div>“As a Palestinian who’d like to return home one day, as a Palestinian who has brothers and sisters in Gaza, and family, I wish we can do more but protest is what we can do at the minute,” one woman, who declined to give her name, told Reuters.</div><div><br></div><div>Many of the chants and banners contained strong anti-Israeli slogans, and one protester held a banner with pictures of Sunak, US president Joe Biden, and Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu with the message “Wanted For War Crimes”.</div><div><br></div><div>Police had cautioned before the march that anyone showing support for Hamas, banned as a terrorist organisation in Britain, would face arrest, and any incident of hate crime would not be tolerated.</div><div><br></div><div>The protest appeared peaceful and there were no immediate reports of any arrests.</div><div><br></div><div>Figures yesterday showed there had been a 1,353% increase in anti-Semitic offences this month compared to the same period last year, while Islamophobic offences were up 140%.</div><div><br></div><div>“This has been an issue which has long stimulated passions and we are now all seeing on social media and in our communities, how divisive and polarising the current situation has become,” British foreign minister James Cleverly said at a peace summit in Cairo. Reuters</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-21 15:53:35', '2023-10-21 15:53:35'),
(9751, 9751, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Awami League (AL) General Secretary and Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader said the country\'s minority communities cannot find a more reliable leader than Sheikh Hasina to ensure their equal footing in Bangladesh.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“We were by your side, we are now and will be in the future,” Quader declared, directing his words to the leaders of the Hindu community while visiting the Puja-mandap at Dhakeshwari Temple in Old Dhaka on Saturday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The AL leader also called for strengthening the hands of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to thwart communalism in the country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"There is no one more reliable than Sheikh Hasina in this country for the followers of Sanatan religion (Hinduism). So, the prime minister\'s hands must be strengthened to thwart communalism,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is personally monitoring the situation to ensure Durga Puja passes peacefully. She briefed law enforcement agencies to discharge their duty with utmost importance.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Previously some inauspicious events have troubled the Hindus much. We don\'t want to repeat this anymore. We hope Durga Puja, the largest religious festival of the Hindu community, will be completed peacefully,\" he added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Noting that the general election is knocking at the door, AL general secretary called for unity of all to establish a harmonious society, and stressed that this can only happen under a government led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina again.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Sheikh Hasina must be kept in power to keep this spirit alive,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The AL\'s number two said power would only change hands through elections, and elections will be held according to the constitution.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Mocking BNP leaders for repeatedly announcing deadlines, Obaidul Quader questioned, \"How many days will you give? I tell you, we don\'t have time. On 4th of November, the largest rally in history will be held in Dhaka. I invite you to the inauguration of Metrorail (on Nov. 4).\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Rounding off his assault on the BNP, he said they never implemented any megaproject, rather \'looted the country\'s wealth\'. 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, '2023-10-22 06:07:18', '2023-10-22 06:07:18'),
(9752, 9752, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The Hamas government said Sunday that at least 55 people were killed in overnight raids on the Gaza Strip, after Israel announced it was stepping up strikes.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"More than 55 martyrs,\" the government press office said in a statement on the latest night of bombing in response to the Hamas attacks on Israel on October 7.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It added that more than 30 homes had been destroyed in the hours after an Israeli military spokesman said that raids would be increased. 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, '2023-10-22 06:10:08', '2023-10-22 06:10:08'),
(9753, 9753, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Saturday urged the government to take steps to avoid chaos over the election and overcome the political crisis in a peaceful manner.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Exchanging greetings with the members of the Hindu community at Dhakeshwari Central Puja Mandap, he also said democracy must be restored to establish people’s religious and all other rights.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“Why is there chaos during elections? No one wants it to happen. Why should we face turmoil during the election time even after 52 years (of the country’s birth)? Why do we still need to talk about our right to vote?” the BNP leader said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said the nation had established a system for fair polls under a non-party and neutral caretaker government, but the ruling party has nurtured uncertainty and chaos around elections by revoking that system.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“We have to come out of this crisis with united efforts in a peaceful manner. Let’s get united forgetting all conflicts, vengeance, and jealousy to turn Bangladesh into a lovely and peaceful country,” he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The BNP leader said Bangladesh is a country where communalism or communal incidents are manufactured, but the people themselves are not communal.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said people of all religions fought together during the Liberation War in 1971 and liberated the country by sacrificing their lives. “We had a goal for establishing a truly democratic and independent Bangladesh for all people regardless of their religions.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Fakhrul said BNP has been working to implement this goal and to ensure the equal rights of people of all religions.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He urged all to remain alert so that no one can commit any excesses or create trouble in the name of religion. \"We believe it is possible to protect people’s rights and avoid violence if there is democracy. That’s why we\'re fighting for the restoration of democracy.”</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said their party thinks it will be possible to establish the rights of all and all people will be able to live in peace if Bangladesh can be turned into a democratic state.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The BNP leader said their party believes in religious freedom for all -and even that it does not believe in the notion of religious minorities.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“We believe that everyone who lives in this country are citizens of Bangladesh and their identity is that they are Bangladeshis and they all have equal rights.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“It’s our misfortune that the country has been divided. We don’t want the politics of division as we favour the politics of unity. We believe that the emancipation of Bangladesh is possible when people will have freedom and when democracy will be established,” Fakhrul observed.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On behalf of BNP, Fakhrul visited the Dhakeswari Central Puja Mandap on the occasion of Durga Puja. Fakhrul stayed there for some time and talked to the devotees.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Later, he visited the Banani Puja Mandap and exchanged greetings with the devotees. 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, '2023-10-22 08:40:22', '2023-10-22 08:40:22'),
(9754, 9754, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Sunday said her government is determined to ensure equal rights of all citizens irrespective of their religions and castes.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>“We always believe that everyone in the country irrespective religion and caste will enjoy equal rights,” she said while exchanging greetings with the Hindu devotees at the Durga Puja pandal of Dhakeshwari Temple in the city.</div><div><br></div><div>Durga Puja, the biggest religious festival of the Hindu community, is being celebrated across Bangladesh amid festivities and tight security mounted by the government.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>The premier said all irrespective of religions and castes unitedly fought for the independence of Bangladesh in 1971 and, so all have equal rights here.</div><div><br></div><div>“We all are the children of this soil. We’ll live in this land enjoying our respective rights,” she added.</div><div><br></div><div>The PM asked the Hindu community to pray for Bangladesh and its progress during the festival.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>She said every house has come under electricity coverage and there is food in every family in the today’s Bangladesh. The government has been reaching the healthcare services to the doorsteps of the people. The development has touched every corner of Bangladesh, she added.</div><div><br></div><div>“Ensuring the welfare of the people is our job and sole responsibility. Now our target is to build a ‘Smart Bangladesh’ by 2041 and we’ll be able to accomplish the goal,” she went on.</div><div><br></div><div>Hasina said the Durga Puja is being celebrated in joyful and peaceful manners throughout the country and all the relevant government agencies including police and her party members are working sincerely so no untoward incident happens during the festival.</div><div><br></div><div>“We want this Puja celebration to end peacefully,” she said, adding that the government has taken all the necessary measures for peaceful celebration of the religious festival.</div><div><br></div><div>This time Durga Puja is being celebrated in more than 32,000 puja mandaps throughout the country amid the peaceful environment, she noted.&nbsp; &nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>The prime minister greeted all the Hindu community people in Bangladesh and throughout the world.</div><div><br></div><div>Bangladesh Puja Udjapon Parishad (BPUP) President JL Bhowmik and Mahanagar Sarbajanin Puja Committee President Manindra Kumar Nath spoke on the occasion.</div><div><br></div><div>Dhaka South City Corporation Mayor Sheikh Fazle Noor Taposh, local lawmaker Haji Mohammad Salim, and BPUP General Secretary Dr Nirmal Kumar Chatterjee, among others, were present,</div><div><br></div><div>The annual five-day Sharadiyo Durga puja festival started at temples and makeshift mandaps in the country on Thursday. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-22 09:24:37', '2023-10-22 09:24:37'),
(9755, 9755, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Trashing the ruling party leaders’ comments and all speculations, BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Sunday said their party has only a plan to hold a grand rally peacefully in Dhaka on October 28, not to sit on the streets.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>“It’s (sitting on the streets) completely untrue and propaganda. We didn’t ask our leaders and workers to come to Dhaka and sit on the streets. Rather, we told them after the programme on 28th (October), everyone would go back to their respective places and they would wait for the next programme,” he said.</div><div><br></div><div>Speaking at a press conference at the party’s Nayapaltan central office, the BNP leader also said their party will not announce any such programme for which their leaders and activists will have to stay in Dhaka.</div><div><br></div><div>“Our rally on October 28 will be held completely in a peaceful manner. We can assure you that our grand rally will be concluded very peacefully as we did earlier. We’ll take necessary steps in this regard,” he said.</div><div><br></div><div>Fakhrul urged the police administration not to create any obstacles anywhere unnecessarily centring the rally and not to snatch the opposition’s democratic rights.</div><div><br></div><div>He said they have informed the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) that they want to hold the rally in front of their Nayapaltan party office and it is now the responsibility of the police authorities to ensure necessary security for the programme.</div><div><br></div><div>The BNP leader hoped that leaders and activists of the BNP would be able to come to the rally from across the country without any obstacles and raise their voices in favour of their demand.</div><div><br></div><div>He also called upon the law enforcers not to create any barrier to the opposition’s peaceful movement demanding a free, fair and credible election. If you do that, it will be considered as taking a position against a free and fair election. So, we believe you will keep it in mind and cooperate with us.\"</div><div><br></div><div>Fakhrul said their party has been observing peaceful programmers but the law enforcers have continued filing ‘false’ and ‘ghost’ cases against the opposition leaders and activists.</div><div><br></div><div>He said nothing happened before and after BNP’s rally at Nayapaltan on Thursday, but ‘false’ and ‘fictitious’ cases have been filed against the party leaders and workers.</div><div><br></div><div>“The most shocking thing is that the officials of the law enforcement agencies are threatening to tackle with iron hands if anything happens. If so, then you must take action against those who are filing false cases unlawfully and file cases against the ruling party as the Prime Minister herself issued threats yesterday (Saturday) and Obaidul Quader did it before saying (the opposition’s ) hands will be broken,” the BNP leader said, reports UNB.</div><div><br></div><div>Fakhrul also said the law enforcers have been working with the government in unison to eliminate the opposition instead of taking action against the ruling party’s unlawful activities.</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-22 10:22:55', '2023-10-22 10:22:55');
INSERT INTO `news_details` (`id`, `news_id`, `details`, `ticker`, `representative`, `keyword`, `video_link`, `google_drive_link`, `audio_link`, `shoulder`, `created_at`, `updated_at`) VALUES
(9756, 9756, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Police detectives arrested seven people from seven districts of the country who allegedly looted Tk 48 lakh from a vehicle on Dhaka Elevated Expressway posing as members of Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) on October 10.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>This was the first such daring heist on the newly opened expressway. Though the incident occurred nearly two weeks ago it was made public only when Harun-Or-Rashid, additional commissioner the Detective Branch of DMP held a media briefing on Sunday.</div><div><br></div><div>The expressway was opened to traffic on September 3, a day after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina inaugurated its 22.5KM Kawla-Farmgate stretch.</div><div><br></div><div>During the briefing at the Media Centre of DMP at Minto Road here Harun named the arrestees as Sabuj Mia alias Shyamal, 39, Shahrul Islam alias Sagar, 23, Abu Yusuf, 41, Didar Didar Munshi, 35, Ferdous Wahid, 35, Alamin Duari Dipu, 42, and Daud Hossain Mollah, 39.</div><div><br></div><div>He said the detectives recovered the private car used in the robbery, fake RAB jackets, handcuffs, toy-like pistols, wireless and mobile phone sets, ornaments brought with the looted money and Tk 23.85 lakh in cash.</div><div><br></div><div>The DB officer said the gang had long been robbing in a ‘cutout’ system and even they changed the nameplates of the used vehicles and damaged mobile phone sets.</div><div><br></div><div>On October 10, businessman Sohel Ahmed Sultan’s business accountant Animesh Chandra Saha withdrew Tk 83 lakh from a private bank in Uttara around 3 pm.</div><div><br></div><div>Of them, Tk 35 lakh was given to one Rajon, a representative of Sohel’s business partner Jafar Iqbal, in the bank, he said.</div><div><br></div><div>Later, Animesh and another employee Shahjahan boarding on their own private vehicle were heading towards Banani from the Uttara with rest Tk 48 lakh, Harun said.</div><div><br></div><div>A maroon private car suddenly intercepted Animesh’s vehicle on the Elevated Expressway adjacent to Khilkhet Dental College around 4 pm, the DB chief said.</div><div><br></div><div>Five-six people sporting RAB uniform came out of the maroon car and told Animesh that there were arms in their vehicle, he said, adding that the robbers blindfolded and handcuffed Animesh, Shahjahan and their driver Abul Bashar.</div><div><br></div><div>The robbers looted Tk 48 lakh, one blank cheque and three mobile phone sets from the vehicle and left them at 300-feet area after roaming several roads of Dhaka, he said.</div><div><br></div><div>Later, businessman Sohel filed a case with Khilkhet police station in this regard.</div><div><br></div><div>The DB members identified the robbers with the help of CCTV footage, statements of the plaintiff and using other technologies, he said.</div><div><br></div><div>The robbery led by Sabuj was committed and the looted money was distributed among the robbers, Harun said.</div><div><br></div><div>The robbers used the money in paying house rent, buying gold for wives and gambling and also kept an amount for lawyers as fees to fight in court, the DB officer said, adding that efforts are on to recover the rest of the money.</div><div><br></div><div>Asked whether any member from the RAB was involved with the robbery gang, he said they found no one like that but a court mahuri, who joined the gang during dealing with a case, was found, reports UNB.</div><div><br></div><div>All the arrestees were robbers by profession and are accused in 10 to 15 cases including snatching, robbery, extortion and drugs in 13 districts including Dhaka, he added.</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-22 11:13:08', '2023-10-22 11:13:08'),
(9757, 9757, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>President Mohammed Shahabuddin\'s health condition is gradually improving, said his press secretary Joynal Abedin.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>The president is now in a cabin after his bypass surgery at the National University Hospital in Singapore.</div><div><br></div><div>The president can now move inside the cabin, Joynal Abedin told UNB.</div><div><br></div><div>President Shahabuddin\'s bypass surgery was successfully completed at the hospital on Wednesday under the supervision of eminent cardiac surgeon Professor Dr Kofidis Theodoros.</div><div><br></div><div>Earlier, the president went to Singapore on October 16 for treatment. Accoridng to UNB Reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-22 13:07:57', '2023-10-22 13:07:57'),
(9758, 9758, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Maritime ports of the country have been advised to hoist distant cautionary signal no one as the depression over Westcentral Bay and adjoining area, moved northwestwards and now lies over the same area.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>At 12 pm on Sunday, it was centred about 1025 kms West-Southwest of Chattogram port, 975 kms West-Southwest of Cox’s Bazar port, 910 kms southwest of Mongla port and 905 kms Southwest of Payra port, said a Met office bulletin on Sunday.</div><div><br></div><div>It is likely to move northwestwards and intensify further.</div><div><br></div><div>Maximum sustained wind speed within 44 kms of the depression centre is about 40 kph rising to 50 kph in gusts or squalls.</div><div><br></div><div>Sea will remain moderate near the depression centre.</div><div><br></div><div>All fishing boats and trawlers over the North Bay and deep sea have been advised to remain closed to the coast and proceed with caution till further notice.</div><div><br></div><div>They are also advised not to venture into the deep sea. - UNB</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-22 13:15:56', '2023-10-22 13:15:56'),
(9759, 9759, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The lives of at least 120 newborn babies on incubators in war-torn Gaza\'s hospitals are at risk as fuel runs out in the besieged enclave, the UN children\'s agency warned Sunday.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>More than 1,750 children have already been killed by Israeli strikes launched against the Gaza Strip in retaliation for the October 7 Hamas attacks, according to the Palestinian territory\'s health ministry.</div><div><br></div><div>Hospitals face a dire lack of medicines, fuel and water not only for the thousands wounded in more than two weeks of the war between Gaza militants and Israel but also for routine patients.</div><div><br></div><div>\"We have currently 120 neonates who are in incubators, out of which we have 70 neonates with mechanical ventilation, and of course this is where we are extremely concerned,\" said UNICEF spokesman Jonathan Crickx.</div><div><br></div><div>Power is one of the main worries for the seven specialist wards across Gaza treating premature babies to help with breathing and provide critical support, for example when their organs are not developed enough.</div><div><br></div><div>Israel ordered a complete blockade of the territory after the Hamas attacks, in which the Islamist group killed 1,400 people, mostly civilians, according to Israeli officials.</div><div><br></div><div>Amid widespread electricity cuts, the World Health Organization warned on Thursday that hospitals had already run out of fuel for generators.</div><div><br></div><div>The WHO said that about 1,000 people needing dialysis will also be at risk if the generators stop.</div><div><br></div><div>Twenty aid trucks crossed from Egypt into Gaza on Saturday but there was no fuel in the consignment.</div><div><br></div><div>Israel fears that fuel could help Hamas, although the limited supplies still in Gaza were being diverted to keep the generators for medical equipment running.</div><div><br></div><div>\"If they (babies) are put in mechanical ventilation incubators, by definition, if you cut the electricity, we are worried about their lives,\" the UNICEF spokesman told AFP.</div><div><br></div><div>Gaza\'s health ministry said on Saturday that 130 premature babies were in danger of dying due to the lack of fuel.</div><div><br></div><div>Around 160 women give birth each day in Gaza, according to the UN Population Fund, which estimates there are 50,000 pregnant women across the territory of 2.4 million people.</div><div><br></div><div>While Israel says its strikes are aimed at Hamas, which perpetrated the worst attack against Israel since its creation in 1948, children make up a huge proportion of the 4,385 dead reported by the Hamas-run health ministry.</div><div><br></div><div>Whole families, including pregnant women, have been killed in strikes and each day parents can be seen in devastated streets carrying the bodies of infants in white shrouds.</div><div><br></div><div>Doctors at Najjar hospital in Rafah spoke on Thursday of how they had tried in vain to save an unborn infant from a woman killed in an air strike on her family\'s home.</div><div><br></div><div>Hours earlier, eight children were killed as they slept in a house in Khan Younis in southern Gaza. - AFP&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-22 13:40:33', '2023-10-22 13:40:33'),
(9760, 9760, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The representative of garment workers on Sunday proposed Tk 20,400 as minimum monthly salary while the owners representatives proposed increasing their minimum salary by Tk 2400 to Tk 10400.</span><br></div><div><br></div><div>President of Jatiya Garment Sramik Kormachari League (JGSKL) Sirajul Islam Rony, former president of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) and representative of garment owners Md Siddiqur Rahman submitted their proposals from their respective sides Liaqat Ali Mollah, Chairman of the Minimum Wage Board at his office in Palatan in the capital on Sunday.</div><div><br></div><div>After receiving the proposals from both sides, Liakat Ali said that the labour side is asking for Tk 20,400 and the owner side is asking for Tk 10400. “There is quite a gap in the proposals of both parties.”</div><div><br></div><div>“The fifth meeting of the wage board will be held on November 1. The meeting will propose reducing the gap,” he said.</div><div><br></div><div>Former president of BGMEA Siddiqur Rahman said there is always a difference in the proposals of the workers and the owners.</div><div><br></div><div>He said, “Keeping in mind the state of the global economy and the various contexts of industrial entrepreneurs, we have made this proposal.”</div><div><br></div><div>Highlighting the rationale of the proposal, he said, that after the Covid-19 pandemic, the Russia-Ukraine war, and then the Israel-Hamas war started. All things considered, wages should be increased.</div><div><br></div><div>However, “Since the Chairman has asked to reduce the wage proposal of the workers and owners, we will discuss with the owners as soon as possible and inform them in the next meeting,” he added.</div><div><br></div><div>In addition, private research organization Center for Policy Dialogue (CPD) proposed to make the minimum salary Tk 17565 after evaluating the quality of life of the workers.</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-22 14:48:53', '2023-10-22 14:48:53'),
(9761, 9761, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Six people have been killed and at least 14 injured in a Russian missile attack that hit a postal distribution center in the war-devastated northeastern Ukrainian city of Kharkiv, Ukrainian officials said.</span><br></div><div><br></div><div>“Russian missiles hit the Nova Poshta center — an ordinary civilian object,” President Volodymyr Zelensky said on the Telegram messaging app.</div><div><br></div><div>He posted a video showing s building with windows blown out and construction materials strewn about, with red trucks with Nova Poshta written in Ukrainian in front of it.</div><div><br></div><div>Oleh Synehubov, the governor of the broader Kharkiv region of which the city of Kharkiv is the administrative center, said several of the injured were in serious condition in hospital.</div><div><br></div><div>Those killed and injured were employees of the postal center, Synehubov said on Telegram. Police said the workers did not have time to run to the shelter, because the siren sounded a second before impact.</div><div><br></div><div>Reuters could not independently verify the reports. There was no immediate comment from Russia. Both sides deny targeting civilians in the war that Russia launched against its neighbor in February 2022.</div><div><br></div><div>Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city, was devastated in the early days of Russia’s full-scale invasion.</div><div><br></div><div>Resistance in Avdiivka</div><div>Further south in the east, Ukraine has been trying to stop a new push by Russian forces to gain more territory there, amid Kyiv’s slow and gruelling counteroffensive that has continued for months.</div><div><br></div><div>Moscow’s drive to capture the town of Avdiivka encountered fierce resistance on Saturday, Ukraine’s military said, with defenses bolstered by fortifications erected nearly a decade ago.</div><div><br></div><div>“The enemy is becoming more active, but is incurring heavy losses,” General Oleksandr Tarnavskyi, commander of Ukraine’s troops in the south, said on Telegram.</div><div><br></div><div>Russia’s Defense Ministry, in its evening report, made no mention of Avdiivka, but reported strikes on areas outside Bakhmut, a town seized by Moscow’s forces in May after months of battles. Both towns are in the eastern Donetsk region.</div><div><br></div><div>Avdiivka, a watchword in Ukraine for resistance, has withstood enemy attacks for months. Video footage shows buildings in ruins and streets barely distinguishable.</div><div><br></div><div>The town was briefly captured in 2014 by Russian-backed separatists who seized large swathes of eastern Ukraine, but was retaken by Ukrainian forces who built solid fortifications.</div><div><br></div><div>“We have concrete fortifications ... outside the city,” military analyst Pavel Norozhnyi told national television. “(Russian forces) need heavy artillery and anti-tank missiles to destroy every stronghold.”</div><div><br></div><div>The Institute for the Study of War, a US think-tank, said Russian troops had “marginally advanced” near Avdiivka. According to Reuters reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-22 15:00:31', '2023-10-22 15:00:31'),
(9762, 9762, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The Election Commission on Sunday invited applications from interested international elections observers and media to oversee the 12th parliamentary elections.</span><br></div><div><br></div><div>The EC issued an official notice inviting applications from international election observers and foreign media organisations by November 21.</div><div><br></div><div>The notice, signed by EC Secretary Md Jahangir Alam, the EC said that the 12th national election is set to be held in the first half of January 2024.</div><div><br></div><div>\"As you are aware we attach great importance to the observation of the election process for the sake of transparency. All activities are open to observation by the observers,\" read the notice.</div><div><br></div><div>\"Bangladesh Election Commission is committed to hold free, fair, credible and peaceful elections at all times. We want foreign election observers and foreign media worldwide along with our local observers to observe our upcoming 12th Parliamentary Elections.\"</div><div><br></div><div>\"We would therefore like to invite international election observers or observer organisations and foreign media intending to observe the upcoming 12th Parliamentary Elections to apply following the \'Guidelines for International Election Observers and Foreign Media\' by November 21, 2023.\"</div><div><br></div><div>The notice said interested election observers or observer organisations and foreign media are requested kindly to follow the clauses 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 2.6 and 3.1 of the \'Guidelines for International Election Observers and Foreign Media\' while applying.</div><div><br></div><div>The guidelines and related forms are available at www.ecs.gov.bd, added the notice. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-22 15:35:57', '2023-10-22 15:35:57'),
(9763, 9763, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>A-list Hollywood celebrities including Cate Blanchett, Joaquin Phoenix, Ramy Youssef and Andrew Garfield penned a letter to US President Joe Biden on Friday, urging him to call for a ceasefire in Israel\'s war with Hamas.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Dozens of top-flight names from the world of entertainment asked Biden to work to achieve an \"immediate de-escalation and ceasefire in Gaza and Israel before another life is lost.\"</div><div><br></div><div>\"We urge your administration, and all world leaders, to honor all of the lives in the Holy Land and call for and facilitate a ceasefire without delay -- an end to the bombing of Gaza, and the safe release of hostages,\" said the letter, released by artists4ceasefire.org.</div><div><br></div><div>\"Saving lives is a moral imperative.\"</div><div><br></div><div>Israel has vowed to destroy Hamas after the Islamist group launched a shock raid from the Gaza Strip on October 7, killing at least 1,400 people, mostly civilians, according to Israeli officials.</div><div><br></div><div>In response to the Hamas attack, Israeli bombers have levelled entire city blocks in Gaza in preparation for a ground invasion they say is coming soon. The Hamas-run health ministry said more than 4,000 Palestinians, mostly civilians, have died in the onslaught.</div><div><br></div><div>Friday\'s letter, which was also signed by Jon Stewart, singer Dua Lipa, Susan Sarandon and Channing Tatum, comes a week after hundreds of Hollywood figures signed an open letter condemning the \"barbaric acts\" committed by Hamas fighters. - AFP&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'Entertainment', '[\"13\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-22 15:55:11', '2023-10-22 15:55:11'),
(9764, 9764, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Monday urged the Swiss entrepreneurs to make investments in Bangladesh to create a mini Switzerland in the South Asian country.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Swiss businesses can invest in Bangladesh in the special economic zones (SEZs), she said, adding \"We will provide lands (in SEZs) and they can make a mini Switzerland here,” she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The premier made this call when Swiss Ambassador to Bangladesh Reto Siegfried Renggli paid a courtesy call on her at the Prime Minister’s Office.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Prime Minister’s Press Secretary Ihsanul Karim briefed the reporters after the call on.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In response the ambassador said Swiss companies are interested to invest in Bangladesh, said the press secretary.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The envoy said the volume of trade between Bangladesh and Switzerland should be increased.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said he will continue to work for further strengthening the bilateral relations and cooperation.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The envoy appreciated the economic development of Bangladesh under the leadership of PM Hasina in the last one decade.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said that Switzerland would work together with Bangladesh to fight the adverse impact of climate change.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">PM Hasina said the focus of her government is on the development of rural people of Bangladesh. “The backbone of development is middle class people,” she added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">“We are taking many programmes to reduce the extreme poverty rate to zero, at least to one percent,” she added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The prime minister mentioned that Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman had a vision to “make Bangladesh as the Switzerland of the East”.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She recalled that she was with Bangabandhu when he visited Switzerland at the invitation of Swiss government after undergoing surgery in London.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Talking about connectivity, she said Bangladesh can be a bridge between the East and the West. So, the government is now developing the airports to this end.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We look forward to transforming Bangladesh-Switzerland bilateral relations into a broad-based partnership,\" she said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The prime minister assured the ambassador of extending all cooperation in discharging his duty in Dhaka.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Swiss envoy handed over the copy of a letter to Sheikh Hasina, which Bangabandhu sent to the Switzerland government in replying to Swiss recognition to Bangladesh as an independent country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Receiving the letter, the prime minister said that the letter will be displayed in the museum.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">PM\'s Principal Secretary M. Tofazzel Hossain Miah And Deputy Head of Swiss Mission in Bangladesh Corinne Henchoz Pignani were present. UNB</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">bndb24/kh</div>', NULL, 'news desk', '[\"19\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-23 07:46:57', '2023-10-23 07:46:57'),
(9765, 9765, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">A 40 year old man was shot dead allegedly by the members of Indian Border Security Force (BSF) along Ratnai border in Thakurgaon, reports UNB.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>The incident took place in Baliadangi upazila of Thakurgaon district on Monday. The deceased was identified as Nuruzzaman, son of Taslim Uddin of the upazila.</div><div><br></div><div>Commanding officer of BGB-50 Lieutenant Colonel Tanjir Ahmed said to media that the BSF members of Sonamati camp opened fire on some Bangladeshi people, numbering 10-12, leaving Nuruzzaman dead.</div><div><br></div><div>On the other hand, they took the body to their camp while the others managed to flee the scene.</div><div><br></div><div>Tanjir also said, a flag meeting between BSF and BGB will be held in the afternoon protesting the killing.</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-23 09:49:10', '2023-10-23 09:49:10'),
(9766, 9766, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Maritime ports of Chattogram, Cox’s Bazar, Mongla and Payra have been advised to hoist local cautionary signal No 3 as the deep depression over Westcentral Bay and adjoining area moved slightly North-Northeastwards and lies in the same area.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>At 12 pm on Monday, it was centred about 755 kms West-Southwest of Chattogram port, 710 kms West-Southwest of Cox’s Bazar port, 630 kms Southwest of Mongla port and 630 kms Southwest of Payra port, said a Met office bulletin.</div><div><br></div><div>It is likely to move North-Northwestwards and intensify further.</div><div><br></div><div>Under its influence deep convection is taking place over North Bay.</div><div><br></div><div>Squally weather may affect the maritime ports, North Bay and adjoining coastal areas of Bangladesh, said the bulletin.</div><div><br></div><div>Maximum sustained wind speed within 48 kms of the deep depression centre is about 50 kph rising to 60 kph in gusts or squalls.</div><div><br></div><div>Sea will remain rough near the deep depression centre.</div><div><br></div><div>All fishing boats and trawlers over North Bay and deep sea have been advised to remain close to the coast, so that they can take shelter within very short notice.</div><div><br></div><div>They are also advised not to venture into the deep sea. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-23 10:48:06', '2023-10-23 10:48:06'),
(9767, 9767, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Israel\'s military said on Monday its ground forces mounted limited raids into Gaza and airstrikes targeted Palestinian militants assembling to repulse any wider Israeli invasion, as each side prepares for the next stage of the escalating war.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Palestinian group Hamas said on Sunday its fighters had engaged an armoured force infiltrating a southern area of Gaza and destroyed some Israeli military equipment before returning to base. There was no Israeli comment on such losses.</div><div><br></div><div>How soon Israel might launch a full-scale invasion is not clear, and neither side can know exactly what to expect when it does. The Middle East\'s most powerful military faces a group that has built up a powerful arsenal with Iran\'s help, fighting in a crowded urban setting and using a vast tunnel network it has built that Israeli troops have dubbed the \"Gaza Metro\".</div><div><br></div><div>In a televised briefing describing Israel\'s latest moves on the ground, Israel\'s chief military spokesperson Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari also said 222 people had now been confirmed as taken hostage during the Oct. 7 cross-border onslaught by Hamas.</div><div><br></div><div>\"During the night there were raids by tank and infantry forces. These raids are raids that kill squads of terrorists who are preparing for the next stage in the war,\" he said, describing incursions that went \"deep\" into Gaza.</div><div><br></div><div>\"These raids also locate and search for anything we can get in terms of intelligence on the missing and the hostages.\"</div><div><br></div><div>Hagari said such interventions helped understand where \"the terrorists are assembling, the terrorists are getting organised in anticipation of the next stages of the war. And our role is to reduce these threats.\"</div><div><br></div><div>Stoking expectations of a full-scale ground offensive by Israeli forces massed around Gaza, he said the military\'s operational readiness was improving and being enhanced \"all the time\".</div><div><br></div><div>Izz el-Deen al-Qassam Brigades, the armed wing of Hamas, said in a statement on Sunday that its forces had engaged with a force infiltrating east of Khan Younis in southern Gaza.</div><div><br></div><div>\"Fighters engaged with the infiltrating force, destroying two bulldozers and a tank and forced the force to withdraw, before they returned safely to base,\" the statement said.</div><div><br></div><div>INCONCLUSIVE WARS</div><div>Since cross-border attacks by Hamas on Israeli communities on Oct. 7 killed 1,400 people, Israel has amassed tanks and troops near the fenced border around Gaza for a planned ground invasion. Israel has already launched intensive airstrikes on Gaza, where at least 4,600 people have been killed.</div><div><br></div><div>Israel says it wants to wipe Hamas \"off the face of the earth\" after several inconclusive wars since the group seized power in the enclave in 2007, after Israel withdrew its forces from the narrow strip of land in 2005.</div><div><br></div><div>The Israeli military said on Monday that in the past 24 hours it had struck more than 320 targets in Gaza, including a tunnel housing Hamas fighters, and command and lookout posts.</div><div><br></div><div>Israel has said its military campaign will exceed any previous moves against Hamas, but the Palestinian group has proved capable of surprising Israel in the past and will be fighting in a dense urban setting with powerful weapons.</div><div><br></div><div>Based on what happened in Israeli incursions in 2008 and 2014, Israel\'s bunker buster bombs and hi-tech Merkava tanks will be up against a vast network of deep tunnels, booby-traps and arms including Russian-made Kornet anti-tank missiles. According to Reuters reports</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-23 11:09:46', '2023-10-23 11:09:46'),
(9768, 9768, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Iran’s judiciary identified today a suspect in the stabbing death of director Dariush Mehrjui and his wife as a former domestic worker, saying the motive may have been a financial row.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>Mehrjui, 83, and his wife Vahideh Mohammadifar, a 54-year-old screenwriter, were stabbed to death on Oct 14 at their home in Karaj, a city in Alborz province west of Tehran.</div><div><br></div><div>“The defendants were already familiar with the deceased,” official news agency Irna quoted Alborz province chief justice Hossein Fazeli-Harikandi as saying.</div><div><br></div><div>“The main defendant was the gardener” at Mehrjui’s villa in the past, “and he had a grudge against the deceased due to financial issues”, Fazeli-Harikandi said.</div><div><br></div><div>Media reports said that out of 10 people detained in the murder case, four had been directly involved.</div><div><br></div><div>Irna today posted videos from the reenactment of the crime scene, showing four individuals entering the house.</div><div><br></div><div>Mehrjui, according to the footage, is believed to have been sitting on his couch watching TV as the assailants arrived at the villa.</div><div><br></div><div>Last week Fazeli-Harikandi said the probe had pointed to “personal differences” as the motive.</div><div><br></div><div>Since Mehrjui’s death, tributes have poured in to celebrate the works of the pioneer director, producer and screenwriter, who during his six-decade career was confronted by censorship both before and after the Islamic revolution of 1979.</div><div><br></div><div>Mehrjui was best known for his 1969 metaphorical drama “The Cow” as well as his 1990 dark comedy “Hamoun”, showing 24 hours in the life of an intellectual tormented by divorce and psychological anxieties. According to AFP reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"13\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-23 11:22:48', '2023-10-23 11:22:48'),
(9769, 9769, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">At least 17 people were killed and many others injured when a container train and a passenger train collided in Kishoreganj.</span><br></div><div><br></div><div>The incident took place in Kishoreganj\'s Bhairab upazila this afternoon.</div><div><br></div><div>A container train headed towards Chattogram collided with the Dhaka-bound Egarosindhur Express around 3;30pm today, according to media reports .</div><div><br></div><div>Abdul Alim Sikder, officer-in-charge of the police station said to the media that The death toll could increase.</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-23 12:28:08', '2023-10-23 12:28:08'),
(9770, 9770, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is set to leave here for Brussels on Tuesday morning on a three-day official visit to Belgium to attend the \"Global Gateway Forum\" to be held there on October 25-26.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>She is going to Brussels at the invitation of the European Commission (EC) President Ursula von der Leyen.</div><div><br></div><div>\"A commercial flight of Biman Bangladesh Airlines carrying the prime minister and her entourage members will depart from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA), Dhaka,\" said PM\'s Press Secretary Ihsanul Karim.</div><div><br></div><div>The flight is scheduled to land at t Brussels Zaventem Airport at 6:45pm local time (October 24).</div><div><br></div><div>Her visit is seen as extremely significant as it would help take Bangladesh’s ties with the European Union (EU) to a new height, said Foreign Minister  AK Abdul Momen at a press briefing on Monday.</div><div><br></div><div>“This is a very significant visit. This is an achievement for us,” he said, noting that the visit is happening at a “crucial moment.”</div><div><br></div><div>During the visit, the prime minister will have a number of meetings with leaders of European countries on the sidelines of the forum.</div><div><br></div><div>On October 25 (Wednesday), the premier will hold separate bilateral meetings with EC President Ursula von der Leyen and EC Executive Vice President and European Trade Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis.</div><div><br></div><div>After the meetings, she along with the EC President and the European Investment Bank (EIB) President will witness the signing of loan agreement with the government of Bangladesh and the EIB. The EU will provide Euro 407 million to Bangladesh in the form of concessional loans and grants. Of this, Euro 350 million will be concessional loans.</div><div><br></div><div>On the same day, Hasina will attend the Global Gateway Forum\'s opening plenary session and deliver her speech.</div><div><br></div><div>She will have a meeting with EIB President Dr. Werner Hoyer in the afternoon.</div><div><br></div><div>Besides, EC Commissioner for Crisis Management Janez Lenarcic and EC Commissioner for International Partnerships Jutta Urpilainen will call on the Bangladesh premier.</div><div><br></div><div>In the evening, the PM will attend a dinner hosted by EC President Leyen in honor of the heads of state and government participating in the Global Gateway Forum.</div><div><br></div><div>On October 26 (Thursday), she will hold a bilateral meeting with her Belgian counterpart Alexander De Croo.</div><div><br></div><div>The premier will also hold a meeting with Luxembourg Prime Minister Xavier Bettel.</div><div><br></div><div>In the afternoon, Sheikh Hasina will attend a community reception accorded to her by Bangladeshi expatriates living in Belgium.</div><div><br></div><div>On October 27 (Friday), the prime minister is scheduled to return home, leaving Brussels at 10:00pm on Thursday local time. - UNB</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-23 13:33:31', '2023-10-23 13:33:45'),
(9771, 9771, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Director (Legal and Media wing) of Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) headquarters Commander Khandaker Al Moin on Monday said that RAB\'s special force has been kept ready to deal with any kind of situation centering the Durga Puja.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Besides, RAB helicopters have also been kept ready in this regard.</div><div><br></div><div>The&nbsp; RAB media director came up with the remark while replying to reporters\' questions after visiting Banani Puja Mandap in the capital.</div><div><br></div><div>\"We have continued our intelligence activities regularly alongside continuing RAB patrolling,\" Commander Moin said.</div><div><br></div><div>He said that around 4000 RAB members in white clothes and uniform are performing duties in 32, 704 puja Mandaps across the country. Besides, 300 teams of the elite force have also been conducted patrolling&nbsp; every night so that no vested quarter or malicious circles can thwart this festival. Checkposts have also been set up at various places across the country, he added.</div><div><br></div><div>Commander Al Moin also said that a communal force tried to destroy non-communal harmony by creating chaos. But the&nbsp; law enforcement agencies, including&nbsp; RAB, were able to foil their plot.&nbsp; RAB\'s intelligence surveillance has continued to trace all the miscreants who conspired through vested interests.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>About spreading rumours, the&nbsp; RAB&nbsp; media director said that those who are trying to spread rumors through social media are being monitored. There is a class of self-interested circles who try to create panic by creating rumors and by spreading these rumors they try to create sabotage and violence.&nbsp; RAB has been working to identify those who are trying to create rumors through social media, he said.</div><div><br></div><div>Commander Moin also said they are reviewing and closely monitoring the situation across the country, reports UNB.</div><div><br></div><div>\"We are coordinating with the National Puja Celebration Committee. They inform us when what they think is necessary. We are taking action accordingly. Everything is being done to the best of our ability,\" he added.</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-23 13:36:12', '2023-10-23 13:36:12'),
(9772, 9772, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>The Ansar Battalion Bill, 2023, was placed in Parliament on Monday, keeping the death penalty as the maximum punishment for different crimes including mutiny and provocation for rebellion.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan placed the Bill and it was sent to the respective scrutiny committee for further examination. The committee was asked to submit its report within three working days.</div><div><br></div><div>According to the proposed law, there will be two courts to try the internal crimes of Ansar battalion members.</div><div><br></div><div>One is ‘Summary Ansar Battalion Court’ to be headed by an additional director and another is ‘Special Ansar Battalion Court’ to be headed by the director general.</div><div><br></div><div>Serious crimes like committing mutiny, instigating for revolt, creating ground for rebellion, engaging in conspiracy will be tried in the Special Ansar Battalion Court. The maximum punishment for such crimes is the death penalty.</div><div><br></div><div>Besides, other serious crimes related to the punitive provisions ranging from life imprisonment to minimum five years of imprisonment will be tried in special courts.</div><div><br></div><div>As per the Bill, a battalion member shall, in the case of an offence committed against him, with the approval of the superior officer concerned, arrest the offender and immediately hand him over to the police and, as the case may be, on the direction of the Judicial Magistrate or the Executive Magistrate or the officer responsible for the purpose, to search the person, enter and can search any place and seize the goods.</div><div><br></div><div>Opposing the Bill, Jatiya Party MP Fakhrul Imam said that this law might create Ansar as a parallel force to the Police. He pointed out that Ansar was created to assist the law and order forces. “But according to sections seven and eight of the bill, the Ansar forces can do what the police do.”</div><div><br></div><div>Fakhrul Imam said that the new law gives the power to arrest on the orders of a responsible officer like the police. “If the bill is passed like this, the Ansar force will become .”</div><div><br></div><div>He asked the Home Minister to take back the bill and place it before the House afresh.</div><div><br></div><div>The Home Minister in reply said that during any disaster Ansar members cooperate with other forces. He also mentioned that during the elections the police force is not enough to maintain law and order. For that purpose, some six lakh Ansar members have been recruited till now.</div><div><br></div><div>The Minister mentioned that the same number of Ansar forces should be recruited during the coming elections. He said that the government has no plan to create Ansar as a parallel force to the police.</div><div><br></div><div>He said that if there are any conflicting provisions in the draft Bill, it will be amended in the parliamentary committee. reports UNB.</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-23 13:45:02', '2023-10-23 13:45:02'),
(9773, 9773, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and his Egyptian counterpart Sameh Shoukry highlighted the necessity to immediately stop the attacks on Palestinians and send humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>In a phone conversation on Sunday night, the two foreign ministers also voiced their strong opposition to the forced displacement of Palestinians in the Gaza Strip, according to a statement published on the Iranian Foreign Ministry\'s website on Monday.</div><div><br></div><div>The Iranian foreign minister praised Egypt, which hosted the Cairo Summit for Peace on Saturday to discuss the ongoing crisis in Gaza, for its efforts to put an end to the conflict and send aid to Gaza.</div><div><br></div><div>Amir-Abdollahian said the Iranian Red Crescent Society was ready to send humanitarian aid to Gaza through Egypt.</div><div><br></div><div>The top Iranian diplomat said Israel\'s ultimate goal is \"to force the citizens of Gaza and West Bank to migrate to the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt and parts of Jordan.\"</div><div><br></div><div>The Egyptian foreign minister, for his part, welcomed Iran\'s humanitarian aid for Gaza, highlighting the necessity to continue consultations and coordination among all Muslim and Arab states on the Palestinian issue.</div><div><br></div><div>Shoukry voiced Egypt\'s opposition to the expansion of the conflict, saying Egypt maintains that Palestinians must remain in their homeland.</div><div><br></div><div>The Palestinian Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) launched a surprise attack on Israel on Oct. 7, firing thousands of rockets and sending its militants into Israeli territory, to which Israel responded with massive airstrikes and punitive measures, including a siege on the enclave with supplies of water, electricity, fuel, and other necessities being cut off.</div><div><br></div><div>Having entered its 17th day, the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict has killed over 1,400 people in Israel and wounded 5,431 others, according to official statistics.</div><div><br></div><div>Meanwhile, Israeli airstrikes on the Gaza Strip have killed 5,087 Palestinians and wounded 15,273 others, the Hamas-run Health Ministry said on Monday. According to XINHUA reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-23 13:56:25', '2023-10-23 13:56:25'),
(9774, 9774, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on Monday expressed high hope that the ongoing political crisis in the country will be resolved with the restoration of democracy through their party’s peaceful movement.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>“We--all the political parties of this country--have got united on the basis of one-point demand as we want the resignation of this regime and a free and transparent election under a non-partisan neutral poll-time government,” he said.</div><div><br></div><div>Speaking at a seminar, the BNP leader said he is confident that they will realise their demands through the united movement with the help of the people.</div><div><br></div><div>“The people of Bangladesh have always won through united efforts and peaceful movements. We believe that the people of Bangladesh will be able to restore democracy through a peaceful movement this time as well,” he said.</div><div><br></div><div>BNP arranged the seminar titled \'A Democratic Future for Bangladesh and the Indo-Pacific Strategy\' at a city hotel. BNP standing committee member and its international relations committee chairman Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury presented the keynote paper at the programme.</div><div><br></div><div>Slamming the government for repressing the opposition leaders and activists, Fakhrul said the nation is passing through the most critical time.</div><div><br></div><div>He said BNP chairperson Khaleda Zia, who struggled throughout her entire life for the cause of democracy, is now critically ill without proper treatment due to extreme vengeance of the ruling party.</div><div><br></div><div>\"Our party’s around 700 people, including three former MPs, have been subjected to enforced disappearance. Our 45 lakh people have been facing false cases. Many of us are being sentenced before the elections so that they can’t participate in the polls,” the BNP leader said, reports UNB.</div><div><br></div><div>He also said the government has created a situation in the country where only the Awami League can take part in the election and retain power keeping the opposition parties away from voting.</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-23 14:55:48', '2023-10-23 14:55:48'),
(9775, 9775, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Popular Bangladeshi singer, songwriter, composer, communication specialist and entrepreneur and country\'s popular band Chirkutt leader Sharmin Sultana Sumi has been invited to an international music conference in Norway.</span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Initiated by the University of Agder, Kristiansand in Norway, the conference, titled Kristiansand Roundtable Conference (KRC), is scheduled to take place from November 1 to 10 - in which Sumi will join three sessions.</div><div><br></div><div>These three sessions are ‘Scientific Conference - Strategy and Sustainability in Music Business’ (November 3), ‘Role of Women in BD Music Industry’ (November 7-8) and ‘Student Event - Music for Climate’ on November 9-10.</div><div><br></div><div>In these sessions, Sumi will speak, present and exchange viewpoints with the student-teachers while also talking about her journey as a pioneering female artist in the Bangladeshi music scene.</div><div><br></div><div>“After working with Bangla songs on a regular basis for the past 21 years in Bangladesh and the last 11 years internationally, people all over the globe want to hear from me and us about our music - and I believe this is an enormous shift and a huge opportunity for us,” Sumi said regarding this invitation.</div><div><br></div><div>“The world is much bigger than we think and there is a wide range of work opportunities for all of us. Taking advantage of that opportunity and speaking on the world’s stage for your country is a matter of peace, honour and pride for me as an artist,” she added.</div><div><br></div><div>When asked about her plans for the sessions, she said, “I will try to share my experience of working in the music industry for a long time as an artist and a female artist, to be specific - which I think may inspire many. Also, the talking points will be about the music of Bangladesh, the collective journey of our band and our \'Nodi Rocks’ project which I conducted from the place of responsibility of an artist on the issue of the negative impact of climate change.\"</div><div><br></div><div>The aforementioned ‘Nodi Rocks’ project began in February 2022 and focused on seven rivers across the country: the Kushiyara, Padma, Sangu, Chitra, Pashur, Dahuk, and Buriganga, with a mission to aware people of climate change and its impacts on these rivers in the riverine Bangladesh.</div><div><br></div><div>Seven music videos were made on these seven rivers by these seven bands: Arbovirus performed on Padma river, Smooches on Chitra, Cryptic Fate on Kushiyara, F Minor on Dahuk, Bangla Five on Pashur, Ashes on Buriganga and Sangu was featured by Chirkutt.</div><div><br></div><div>These videos gained popularity on social media platforms while the songs became fan-favorites and the project also brought up an exclusive concert in September last year. The project was the brainchild of Sumi, Chirkutt’s founding member-vocalist and Founder-CEO-Creative Director of Salt Creatives. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'Entertainment', '[\"13\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-23 15:00:56', '2023-10-23 15:00:56');
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(9776, 9776, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">One student died and three others were wounded today after a shooting at a school in Sao Paulo, Brazil’s largest city, the local government said in a statement.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>The attack took place in Sapopemba, a neighbourhood on the eastern side of Sao Paulo and the perpetrator has been arrested, the government said.</div><div><br></div><div>“The Sao Paulo government deeply regrets and sympathises with the families of the victims of the attack that took place this morning at Sapopemba State School,” a statement from the local government said.</div><div><br></div><div>According to the government, three students were shot and one of them – a girl – died, while the other two were hospitalised.</div><div><br></div><div>A fourth student was injured while trying to flee the attack.</div><div><br></div><div>“At this time, the priority is to assist the victims and provide psychological support to the students, education professionals and their families,” it said.</div><div><br></div><div>In March, a student with a knife killed a teacher at a school in another Sao Paulo neighbourhood in an attack that injured three teachers and a student.</div><div><br></div><div>In April, a man with a hatchet broke into a nursery school in Blumenau, in the southern Brazilian state of Santa Catarina, and killed four children and injured at least five others. - Reuters&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-23 15:20:56', '2023-10-23 15:20:56'),
(9777, 9777, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Jailed former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan was on Monday charged with leaking classified documents, a prosecutor said, a charge that carries a prison term of up to 14 years.</span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Since being ousted from power last year, Khan has been tangled in a slew of legal cases he says are designed to stop him from contesting upcoming elections in January 2024.</div><div><br></div><div>The populist politician was jailed in August for three years over graft but when his sentence was overturned, he was instead kept in custody on the far more serious charge of sharing state documents.</div><div><br></div><div>“He has been indicted today and the charge was openly read out,” Shah Khawar of Pakistan’s Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) said outside Adiala Jail, where Khan is being held.</div><div><br></div><div>The case relates to a cable that Khan touted as proof that he was ousted as part of a US conspiracy backed by the powerful military establishment, according to a report by the FIA.</div><div><br></div><div>The United States and Pakistan’s military have denied the claim.</div><div><br></div><div>The vice-chairman of Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, Shah Mahmood Qureshi, a former foreign minister, has also been indicted over the case.</div><div><br></div><div>A PTI spokesman said both men were charged under the colonial-era Official Secrets Act in a trial “conducted within the court premises with no access to public or media.”</div><div><br></div><div>“We are going to challenge it,” Khan’s lawyer Umar Khan Niazi told reporters.</div><div><br></div><div>Khan’s lawyers say the crime he has been charged with carries a possible 14-year prison term, and in the most extreme circumstances, the death penalty.</div><div><br></div><div>Former cricketing superstar Khan enjoys enormous support in Pakistan, but his campaign of defiance against the powerful military establishment, which spread through the nation after his ouster, has met with a fierce backlash.</div><div><br></div><div>Pakistan’s military has directly ruled the country for roughly half of its 76-year history, and continues to exercise enormous power.</div><div><br></div><div>A sweeping anti-Khan crackdown saw thousands of his supporters rounded up and almost the entire senior party leadership forced underground. Many later abandoned the PTI, denouncing Khan’s tirades against the military.</div><div><br></div><div>“He is facing legal matters but the intent of the regime is quite clear — that they don’t want to leave any corner for his escape, regardless of whether the charges are real or fabricated,” political analyst Rasul Bakhsh Rais said.</div><div><br></div><div>Pakistan is currently led by an interim government, with polls already pushed back several months to January 2024.</div><div><br></div><div>Khan’s primary opponent, three-time prime minister Nawaz Sharif, returned to Pakistan on Saturday, ending four years of self-imposed exile.</div><div><br></div><div>Sharif was jailed for graft and barred from contesting the 2018 elections — in which Khan swept to power — but he left mid-way through his sentence to receive medical care in the United Kingdom, ignoring court orders to return.</div><div><br></div><div>Prior to his coming back, a court granted Sharif a fresh protective bail to pave the way for him to arrive in his political heartland of Lahore on the weekend.</div><div><br></div><div>The fortunes of Pakistan’s leaders rise and fall on their relationship with the military and Pakistan’s courts are often used to tie up lawmakers in lengthy proceedings that rights monitors criticize for stifling dissent. - AFP</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-23 15:32:30', '2023-10-23 15:32:30'),
(9778, 9778, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">When Asmaa al-Daher, a pharmacist and aid worker based in Turkey, went home to Gaza for a visit just over two weeks ago, she had little idea that one of the most brutal military campaigns her besieged home had ever faced was about to begin.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>Although she was already experienced in providing humanitarian relief to victims of war through her work in Syria with Al-Ameen for Humanitarian Support, al-Daher was not prepared for what was to come in Gaza.</div><div><br></div><div>“I’ve witnessed many wars during my life, but I never anything like this,” the 27-year-old said in a voice message she sent to a colleague in Turkey by WhatsApp.</div><div><br></div><div>After being displaced five times inside Gaza within a couple of weeks, al-Daher is now in Rafah on the border with Egypt. In her five-minute WhatsApp recording, she tried to explain to Yasser al-Tarraf the reality she is living.</div><div><br></div><div>In a trembling, rushed voice as she tried to finish recording before the internet failed, she said: “These are the worst days for the Palestinian people – genocide and massacres in all neighbourhoods.”</div><div><br></div><div>Al-Tarraf told Al Jazeera that al-Daher has been working around the clock to coordinate with authorities on the ground to get resources and aid where they are needed most.</div><div><br></div><div>“We’ve witnessed displacement and killing in Syria, so our sympathy with Gaza is great.”</div><div><br></div><div>Al-Ameen, a Syrian organisation, has been working in the Gaza Strip for the past two years, providing humanitarian support and vocational training. Since the bombing began two weeks ago, it has focused on helping to distribute food and resources. According to Al Jazeera reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-23 15:36:56', '2023-10-23 15:36:56'),
(9779, 9779, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina left here for Belgium today to attend the \"Global Gateway Forum\" to be held in its capital Brussels on October 25-26 at the invitation of the European Commission (EC) President Ursula von der Leyen.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A commercial flight (BG 207) of Biman Bangladesh Airlines carrying the prime minister and her entourage members departed from Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport (HSIA), Dhaka at 11:10 am.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The flight is scheduled to arrive at the Brussels Zaventem Airport at 1845 hrs on October 24 (Brussels time).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">During the visit, the prime minister will have a number of meetings with leaders of European countries on the sidelines of the Forum.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In the morning on October 25, she will have a bilateral meeting with Executive Vice President of the EC and European Trade Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Bangladesh premier will also hold a bilateral meeting with the EC President Ursula von der Leyen.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">After this bilateral meeting, a loan support agreement of 350 million Euros on the renewable energy sector will be signed between the Bangladesh government\'s Economic Relations Department (ERD) and European Investment Bank.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A grant agreement of 45 million Euros for Bangladesh\'s renewable energy sector will be signed between the European Commission and European Investment Bank.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">And a 12 million Euros grant agreement between the Bangladesh government and European Commission will also be signed for Bangladesh\'s renewable energy sector.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">During this visit, the Bangladesh government and EC will sign five different grant agreements of 70 million Euros on Bangladesh\'s Social sectors.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On the same day, Sheikh Hasina will attend the Global Gateway Forum\'s opening plenary session and deliver her speech.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In the afternoon, European Investment Bank President Dr. Werner Hoyer will hold a meeting with the premier.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">EC Commissioner for Crisis Management Janez Lenarcic and EC Commissioner for International Partnerships Jutta Urpilainen will pay a courtesy call on the Bangladesh premier.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In the evening, the prime minister will attend a dinner hosted by Ursula von der Leyen in honor of the heads of state and government participating in the Global Gateway Forum.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On October 26, she will hold a bilateral meeting with her Belgian counterpart Alexander De Croo.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The prime minister will also have a bilateral meeting with Luxembourg Prime Minister Xavier Bettel.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In the afternoon on the same day, Sheikh Hasina will attend a reception accorded to her by Bangladeshi expatriates living in Belgium.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">TV channel EURONEWS and POLITICO are scheduled to take interview of the prime minister.&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She is scheduled to return Dhaka on October 27. 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, '2023-10-24 09:13:12', '2023-10-24 09:13:12'),
(9780, 9780, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>The government has asked people of 10 vulnerable coastal districts to move to shelters&nbsp; by 8&nbsp; pm on Tuesday as severe cyclonic storm Hamoon likely to cross Bangladesh between Tuesday night and Wednesday morning.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>State Minister for Disaster and Relief Management Dr Eanmur Rahman told this to reporters after a meeting on cyclone preparedness at the secretariat Tuesday morning.</div><div><br></div><div>The 10 vulnerable districts are Patuakhali, Barishal, Pirojpur, Jhalakati, Barguna, Chattogram, Feni, Noakhali, Laxmipur and Chandpur.</div><div><br></div><div>Medical teams have been formed and a huge quantity of emergency medicines and medical accessories have been kept ready, he said.</div><div><br></div><div>Enamur said the cyclone may make landfall in coastal districts of Chattogram, Feni, Laxmipur, Barguna and Barishal between 10 pm Tuesday&nbsp; to 10 am on Wednesday.</div><div><br></div><div>Asked how many shelters were kept prepared in the 10 districts, he said that he has not yet received information about the figure.</div><div><br></div><div>The deep depression over west-central Bay and adjoining area has intensified into a severe cyclonic storm ‘Hamoon’.</div><div><br></div><div>According to a special bulletin of Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD), the severe cyclonic storm ‘Hamoon’ now lies over northwest Bay and adjoining area and was centred at noon about 330 km west-southwest of Chattogram port, 295 km west-southwest of Cox\'s Bazar port, 250 km southwest of Mongla port, and 215 km southwest of Payra port.</div><div><br></div><div>It is likely to move north-northeastwartds and may cross Barishal-Chattogram coast near Meghan estuary by late night to morning as a cyclonic storm, it reads.</div><div><br></div><div>Maritime ports of Payra and Chattogram have been advised to hoist danger signal number 7, the maritime port of Cox’s Bazar has been advised to hoist danger signal 6 while the maritime port of Mongla has been advised to hoist danger signal 5. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-24 11:07:05', '2023-10-24 11:07:05'),
(9781, 9781, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The United States has said they are \"closely monitoring\" developments in Bangladesh leading up to the elections.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>\"It’s important for free and fair elections that all stakeholders are able to participate peacefully,\" Spokesperson at the US Department of State, Mathew Miller, told reporters during a regular briefing in Washington on October 23.</div><div><br></div><div>That includes, he said, government officials, law enforcement, political parties, the Election Commission, the media, and of course voters themselves.</div><div><br></div><div>\"And we will continue to call on all stakeholders to respect the rule of law and to refrain from violence, harassment, and intimidation,\" said the State Department spokesperson.</div><div><br></div><div>Earlier on Sunday, US Ambassador to Bangladesh Peter Haas referred to the importance of \"peaceful demonstrations\" and \"interference-free\" participation in the political process during his meeting with Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan at the Secretariat.</div><div><br></div><div>BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir said their party only plans to hold a grand rally in Dhaka on October 28, and that they do not intend to sit on the streets.</div><div><br></div><div>Information Minister Hasan Mahmud said that Dhaka\'s streets will be under Awami League’s control on October 28.</div><div><br></div><div>Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) Commissioner Habibur Rahman on Saturday said that DMP will take decisive action against anyone attempting to incite violence during BNP’s rally on October 28.</div><div><br></div><div>US Spokesperson Miller said under the Vienna Convention, Bangladesh has obligations to take all appropriate steps to protect diplomatic mission premises and personnel.</div><div><br></div><div>The United States values its relationship with Bangladesh, he said, adding that \"we expect the government will take all appropriate actions to maintain the safety and security of all US missions and diplomatic personnel in the country.\" According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-24 11:09:44', '2023-10-24 11:09:44'),
(9782, 9782, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">South Africa won the toss and chose to bat first in Tuesday\'s ICC World Cup encounter in Mumbai against Bangladesh.</span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Bangladesh\'s captain, Shakib Al Hasan, is making a comeback in this match after being sidelined in the previous match against India due to a thigh muscle injury. In favor of Shakib, Bangladesh decided to overlook Towhid Hirody, who has been struggling to find good form.</div><div><br></div><div>While Bangladesh welcomes back their captain, South Africa will be led by stand-in captain Aiden Markram. Their regular captain Temba Bavuma is suffering from sickness.</div><div><br></div><div>Bangladesh have played four matches in the World Cup so far, losing three. In contrast, South Africa secured a victory against the current world champions, England, in their last match.</div><div><br></div><div>A win in this match will significantly improve South Africa’s chances to qualify for the last four, while a defeat will result in a tougher path for Bangladesh.</div><div><br></div><div>Bangladesh playing XI: Litton Das, Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Najmul Shanto, Shakib Al Hasan (c), Mushfiqur Rahim (wk), Mahmudullah Riyad, Mehidy Hassan Miraz, Nasum Ahmed, Shoriful Islam, Hasan Mahmud, Mustafizur Rahman</div><div><br></div><div>South Africa playing XI: Quinton de Kock (wk), Reeza Hendricks, Rassie van der Dussen, Aiden Markram (c), Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller, Marco Jansen, Gerald Coetzee, Kagiso Rabada, Keshav Maharaj, Lizaad Williams.&nbsp; - UNB</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'Sports Desk', '[\"20\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-24 11:12:02', '2023-10-24 11:12:02'),
(9783, 9783, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Meryl Streep and her husband Don Gummer have been living separately for more than six years, reports CNN.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>In a statement to People on Saturday, one of Streep’s representatives said, “Don Gummer and Meryl Streep have been separated for more than 6 years, and while they will always care for each other, they have chosen lives apart.”</div><div><br></div><div>The three-time Oscar winner and Gummer, a sculptor, got married in 1978. Last month marked their 45th wedding anniversary.</div><div><br></div><div>Streep and Gummer were photographed at numerous events together over the years but largely kept their personal lives out of the press.</div><div><br></div><div>In 2012, Streep paid tribute to Gummer in her best actress Oscar acceptance speech for her performance in “The Iron Lady”.</div><div><br></div><div>“First, I’m going to thank Don because when you thank your husband at the end of the speech, they play him out with the music, and I want him to know that everything I value most in our lives, you’ve given me,” Streep said at the time. - UNB</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'Entertainment', '[\"13\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-24 11:18:01', '2023-10-24 11:18:01'),
(9784, 9784, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Forty years after one of the deadliest attacks against U.S. troops in the Middle East, some warn that Washington could be sliding toward a new conflict in the region.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>On Oct. 23, 1983, a suicide bomber hit an American military barracks at Beirut International Airport, killing 241 U.S. service members, most of them Marines – still the deadliest attack on Marines since the World War II Battle of Iwo Jima. A near-simultaneous attack on French forces killed 58 paratroopers.</div><div><br></div><div>Washington blames the bombings on the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah, a claim the Iranian-backed Hezbollah denies. The U.S. and French forces were in Beirut as part of a multinational force deployed amid Israel\'s 1982 invasion of Lebanon. The force oversaw the withdrawal of Palestinian fighters from Beirut and stayed afterward to help a Western-backed government at the time. The bombing prompted a U.S. withdrawal from Lebanon.</div><div><br></div><div>The United States is now deploying forces again in the region in connection to a war between Israel and its enemies.</div><div><br></div><div>The aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford has been positioned in the eastern Mediterranean along with other American warships – with a second carrier on the way – in what is widely seen as a message to Iran and Hezbollah not to open new fronts as Israel fights Hamas.</div><div><br></div><div>Longtime tensions between the U.S. and Iran have been hiked by the two-week-old war between Israel and Hamas, in which the Palestinian militant group\'s Oct. 7 surprise attack on southern Israeli towns brought devastating Israeli bombardment of the Gaza Strip.</div><div><br></div><div>The war risks spiraling into a wider regional conflict. The biggest worry is over the Lebanon-Israel border, where Israel and Hezbollah exchange fire on a daily basis.</div><div><br></div><div>But there are other spots where the U.S. could be dragged directly into the fight. There are roughly 2,500 U.S. troops in Iraq and around 900 others in eastern Syria, on missions against the Islamic State group. In both countries, Iran has militias loyal to it that already have opened fire on the Americans since the Gaza war erupted.</div><div><br></div><div>A Hezbollah supporter who goes by the name of Haj Mohammed posted a video on Tiktok on Oct. 13 that drew a threatening parallel between the barracks bombing 40 years ago and present-day events.</div><div><br></div><div>\"It seems that Uncle Joe did not tell the commanders of these warships and aircraft carriers about what happened on October 23, 1983,\" the man said, referring to President Joe Biden. Sitting in front of a poster of Jerusalem\'s Dome of the Rock, he wondered aloud whether U.S. troops will return home in coffins again.</div><div><br></div><div>Iran-backed groups have issued threats against the U.S. if it joins the war on the side of Israel.</div><div><br></div><div>Top Hezbollah official Hachem Safieddine said in a speech that there are tens of thousands of fighters around the region \"whose fingers are on the trigger.\"</div><div><br></div><div>The commander of a powerful Iranian-backed militia in Iraq posted a photo of himself on social media standing by the Lebanon-Israel border in an apparent show that his fighters are ready for war.</div><div><br></div><div>If the U.S. intervenes directly in the Israel-Hamas war, \"then the American presence in the region becomes legitimate targets for resistance fighters whether in Iraq or elsewhere,\" the commander -- Abu Alaa al-Walae of Iraq\'s Kataib Sayyid al-Shuhada -- told Beirut-based Al-Mayadeen TV.</div><div><br></div><div>Since Wednesday, suicide drones and rockets have hit several bases housing U.S. troops in Iraq and Syria. The attacks were either claimed by or blamed on Iranian-backed militias.</div><div><br></div><div>A U.S. Navy warship on Thursday intercepted three missiles and several drones fired by Iranian-backed Houthi rebels from Yemen, potentially toward targets in Israel, the Pentagon said.</div><div><br></div><div>American forces could also come under attack if Israel launches a ground invasion of Gaza and appears about to destroy Hamas, as it has vowed to do.</div><div><br></div><div>An official with one Iranian-backed group warned that if Israel tries to go all the way for a complete defeat of Hamas, Iranian allies can ignite a conflict throughout the Middle East. He said the volleys at U.S. forces were meant to send this message. The official spoke on condition that he and his group not be identified because he was not authorized to comment publicly.</div><div><br></div><div>Following a tour in the region where he met leaders of Hezbollah, Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, Iran\'s foreign minister warned in mid-October that \"pre-emptive action is possible\" if Israel moves closer to a ground offensive and that Israel would suffer \"a huge earthquake.\"</div><div><br></div><div>On Sunday, U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said Washington expects the Israel-Hamas war to escalate through involvement by proxies of Iran, adding that the Biden administration is prepared to respond if American personnel or armed forces are targeted.</div><div><br></div><div>\"This is not what we want, not what we\'re looking for. We don\'t want escalation,\" Blinken said. \"We don\'t want to see our forces or our personnel come under fire. But if that happens, we\'re ready for it.\"</div><div><br></div><div>Austin said they see the \"prospect of a significant escalation of attacks on our troops and our people throughout the region.\"</div><div><br></div><div>Biden repeatedly has used one word to warn Israel\'s enemies against trying to take advantage of the situation: \"Don\'t.\"</div><div><br></div><div>Iran leads the so-called \"axis of resistance\" that includes Tehran-backed factions from Lebanon, Iraq, Yemen, Afghanistan and Pakistan as well as Syria. Hezbollah, Lebanon\'s most powerful group, has tens of thousands of rockets and missiles as well as a drone arsenal that pose a serious threat if the group fully joins the war against Israel.</div><div><br></div><div>Still, many analysts say an all-out regional war that would risk dragging the U.S. and Iran into direct confrontation remains unlikely.</div><div><br></div><div>\"Until this moment the two sides don\'t want a confrontation\" and are communicating that to each other, said Iranian political analyst and political science professor Emad Abshenass about Tehran and Washington.</div><div><br></div><div>But \"the situation could turn on its head\" if Israel\'s army enters Gaza and seems likely defeat Hamas, Abshenass said.</div><div><br></div><div>In 1983, the barracks bombing was seen as a lesson in the danger for the U.S. from stepping in the middle of a conflict between Israel and one of its neighbors.</div><div><br></div><div>Sam Heller of The Century Foundation said that, as in 1983, \"I don\'t trust that the U.S. forces the Biden administration has sent to the region are enough to really intimidate and deter local actors.\"</div><div><br></div><div>\"Iran and its allies are exposed in their own way,\" Heller said, but they have \"very serious capabilities today that could be (used) against U.S. targets regionwide.\" According to AP reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-24 11:26:33', '2023-10-24 11:26:33'),
(9785, 9785, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Bangladesh has pledged its support for Saudi Arabia to organize Expo 2030 and the 2034 FIFA World Cup, its foreign minister said, as he expressed confidence that the Kingdom would be successful in hosting both events.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Saudi Arabia has already gathered significant international backing to host both the world’s largest exhibition and the most prestigious football tournament.</div><div><br></div><div>Bangladesh extended its support for Expo 2030 in August and will stand with the Kingdom for the FIFA World Cup too, Foreign Minister Abdul Momen told Arab News on Monday.</div><div><br></div><div>“The Prime Minister (Sheikh Hasina) has conveyed to the Saudi government that, yes, we will support them,” he said. “We will support them in organizing the event in 2030. Another thing they have requested is (support) for 2034. We pledged to support Saudi Arabia there also.”</div><div><br></div><div>Both events will be a success if hosted by the Kingdom because of its “very progressive approach,” Momen added.</div><div><br></div><div>“They will be successful in this endeavor. Saudi Arabia has plenty of assets and their arrangements will also be good ... That’s why I think a lot of countries will participate,” he said.</div><div><br></div><div>Three countries are in the running to host World Expo 2030 — besides Saudi Arabia’s bid to hold it in Riyadh, there is also South Korea’s in Busan and Italy’s in Rome.</div><div><br></div><div>Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman announced the Saudi bid to host Expo 2030 in October last year and the country submitted its formal application in December to the Bureau International des Expositions, the organization behind the expo.</div><div><br></div><div>The host nation will be elected by member countries during the organization’s general assembly on Nov. 28.</div><div><br></div><div>For the World Cup, the international governing body of association football, FIFA, has invited bids from Asia and Oceania for the 2034 tournament, setting a deadline of Oct. 31.</div><div><br></div><div>For the 2034 FIFA World Cup, the Saudi Arabian Football Federation announced its bid on Oct. 4, intending to deliver a world-class tournament, drawing inspiration from the Kingdom’s ongoing social and economic transformation and deep-rooted passion for the sport.</div><div><br></div><div>The bid is backed by the Kingdom’s growing experience of hosting world-class football events and its ongoing plans to welcome fans from across the world to the 2023 FIFA Club World Cup and the 2027 AFC Asian Cup. - Arab News&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-24 11:49:29', '2023-10-24 11:49:29'),
(9786, 9786, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Sixteen of the seventeen people who died in a deadly train crash at Bhairab Rail Station in Kishoreganj district on Monday were identified and their bodies were handed over to families on Tuesday.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>A 33-year-old man remained unidentified and his body was kept at the morgue of Shahid Syed Nazrul Islam Medical College and Hospital.</div><div><br></div><div>Kishoreganj Civil Surgeon\'s office and the district police disclosed the names of the deceased this afternoon.</div><div><br></div><div>Among the identified victims are four members of a family from Mymensingh. Sujan Mia, 34, his wife Fatema Begum, 25, and their two sons, Sajib, 11, and Ismail, 8, hail from Mymensingh’s Banati Gangailpara village in Nandail Upazila.</div><div><br></div><div>A total of 10 victims were residents of Kishoreganj district.</div><div><br></div><div>They are Golap, 23, of the Boalia area of Katiadi upazila, Simon Mia, 22, of Chanpur village in Mithamoin upazila, Russell Mia, 26, of Bhara Golahati village, Hosna Khatun, 23, of Sakua village in Karimganj upazila, Sabuj Chandra Sheel, 50, of Ranibazar area of Bhairab upazila, Afzal Hossain, 24, of Radhanagar village, Rabbi, 30, of Srinagar village, Nazrul, 40, of&nbsp; Amlapara area, Humayun Kabir, 57, of Lakshimpur Ghatipara village in Kuliarchar upazila and Asir Uddin, 34, from Duaigaon village in Bajitpur upazila.</div><div><br></div><div>The remaining two victims were Nizam Uddin, 65, of Baraichara village in Brahmanbaria’s Sarail upazila, and AKM Jalal Uddin Ahmed, 37, of Dhaka’s Naddapara area of Dakkhin Khan.</div><div><br></div><div>Civil Surgeon Dr. Saiful Islam said that he received the list of the deceased from Bhairab Upazila Health Complex.</div><div><br></div><div>The accident occurred at 3:50 pm yesterday when the cargo train hit from behind the Dhaka-bound Egarosindhur Godhuli Express which was coming from Kishoreganj.</div><div><br></div><div>Two rear bogies of the passenger train were smashed with many travellers stuck inside.</div><div><br></div><div>The rescue operation was declared completed at 3:30 am today after three bogies that overturned in the accident were removed from the line. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-24 12:12:24', '2023-10-24 12:12:24'),
(9787, 9787, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>In strong opposition to the government’s move to equip the Ansar battalion members with some policing powers such as arresting suspected criminals the BNP on Tuesday demanded the withdrawal of the newly introduced legislation, Ansar Battalion Bill, 2023.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Tabled in parliament on Monday the bill was sent to the parliamentary standing committee on the home ministry for further examination.</div><div><br></div><div>“A bill was placed in parliament yesterday (Monday). It is not only a cause of serious concern, but also a matter of panic.&nbsp; This is how they (govt) are destroying the entire state system and the institutions,” said BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir.</div><div><br></div><div>Speaking at a press conference, he said the police are the only institution all over the world that has the power to arrest offenders. “But Ansars, who don\'t even have basic training, will be given that power here (in Bangladesh).”</div><div><br></div><div>The BNP leader said policing is a different thing and the force is run under several laws, rules, and a different code of conduct.</div><div><br></div><div>He said the role and activities of the Ansars force are different and it is run by a different institution.</div><div><br></div><div>Fakhrul said late President and BNP founder Ziaur Rahman modernised the Ansar force during his rule.</div><div><br></div><div>The BNP leader alleged that the government has brought the Ansar Battalion Bill, 2023 as part of its move to politicise the force.</div><div><br></div><div>“We condemn it and simultaneously demand the withdrawal of the bill. We strongly demand that this bill is not passed in any way,” he said.</div><div><br></div><div>A draft law has been tabled in the Jatiya Sangsad giving the Ansar battalion powers that are exercised by&nbsp; Bangladesh Police&nbsp; such detaining criminals, conducting body searches and seizing goods.</div><div><br></div><div>Some opposition members in the parliament objected to the bill, saying it might create Ansar as a parallel force to the Bangladesh Police</div><div><br></div><div>The controversial bill was placed in the House by Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan, keeping the death penalty as the maximum punishment for different crimes, including mutiny and provocation for rebellion.</div><div><br></div><div>The watchdog body on the home ministry has been asked to submit its report within three working days. If the bill is passed in the current parliament session, the members of Ansar will have an opportunity to exercise their new powers during the upcoming parliamentary election. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-24 12:33:39', '2023-10-24 12:33:39'),
(9788, 9788, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Qatar’s ruling emir today urged the international community not to grant Israel “unrestricted authorisation to kill” Palestinians in its fight against Hamas, in what he called a dangerous escalation that threatens global security.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>“We say enough. Israel shouldn’t be granted an unconditional green light and unrestricted authorisation to kill,” Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani said in an annual speech to open the Gulf Arab state’s advisory Shura council, his first public comments since Qatar began its most recent efforts to mediate between Israel and Hamas.</div><div><br></div><div>The Palestinian health ministry said the Gaza death toll had topped 5,000 in two weeks of Israeli air strikes in response to Hamas’ surprise Oct 7 attack on southern Israel, in which the Islamist group killed more than 1,400 people and captured more than 200 hostages.</div><div><br></div><div>Since then, wealthy gas-producer Qatar has had an open dialogue with both Israel and Hamas which has brought about the release of four hostages held by Hamas, including two Israeli women yesterday, reports Reuters&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>“We call for a serious regional and international stance against this dangerous escalation that we are witnessing, which threatens the security of the region and the world,” Sheikh Tamim said.</div><div><br></div><div>He told, “We do not accept double standards and acting like the lives of Palestinian children aren’t accounted for, as if they don’t have faces or names.”&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-24 12:39:25', '2023-10-24 12:39:25'),
(9789, 9789, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Israeli airstrikes in the Gaza Strip had killed more than 700 people in the past day, the Hamas-run Health Ministry in Gaza said Tuesday.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>That represented a massive increase in the death toll amid widening Israeli bombing attacks in the territory.</div><div><br></div><div>Israel has been attacking Gaza since Hamas militants attacked southern Israeli towns on Oct. 7.</div><div><br></div><div>THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. AP’s earlier story follows below.</div><div><br></div><div>Israel escalated its bombardment of targets in the Gaza Strip, the military said Tuesday, ahead of an expected ground invasion against Hamas militants that the U.S. fears could spark a wider conflict in the region, including attacks on American troops.</div><div><br></div><div>The stepped-up attacks, and the rapidly rising death toll of thousands killed in Gaza, came as Hamas released two elderly Israeli women who were among the hundreds of hostages it captured during its devastating Oct. 7 attack on towns in southern Israel.</div><div><br></div><div>French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Tel Aviv on Tuesday, meeting with the families of French citizens who were killed or held hostage before heading to talks with top Israeli officials. He told them that he came “to express our support and solidarity and share your pain” as well as to assure Israel it is “not left alone in the war against terrorism.”</div><div><br></div><div>In a joint news conference with Macron, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel would make every effort to fight the war quickly, “but it could be a long war.”</div><div><br></div><div>Gaza’s 2.3 million people have been running out of food, water and medicine since Israel sealed off the territory following the attack. A third small aid convoy entered Gaza on Monday carrying only a tiny fraction of the supplies aid groups say is necessary.</div><div><br></div><div>Tamira Alrifai, spokesperson for the U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees, said the 54 trucks that entered Gaza over the last several days was a “trickle” compared to the 500 trucks a day that entered before the war. She said U.N. negotiators were “very, very far away” from getting an agreement to send the sustained aid into Gaza that is needed.</div><div><br></div><div>With Israel still barring the entry of fuel, the U.N. said aid distribution would soon grind to a halt when it can no longer fuel trucks inside Gaza. Hospitals overwhelmed by the wounded are struggling to keep generators running to power lifesaving medical equipment and incubators for premature babies.</div><div><br></div><div>On Tuesday, Israel said it had launched 400 airstrikes over the past day, killing Hamas commanders, hitting militants as they were preparing to launch rockets into Israel and striking command centers and a Hamas tunnel shaft. The previous day, Israel reported 320 strikes. The Palestinian official news agency, WAFA, said many of the airstrikes hit residential buildings, some of them in southern Gaza where Israel had told civilians to take shelter.</div><div><br></div><div>An overnight strike hit a four-story residential building in the southern city of Khan Younis, killing at least 32 people and wounding scores of others, according to survivors.</div><div><br></div><div>The fatalities included 13 from the Saqallah family, said Ammar al-Butta, a relative who survived the airstrike. He said there were about 100 people there, including many who had come from Gaza City, which Israel has ordered civilians to evacuate.</div><div><br></div><div>“They were sheltering at our home because we thought that our area would be safe. But apparently there is no safe place in Gaza,” he said.</div><div><br></div><div>Fifteen members of another family were among at least 33 Palestinians buried Monday in a shallow, sandy mass grave at a Gaza hospital after being killed in Israeli airstrikes.</div><div><br></div><div>Israel says it does not target civilians and that Hamas militants are using them as cover for their attacks. Palestinian militants have fired over 7,000 rockets at Israel since the start of the war, Israel said, and Hamas said it fired a new barrage Tuesday morning.</div><div><br></div><div>“We continue to attack forcefully in Gaza City and its environs, where Hamas is building up its terrorist infrastructure, where Hamas is arraying its troops,\" said Israeli military spokesman Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari. He again told Palestinians to head south “for your personal safety.”</div><div><br></div><div>The U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees said six of its staff were killed in bombings, bringing to 35 the death toll of its workers since the war started.</div><div><br></div><div>The war has killed more than 5,000 Palestinians, including some 2,000 minors and around 1,100 women, the Hamas-run Health Ministry said. That includes the disputed toll from an explosion at a hospital last week. The toll has climbed rapidly in recent days, with the ministry reporting 436 additional deaths in just the last 24 hours.</div><div><br></div><div>The fighting has killed more than 1,400 people in Israel — mostly civilians slain during the initial Hamas attack.</div><div><br></div><div>On Monday night, the two freed hostages, 85-year-old Yocheved Lifshitz and 79-year-old Nurit Cooper, were taken out of Gaza at the Rafah crossing into Egypt, where they were put into ambulances. The women, along with their husbands who were not released, were snatched from their homes in the kibbutz of Nir Oz.</div><div><br></div><div>Appearing weak in a wheelchair and speaking softly, Lifshitz told reporters Tuesday that the militants beat her with sticks, bruising her ribs and making it hard to breathe as they kidnapped her. They drove her into Gaza, then forced her to walk several kilometers (miles) on wet ground to reach a network of tunnels that looked like a spider web, she said.</div><div><br></div><div>Once there, though, her treatment improved, she said. The people assigned to guard her “told us they are people who believe in the Quran and wouldn’t hurt us.” Lifshitz, whose husband remains a hostage, said conditions were kept clean, she received medical care, including medication, and was given the same one meal a day of cheese and cucumber that her captors had.</div><div><br></div><div>The women were freed days after an American woman and her teenage daughter were released. Hamas and other militants in Gaza are believed to have taken roughly 220 people, including an unconfirmed number of foreigners and dual citizens.</div><div><br></div><div>On Monday, Hamas released a video showing the handover, with militants giving drinks and snacks to the dazed but composed women, and holding their hands as they are walked to Red Cross officials. Just before the video ends, Lifshitz reaches back to shake one militant’s hand.</div><div><br></div><div>Around the same time, Israel’s internal security service, Shin Bet, released a recording showing Hamas prisoners — most in clean prison uniforms, but one in a bloody T-shirt and at least one wincing in pain — sitting handcuffed in drab offices talking about the Oct. 7 attack. The men said they were under orders to kill young men, and kidnap women, children and the elderly, and that they’d been promised financial rewards.</div><div><br></div><div>The Associated Press could not independently verify either video, and both the hostages and the prisoners could have been acting under duress.</div><div><br></div><div>The Israeli military later dropped leaflets in Gaza asking Palestinians to reveal information on the hostages’ whereabouts. In exchange, the military promised a reward and protection for the informant’s home.</div><div><br></div><div>Israel has vowed to destroy Hamas. Iranian-backed fighters around the region are warning of possible escalation, including the targeting of U.S. forces deployed in the Mideast, if a ground offensive is launched.</div><div><br></div><div>The U.S. has told Iranian-backed Hezbollah in Lebanon and other groups not to join the fight. Israel and Hezbollah have traded fire almost daily across the Israel-Lebanon border, and Israeli warplanes have struck targets in Syria, Lebanon and the occupied West Bank in recent days.</div><div><br></div><div>National Security Council spokesman John Kirby said there has been an uptick in rocket and drone attacks by Iranian-backed militias on U.S. troops in Iraq and Syria, and the U.S. was “deeply concerned about the possibility for any significant escalation” in the coming days.</div><div><br></div><div>He said U.S. officials were having “active conversations” with Israeli counterparts about the potential ramifications of escalated military action.</div><div><br></div><div>The U.S. advised Israeli officials that delaying a ground offensive would give Washington more time to work with regional mediators on the release of more hostages, according to a U.S. official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to reveal sensitive negotiations. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div><div><br></div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-24 12:44:31', '2023-10-24 12:44:31'),
(9790, 9790, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The ‘very severe’ cyclonic storm ‘Hamoon’ over Northwest Bay and adjoining Northeast Bay moved East-Northeastward, weakened into a severe cyclonic storm over the same area and it may cross Chattogram-Cox’s Bazar coast by Tuesday night.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>At 3 pm, it was centred about 285 kms southwest of Chattogram port, 250 kms southwest of Cox’s Bazar port, 235 kms south of Mongla port and 180 kms south of Payra port, said a Met office bulletin.</div><div><br></div><div>It is likely to move east-northwestwards, weaken into a cyclonic storm and may cross Chattogram-Cox’s Bazar coast by tonight (Tuesday).</div><div><br></div><div>Under the peripheral effect of the severe cyclonic storm, heavy (44-88mm) to very heavy (89mm) rainfall with gusty or squally wind is continuing over North Bay and coastal areas of Bangladesh.</div><div><br></div><div>The body of the system may start crossing the coast by 6 pm to 9 pm on Tuesday, it said.</div><div><br></div><div>Maximum sustained wind speed within 64 kms of the storm centre is about 90 kph rising to 110 kph in gusts or squalls.</div><div><br></div><div>Sea will remain high near the severe cyclonic centre.</div><div><br></div><div>Maritime port of Chattogram has been advised to keep hoisted danger signal No 7, while maritime port of, Cox’s Bazar has been advised to lower sanger signal No 6 but instead of hoist danger signal No 7 and maritime port of Payra have been advised to lower danger signal No 7 but instead hoist danger signal no 5 and maritime port of&nbsp; Mongla has been advised to keep hoisted danger signal No 5.</div><div><br></div><div>The coastal districts of Chattogram, Cox’s Bazar, Feni, Noakhali, Laxmipur and their offshore islands and chars will come under danger signal No 7.</div><div><br></div><div>Under the peripheral effect of the severe cyclone and steep pressure gradient, the low-lying areas of the coastal districts of Cox’s Bazar, Chattogram, Noakhali, Laxmipur, Feni, Barguna, Bhola, patuakhali, Barishal Pirojpur, Jhalokathi, Bagerhat, Khulna, Satkhira and their offshore islands and the chars are likely to be inundated by wind driven surge of 3-5 feet height above normal astronomical tide.</div><div><br></div><div>Under the influence of the severe cyclone, Dhaka, Khulna, Barishal, Chattogram and Sylhet divisions are likely to experience heavy to very heavy rainfall.</div><div><br></div><div>Due to very heavy rainfall, landslides may occur at places over the hilly regions of Cox’s Bazar, Bandarban, Rangamati, Khagrachhari and Chattogram.</div><div><br></div><div>All fishing boats and trawlers over the North Bay and deep sea have been advised to remain in shelter till further notice. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-24 12:57:42', '2023-10-24 12:57:42');
INSERT INTO `news_details` (`id`, `news_id`, `details`, `ticker`, `representative`, `keyword`, `video_link`, `google_drive_link`, `audio_link`, `shoulder`, `created_at`, `updated_at`) VALUES
(9791, 9791, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Maritime ports of Chattogram, Cox’s Bazar, Mongla and Payra have been advised to lower the cautionary signal raised due to Cyclone Hamoon.</span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Squally weather is unlikely over the maritime ports, north Bay and adjoining coastal areas of Bangladesh, said a latest bulletin of the Met office.</div><div><br></div><div>All fishing boats and trawlers over the North Bay and adjoining&nbsp; area have been advised to proceed with caution till this evening, reports UNB.</div><div><br></div><div>The cyclonic storm ‘Hamoon’, over northeast Bay and adjoining area, moved northwestward and crossed the coast at 1 am today, weakening into a land deep depression near Satkania in Chattogram, said a latest bulletin of the Met office.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-25 06:23:28', '2023-10-25 06:23:28'),
(9792, 9792, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is scheduled to address the opening plenary session of the \"Global Gateway Forum\" conference this afternoon here.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">As per the today\'s schedule, the premier will attend the plenary session of the conference at the Plenary Hall, GFC conference venue and will deliver her five-minute address between 1:30 PM-2:30 PM (Brussels time).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She arrived in Brussels last evening on the three-day official visit to attend the two-day conferrence held from today at the invitation of the European Commission (EC) President Ursula von der Leyen.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Today in the morning, she will have a bilateral meeting with EC President Ursula von der Leyen.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">After this bilateral meeting, the prime minister will witness a loan support agreement of 350 million Euros on the renewable energy sector to be signed between the Bangladesh government\'s Economic Relations Department (ERD) and European Investment Bank.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"> </div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A grant agreement of 45 million Euros for Bangladesh\'s renewable energy sector will also be signed between the EC and European Investment Bank.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">And a 12 million Euros grant agreement between the Bangladesh government and EC will be signed for Bangladesh\'s renewable energy sector as well.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Bangladesh government and EC will sign five different grant agreements of 70 million Euros on Bangladesh\'s Social sectors.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The premier then will hold a bilateral meeting with Commissioner for Crisis Management of the EC Janez Lenarcic.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She later will give an interview to TV Channel EURONEWS.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Afterwards, the Vice-President of the European Parliament Nicola Beer will pay a call on the Bangladesh premier.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The prime minister then will have separate bilateral meetings with European Investment Bank President Dr Werner Hoyer and Commissioner for International Partnerships of the EC Jutta Urpilainen.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In the evening, she will attend a dinner hosted by Ursula von der Leyen in honor of the heads of state and government participating in the Global Gateway Forum.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On October 26, she will hold a bilateral meeting with her Belgian counterpart Alexander De Croo.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The premier will also hold a bilateral meeting with Luxembourg Prime Minister Xavier Bettel.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In the afternoon on the same day, Sheikh Hasina will attend a reception accorded to her by Bangladeshi expatriates living in Belgium.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On the same day, POLITICO is likely to take interview of the Bangladesh prime minister.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She is scheduled to return home on October 27. 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, '2023-10-25 07:02:22', '2023-10-25 15:32:05'),
(9793, 9793, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal clearly said that Ansar members will not be empowered to make arrest of offenders in the country.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>The home minister on Wednesday said this while talking to reporters after an inter-ministerial meeting held at the Secretariat in Dhaka on the occasion of Victory Day celebrations.</div><div><br></div><div>On the other hand, a draft law titled “Ansar Battalion Bill-2023” was tabled in the parliament giving the Ansar members similar powers to Bangladesh Police, detaining criminals, conducting body searches and seising goods and valuables.</div><div><br></div><div>“It is a misinformation. It is your wrong perception and the question is an outcome of the wrong idea,” he said.</div><div><br></div><div>The Ansar members have never been granted the authority to arrest individuals, neither in the past nor today said the home minister adding, \"We do not possess the legal means to confer such arresting powers upon the Ansar members.\"&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div>&nbsp; &nbsp;</div><div>\"The fundamental principle is that the country\'s law enforcement agencies must fulfill their responsibilities in accordance with the Criminal Procedure Code,\" said the minister.</div><div><br></div><div>He also said that a bill has been placed in Parliament, which is currently undergoing review by the parliamentary standing committee.</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-25 09:17:46', '2023-10-25 09:17:46'),
(9794, 9794, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Australia won the toss and decided to bat first in its Cricket World Cup match against the Netherlands in the Indian capital on Wednesday.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Batsman Travis Head was again missing from Australia\'s team. He suffered a fracture on his left hand while touring South Africa last month but re-joined the squad earlier this week.</div><div><br></div><div>All-rounder Marcus Stoinis is also sidelined with a calf problem so Cameron Green comes into the side.</div><div><br></div><div>Star batsman Steve Smith will be under the spotlight. He has only managed 72 runs in four games in this tournament, with a highest score of 46 against India.</div><div><br></div><div>Australia sits in fourth place in the standings with a 2-2 record, including a win last Friday over Pakistan. Australia and Pakistan are level on points but the Australians have a better net run- rate and have played one game fewer.</div><div><br></div><div>The Dutch side is 1-3, its only win coming in a huge upset victory over South Africa last week.</div><div><br></div><div>It is seventh in the standings, equal on two points with Sri Lanka, defending champion England and Bangladesh but ahead on net run-rate.</div><div><br></div><div>The Netherlands is unchanged from its previous game against Sri Lanka, which it lost by five wickets.</div><div><br></div><div>The pitch at the Arun Jaitley Stadium should again help the batsmen and a high-scoring game could be on the cards. Evening dew may be a factor.</div><div><br></div><div>Line-ups:</div><div><br></div><div>Australia: David Warner, Mitchell Marsh, Steve Smith, Marnus Labuschagne, Glenn Maxwell, Josh Inglis, Cameron Green, Pat Cummins (captain), Mitchell Starc, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood.</div><div><br></div><div>The Netherlands: Vikramjit Singh, Max O’Dowd, Colin Ackermann, Bas de Leede, Teja Nidamanuru, Scott Edwards (captain), Sybrand Engelbrecht, Logan van Beek, Roelof van der Merwe, Aryan Dutt, Paul van Meekeren. According to AP reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'Sports Desk', '[\"20\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-25 09:29:11', '2023-10-25 09:29:11'),
(9795, 9795, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman called on the US to work immediately to discuss ways to stop Israeli military operations that claimed the lives of innocent people.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>Speaking during a call he received from US President Joe Biden on Tuesday, the crown prince discussed the military escalation taking place in Gaza and the efforts being made to end the war that began following a surprise attack on Israel on Oct. 7 by the Hamas group.</div><div><br></div><div>Prince Mohammed also called on the need to find solutions to rejecting the targeting of civilians in any way, or the targeting of infrastructure and vital interests that affect their daily lives or forced displacement, the Saudi Press Agency reported.</div><div><br></div><div>He stressed the need for calm, stopping the escalation, and not allowing it to deteriorate in a way that affects the security and stability of the region, and the need to adhere to international humanitarian law, lift the siege on Gaza, preserve basic services, and allow the entry of humanitarian and medical aid.</div><div><br></div><div>The crown prince also explained the importance of restoring the path of peace to ensure that the Palestinian people obtain their legitimate rights and achieve a just and comprehensive peace.</div><div><br></div><div>Biden expressed his thanks to Prince Mohammed for the efforts he has made to reduce the escalation and prevent it from spreading in the region.</div><div><br></div><div>Meanwhile, the crown prince met with Kuwaiti Minister of Defense Sheikh Ahmed Fahd Al-Ahmed Al-Sabah, on the sidelines of the Future Investment Initiative Forum.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>During the meeting, which was attended by Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khaled bin Salman, they reviewed relations between the two countries, and a number of topics of common interest. According to Arab News&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-25 09:34:51', '2023-10-25 09:34:51'),
(9796, 9796, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Mexico’s southern coast braced for Hurricane Otis on Wednesday as the Category 5 storm made landfall near the beach resorts of Acapulco, with the potential to cause “catastrophic damage,” the US National Hurricane Center (NHC) said.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>The hurricane reached land near Acapulco, bringing maximum sustained winds around 270kph and heavy rain, the center said.</div><div><br></div><div>The storm could bring up to 20 inches (51cm) of rain in parts of Guerrero and Oaxaca, with the possibility of flash floods and mudslides, a “potentially catastrophic” storm surge, and “life-threatening” surf and rip current conditions, authorities said.</div><div><br></div><div>Mexico’s national water agency CONAGUA warned of six-to-eight-meter surf off Guerrero state, home to Acapulco, and also off parts of Oaxaca state.</div><div><br></div><div>By 9 p.m. on Tuesday (0300 GMT), Otis was about 55 miles south-southeast of Acapulco and blowing maximum sustained winds of 257kph, the Miami-based NHC added.</div><div><br></div><div>In Guerrero, authorities were preparing storm shelters and the national guard said it was helping to prepare for rescues and evacuations.</div><div><br></div><div>The defense ministry enacted a disaster plan ahead of the storm’s arrival, President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said on social media late on Tuesday, as soldiers patrolled Acapulco’s emptying beaches.</div><div><br></div><div>Schools across Guerrero canceled classes for Wednesday ahead of Otis’ arrival, Governor Evelyn Salgado said on social media. According to Reuters reports</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-25 10:22:53', '2023-10-25 10:22:53'),
(9797, 9797, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Britney Spears, the dewy-eyed child star who became a global pop phenomenon and then melted down in full view of the world, tells her story Tuesday with the release of her already bestselling memoir.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>\"The Woman In Me\" is the pop princess in her own, unvarnished words, shot through with the anguish of a family she believes has failed her at every step of the way, in an industry that mercilessly devours its talent.</div><div><br></div><div>From sharing daiquiris with her mother as a young teenager -- two years after she became a regular on \"The Mickey Mouse Club\" -- to the 13 years she spent as an adult in a conservatorship, the memoir details how she struggled to escape the influence of her controlling father.</div><div><br></div><div>Until two years ago, when she got out from under the conservatorship legal relationship that she says dictated everything from her birth control choices to the set list at lucrative Las Vegas gigs.</div><div><br></div><div>In the intervening months, Spears has married a former dancer, announced then lost a pregnancy, and is now on the road to her third divorce.</div><div><br></div><div>The book, whose pre-orders catapulted it to the top of the Amazon best-seller list, was produced too early to include that coda with husband Sam Asghari.</div><div><br></div><div>But readers will still have plenty to chew on.</div><div><br></div><div>\'Harlot\'&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Tidbits that have leaked ahead of publication include news of an abortion Spears says fellow Mickey Mouse Club alum Justin Timberlake urged her to have after she became pregnant while the couple was together.</div><div><br></div><div>When the pair split, and his hit \"Cry Me A River\" appeared to be about the way he felt she had betrayed him, Spears was painted as the \"harlot who\'d broken the heart of America\'s golden boy,\" she writes.</div><div><br></div><div>In reality, he was \"happily running around Hollywood\" while she was \"comatose in Louisiana.\"</div><div><br></div><div>Readers have also learned of a brief but intense affair with Irish actor and Oscar nominee Colin Farrell, what she calls \"a two-week brawl.\"</div><div><br></div><div>\"Brawl is the only word for it -- we were all over each other, grappling so passionately it was like we were in a street fight.\"</div><div><br></div><div>The noughties brought fame and notoriety to Spears in equal measure, with a passionate fan base eager for every last scrap of news about her.</div><div><br></div><div>That collided with an aggressive paparazzi culture that delighted in capturing her partying alongside hell-raisers like Paris Hilton and Lindsay Lohan.</div><div><br></div><div>Spears insists there were never hard drugs and that she did not have a drinking problem, but admits that she was taking Adderall, the ADHD medication.</div><div><br></div><div>A publicly played out bust-up with second husband Kevin Federline, and an ensuing custody fight over their two children, presaged the emotional low watermark: shaving her head and attacking a photographer\'s car.</div><div><br></div><div>\"Flailing those weeks without my children, I lost it, over and over again,\" she writes. \"I didn\'t even really know how to take care of myself.</div><div><br></div><div>\"I\'d begin to think in some ways like a child.\"</div><div><br></div><div>A year later, courts appointed her father Jamie Spears to control her money and her personal life.</div><div><br></div><div>Over the next 13 years, she was told who she could see, how much she could spend, and even ordered not to have more children.</div><div><br></div><div>Yet under Jamie Spears, she would still perform as a pop icon.</div><div><br></div><div>\"Too sick to choose my own boyfriend and yet somehow healthy enough to appear on sitcoms and morning shows, and to perform for thousands of people in a different part of the world every week.\"</div><div><br></div><div>\"From that point on, I began to think that (my father) saw me as put on the earth for no other reason than to help their cash flow.\"</div><div><br></div><div>Jamie Spears has always insisted that he had the best interests of his daughter at heart and was seeking to protect her from exploitation.</div><div><br></div><div>The conservatorship was dissolved in 2021, but -- aside from collaborations with Elton John and will.i.am -- it has not heralded a return to creativity for Spears.</div><div><br></div><div>\"Pushing forward in my music career is not my focus at the moment,\" the now-41-year-old Britney writes.</div><div><br></div><div>\"It\'s time for me not to be someone who other people want; it\'s time to actually find myself.\" - AFP</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'Entertainment', '[\"13\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-25 10:58:30', '2023-10-25 10:58:30'),
(9798, 9798, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Bangladesh will import 1.5 million (15 lakh) metric ton of crude oil from Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates (UAE) for the year 2024.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) in a virtual meeting, with Finance Minister AHM Mostafa Kamal, in-principle approved a proposal in this regard.</div><div><br></div><div>As per proposal of the state-owned Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC), moved by the Energy and Mineral Resources Division of the Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources, the crude oil will be imported through direct purchase method (DPM) which means there was no tender or competitive bidding process in selecting the supplier.</div><div><br></div><div>The proposal mentioned that Saudi Aramco and UAE-based Adnoc will supply the total crude petroleum.</div><div><br></div><div>While briefing reporters about the outcomes of the Cabinet body\'s meeting, additional secretary of the Cabinet Division Sayeed Mahbub Khan informed that the cost or price of petroleum was not mentioned in the proposal as it came for in-principal approval.</div><div><br></div><div>Bangladesh needs to import about 6.5 million metric ton of petroleum oil annually. Of this, about 1.5 million is crude and the remaining amount is refined petroleum.</div><div><br></div><div>The Cabinet body approved, in-principle, another proposal -- of Bangladesh Hi-Tech Park Authority under the Department of Information and Communication Technology -- to appoint a private company for operation and maintenance work of its “Vision 2041 Smart Tower” in Kawranbazar, Dhaka. The company will operate the building under the \"Digital Entrepreneurship and Innovation Eco-System\" project after its construction work. - UNB</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-25 11:32:10', '2023-10-25 11:32:10'),
(9799, 9799, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has called upon the European Union (EU) to give Bangladesh the GSP+ facilities to support the country in its development efforts following the LDC graduation in 2026.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>\"I hope that the EU will offer GSP+ to Bangladesh to support our development following our LDC graduation in 2026,\" she said in a statement at the signing ceremony of a number of agreements at the EU Headquarters here.</div><div><br></div><div>The Premier and the European Commission Chairman Ursula von der Leyen witnessed the signing of a number of agreements, including a 350 million Euro Finance Contract between Bangladesh government and the European Investment Bank (EIB) at the European Commission Headquarters, Brussels.</div><div><br></div><div>In her statement, she said Bangladesh expressed serious concern over the wars and wanted to work together to establish peace globally.</div><div><br></div><div>\"We expressed serious concerns over the wars in Gaza, Ukraine and other parts of the world. We agreed to join forces for peace everywhere,\" she said.</div><div><br></div><div>The Premier, in her statement, thanked the EU for its humanitarian assistance for the 1.2 million Rohingyas being temporarily sheltered by Bangladesh, reports BSS.</div><div><br></div><div>She said the solution to the Rohingya crisis lies in their safe and sustainable return to their homeland in Myanmar.</div><div><br></div><div>\"I urge the EU to remain engaged for an early durable solution to the crisis,\" she added.</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-25 11:55:24', '2023-10-25 11:55:24'),
(9800, 9800, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Bangladesh\'s ODI Captain, Shakib Al Hasan, who is currently leading the team in the ongoing ICC World Cup in India, returned home on Wednesday for a personal practice session with his childhood coach.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Bangladesh has played five matches in the ICC World Cup 2023 so far, losing four of them.</div><div><br></div><div>Shakib has participated in four matches in the Cricket World Cup, missing the match against India due to an injury. He secured six wickets and scored only 56 runs in four matches, which is below his usual performance level.</div><div><br></div><div>The reason for the all-rounder\'s departure to Dhaka, leaving the team in India and the decision to practice in Dhaka, remains unclear. This unusual move raises questions about the practice facilities provided for the national team.</div><div><br></div><div>The Bangladesh team boasts one of the most extensive coaching panels in the World Cup, led by head coach Chandika&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Hathurusingha.Bangladesh’s next match in the World Cup is on October 28 against the Netherlands in Kolkata. On October 31, Bangladesh will take on Pakistan at the same venue. Shakib is expected to join the team before the Netherlands clash. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'Sports Desk', '[\"20\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-25 12:03:23', '2023-10-25 12:03:23'),
(9801, 9801, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Jawaher al-Aqraa says it will be a “miracle” if she survives Israel’s bombardment of Gaza, but in the meantime, she is singing to “block out” the roar of fighter jets over the Palestinian enclave.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>The 28-year-old English teacher is one of hundreds of thousands of Gazans who have fled or lost their homes as Israel’s air raids have intensified since the October 7 Hamas attacks.</div><div><br></div><div>Now she is with her brother in the Deir al-Balah refugee camp where thousands of families live in fear of air strikes.</div><div><br></div><div>The 28-year-old English teacher is one of hundreds of thousands of Gazans who have fled or lost their homes as Israel’s air raids. —AFP</div><div>“I have survived wars and a million escalations,” she said.</div><div><br></div><div>“With this war, I have the impression that all I do is await my turn to die. If I survive, it will be a miracle.”</div><div><br></div><div>AFP first spoke with Aqraa last year as part of a project on young people across the Middle East and how they use culture to counter crisis.</div><div><br></div><div>She said music is her “escape route” from the daily trials faced by the 2.4 million inhabitants of the coastal enclave blockaded by Israel and Egypt.</div><div><br></div><div>“Sometimes I try to block out the noise of the shelling and drones by singing, but the strikes become louder so I stop,” she said.</div><div><br></div><div>“I recite the shahada (the profession of faith) and then I start again.”</div><div><br></div><div>‘Mental balance’</div><div>Aqraa said the scenes she has witnessed in Gaza “have filled me with anger”.</div><div><br></div><div>“All I can do is sing to express my feelings and those of people who have lost their families and their homes. My mental balance comes from music and singing.”</div><div><br></div><div>The young woman said three of her friends had been killed in Israeli air strikes.</div><div><br></div><div>“This war cannot be described with words. It cannot be compared to what happened before.”</div><div><br></div><div>Surrounded by applauding children and her brother, Aqraa plays the violin and sings a song in English composed by friends.</div><div><br></div><div>Aqraa says the loss of friends to Israeli air strikes has left her angry but her music has allowed her to restore her “mental balance”. - AFP</div><div>“I am invincible, unbreakable, unstoppable. They knock me down and I get up again,” she sang. “I was born to be free. I am Palestinian.”</div><div><br></div><div>Speaking afterwards, she said she wanted to travel and sing to “spread the Palestinian cause”, reports AFP</div><div><br></div><div>“The bombing has not affected my determination,” she added.</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-25 12:19:09', '2023-10-25 12:19:09'),
(9802, 9802, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan on Wednesday said that if the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) holds their anti-government rally peacefully at a certain place and their people leave accordingly authorities have nothing to do about that.</span><br></div><div><br></div><div>“We won\'t hinder,” the minister told reporters after an inter-ministerial meeting at the Secretariat to ensure overall security to mark this year’s Victory Day on December 16.</div><div><br></div><div>Responding to a question about the permission for holding Saturday’s rally by the BNP, the home minister said, “They (BNP) will bring all those who do BNP from all over Bangladesh to Dhaka. If so many people come to Dhaka, a different kind of situation can be created.”</div><div><br></div><div>He said the police commissioner will understand where to allow them to hold the rally and he will take the decision considering all the matters, the minister added.</div><div><br></div><div>Asked if the government would close all the entry points to Dhaka as there is fear among the people about October 28 rally by the opposition, the home minister said, “Why should we close the entry points to Dhaka? People come to Dhaka for various purposes including business and jobs…We won’t close entry points to Dhaka.”</div><div><br></div><div>Whether law and order situation could deteriorate for the rally on Saturday, the minister said: “Look, the government is not something that will fall if pushed. This is a democratic government, so the government will be changed through election after the end of the term.”</div><div><br></div><div>Asked about whether the government will allow Jamaat-e-Islami to hold rallies, the home minister said Jamaat-e-Islami would not be allowed to hold rallies as it is not a registered party.</div><div><br></div><div>“I have said that Jamaat-e-Islami is not a registered party yet, so if they come under the banner of Jamaat-e-Islami, then there is no question of giving permission,” he said.</div><div><br></div><div>The US embassy issued a statement after a recent meeting between US Ambassador Peter Haas and the home minister. The statement said there was no talk about the October 28 rally.</div><div><br></div><div>When asked about the issue, the home minister said, “I have clarified the matter clearly after the meeting. We talked about four matters. We talked about the BNP\'s rally on October 28.” According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-25 14:02:04', '2023-10-25 14:02:04'),
(9803, 9803, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Jatiya Party Chairman GM Quader on Wednesday alleged that the government wants to give Ansar battalion members policing powers to increase its influence further in the upcoming national election.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>In a statement, he also said it is an evil design to equip Ansar battalion members with the authority to arrest offenders, frisk detainees, and seize goods ahead of the parliamentary polls.</div><div><br></div><div>“Common people think that the Ansar Battalion Bill, 2023 has been introduced in the parliament to increase the influence of the government further in the elections,” the Jatiya Party leader said.</div><div><br></div><div>GM Quader, also the deputy opposition leader in parliament, called upon the government to move away from trying to pass the bill in the House.</div><div><br></div><div>The Jatiya Party chairman said Ansar force was created to support other forces and the Ansar members were established as auxiliary forces.</div><div><br></div><div>“But ahead of the election, the government has brought a bill in parliament to give Ansar battalions the power to investigate crimes, arrest and seize goods like the police. Jatiya Party members present in the House immediately objected to this bill,” he said.</div><div><br></div><div>“We think that it’s an unusual matter to suddenly try to give Ansar the policing powers before the election. “Chaos will increase at the field level if the Ansars are given such powers,” the Jatiya Party chief said.</div><div><br></div><div>He also feared that this move would create panic among the common people.</div><div><br></div><div>Referring to media reports, GM Quader also said the police force from their various levels has already informed the government about their objections to the bill.</div><div><br></div><div>He also said there is a scope to abuse the bill if it the parliament passes it.</div><div><br></div><div>In the current context, the Jatiya Party chairman demanded the withdrawal of Ansar Battalion Bill, 2023 in the greater national interest.</div><div><br></div><div>The Ansar Battalion Bill, 2023 was placed in Parliament on Monday by Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan with a provision for equipping the Ansar battalion members with authority to arrest offenders, frisk detainees, and seize goods.</div><div><br></div><div>The bill was sent to the parliamentary standing committee on the home ministry for further examination. The committee was asked to submit its report within three working days. If the bill is passed in the current parliament session, the members of Ansar will have an opportunity to exercise their new powers during the upcoming parliamentary election.</div><div><br></div><div>Earlier on Tuesday, BNP also opposed the move as it thinks the government has brought the Ansar Battalion Bill, 2023 as part of its move to politicise the force. According to UNB Reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-25 14:49:44', '2023-10-25 14:49:44'),
(9804, 9804, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina today called upon the global leaders to stop war and restore mutual respect among the nations for ensuring peace and progress.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>\"Human connectivity is the lifeline for peace and progress. We must put an end to wars, conflicts, and the arms race,\" she said.</div><div><br></div><div>The prime minister came up with the statement while addressing the opening plenary session of the \"Global Gateway Forum\" conference at the GGF Conference Hall at her Place of Residence here.</div><div><br></div><div>She also sought European Union (EU)\'s continued trade preferences for Bangladesh\'s smooth LDC graduation.</div><div><br></div><div>Describing the EU as a trusted trade, development, and humanitarian partner for Bangladesh, she said, \"We seek the EU\'s continued trade preferences for our smooth LDC graduation\".</div><div><br></div><div>The premier also urged EU countries to come up with larger investment in Bangladesh particularly in its special economic zones and high-tech parks being built across the country.</div><div><br></div><div>She said Bangladesh offers one of the most attractive investment environments in the South Asia.</div><div><br></div><div>\"So, I invite EU investors to explore the facilities in our Special Economic Zones and Hi-Tech Parks,\" she said.</div><div><br></div><div>She also said they have scope for working further on decent work and the circular economy.</div><div><br></div><div>The premier, as well, stressed the need for better preparation and restoring mutual respects to tackle future crises as the world has currently been witnessing the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and Israeli attack on Gaza.</div><div><br></div><div>\"We need to prepare better for future crises. We must restore faith in mutual respect and understanding among nations,\" she said.</div><div><br></div><div>The prime minister expressed her optimism that the Global Gateway will act as a great connector for lasting peace and sustainable development, wishing all success of the Global Gateway Forum 2023.</div><div><br></div><div>She also said Bangladesh is willing to join the EU in promoting green hydrogen, reports BSS</div><div><br></div><div>\"We can benefit from the EU\'s expertise in the sustainable use of marine resources. We need investment in cold chain networks to preserve our agricultural outputs,\" she said.</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-25 15:30:22', '2023-10-25 15:30:22'),
(9805, 9805, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>BNP Senior Joint Secretary General Ruhul Kabir Rizvi on Wednesday said their much-talked-about grand rally must be held in front of their Nayapaltan party office on October 28.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Speaking at a press conference, he also said the officials of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) are issuing various threats in tune with the ministers centring the BNP rally as they have been working as ‘musclemen’ of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.</div><div><br></div><div>“The DMP officials have said the BNP must hold rallies wherever permission is given. This statement manifested that the people of Bangladesh are now subjugated and political parties’ all activities and freedom of expression will now depend on police clearance,” the BNP leader said.</div><div><br></div><div>He said their party has almost completed all the preparations for holding the grand rally in front of BNP’s Nayapalantha central office in Dhaka on October 28. “The rally will surely be held at Nayapaltan with the unprecedented participation of people from all walks of life. This (Nayapaltan) is the right place where we had peaceful rallies several times.”</div><div><br></div><div>The BNP leader said people all over the country are determined to rush towards Dhaka braving continued mass arrest and all repressive acts to join the rally with a strong commitment to restore democracy.</div><div><br></div><div>“Police officers are employees of the republic, not the owners of the country. How do they decide where the meeting of a political party will be? BNP is a responsible political party, which has experience running the country several times. Does the BNP not know where to hold the rally?” he said.</div><div><br></div><div>The BNP leader said the DMP officials’ remark about BNP’s rally permission is tantamount to a direct obstruction and interference in the programme of political parties.</div><div><br></div><div>He said the anger of the ‘illegitimate’ prime minister and the police against opposition parties, including the BNP, is equally manifesting through their different comments.</div><div><br></div><div>“They (PM and police) think people who belong to all political parties, except Awami League, are second-class citizens. The law enforcers, including the police, are literally working as Sheikh Hasina\'s musclemen,” Rizvi said.</div><div><br></div><div>He also said that the ruling party leaders and police officers want to make Dhaka city a place of fear with their statements and threats centring the October-28 grand rally of the BNP, reports UNB.</div><div><br></div><div>He also said that the members of RAB are harassing people in the name of search at the entry points of the capital by setting up checkpoints while police members of the police are raiding the houses of the BNP leaders and activists and their relatives, and arresting them and assaulting the family members in various ways.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-25 16:08:54', '2023-10-25 16:08:54'),
(9806, 9806, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The Cabinet Committee on Government Purchase (CCGP) in a virtual meeting on Wednesday approved a number of proposals including setting up of two grid-connected solar power plants in the power sector, import of LNG, fertiliser, edible oil, and lentils.</span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Capacity extension of LNG terminal and new deal for import of LNG were also among other proposals approved by the committee in the meeting presided over by Finance Minister AHM Mustafa Kamal.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>As per the Proposal, a Consortium of Max Infrastructure Limited and Hangzhou Boiler Company will set up a 180 MW (AC) solar power plant in Sadar Upazila of Jamalpur district.</div><div><br></div><div>State-owned Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB) will purchase electricity from the plant over the period of 20 years at a total cost of Tk 6,410.40 crores at a tariff rate of 10.989 (0.9 US Cents) per kilowatt hour.</div><div><br></div><div>Energon Renewable (BD) Limited and PWR Energy Trading LLC, a subsidiary of Orion Group, will set up a 130 MW (AC) solar power plant in Gazaria Upazila of Munshiganj district.</div><div><br></div><div>The BPDB will buy electricity from the plant over a period of 20 years at a total cost of Tk 4,634.40 crore at a tariff rate of Tk 11 (10 US Cents) per kilowatt hour.&nbsp; &nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>The BPDB will purchase service from General Electric (Switzerland) GmbH., through direct purchase method (DPM) for damaged compressor repair service of Gas Turbine of Ghorashal 3rd Unit Re-Powered Combined Cycle Power Plant at a cost of Tk 167.98 crore.</div><div><br></div><div>The BPDB will award contract to Joint Venture of (1) TSCO Power Ltd.; (2) Confidence Infrastructure Ltd. and (3) Vicar Concrete Products to supply 24,300 SPC poles under Lot-1 of the project \'Modernization and Capacity Building of Distribution System (Khulna Division) Tk 69.40 crore.</div><div><br></div><div>The BPDB will award contract to Joint Venture of (1) Contech Construction Ltd.; (2) Poles &amp; Concrete Ltd. and (3) Pasha Poles Ltd., to supply 24,297 SPC Poles under Lot-3 of the same project cost of Tk 69.39 crores.</div><div><br></div><div>The committee approved the Petrobangla\'s proposal for a Deed of Amendment to the LNG Use Agreement draft for extension of the regasification capacity of Moheshkhali LNG terminal of the Excelerate Energy Bangladesh Ltd (EEBL) from 500 MMCFD to 600 MMCFD.</div><div><br></div><div>It also approved a proposal of the Petrobangla for the negotiated bid for import of 0.85 MTPA from January 2026 to 2027 and 1.00 MTPA from 2028 to 2040 from Excelerate Gas Marketing Ltd Partnership and also its Draft LNG SPA (sales and purchase agreement) at Contract Price, offered at 13.35% Dated Brent+0.30) USD/MMBtu.</div><div><br></div><div>The CCGP also approved another proposal of Petrobangla to import an LNG Cargo (33.60 lakh) MMBTU from the spot market (23rd of 2023) at a price of $17.55 per MMBTU at a total cost of Tk 762.36 crore.</div><div><br></div><div>Vitol Asia Pte., Ltd, Singapore, was awarded the contract under “Prompt Supply of Electricity and Energy (Special Provisions) (Amendment) Act-2021”.</div><div><br></div><div>The committee approved a proposal of the Food Ministry to import 50,000metric tons of wheat under package-3 through international open tender from Agrocorp International Pte. Ltd., Singapore at a cost of Tk 164.74 crores.</div><div><br></div><div>Another proposal of the Food Ministry received a nod for awarding a contract to Vigan Engineering S.A Belgium under direct purchase method (DPM) for implementing a BMRE programme at Chittagong silo at a cost of Tk 63.21 crore.</div><div><br></div><div>Two separate proposals of Bangladesh Chemical Industries Corporation (BCIC) for import of 30,000 MT of bulk prilled urea fertilizer from Muntajat, Qatar at Tk 136.74 crore, and 30,000 of bagged granular urea fertilizer from Karnaphuli Fertilizer Company Limited (Kafco), at Tk 131.93 crore, received the nod.</div><div><br></div><div>The committee approved separate proposals of Trading Corporation of Bangladesh (TCB) for purchasing 6,000 metric tons of lentils from Shabnam Vegetable Oil Industries Ltd. at cost of Tk 66.58 crore, 40 lakh liters of rice bran oil from Majumdar Bran Oil Mills Ltd. at a cost of Tk 62.50 crore, 80 lakh liters of soybean oil from City Edible Oil Ltd. at Tk 125.10 crore also received the nod of the committee. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-25 16:12:58', '2023-10-25 16:12:58'),
(9807, 9807, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Awami League General Secretary and Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader today said that BNP is openly threatening with violence.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>“Awami League wants peace. However, if our peace rally is attacked, AL leaders and activists will not sit idle. AL is committed to protecting the lives and property of the people,” he said while addressing a press briefing to discuss the inauguration of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Tunnel in Chattogram.</div><div><br></div><div>“We will not go to BNP’s program to attack them. But if our rally is attacked, we will resist and retaliate,” said the AL leader.</div><div><br></div><div>“We want free and fair elections. We want peace during elections. We want peace in the pre-election period too. The government will not allow unrest,” he added.</div><div><br></div><div>“Why should we provoke? There’s no need for us to provoke anyone. We want to run the country peacefully,” Quader also said, reports UNB.</div><div><br></div><div>“We are not aware of foreign pressure. We will conduct our elections. As friendly countries, they can monitor whether the election is fair or not,” the AL general secretary said.</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-26 09:31:29', '2023-10-26 09:31:29'),
(9808, 9808, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has sought support of the international community, including the European Union (EU), for an “early, safe and sustainable” repatriation of the forcibly-displaced Rohingyas.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>The prime minister said the repatriation of the Rohingyas, temporarily sheltered in Bangladesh, to their homeland, Myanmar, is required for the sake of “peace and stability” in the region.</div><div><br></div><div>The issue was discussed when European Commissioner for Crisis Management Janez Lenarcic met Prime Minister Hasina at her hotel suite in Brussels on October 25.</div><div><br></div><div>The PM thanked the EU for its continued support to Bangladesh’s disaster management, particularly in earthquake preparedness.</div><div><br></div><div>During the meeting, the European Commissioner lauded Bangladesh’s outstanding socio-economic development under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.</div><div><br></div><div>He also lauded Bangladesh’s success in disaster management, including an early-warning system, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Thursday.</div><div><br></div><div>He commended Bangladesh for its generous hosting of the Rohingyas and announced additional Euro 10.5 million assistance for the Rohingyas.</div><div><br></div><div>Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Md Shahriar Alam and EU Ambassador to Bangladesh Charles Whiteley, among others, were present. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-26 09:42:46', '2023-10-26 09:42:46'),
(9809, 9809, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">BNP is determined to hold their rally in front of the party central office in Nayapaltan of the capital, according to media reports.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>BNP senior joint secretary general Ruhul Kabir Rizvi said this while addressing a press briefing at the party central office in Nayapaltan of the capital on Thursday.</div><div> </div><div>Rizvi said that we have clearly told them (DMP) that the only designated venue for the rally on October 28 is in front of the Nayapaltan BNP office, there is no alternative.</div><div><br></div><div>The BNP senior joint secretary general also demanded release of the party leaders and activists within October 28.</div><div><br></div><div>He alleged that the police have filed 10 cases and started arresting their leaders and activists ahead of the October 28 rally.</div><div><br></div><div>Over 150 leaders and activists were picked up and arrested across the country including in Dhaka from Wednesday night till Thursday noon, he added.</div><div><br></div><div>Rizvi alleged that the ruling Awami League is provoking confrontation while the law enforcers are arresting and picking up the opposition men and ransacking their houses.</div><div><br></div><div>On the other hand, the party sources said in reply to a letter of police, the BNP on Thursday has informed the DMP (Dhaka Metropolitan Police) that they will hold their rally in Nayapaltan of the capital.</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-26 10:05:41', '2023-10-26 10:48:13'),
(9810, 9810, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>BNP\'s Joint Secretary General Khairul Kabir Khokon was picked up by the Detective Branch (DB) of police from Dhaka\'s Sipahibagh area early today.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Razib Al Masud, deputy commissioner of Motijheel division of DB, said detectives detained him as he was \"wanted in several cases\" filed in Dhaka and Narsingdi districts.</div><div><br></div><div>Meanwhile, the BNP leader\'s wife Shirin Sultana said that DB police detained Khokon from his brother\'s house in Sipahibagh area around 2 am. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-26 10:43:18', '2023-10-26 10:43:18'),
(9811, 9811, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Israeli tanks took part in a \"targeted raid\" overnight in northern Gaza, the army said in a statement on Thursday, as it prepared its forces for a ground invasion.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>\"Overnight, the IDF conducted a targeted raid using tanks in the northern Gaza Strip, as part of preparations for the next stages of combat,\" the army said.</div><div><br></div><div>\"The soldiers exited the area at the end of the activity.\"</div><div><br></div><div>Late Wednesday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that along with the heavy bombing campaign of Hamas-controlled Gaza, \"we are preparing for a ground offensive\".</div><div><br></div><div>On October 7, throngs of Hamas gunmen poured from Gaza into Israel, killing 1,400 people, mostly civilians, and kidnapping 222 more, according to Israeli officials.</div><div><br></div><div>More than 6,500 Gazans already have died in Israel\'s aerial assault, according to figures released by the Hamas-controlled health ministry in the territory.</div><div><br></div><div>According to the Israeli military, during the overnight raid, \"soldiers located and struck numerous terrorists, terror infrastructure and anti-tank missile launch posts, and operated to prepare the battlefield\".</div><div><br></div><div>A spokesman for the military confirmed to AFP this was not the first time Israeli soldiers and tanks had entered Gaza for limited incursions since October 7. - AFP&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-26 10:58:46', '2023-10-26 10:58:46');
INSERT INTO `news_details` (`id`, `news_id`, `details`, `ticker`, `representative`, `keyword`, `video_link`, `google_drive_link`, `audio_link`, `shoulder`, `created_at`, `updated_at`) VALUES
(9812, 9812, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">England captain Jos Buttler won the toss and opted to bat in a must-win game for the defending champions against Sri Lanka on Thursday at the Cricket World Cup.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>England has one win — against Bangladesh — from its opening four games at the tournament following heavy losses to New Zealand and South Africa and an upset defeat to Afghanistan.</div><div><br></div><div>Sri Lanka\'s five-wicket win over the Netherlands last weekend was its first victory in four games at the tournament.</div><div><br></div><div>England made three changes to its side from the massive defeat against South Africa.</div><div><br></div><div>Pacer Reece Topley was already ruled out of the tournament with a hand injury, and was replaced by all-rounder Chris Woakes.</div><div><br></div><div>Spin all-rounder Moeen Ali and big-hitting batsman Liam Livingstone have also been included, with Harry Brook and pacer Gus Atkinson left out.</div><div><br></div><div>Sri Lanka brought in all-rounder Angelo Mathews as an injury replacement for pacer Matheesha Pathirana. Medium pacer Lahiru Kumara also comes into the side, with bowling all-rounders Dushan Hemantha and Chamika Karunratne left out.</div><div><br></div><div>Buttler has managed only 87 runs in four games thus far, with a highest of 43.</div><div><br></div><div>Sri Lanka is unbeaten against England in their past four World Cup meetings.</div><div><br></div><div>Lineups:</div><div><br></div><div>England: Jonny Bairstow, Dawid Malan, Joe Root, Ben Stokes, Jos Buttler (captain), Liam Livingstone, Moeen Ali, Chris Woakes, David Willey, Adil Rashid, Mark Wood.</div><div><br></div><div>Sri Lanka: Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Perera, Kusal Mendis (captain), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Charith Asalanka, Dhananjaya de Silva, Angelo Mathews, Maheesh Theekshana, Kasun Rajitha, Lahiru Kumara, Dilshan Madushanka. AP</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'Sports Desk', '[\"20\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-26 11:46:03', '2023-10-26 11:46:03'),
(9813, 9813, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Dallywood megastar Shakib Khan is all set to make his mark as the lead actor in the Pan-Indian film \'Dard\' alongside popular Bollywood actress Sonal Chauhan.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>The Pan-Indian film is being directed by Dhallywood\'s renowned filmmaker-distributor Anonno Mamun, the director of Shakib\'s successful film \'Nabab LLB\' and also known for bringing Bollywood blockbusters \'Pathan\' and \'Jawan\' in theatres recently for the moviegoers in Bangladesh.</div><div><br></div><div>The film will be made in four languages - Bengali, Hindi, Tamil, and Malayalam, and the shooting is scheduled to start from October 27.</div><div><br></div><div>A press conference was held at a Mumbai restaurant on Wednesday night, joined by the lead actors, director and other associates of the film.</div><div><br></div><div>\'Dard\' will also showcase other Bangladeshi and Indian actors including Jessia Islam, Rajesh Sharma, Rahul Dev and Paayel Sarkar.</div><div><br></div><div>The film is being jointly produced by Shakib\'s own production house SK Movies, alongside One World Movies, Bangladesh\'s Action Cut Entertainment, and Kibria Films. - UNB</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'Entertainment', '[\"13\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-26 11:52:53', '2023-10-26 11:52:53'),
(9814, 9814, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">A 19-year-old college student died after his motorcycle lost control and hit a tree in the Kamar Haila area on the Jatrapur-Ghogadah road in the Sadar upazila of Kurigram on Thursday morning.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>The deceased was identified as Lutfar Rahman of the Nowanipara area of Jatrapur union.</div><div><br></div><div>According to family sources, the incident happened when Lutfar was going to Ghogadah Bazar and, on the way, his motorcycle lost control and hit a tree.</div><div><br></div><div>Later, locals rescued him and took him to Kurigram General Hospital, where doctors referred him to Rangpur Medical College Hospital.</div><div><br></div><div>He died there in the afternoon while undergoing treatment, said Jatrapur Union Parishad Chairman Md Abdul Gafur, reports UNB.</div><div><br></div><div>Masudur Rahman, officer-in-charge of Kurigram Sadar Police Station, said that we heard that a college student died in a road accident.</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-26 12:05:15', '2023-10-26 12:05:15'),
(9815, 9815, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">A fire broke out at a high-rise building in the capital\'s Mohakhali area on Thursday afternoon.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>The fire started on the thirteen floor of the 14-storey Khwaja Tower around 5 pm, said Shahjahan Sikder, deputy assistant director of Fire Service and Civil Defence headquarters media cell.</div><div><br></div><div>On information, three firefighting units rushed to the spot and are trying to tame the blaze, reports UNB.</div><div><br></div><div>Four more units are going to join the operations, added the fire officer.</div><div><br></div><div>No casualties were reported as yet, he said.</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-26 12:12:04', '2023-10-26 12:12:04'),
(9816, 9816, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">At least 22 people were killed and 50 to 60 wounded on Wednesday in mass shootings at multiple locations including a bowling alley and a bar in Lewiston, Maine, NBC News reported, citing a Lewiston police source.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>The Lewiston Police Department on Facebook identified a person of interest in the mass shooting at the bar and bowling alley as Robert Card, 40, saying he should be “considered armed and dangerous.”</div><div><br></div><div>Police earlier posted three photographs of an unidentified suspect pointing what appeared to be a semi-automatic rifle, in addition to a picture of a white SUV, asking the public for help in identifying either.</div><div><br></div><div>The Androscoggin County Sheriff’s Office also posted pictures of the suspect, a bearded man in a brown hoodie jacket and jeans holding a rifle in the firing position.</div><div><br></div><div>“There is an active shooter in Lewiston,” Maine state police said previously on the social media platform X. “We ask people to shelter in place. Please stay inside your home with the doors locked. Law enforcement is currently investigating at multiple locations.”</div><div><br></div><div>The Sun Journal, citing a Lewiston police spokesperson, reported shootings at three separate businesses: the Sparetime Recreation bowling alley, Schemengees Bar &amp; Grille Restaurant, and a Walmart distribution center.</div><div><br></div><div>The bowling alley is about four miles (6.5 km) north of the bar, and the distribution center is about a mile and a half (2.5 km) south of the bar.</div><div><br></div><div>The Central Maine Medical Center in Lewiston issued a statement saying it was “reacting to a mass casualty, mass shooter event” and coordinating with area hospitals to take patients.</div><div><br></div><div>Lewiston is part of and about 35 miles (56 km) north of Maine’s largest city, Portland.</div><div><br></div><div>Lewiston, a former textile hub and town of 38,000 people in Androscoggin County, is located in southern Maine about midway between the state capital, Augusta, and Portland, the state’s most populous city</div><div><br></div><div>President Joe Biden has been briefed and will continue to receive updates, a US official said in Washington.</div><div><br></div><div>The president spoke by phone individually to Maine Governor Janet Mills, Senators Angus King and Susan Collins, and Congressman Jared Golden about the shooting in Lewiston and offered full federal support in the wake of the attack, the White House said.</div><div><br></div><div>If the death toll of 22 is confirmed, the massacre would be the deadliest in the United States since at least August 2019, when a gunman opened fire on shoppers at an El Paso Walmart with an AK-47 rifle, killing 23 in a shooting that prosecutors branded an anti-Hispanic hate crime, according to the Gun Violence Archive.</div><div><br></div><div>The 22 fatalities would also be on par with the number of homicides that normally occur in Maine in any given year. The number of annual homicides in the state has fluctuated between 16 and 29 since 2012, according to Maine State Police.</div><div><br></div><div>The number of US shootings in which four or more people were shot has surged since the COVID-19 pandemic began in 2020, with 647 occurring in 2022 and 679 projected to occur in 2023, based on trends as of July, according to data from the archive.</div><div><br></div><div>The deadliest US mass shooting on record is the massacre of 58 people by a gunman firing on a Las Vegas country music festival from a high-rise hotel perch in 2017. According to Reuters reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-26 12:56:37', '2023-10-26 12:56:37'),
(9817, 9817, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">E-commerce marketplace Daraz Bangladesh hosted over 1,800 top e-commerce sellers and brand partners at the Daraz Seller Summit 2023 in Dhaka.</span><br></div><div><br></div><div>The event encompassed a multitude of engaging activities and provided a platform for Daraz Bangladesh to convey its “Grand Vision” to the seller community and brand partners, according to a press release.</div><div><br></div><div>Planning Minister MA Mannan graced the event as the chief guest.</div><div><br></div><div>He emphasised the potential of the e-commerce industry and commended Daraz for its significant contribution to the industry, the release said.</div><div><br></div><div>Daraz Bangladesh Managing Director Syed Mostahidal Hoq; Daraz Group Chief Commercial Officer Lu Yao; and Chief Corporate Affairs Officer AHM Hasinul Quddus Rusho, among others, were present at the event.</div><div><br></div><div>The event focused on subjects such as the “Biggest Sale of the Year,” the upcoming 11.11 campaign, and the wide array of ways to boost sales for Daraz’s seller partners.</div><div><br></div><div>It also presented awards in seven distinct categories, recognising and inspiring sellers. - UNB</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'International Desk', '[\"29\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-26 13:10:14', '2023-10-26 13:10:14'),
(9818, 9818, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The devastating fire that broke out a high-rise building in the capital\'s Mohakhali area on Thursday afternoon, has not been brought under control even after three and half hours.</span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Eleven firefighting units are relentlessly working to bring the blaze under control, said Rafi Al Farooq, the duty officer of the control room of the Fire Service.</div><div><br></div><div>Besides, two Turntable Ladder (TTLs) were taken at the spot to break the glass of the tower for rescue if anyone was stranded inside, he added.</div><div><br></div><div>The fire started on the thirteen floor of the 14-storey Khwaja Tower around 5 pm, said Shahjahan Sikder, deputy assistant director of Fire Service and Civil Defence headquarters media cell.</div><div><br></div><div>Seven people were rescued alive by fire service officials.</div><div><br></div><div>No casualties were reported as yet, he said.</div><div><br></div><div>Meanwhile, members of the Bangladesh Army, Air Force, Navy and BGB joined the operation to control the fire, according to the ISPR</div><div><br></div><div>Due to the fire, traffic movement on both sides of the road from Mohakhali\'s Amtali to Gulshan-1 remain suspended, resulting in long tailbacks on both sides.</div><div><br></div><div>Apart from this, electricity connections have also been disconnected in Mohakhali area. - UNB</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-26 16:09:30', '2023-10-26 16:09:30'),
(9819, 9819, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Thursday urged Belgium to build high standard ships in Bangladesh alongside enhancing cooperation in several sectors including pharmaceuticals and renewable energy.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>“We are building ships now. But you can come here in Bangladesh to manufacture high standard ships. We are building a large seaport in Payra. So, you are most welcome,” she told her Belgian counterpart Alexander De Croo in a bilateral meeting held at the FPS Chancellery here.</div><div><br></div><div>Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen briefed reporters about the outcome of Sheikh Hasina’s engagement in Brussels, the capital city of Belgium.</div><div><br></div><div>Croo expressed his hope that they would work on bilateral cooperation in the renewable energy sector.</div><div><br></div><div>In reply, Sheikh Hasina said Belgium can work with Bangladesh not only in renewable energy, but also in the shipbuilding sector.</div><div><br></div><div>In the meeting, Bangladesh also proposed Belgium to sign a partnership agreement over cooperation in the pharmaceuticals sector, said Momen.</div><div><br></div><div>When the Belgian Prime Minister said his country is very good in the pharmaceutical industry, the Bangladesh PM said her country is also good in pharmaceuticals as it fulfills 90 percent of domestic needs and exports pharmaceutical items to 117 countries across the world.</div><div><br></div><div>“Belgium was asked to sign a partnership agreement over the pharmaceuticals sector. If so, Belgium can produce pharmaceutical items at affordable prices.&nbsp; Croo liked the proposal,” said Momen.</div><div><br></div><div>The Belgium premier highly praised the economic success attained in recent years and last year’s celebration of 50 years of diplomatic relations between Bangladesh and Belgium.</div><div><br></div><div>Sheikh Hasina appreciated the dredging and spanning machines Bangladesh imported from Belgium saying that the two countries can work further to enhance cooperation in this regard.</div><div><br></div><div>In this context, the Belgian premier said the European country is the world’s number-1 in dredging.</div><div><br></div><div>“It was a very cordial discussion with (her Belgian counterpart) Alexander De Croo. The discussion was very fruitful,” said Momen.</div><div><br></div><div>In another bilateral meeting with Luxembourg Prime Minister Xavier Bettel, Sheikh Hasina asked Luxembourg to share its banking sector’s expertise with Bangladesh as the European country has a good banking system.</div><div><br></div><div>“You’ve good expertise in the banking sector. You can share your banking sector’s expertise,” said the Bangladesh PM.</div><div><br></div><div>In response, Luxemburg\'s PM assured her of considering this proposal to help develop the banking sector of Bangladesh.</div><div><br></div><div>In the meeting, it was expected that an air service agreement would be signed between the two countries soon to boost bilateral trade and business.</div><div><br></div><div>Besides, the bilateral cooperation in ICT and renewable energy sectors came up for discussion in the meeting.</div><div><br></div><div>Sheikh Hasina asked Belgium and Luxembourg to extend the quota and tariff-free access for Bangladeshi goods to their markets till 2032 instead of 2029 under ‘Everything but Arms (EBA) scheme (for LDCs)\'.</div><div><br></div><div>\"Continue the EBA facility till 2032 instead of 2029 as the graduation should not be punished rather should be rewarded,\" she said, adding that Bangladesh is set to graduate from the LDC in 2026.</div><div><br></div><div>Sheikh Hasina invited Alexander De Croo and Xavier Bettel to visit Bangladesh.</div><div><br></div><div>Later, the Bangladesh Prime Minister attended the closing session of the Global Gateway Forum 2023.</div><div><br></div><div>Momen said the Prime Minister has become the star at the event. “She has really become a star and a real icon,” he added.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>Noting that the Prime Minister received applause from the participants of the forum and the EU leaders, the Foreign Minister said such appreciation just two months before the next general election has immensely brightened the image of the country. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-26 16:27:38', '2023-10-26 16:27:38'),
(9820, 9820, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has returned home after wrapping up her three-day official visit to Belgium.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A commercial flight of Biman Bangladesh Airlines, carrying the premier and her entourage members landed at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport at 11:51am on Friday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On board her return flight, the prime minister exchanged pleasantries with the passengers going from one seat to another. She asked about the wellbeing of the surprised passengers.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The aircraft departed from Brussels Zaventem Airport at 10:10pm on Thursday local time (2:10am on Friday Bangladesh time).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify; \">In Brussels the PM attended the \"Global Gateway Forum-2023\" on October 25-26 at the invitation of the European Commission (EC) President Ursula von der Leyen.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">During her stay in Brussels, Hasina had a number of meetings with leaders of European countries, the European Commission (EC), the European Investment Bank (EIB) and the European Parliament as well as attended a community reception on the sidelines of the Forum.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On Wednesday, she attended the opening plenary session of the Global Gateway Forum and had bilateral meetings with EC President Ursula von der Leyen and EC Executive Vice President and Trade Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis, meetings with EIB President Dr Werner Hoyer, Vice President of European Parliament Nicola Beer, European Commissioner for Crisis Management Janez Lenarcic and European Commissioner for International Partnership Jutta Urpilainen, and attended an official dinner hosted by the EC President.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Bangladesh PM, the EC President and the EIB President witnessed the signing of a number of loan and grants agreements inked to provide some 477 million Euro to Bangladesh –some 407 million Euro for renewable (green) energy sector and some 70 million Euro for the social sector.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On Thursday, Hasina held bilateral meetings with her Belgian counterpart Alexander De Croo and Luxembourg Prime Minister Xavier Bettel, attended the Closing Plenary Session of the Global Gateway Forum and community reception accorded to her by Bangladeshi expatriates living in Belgium. 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, '2023-10-27 08:17:50', '2023-10-27 08:17:50'),
(9821, 9821, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The fifth consignment of uranium, the nuclear fuel for Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant, has arrived in Pabna’s Rooppur under special security arrangement.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A convoy carrying uranium entered the project area around 9:25am on Friday (October 27).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The last consignment of the ‘fresh nuclear fuel’ reached Rooppur on October 20.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Confirming the development, Biplob Kumar Goswami, Pabna additional superintendent of police (Ishwardi Circle) said the convoy carrying uranium left the capital in the morning and crossed Bangabandhu Bridge and reached Rooppur project area via Banpara in Natore and Dasuria in Ishwardi of Pabna.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Earlier on September 28, the first consignment of fuel for the Rooppur Nuclear Power Project arrived in Bangladesh. The next day, on September 29, fuel was taken to the project area under special security measures.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The consignment was formally handed over in the presence of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Russian President Vladimir Putin through a video conference on October 5, marking Bangladesh’s entry to the world’s elite club of nuclear power producers.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On January 15, 2013, an agreement regarding State Export Credit of US$ 500 million was signed for carrying out preparatory phase construction works of Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Russia to take back spent fuel of Rooppur nuclear power plant: PM Hasina tells fuel handing ceremony</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The government signed a US$12.65 billion general contract (GC) in 2015 with Moscow for building the nuclear power plant.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Bangladesh signed a credit agreement with Russia to obtain $11.385 billion credit for RNPP in July 2016. The credit covers 90 percent of the project cost.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Ministry of Science and Technology recently said that the first unit of the plant may come into operation in July 2024 and the second unit in July 2025.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Once the two units become operational, the Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant will be capable of generating 2,400 MW of power. The first unit has reached over 90 percent completion in terms of physical and structural work, while the second unit has progressed to about 70 percent completion.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">According to the World Nuclear Association website, the countries using nuclear energy include the US, China, France, Russia, South Korea, Canada, Ukraine, Germany, Japan, Spain Sweden, Belgium, UK, India, Czech Republic, Finland, Switzerland, Bulgaria, Pakistan, Hungary, Slovakia, Brazil, South Africa, Mexico, Romania, Argentina, United Arab Emirates, Belarus, Slovenia, the Netherlands, Iran and Armenia. 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, '2023-10-27 08:21:16', '2023-10-27 08:21:16'),
(9822, 9822, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">The United States has reiterated that they do not take any side on Bangladesh’s domestic political affairs.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"I will just say that, no, we do not take a side on internal political matters,\" US State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller told reporters in a regular media briefing in Washington on October 26 when his attention was drawn about pro-BNP participants in Talk-shows who keep referring to November 3 deadline by the US to Bangladesh leadership.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">US Deputy Assistant Secretary Afreen Akhter recently paid a visit to Dhaka.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Pro-opposition speakers in different talk shows are claiming that US issued a deadline to Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to resign by November 3rd or face the music, the questioner mentioned seeking a clarification.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The US Embassy in Dhaka, earlier, gave an explanation but did not endorse such report published by a media outlet from India recently.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Responding to another question, the spokesperson said they are monitoring reports about former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia’s \"deteriorating\" health.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We have encouraged the Bangladeshi government to ensure a fair and transparent legal process for her. And I don’t have anything to add to – an internal legal process,\" Miller said. 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, '2023-10-27 08:23:30', '2023-10-27 08:23:30'),
(9823, 9823, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><b style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Hamas on Thursday released a list of almost 7,000 names of Gazans it said had been killed in Israeli strikes after the US president cast doubt on its toll figures.</b><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Palestinian Islamist group says that 7,028 people have now been killed in Gaza since its October 7 attacks which Israel says left 1,400 dead, mainly civilians.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The Hamas list of 6,747 names, released by its health ministry, gave the sex, age and identity card number of each of the victims. It said 281 bodies had not yet been identified.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The ministry said in a statement that the United States had \"brazenly cast doubt on the truth of the announced toll\".</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"We have decided to announce the details of the names to the whole world so that the truth is known about the genocide perpetrated by the Israeli occupation against our people.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">US President Joe Biden said on Wednesday that he had \"no confidence\" in the militant group\'s death toll figures.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"What they say to me is I have no notion that the Palestinians are telling the truth about how many people are killed. I\'m sure innocents have been killed, and it\'s the price of waging a war,\" Biden told a White House press conference.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Biden has, however, been among several Western leaders to caution Israel over the civilian toll. Israel \"should be incredibly careful to be sure that they\'re focusing on going after the folks that (are) propagating this war,\" he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Questioned about Hamas tolls on Thursday, Israeli military spokesman Richard Hecht said that \"when the Hamas health ministry comes out with the numbers just take them with a pinch of salt.\"</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The two sides have had several propaganda clashes during the war.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">After a missile hit near a Gaza City hospital on October 17, Hamas blamed an Israeli air strike and said hundreds had been killed. Israel insists that a misdirected rocket fired by a Gaza militant group was to blame. It has also questioned the toll.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The United States and European countries have backed the Israeli version of events. 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, '2023-10-27 08:26:10', '2023-10-27 08:26:10'),
(9824, 9824, '<div style=\"text-align: justify; \"><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will inaugurate the much-anticipated Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Tunnel constructed beneath the Karnaphuli River tomorrow.</span><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She will unveil a plaque on the west bank of river Karnaphuli at Patenga and after crossing the tunnel, she will unwrap another plaque at the south bank of the river at Anwara at 11am.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The nearly 10km-long tunnel constructed beneath river Karnaphuli between Patenga and Anwar upazila, 40 kilometer distant from the country\'s commercial capital and port city Chattogram which was built at a cost of Taka 10,374 crore will be opened to vehicles from 6am on Monday.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">She will also open and lay foundation stones of some projects in Chattogram on the occasion.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The premier will also release a special commemorative postage stamp, opening day envelope and a special seal marking the inauguration of the first ever underwater road tunnel.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Sheikh Hasina, also Awami League president, will address a public rally on Korean EPZ (KEPZ) ground at Anwara tomorrow as a huge number of people including leaders and workers of the ruling Awami League and associate bodies are expected to attend it.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">AL\'s Chattogram south district unit is organizing the rally as a festive atmosphere is prevailing all over the district for the gala occasion.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"All preparations are at the final stage as Chattogram as well as the entire country is eagerly waiting for the grand inauguration of the much-awaited Bangabandhu tunnel,\" Chattogram South District AL president Motaherul Islam Chowdhury told BSS.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said a large boat shaped stage are being erected in the venue as Road Transport and Bridges Minister and Awami League General Secretary Obaidul Quader will also be on the dais with Mothaherul Islam Chowdhury in the chair.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Chowdhury said all-out preparations have been taken to facilitate participants of the rally as sanitations and sufficient water supply will be ensured at the venue and separate arrangements for smooth participation of the females as well.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"Our public rally will be turned into a vast human sea with the participation of nearly a million of people,\" he expected.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">He said Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Tunnel is a matter of pride not only for Chattogram but for the entire nation.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Its \'dream comes true\' for millions especially for the residents of commercial capital and port city as the much-anticipated multilane underwater expressway tunnel, first of its kind in South Asia, constructed beneath the river Karnaphuli, a major watercourse of this region, will be inaugurated tomorrow.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">In a press briefing on Thursday in Dhaka, Road Transport and Bridges Minister Obaidul Quader said 17,260 vehicles would be able to use the tunnel on a daily basis equating to some 7.6 million vehicles a year.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The tunnel would help increase the country\'s annual GDP growth by 0.166pc, he added.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">\"The tunnel will also cut the distance among Chattogram city, the seaport and the airport as it will play a crucial role in making the economy more vibrant,\" Quader said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Talking to BSS, Md. Harunur Rashid Chowdhury, director of the mega project, said the tunnel is expected to elevate Bangladesh into a new level of prominence in the world, as it is also the region\'s first ever under river road tunnel.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It will turn Chattogram into \"one city with two towns\" like Chinese city of Shanghai as it will expand the periphery of the city with boosting economy and opening new doors of immense potentials for industrialization, tourism and expansion of trade and commerce and developing road connectivity in the entire region.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Federation of Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FBCCI) president Mahbubul Alam said Bangladesh is going to enter the era of underwater road tunnel which is of course a pride for the entire nation as well it will facilitate the business community hugely.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The tunnel would boost industrialization in the region as two export processing zones in Chattogram-KEPZ in Anwara and Chattogram EPZ in Halishahar- and Chinese Economic and Industrial Zone (CEIZ) in Anwara will be highly facilitated by the tunnel, he said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Alam said it would connect the proposed Asian Highway with Dhaka-Chattogram-Cox\'s Bazar Highway by reducing distance by 40km and it will also facilitate the ongoing and planned power and energy hub in Cox\'s Bazar, which is already a tourist hub of the country.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Thus it will have significant contributions to the country\'s GDP like Padma Bridge, the FBCCI president said.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Apart from the tunnel, he said, if a Dhaka-Chattogram expressway can be built and a master plan is taken to boost a planned industrialization on the bank of river Karnaphuli to turn it as a Smart city, it will be highly beneficial for country\'s economy as well as it can boost Bangladesh\'s connectivity with \'seven sisters\' of India including Mizoram and Manipur expanding trade and business as well as tourism in the region.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">As per the project details, the length of the entire route is 9.39 kilometers (5.83 mi), with the tunnel making up 3.32 kilometers (2.06 mi) of the length while it\'s diameter is 10.80 meters (35.4 ft).</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It has been built at a cost of Taka 10,374 crore and of which around half is financed by the Exim Bank of China.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It will improve the Dhaka-Chittagong-Cox\'s Bazar highway network. A Chinese company, China Communications Construction Company, constructed it.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Chinese President Xi Jinping inaugurated the construction site of the Karnaphuli Tunnel on October 14, 2017.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">On 24 February 2019, Sheikh Hasina also inaugurated the tunnel boring phase.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">The multilane tunnel route passes through the river close to Navy College on one side and Korean Export Processing Zone (KEPZ) and Karnaphuli Fertilizer Company (KAFCO) on the other.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\"><br></div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">It will also ease traffic congestion on two bridges over the Karnaphuli River.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">Chattogram deputy commissioner Abul Bashar Mohammad Fakruzzaman said the tunnel will expedite the county\'s economy and regional trade and commerce by turning Chattogram into one city with two towns.</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">&nbsp;</div><div style=\"text-align: justify;\">A three-layer security measures will be ensured at the venue for the inauguration of the tunnel, he said. 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, '2023-10-27 08:42:23', '2023-10-27 08:42:23'),
(9825, 9825, '<div><b><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\">Thousands of leaders and activists of BNP and its associate bodies have gathered in front of the party’s Nayapaltan central office to attend the grand rally today (October 28, 2023) to mount pressure on the government to accept their one-point demand.</span><br></b></div><div><br></div><div>BNP activists started gathering in front of the party\'s Nayapaltan headquarters this morning amid the presence of a huge number of law enforcers.</div><div><br></div><div>Defying the senior leaders’ instructions, several thousand opposition activists thronged Nayapaltan on Friday afternoon in advance and stayed there overnight.</div><div><br></div><div>Visiting the rally venue around 9 am today, thousands of opposition activists were seen coming from different parts of the city.</div><div><br></div><div>Wearing colourful caps, carrying banners, festoons, placards and portraits of the party’s top leaders, they were shouting anti-government slogans as they converged on the venue.</div><div><br></div><div>The roads and alleys stretching from Kakrail to Arambagh are filled to the brim with BNP activists, halting traffic in the area.</div><div><br></div><div>Many leaders and activists of the party alleged that they had to face checking and barricades by law enforcers at the entry points and several locations in Dhaka while presence of buses on the streets was very thin.</div><div><br></div><div>BNP’s Dhaka north and south city units are organizing the rally to press home the opposition’s one-point demand for holding the upcoming national election under a non-party government.</div><div><br></div><div>The rally is scheduled to formally begin at 2 pm with BNP’s Standing Committee member Mirza Abbas in the chair.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>BNP Secretary General Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir will address the programme as the chief guest.</div><div><br></div><div>Apart from BNP, other like-minded political parties and alliances have also made preparations to arrange separate rallies in different parts of the city to press home the one-point demand.</div><div><br></div><div>The ruling Awami League is also scheduled to hold a rally in front of the south gate of Baitul Mukarram mosque, which is 1.7 km away from BNP’s rally at Nayapaltan.&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>After taking much time, Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) finally gave Awami League and BNP permission on Friday evening to hold their rallies in the capital’s Baitul Mukarram’s South Gate and Nayapaltan respectively on 20 conditions. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-28 07:16:13', '2023-10-28 07:16:13'),
(9826, 9826, '<div><span style=\"font-size: 1rem;\"><b>Leaders, activists, and followers of the ruling party Awami league have started gathering at the South Gate of Baitul Mukarram National Mosque for the party’s “peace and development\" rally.</b></span><br></div><div><br></div><div>Awami League has organised the rally on the same day BNP is holding its protest rally in Nayapaltan.</div><div><br></div><div>Visiting the rally area from, the UNB correspondent found hundreds of supporters and activists of the party around the stage, while singers were performing on stage on the occasion.</div><div><br></div><div>AL leaders are set to reach the venue after lunch. District-level leaders, activists and followers arrived in Dhaka last night.</div><div><br></div><div>Party leaders informed that the “peace rally” will be one of the biggest gatherings in the country with huge participation.</div><div><br></div><div>AL General Secretary Obaidul Quader will deliver his speech as the chief guest while Dhaka north and south city units of Awami League are organising the programme jointly.</div><div><br></div><div>People from all walks of life will stand against lies, rumors, terrorism and anti-state conspiracy by joining Awami League\'s peace and development rally, the party hopes.</div><div><br></div><div>On the instructions of Jahangir Kabir Nanak, presidium member and leader of Dhaka Metropolitan North Awami League, the party leaders marched in every ward of Dhaka city on October 26 and October 27 before the BNP program. According to UNB reports&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>bnbd24/fas</div>', NULL, 'News Desk', '[\"30\"]', NULL, NULL, NULL, NULL, '2023-10-28 07:28:38', '2023-10-28 07:28:38');
