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Khaleda Zia, Sheikh Hasina became central figures in anti-Ershad movement
Writer and researcher Mohiuddin Ahmad is at once a historian and a valiant freedom fighter. Among those who have written, analysed and researched most extensively on the political context of post-independence Bangladesh, he is one of the foremost. He is the only political writer in Bangladesh to have written a book on the 1973 election, titled The Election of ’73. He has also authored Red Terror: Siraj Sikder and Proletarian Politics, The Anti-hero Sirajul Alam Khan, Awami League and BNP: Which Way, The Rise and Fall of JASAD: Politics of Unstable Times and several other works. He continues to write on contemporary politics.
The nation had to pay a heavy price for the creation of JASAD
Writer and researcher Mohiuddin Ahmed is both a historian and a valiant freedom fighter. Among those who have written, analysed and researched most extensively on the political context of post-independence Bangladesh, he is one of the foremost. He is the only political writer in Bangladesh who wrote a book on the 1973 election, titled Tiyattorer Nirbachan (The Election of ’73). He also wrote Lal Santras: Siraj Sikder o Sarbahara Rajniti (Red Terror: Siraj Sikder and Proletarian Politics), Pratinayak Sirajul Alam Khan (Antihero Sirajul Alam Khan), Awami League BNP Kon Pathe (Which Way Awami League and BNP), JASADer Utthan Patan: Asthir Samayer Rajniti (The Rise and Fall of JASAD: Politics of Turbulent Times), among others. He continues to write on contemporary politics.
Draft NHRC ordinance to boost commission's power, independence
Amendments are being brought to the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Act-2009. These changes aim to empower the NHRC, which has been operating with limited power and independence, by enhancing its own authority and ensuring unhindered freedom in its work to guarantee the protection and development of human rights. Furthermore, the amendments mandate that the appointment of its Chairman and members must be done through a transparent, open, and competitive process. After the Law Commission's recommendations, the amendment is currently with the Ministry of Law for vetting. The Legislative and Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Ministry of Law has confirmed this information.
Mass gatherings continue in Dhaka despite official ban
Since the interim government assumed office, mass gatherings, rallies, and blockades have become a daily occurrence in Dhaka and across the country. Despite government initiatives and strict police monitoring to maintain law and order, various groups are occupying streets every day to achieve their demands through demonstrations.
Hilsa in smuggling net: Plenty in supply, scarce on plates
Bangladesh's national fish, Hilsa, is now not just a food item; for the past few decades, it has also been identified as a political fish. Sometimes used to strengthen diplomatic relations with neighboring countries, and other times as a 'gift token' to win the favor of special heads of state, the Hilsa has been instrumentalized.
How was world’s earliest code of law, the ‘Laws of Urukagina’
In the city-state of Lagash in ancient Mesopotamia, when the arrogance of power was seizing even the last possessions of the poor, a visionary king named Urukagina emerged. He was not only a king but a revolutionary who, for the first time in human history, dared to establish a legal system to protect the rights of the people. His reforms, known in history as the ‘Laws of Urukagina’, marked the dawn of a new era in which the oppressed tasted freedom for the first time.
Govt seeks refund, amendments to one-sided Oracle deal
The Bangladesh Data Centre Company Limited (BDCCL) has sought to amend its one-sided agreement with Oracle and demanded a refund of $3.68 million. The government is also investigating allegations against Oracle of transferring official data and documents abroad.
Money not root of evil, It is source of all worldly power
We often say, “money is the root of all evil” or “money is dirt in the hand.” In such ways we tend to belittle money. But in the light of reality it must be admitted that money is in no way the root of evil. Rather, money is the source of all worldly power. In today’s age it is impossible to survive even for a moment without money. Materialists say, “money is the second god.” Though there may be some exaggeration in this statement, it is not entirely false. To obtain anything, money is needed. Even to give something, money is required. A Mercedes or BMW car costs several crores of taka. Yet however valuable the car may be, without low-priced fuel it is useless.
4 state-owned banks' non-performing loans reach Tk 1.5 lakh cr
Four state-owned banks in the country are struggling under the overwhelming pressure of non-performing loans (NPLs). In just six months, the classified loans of these banks have surged to nearly Tk 1.5 lakh crore. The latest figures from Bangladesh Bank show that by the end of June this year, the amount of non-performing loans stood at Tk 1,46,362 crore. More than 90% of these have already been identified as 'bad' or 'loss' loans—where the possibility of recovery is almost zero.
Instances of mismanagement and rigging have put JUCSU poll into question
The casting of votes in the Jahangirnagar University Central Students' Union (JUCSU) and Hall Parliament elections has ended and vote counting is underway. Four panels of progressive students have boycotted the elections, alleging widespread irregularities. Meanwhile, JU unit Chhatra Dal has also boycotted the elections, alleging rigging and brought out protest march. In view of this situation, Views Bangladesh's JU correspondent spoke to JUCSU election observer teacher Raihan Rhyne. The detailed conversation is presented below: