Sunday, 8 September 2024

Sat, 7 Sep 24

Reclaim the Night: Kolkata's midnight masses demand justice

The protest has escalated into a widespread movement across West Bengal, including Kolkata. In response to the RG Kar case, there has been a women's Reclaim the Night program on August 14, an indefinite doctors' strike, and ongoing demonstrations. The situation has caused significant turmoil across India. On the night of August 14, a nationwide movement was observed, and despite three weeks passing, Tilottama (a symbolic name) has yet to receive justice. Her rapists and killers remain at large. Yesterday, an unprecedented night occupation occurred in various parts of West Bengal, including Kolkata. Areas adjacent to Kolkata, such as Jadavpur, Dumdum, Garia, and Barrackpur, also witnessed large-scale protests as people took to the streets demanding justice. This spontaneous civil unrest has extended to states outside West Bengal as well.

From setbacks to success: charting a new course for national sports

Sports

by Mahbub Sarkar

Sat, 7 Sep 24

From setbacks to success: charting a new course for national sports

Syed Aminul Haque Dewan Sajal from Bogura was appointed as General Secretary of the Bangladesh Swimming Federation during the BNP regime, while Mullah Badrul Saif from Gopalganj held a prominent position during the Awami League's rule. This illustrates the impact of political rivalry on the sports sector in the country. However, politics is not the only issue affecting the sports arena; the influence of district and divisional organizing councils, commonly referred to as forums, also plays a significant role. To understand this influence, it's essential to note that there are 55 sports federations and associations affiliated with the National Sports Council.

Call to preserve jhoubon from the clutch of govt officials

Editorial Views

by Editorial Desk

Sat, 7 Sep 24

Call to preserve jhoubon from the clutch of govt officials

The most captivating aspect of the beach is the gentle sway of the wind, but appreciating such scenery requires more than just visual enjoyment. Tamarisk trees (Jhoubon) plays a crucial role in soil retention along the shore. Historically, the Cox's Bazar seashore was adorned with a lush collection of jhoubon, but much of this vital marine vegetation is now disappearing. Particularly from Kalatali to Inani Beach, the sight of the sea has become increasingly rare. While natural erosion has contributed to this loss, a significant portion has been attributed to human activities. Unplanned construction of hotels and motels has further contributed to the destruction of these areas.

The Real Cause Behind Bangladesh’s Internet Blackout: A Technologically Orchestrated Shutdown

ICT

by Mustafa Mahmud Hussain

Thu, 5 Sep 24

The Real Cause Behind Bangladesh’s Internet Blackout: A Technologically Orchestrated Shutdown

In July 2024, Bangladesh witnessed an unprecedented internet blackout, plunging millions of users into digital darkness. Initially, the government, led by former state minister for ICT Zunaid Ahmed Palak, attributed the outage to fires at key data centers allegedly set ablaze by violent protesters. However, recent investigations have unveiled a more deliberate effort orchestrated by the government to suppress communication. This article will explore the technical mechanisms behind the shutdown, debunk the false narrative, and examine its broader implications for Bangladesh’s digital infrastructure and economy.

No protest by closing the factory

Editorial Views

by Editorial Desk

Thu, 5 Sep 24

No protest by closing the factory

Medicine is a critical, life-saving product that is more dependent on service than on trade. Unfortunately, it is also a product manufactured in factories, which requires a workforce. Certain emergency medications are crucial for the well-being of individuals such as diabetics, pregnant women, children, and cancer patients. Any disruption in their access to these medications can pose serious risks to their health.

Priority should have been building schools, not Padma Bridge

Politics and Bureaucracy

by Salimullah Khan

Wed, 4 Sep 24

Priority should have been building schools, not Padma Bridge

We need the most reform at the primary and secondary education levels. Our current education policy was established in 1854 by the British. The core idea was that if someone took the initiative to establish a school, the government would provide a 10% grant. We still carry this legacy, as reflected in the name 'University Grants Commission.' The British government provided this grant to lower schools: if you established a school, provided the land, and constructed the building, the British government would cover 10% of the teacher's salaries. This tradition continues even today.

Plant Recovery Guide: Steps to Take After Flooding

Editorial Views

by Editorial Desk

Wed, 4 Sep 24

Plant Recovery Guide: Steps to Take After Flooding

Eleven districts across the country have been severely impacted by the catastrophic floods, with water levels reaching heights of 20 to 22 feet in some areas. This extensive flooding has submerged not only plants but also grasslands and herbaceous vegetation, leading to a critical shortage of cattle feed. In response, botanists recommend that immediate care be given to trees and grasses once the floodwaters recede.

Would Hilsa 'grace' Kolkata's Durga Puja this year?

Report

by Tanmay Mondal, Kolkata

Wed, 4 Sep 24

Would Hilsa 'grace' Kolkata's Durga Puja this year?

The autumn clouds indicate that Durga Puja is knocking the doors. Durga Puja, the biggest festival of the year for Hindus, will be held across West Bengal in October. Marking the occasion, everyone will forget the 'differences' and enjoy the festival. Padma hilsa from Bangladesh adds extra flavor to this festival of Bengali Hindus in Kolkata every year. However, there is a possibility that there will not be enough hilsa for Durga Puja this year. Now the question has arisen, will there be hilsa for Durga Puja?

Is this the benefit of an 'independent' cricket team?

Bangladesh's Test Triumphs Over Pakistan

Sports

by Mahbub Sarkar

Wed, 4 Sep 24

Is this the benefit of an 'independent' cricket team?

The recent Test loss of Pakistan to Bangladesh has left former cricketers in disbelief, prompting even quarantined Imran Khan to voice his concerns. On X (formerly Twitter), Khan expressed frustration with the state of Pakistani cricket, suggesting that the game has been undermined by political interference. He lamented that "the people of the country watch the game of cricket with deep attention in front of the TV," but lamented that this beloved sport has been compromised by powerful circles who have appointed incompetent officials to maintain control.

No Marriage During Studies

Editorial Views

by Editorial Desk

Tue, 3 Sep 24

No Marriage During Studies

In Bangladesh, the practice of girls getting married while still pursuing their education has become a troubling norm. This issue is prevalent not only among those in higher education like Honours and Masters programs but also among students in SSC and HSC levels. Fifty-sixty years ago, this practice was somewhat limited, but it has evolved in troubling ways. Historically, girls were only required to learn how to write letters to get married, but now, while there has been some progress, the situation remains far from ideal. Child marriages continue to be a significant issue in the country.

Victory Garland Awaits: Will It Be Trump or Harris?

Diplomacy

by Rayhan Ahmed Tapader

Tue, 3 Sep 24

Victory Garland Awaits: Will It Be Trump or Harris?

In her first campaign rally, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris took a strong stance against Donald Trump, framing the November election as a pivotal choice between a former prosecutor and a convicted felon. This rally followed President Joe Biden's withdrawal from the race for the White House, during which he endorsed Harris as the Democratic Party's presidential candidate. As the world grapples with democratic challenges and widespread instability, this year's U.S. presidential election carries significant importance not only for American citizens but also for people around the globe.

Shirin Sharmin still holds JS Speaker post as none takes over the role: Experts

Law

by Hira Talukder

Tue, 3 Sep 24

Shirin Sharmin still holds JS Speaker post as none takes over the role: Experts

After Sheikh Hasina left the country on August 5, one after another murder cases are being filed against her across the country. The President then dissolved the Parliament. But according to the constitution, the Speaker of the National Parliament Shirin Sharmin Choudhury remained in office. But a murder case was file against Shirin Sharmin and 17 other people over killing of gold worker Muslim Uddin, 38, on August 27 in Rangpur. Later, Speaker Shirin Sharmin Choudhury resigned on September 2. Constitutional experts informed that according to the current constitution of Bangladesh, Shirin Sharmin Choudhury will be deemed to hold the post of Speaker until someone new takes over. There is no opportunity in the constitution to elect the Speaker without fresh elections. However, if the constitution is not followed or if the current constitution is repealed or suspended, that is a different matter.

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