Bangladesh Roundup: Arrests, blackmail, trade negotiations, 1971 atrocities

Genocide Remembrance Day Observed In Bangladesh

March 26, 2025, Dhaka, Bangladesh: Members of the Prachyanat School of Acting and Design join the annual Lal Jatra procession and street performance to pay tribute to all the martyrs of the genocide of the 25th of March 1971 and the July movement of 2024 in Dhaka, Bangladesh. The National Genocide Remembrance Day is observed annually to remember the victims of the Operation Searchlight military crackdown carried out by Pakistan's Army on 25 March 1971 in Bangladesh. (Credit Image: � MD Mehedi Hasan/ZUMA Press Wire)

Source: ZUMA Press Wire

Bangladesh demands apology from Pakistan for 1971 atrocities

Bangladesh has escalated its diplomatic discourse by demanding a formal apology from Pakistan for the atrocities committed during the 1971 Liberation War, amidst a backdrop of resumed talks after 15 years, Independent reports. Foreign Secretary Jashim Uddin highlighted these historical grievances while discussing a $4.52 billion compensation claim regarding pre-1971 assets during negotiations held in Dhaka.

Model allegedly blackmails Saudi envoy

Former beauty queen Meghna Alam was arrested in Bangladesh for allegedly attempting to extort $5 million from the former Saudi ambassador through a honey-trap scheme. According to The Star, the actions were characterised by police officials as jeopardising diplomatic relations with Saudi Arabia, a key ally due to its significant economic assistance and employment of Bangladeshi workers.

390 arrested by Bangladesh army

In a concerted operation conducted by various divisions of the Bangladesh Army between April 10 and 17, 390 individuals were arrested in connection with serious crimes, alongside the seizure of illegal arms and narcotics. This extensive operation aimed to uphold public safety during the celebrations of Pahela Baishakh, demonstrating an active stance against criminal activities, Daily Observer reports.

India rejects Bangladesh's claims on West Bengal violence

India's Ministry of External Affairs has firmly dismissed Bangladesh's comments regarding recent communal violence in West Bengal, labelling them as 'unwarranted'. Observer reports that this diplomatic clash arose following allegations from Bangladeshi officials concerning their supposed involvement in the violence, which have been categorically refuted by Dhaka. Both governments continue to stress the importance of bilateral relations.

Bangladesh to establish body for trade negotiations Post-LDC graduation

In preparation for its upcoming graduation from Least Developed Country (LDC) status in November 2026, Bangladesh plans to form a dedicated body comprising government officials and experts to facilitate trade negotiations. Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus emphasised the need for constant oversight during this transitional phase to ensure stable economic progression and strengthen Bangladesh's position as a regional manufacturing hub, according to Fibre2Fashion.

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