National
PM Sheikh Hasina: Bangladesh to Choose Best Teesta Project Proposal from India or China
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina announced today that Bangladesh is open to evaluating proposals from both India and China regarding the Teesta project and will select the one that best benefits the people of Bangladesh. Speaking at a press conference at her official residence, Gonobhaban, Hasina emphasized that the decision will prioritize national interests.
“Both India and China have made proposals. We will assess both and choose the one most beneficial for our people,” said Hasina during the event, which was called to discuss her recent state visit to India.
When asked about her preference between India and China, Hasina stated, “We maintain our friendships based on our developmental needs. Our historical ties with India date back to the 1971 Liberation War, while we also have valuable lessons to learn from China’s development.”
Addressing the specifics of the Teesta project, Hasina highlighted the ongoing discussions with both nations, especially India, with whom Bangladesh shares water from 54 rivers. “Our considerations include the project’s suitability, our repayment capacity, and the benefits for our people,” she explained.
She noted that partnering with India on the Teesta project could help resolve longstanding water-sharing issues. “Collaborating with India could streamline our efforts to address the Teesta water-sharing crisis,” she said.
Responding to social media criticism that Bangladesh is being sold to India, Hasina firmly denied any such intentions. “I do not compromise the country’s interests. Those who accuse me are pro-Pakistan,” she declared, humorously questioning how a country’s weight could be measured for sale.
On her relationship with India, Hasina reiterated that Bangladesh is an independent state, achieved through the 1971 Liberation War with India’s support. She emphasized that unlike other allied powers, India withdrew its troops immediately after the war at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s request.
Regarding the reopening of railways between Bangladesh and India, Hasina clarified, “Reopening these railways will greatly contribute to our economy, benefiting both common people and businesses.”
She also addressed objections to providing transit to India, comparing the situation to Europe’s open borders within the EU. “What is the harm in providing transit to another country? Should we close all doors of Bangladesh?” she questioned.
Hasina’s visit to New Delhi, from 21 June, marked the first bilateral visit by any head of government to India after the BJP-led alliance formed its government for the third consecutive time. This was also her second trip to the Indian capital in less than 15 days, following her attendance at Narendra Modi’s swearing-in ceremony on 9 June.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina inaugurated the National Primary Education Week-2024 today, emphasizing a renewed commitment to ensuring quality education for children. The event took place at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium, where the prime minister served as the chief guest.
During the ceremony, Sheikh Hasina distributed the Primary Education Medal-2023 to 126 stakeholders in recognition of their contributions to primary education. The awards were presented in 18 categories, with 36 students, 15 individuals, and three organizations receiving medals directly from the prime minister.
The theme for this year’s Primary Education Week is “Shishu Bandhov Prathomik Shikkha, Smart Bangladesher Deekkha,” underscoring the importance of child-friendly primary education as a foundation for a smart Bangladesh.
State Minister for Primary and Mass Education Rumana Ali and Secretary Farid Ahmed also addressed the audience at the event. Additionally, a video documentary showcasing the development of primary and mass education across the country was screened.
A two-hour downpour this morning brought much-needed relief from the oppressive heat but also caused significant disruption for commuters in Dhaka.
The rain, which began around 9:30 am and continued until 11:30 am, led to flooding in several areas, including Malibagh, Moghbazar, Shantinagar, Farmgate, Badda, Mirpur, and Khilkhet. Office-goers and residents found themselves wading through ankle-deep water to reach their destinations.
While the rainfall provided a respite from the heat, it also highlighted the city’s drainage problems as people struggled to navigate the waterlogged streets. Many were seen battling the flooded roads, underscoring the ongoing issues with Dhaka’s infrastructure.
The sky had been overcast since early morning, and the rain, accompanied by thunderstorms, helped alleviate the stifling heat that had gripped the city for the past few days.
Four death row convicts were recaptured this morning (26 June), just hours after escaping from Bogura Central Jail late last night.
The convicts managed to break out by scaling a wall through a breach in the roof. They were apprehended in the vicinity of the jail this morning, Jailer Mohammad Faridur Rahman informed the media.
District Additional Superintendent of Police Snigdha Akhtar stated, “The issue is very sensitive. The district superintendent of police will announce the details in this regard at a later time.”
Following the escape, coordinated efforts by jail police and district police led to the convicts being detained in the Chashi Bazar area of Bogura Sadar upazila.
District Superintendent of Police Sudip Kumar Chakraborty confirmed that the four convicts were involved in a murder case. The escapees were identified as Nazrul, 68, from Kurigram; Amir Hamza, 41, from Narsingdi; Abdul Mannan, 34, and Farid Sheikh, 30, both from Bogura.
