SECOND EDITION

DHA K A MONDAY MAY 20, 2024

Regd. No. DA 781 Vol. XXXIV No. 120 Jaishtha 6, 1431 BS Zilqad 11, 1445 Hijri 24 Pages : Tk 15.00

Helicopter BATTERY-RUN RICKSHAW BAN

Protest, clashes
carrying Iran rock Mirpur
president crashes STAFF CORRESPONDENT

Traffic ground to a halt on different streets

Search teams close to crash site in in Mirpur yesterday as drivers of battery-
run rickshaws demonstrated, clashed
fog-covered mountainous region with police, and vandalised vehicles.
AGENCIES At least 20 people were reported injured
as the ruling Awami League activists
Iran launched a large-scale search and attacked protesters, police opened fire
rescue effort to scour a fog-shrouded and used teargas, and the drivers threw
mountain area after President Ebrahim brick chunks at the law enforcers.
Raisi’s helicopter went down yesterday As chaos was unleashed on roads,
in what state media described as an thousands of commuters were subjected
“accident”. to long tailbacks, especially in the
Fears grew for the 63-year-old Ebrahim Raisi morning and evening rush hours.
ultraconservative after contact was On Baunia Bandh road, Sultan Ahmed,
lost with the helicopter carrying him as well as Foreign a 60 year old NGO official, was seen
Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and others in East walking with two bags in the evening.
Azerbaijan province, AFP reports. “I am returning home in Pallabi. After
Military crew members were heading to the exact two hours of being stuck, I got down
location of the crash site of the helicopter, a military from the bus. I walked past groups of
commander in the region said early today, according to people chasing each other on the street,”
state news agency IRNA. said the man, who was perspiring.
A signal was received from the helicopter and the
An elderly woman is stopped at Mirpur-10 intersection during The demonstrators also damaged
mobile phone of one of the crew members at the crash
site, according to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps yesterday’s daylong protests by drivers of battery-powered at least 25 vehicles, assaulted several
commander for East Azerbaijan province of Iran, where rickshaws against the ban on such three-wheelers on Dhaka streets. rickshaw-pullers, and set fire to a police
the crash occurred. box on Kalshi Road around 4:30pm. As
Demonstrations turned violent as police, ruling party activists and
SEE PAGE 2 COL 3 the drivers clashed. PHOTO: AMRAN HOSSAIN, PALASH KHAN SEE PAGE 2 COL 1

CHECKING VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN PHASE 2 UZ POLLS AL MP Azim More than

Govt app sees only AL working to ‘traceless in
India for 57pc aspirants
six rescue pleas in contain feuds, three days’
increase turnout Says family businesspeople
about six years PARTHA PRATIM BHATTACHARJEE, and
AASHIQ ABDULLAH APU
STAR REPORT

A w a m i
Finds TIB about candidates
NILIMA JAHAN
The app’s main mission was Shifting focus from its earlier position to keep relatives
L e a g u e of 2nd phase UZ polls
The government’s “Joy” app, developed lawmaker
to provide immediate rescue of its lawmakers from the upazila election, the ruling A nwa r u l STAFF CORRESPONDENT
with a budget of Tk 45 lakh to tackle
violence against women and children services during various Awami League now seeks to minimise internal feuds Azim Anar of
emergencies, including centering on the polls and increase the voter turnout. Jhenaidah-4 More than 57 percent candidates running in the
during emergencies, received only six
physical and sexual violence, Party sources say their grassroots have been directed constituency second phase of the upazila polls are businesspeople,
rescue requests in five years and nine
sexual harassment, or child to avoid infighting and mudslinging during the polls has been “missing in India” according to the affidavits they submitted to the
months.
marriage. period. for three days. Election Commission.
Since its inception in July 2018, it
“We have instructed the grassroots to shun The three-time MP and Of all the candidates vying for the chairman posts,
got two rescue requests that year, three
infighting over the upazila polls. We decided not to president of Kaliganj upazila 70.51 percent said they were involved in business, while
in 2019, and none in 2020 and 2021. It
received one in 2022, and then again give party nomination and allow anyone to use the unit AL went to India on 68.73 percent of the vice chairman candidates listed
reported rape incidents, yet none were party symbol for a reason. Our aim is to make the business as their profession.
none in 2023 and so far in 2024. May 12 to receive medical
reported through the app. election participatory. We want a festive election held The numbers were presented by Transparency
However, emergency situations treatment, Mumtarin
The app’s main mission was to provide in a competitive mood. But we don’t want to see any International Bangladesh (TIB) yesterday at their office
involving violence against women and immediate rescue services during Ferdous Doreen, daughter
children have not only continued but conflict in the name of competition,” AL Organising of the 56 year old, told The in the capital’s Dhanmondi, following an analysis of
various emergencies, including physical Secretary Mirza Azam told The Daily Star. candidates’ affidavits.
have, in fact, risen alarmingly. and sexual violence, sexual harassment, Daily Star yesterday.
According to Ain O Salish Kendra, at He said they expect a higher turnout in the second “We last had contact The upazila polls are being held in phases. The first
or child marriage. phase of the polls, to be held in 158 upazilas tomorrow.
least 6,641 women were reportedly raped with my father three days phase was held on May 8, while the second is scheduled
However, it has been getting requests The party directive to the grassroots not to engage
and 321 murdered after rape from 2020 for many other purposes except its ago. We are very worried,” for tomorrow.
to January 2024. in infighting comes as incumbent ministers and she said. Around 70 percent of chairman candidates in the
primary one.
In 2020 alone, there were 1,627 SEE PAGE 2 COL 4 SEE PAGE 6 COL 1 SEE PAGE 2 COL 1 SEE PAGE 7 COL 5
 NEWS
DHAKA MONDAY MAY 20, 2024

2
City
JAISHTHA 6, 1431 BS

Invest in UZ ELECTION

country’s 3 hurt in pre-polls

economic violence in Tangail
Houses, shops, election
zones camps vandalised
PM urges businesses OUR CORRESPONDENT, Tangail
UNB, Dhaka
At least three people were injured early yesterday
P r i m e during separate clashes among the supporters
Minister of two vice-chairman candidates competing
Sheikh Hasina in tomorrow’s upazila elections in Tangail’s
yesterday Bhuapur.
urged local Multiple houses, shops, and election camps
businesses were also vandalised centring the incidents that
to invest in took place in Tarai, Dhublia, and Pachterilla village
the country’s of the upazila’s Falda union between 12:30am and
100 economic 3:00am.
zones in addition to foreign Meanwhile, the supporters of vice-chairman
investment. candidate Ariful Haque and supporters of his rival
“We are setting up 100 economic candidate Monirul Islam Babu clashed in the areas
zones across the country. We are with local lethal weapons.
inviting investments there. But we do
Later, they attacked houses, shops, and election
not want only foreign investments,
camps of each other, leaving three people from
we want domestic investments there,”
she said. both sides injured.
The prime minister said this The injured have been treated at Bhuapur
while inaugurating the weeklong Upazila Health Complex.
11th National SME Product Fair to Informed, police forces were deployed at the
showcase locally made products Heaps of the Palmyra palm fruits -- mainly from Cumilla, Noakhali and Chandpur -- have arrived at Kadamtali wholesale and retail spots and the situation was brought under control.
from small and medium enterprises Bhuapur Police Station Officer-in-Charge
market in the port city. Traders buy the popular summer fruit from here and sell them in different districts. Retailers make Tk
at the Bangabandhu International Ahsan Ullah said they were investigating the
1,000-1,500 a day after buying them at Tk 3-15 apiece. The photo was taken yesterday. PHOTO: RAJIB RAIHAN
Conference Center (BICC) jointly matter after getting direction from the Election
organised by the Ministry of Commission and Assistant Returning Officer (RO).
Industries and SME Foundation. Assistant Returning Officer Mamunur Rashid,
She said that of the total 100
economic zones, the government has
so far allocated lands for up to 80
Russian strikes on Kharkiv kill 10 also upazila nirbahi officer (UNO) in Bhuapur,
said that necessary legal steps will be taken in this
regard after an investigation.
economic zones. 25 others injured; Ukrainian drone attack halts operation of Russian refinery Tension among the supporters of the two
“I think that from the SME candidates is prevailing in the area.
Foundation or those who are REUTERS, Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov gave the toll of dead blast, followed by a second, “double tap”
entrepreneurs can avail lands in and wounded. strike about 15-20 minutes later.
these economic zones alone or with
partnership basis to set up their
Russian strikes killed at least 10 people,
including a pregnant woman, and injured
“The explosions heard in Kharkiv
around noon occurred in a nearby suburb.
A man’s corpse lay under the rubble
of what just over an hour previously
Woman’s body
25 others in two separate attacks in
industries there,” she said.
Hasina said that along with the Ukraine’s northeastern Kharkiv region
yesterday, local officials said.
Two Russian missiles hit a recreation
centre where people were relaxing, killing
five people and injuring sixteen others,” he
was a busy lakeside restaurant area on
a sunny day. A woman stumbled around
in shock looking for her handbag in the
found in pond
mechanisation of agriculture, the OUR CORRESPONDENT, Narsingdi
It was the latest in what have been said on the Telegram messaging app. wreckage.
government is emphasising food
constant attacks in recent weeks on Meanwhile, Ukraine fired nine US Valentyna, a 69-year-old woman who
production and agricultural products Kharkiv city and the region of the same Police recovered the body of a 30-year-old woman
ATACMS at Crimea and attacked Russian lived opposite the resort, was at home when
which will contribute to the economy, name by Russian missiles and guided regions with at least 60 drones in a major the explosion hit. Blood ran down the side from a pond in Narsingdi’s Shihbpur upazila
and industrialisation based on that. bombs as Russian troops have launched an attack that forced one oil refinery in of her face as she cried, saying husband had yesterday, three days after she went missing.
“If there is no industrialisation, no offensive in the northeast of the region. southern Russia to halt operations, Russian been killed in the blast. The deceased was identified as Mahfuza Begum,
employment will be created, and we The first strike yesterday killed five officials said yesterday. After yesterday’s attack President of Mashimpur area.
won’t be able to advance further. So, and wounded 16 in a recreation area just Russian air defences shot down nine Volodymyr Zelensky again called on Md Farid Uddin, officer-in-charge of Shihbpur
we have to focus on industrialisation,” outside Kharkiv, while another five people ATACMS missiles over Crimea along with Western allies to supply Kyiv with additional Police Station, said Mahfuza was mentally ill. She
she said. were killed and 9 injured later in the day in 57 drones over Russia’s Krasnodar region air defence systems to protect Kharkiv and often left her house without telling anyone and
She said that mechanical parts will two villages in Kupiansk district. and three drones over Belgorod region, the other cities. would return after three or four days.
be needed for the mechanisation of Local governor Oleh Syniehubov said defence ministry said. “The world can stop Russian terror - and Around 9:30am, locals spotted her body in a
agriculture, for which the government Russian forces shelled two villages of the In Kharkiv, Reuters correspondents to do so, the lack of political will among pond and informed police, he said.
provides various types of facilities. district with a self-propelled multiple saw a recreation area destroyed after what leaders must be overcome,” Zelenskiy said The law enforcers sent the body to Narsingdi
SEE PAGE 6 COL 4 rocket launcher. In the city of Kharkiv, rescuers at the scene said was a powerful on Telegram. Sadar Hospital for autopsy.

Protest, clashes rock Mirpur Helicopter

FROM PAGE 1
carrying
Meanwhile, the supreme leader, Ayatollah
Govt app sees 6 rescue pleas
FROM PAGE 1 it blocked. Around 2:40pm, ruling
police chased them away, they threw
bricks at vehicles.
It all happened amid a government
party activists assaulted some of the
demonstrators and chased the others
Ali Khamenei, urged Iranians to “not
worry” about the leadership of the
Islamic republic, saying “there will be no
in about six years
away with help from police. FROM PAGE 1
crackdown on battery-powered three- The demonstrators then threw disruption in the country’s work”. show up. to raise awareness in this regard.
wheelers in the capital that began on “We hope that Almighty God will bring If a victim presses the emergency According to the ministry data, Criticising the zeal for undertaking
bricks at cops, ruling party men, and
Saturday. vehicles and moved to Kalshi area our dear president and his companions button on the app, her GPS location, 4,275 users have installed it on projects over their implementation,
Road Transport and Bridges back in full health into the arms of the audio recording of the surroundings their android mobile devices since she said, “They [the government]
and joined a group of drivers already nation,” he said in on state TV.
Minister Obaidul Quader on May 15 protesting there. They blocked the road and picture will go directly to the December 2019. But the latest data engage in this type of work for the
Expressions of concern and offers to
ordered the authorities concerned to between Kalshi graveyard and Baunia help came from abroad, including Saudi police super of the area, metropolitan from the Google Play store showed sake of starting a new project, and
take steps to enforce a ban on battery- Bandh. Arabia, Iraq, Qatar and Turkey, as well deputy police commissioner, three that the app is installed by only 1k+ once it is initiated, they are not
run rickshaws in the capital. Cops chased them away after they set as from the European Union which said pre-selected “friends and family” users. bothered about the implementation.”
“I used to manually pull rickshaws. fire to a police box. Police with the help it activated its rapid response mapping numbers, and to the national VAW
I took up the battery-run rickshaw two That means an overwhelming Contacted, the “Multi-Sectoral
of locals doused the fire immediately. service to aid in the search effort. helpline -- 109.
years ago. I routinely give money to Jashim Uddin Mollah, deputy majority of the users, who have Program on Violence against Women”
State television reported that “an A victim can also file a written
police and local ruling party activists. commissioner of Mirpur division accident happened to the helicopter installed the app earlier, uninstalled project director, Dr Prakash Kanti
But, police seized my rickshaw from of Dhaka Metropolitan Police, said, carrying the president” in the Jolfa region complaint choosing the category it. Chowdhury, who is also the joint
Shah Ali area on Saturday,” said Abul “Several policemen suffered injuries of the western province, while some of the crime in the app. Anyone can The latest Bangladesh Sample secretary of the ministry, said, “The
Kalam. “How will I feed my children? I and several demonstrators have officials described it as a “hard landing”. later attach proof, whether video or Vital Statistics-2023 conducted by app is undergoing reconstruction for
still have to pay for the rickshaw which been detained. We used teargas and “The harsh weather conditions and audio. All the information is kept the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics a few months due to compatibility
I bought on credit at Tk 80,000.” fired rubber bullets to disperse the heavy fog have made it difficult for the private and all request texts from the
rescue teams to reach the accident site,”
and released in March this year issues with certain Android versions.
Fifteen other demonstrators told demonstrators.” app are toll-free. showed more than 50 percent of the We are trying to ensure accessibility
this correspondent that they lost their As the chaos unfolded in the said one broadcaster.
More than 40 rescue teams using Funded by the ICT Division’s total population of 171 million, aged across all versions.”
livelihood when police seized their morning and evening rush hours,
rickshaws over the last few days. search dogs and drones were sent to the “Access to Information” (a2i) project, 15 years and above, use the internet. He mentioned privacy concerns
hundreds of commuters remained
A study carried out by Bangladesh site, reported the IRNA news agency as the app was developed by the Ministry The percentage of women in that with Google, resulting in the app not
stuck in long tailbacks for hours. TV stations showed pictures of rows of
Institute of Labour Studies (BILS) in Protests spread to Uttara at night. of Women and Children Affairs under age group using the internet is 42.6. being visible in the Play Store.
waiting emergency response vehicles. its “Multi-Sectoral Programme on
2019 said there were two lakh battery- Md Shahjahan, DMP’s Uttara division Raisi was visiting the province where WHY IS THE APP “We’re working with Google, and
run rickshaws in the city and the deputy commissioner, said the drivers he inaugurated a dam project together Violence against Women”. FAILING IN RESCUE? hopefully, within a short period
number was growing fast. vandalised a police box in Sector-13 with Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev, According to the ministry data, Speaking to reporters about the app [15 days], once troubleshooting is
Hundreds of three-wheeler drivers around 8:15pm. on the border between the two countries. the various other services the app ahead of its launch, Abul Hossain, the completed, request volumes and
gathered on the streets at Mirpur-1, Police on Saturday seized 250 Raisi’s convoy included three received texts for were as follows: 355 then project director of the multi- service provision will increase.”
Pallabi, Bhashantek, Kalshi Road, battery-run rickshaws in Mirpur. In helicopters, and the other two had for police-related help, 306 for legal sectoral programme of MoWCA, said Regarding the low request
Mirpur-6, Mirpur-13 and Mirpur-13 the last one year, Mirpur division of “reached their destination safely,”
after 9:00am yesterday. help, 243 related to local arbitration, that apart from providing immediate numbers, Chowdhury declined
the DMP seized 1,530 electric three- according to Tasnim news agency.
At 10:00am, they marched to wheelers. Foreign countries were closely 31 for medical support and 823 for redress to victims of any abuse, the to comment citing that he was
Mirpur-10 roundabout and kept following the search effort at a time of other information. app is working to identify criminals. appointed only six months ago.
high regional tensions over the Gaza war However, only six requests were “The app will be identified as a “Some rescue calls go to 999 as
between Israel and Hamas since October
AL MP Azim ‘traceless’ 7 that has drawn in other armed groups
in the Middle East.
made for rescue purposes, which
shows a lack of faith in the app in
‘threat’ to criminals or torturers. If
everyone starts using it, the level of
well,” he said, which indicates the
potential confusion in emergency
FROM PAGE 1 he was cleared in most of the cases lodged emergency victims. crimes will also decrease. Once it is response systems.
“We tried every possible way to contact A US State Department spokesman
against him. He was reelected in 2018 and About police-related help, Raisul installed and active, the criminals “However, the app should have
him but failed,” Abdur Rauf, personal said: “We are closely following reports of
2024. Islam, in-charge of Joy Mobile App
assistant of Azim, told local journalists. Talking to reporters at the DB office
a possible hard landing of a helicopter in cannot turn it off even if they want to. reached more people,” he admitted.
Azim’s sister Taslima Khatun said, “We Iran carrying the Iranian president and and the 109 helpline, said, “Suppose The data will automatically move to Contacted, Tawfiq Rahman, CEO
yesterday evening, its chief Mohammad
have informed the highest level of the foreign minister. there is a case but the police is not the specified location for a specified of LumexTech Solutions, the app
Harun Or Rashid said MP Azim used a
government about the matter.” “We have no further comment at this arresting the accused. If such an
Bangladeshi SIM and an Indian SIM in
time.”
period of time.” developer, shed light on the technical
An official of the Bangladesh Deputy India. SMS is received by the app, the Speaking as the chief guest at the issues leading to Google’s non-public
High Commission in Kolkata told The An Iranian Red Crescent team was
The two numbers were sometimes investigation officer of the case is app’s launch, the then state minister listing of the app.
Daily Star, “A GD [general diary] relating seen walking up a slope in thick fog and
found switched off and sometimes
to Anwarul Azim going missing was filed operational. The issue is also being
drizzling rain, while other live footage spoken to from the 109 helpline. Such for women and children affairs Meher “Google’s Android 10 update
yesterday [Saturday].” showed worshippers reciting prayers help-seeking categories are brought Afroz Chumki said, “This app will restricted the SMS feature of our app.
discussed with the Indian police. Police
The GD was registered by one Gopal in the holy city of Mashhad, Raisi’s under Police Help.” help women and children, while also Additionally, features like activating
are trying to find out what happened to
Biswas of Mandalpara Lane under hometown.
Azim.
THICK FOG AND DRIZZLE
Also, it got only 43 requests to stop working against criminals. A total the app with five presses of the power
Baranagar Police Station in West Bengal. Harun said that on the morning of May child marriage -- one in 2018, 28 in of 12 crore people in country use button are rendered non-functional
The mission has taken up the matter In neighbouring Iraq, Prime Minister
16, a call was made from Azim’s phone to 2019, nine in 2020, three in 2021, one mobile phones now and such apps due to recent built-in features by
with the Indian authorities, the official Mohamed Shia al-Sudani “instructed
his APS and a leader of Jhenaidah district
added. the interior ministry and the Iraqi Red in 2023 and one in 2023. will definitely be useful for the users.” mobile companies.
AL. But no one picked up the phone. His
Mohammad Abu Azif, officer-in- Crescent and other relevant authorities This newspaper’s findings from However, according to statistics, “Moreover, with Android 12, Google
location was traced at Muzaffarabad. He
charge of Kaliganj Police Station, said, to offer available resources... to aid in the 41 upazilas of 13 districts, however, such goals were not met. introduced stricter privacy policies,
said they were taking this matter seriously
“We have informed our senior officials search”.
and was in contact with the Indian police. showed that around 10,741 girls Bangladesh Mahila Parishad flagging our app’s functionalities,
about the matter.” After a programme in the city, Home Azeri President Aliyev said in a post on
X that “we were profoundly troubled by and at least two boys were illegally President Fauzia Moslem said that such as capturing pictures and audio
No one filed any complaint with his Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal told
station, he said. the news of a helicopter carrying the top married off during the pandemic- though the app was initially heavily recordings, as privacy breaches. We’ve
journalists that there is nothing to worry
KM Abdus Salam, senior secretary about the lawmaker. delegation crash-landing in Iran”. induced school closures between promoted, its significance waned been in dialogue with Google for the
at the parliament secretariat, told The “The lawmaker has gone to Kolkata. “Our prayers to Allah Almighty are March 17, 2020, and September 12, over time. past three months, striving to address
Daily Star that the MP’s family had not He will come back,” he said. with President Ebrahim Raisi and the 2021. She emphasised the importance their concerns.”
contacted him. “Our NSI is working. Indian law accompanying delegation,” he said, The exact number could be much of further promotion and also About alternatives to the Play
Azim was wanted by Interpol in enforcement agencies have been noting that his country “stands ready to higher if a proper survey is done. providing training on the app’s usage Store, he said, “We shouldn’t rely
2008 for crimes related to weapons and informed. There is no reason to worry.
explosives, according to media reports. He is a member of parliament. He knows
offer any assistance needed”. At the launch, MoWCA authorities to relevant stakeholders, particularly solely on Google. If the government
Several cases were filed against him in what he is doing. He went to neighbouring The accident happened in the said that one can find the app by those facing or addressing gender- independently promoted the app in
Jheniadah and Chuadanga. India. He has not gone to Myanmar where mountainous protected forest area of typing Joy 109 in the Google Play based violence. all their portals or made it a default
Several leaders of the upazila unit AL fighting is going on. I think he will come Dizmar near the town of Varzaghan, said Store but a search from five mobile Moslem suggested conducting feature on mobile devices, we could
said that after Azim became MP in 2014, back,” the home boss added. the official IRNA news agency. handsets showed that it does not campaigns in educational institutions bypass these restrictions.”
CITY 3
DHAKA MONDAY MAY 20, 2024
JAISHTHA 6, 1431 BS

India, China JASHORE HIGHWAY

HC issues
can help resolve status quo on
cutting trees
The blood river
Rohingya crisis STAFF CORRESPONDENT

The High Court yesterday

53 years of Chuknagar genocide

Says foreign minister issued a status quo on the

cutting of trees on the
BSS, Dhaka roadsides in the proposed
six-lane Jashore-Narail
Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud yesterday said highway.
repatriation with civil rights and dignity is the eventual The court, however, said
solution to the Rohingya crisis. the status quo order will be
To accomplish this complicated task, more cancelled after the tender
involvement from India alongside Chinese mediation is for constructing the six-
crucial, he added. lane Jashore-Narail road
He was speaking at a seminar on the Rohingya crisis, project is floated.
organised by Overseas Correspondents Association of The HC bench of Justice
Bangladesh marking its 45th founding anniversary, at Md Khasruzzaman and
Jatiya Press Club. Justice KM Zahid Sarwar In 2005, the government
“The regional powers like India and China are vital... passed the order following purchased 78 decimals
if we can ensure their enhanced engagement, we a petition filed by Human of land, and in 2006, a
believe the crisis could be resolved,” he said. Rights and Peace for 32-decimal portion of it was
The minister said creating livelihood facilities in Bangladesh (HRPB) seeking
Rohingya camps or relocating a small number to necessary directives.
used to build the Chuknagar
third countries could be counterproductive as it will Petitioner’s lawyer Shaheed Smritishoudho
instill a false hope among them, and won’t solve the Manzill Murshid told the memorial to honour the
crisis. HC that the Jashore-Narail victims. PHOTO: STAR
six-lane road development
Creating livelihood project has been taken up
facilities in Rohingya by the government.
camps or relocating But till now, no tender
a small number to a has been called for the DIPANKAR ROY, Khulna Pakistan army, refugees considered it an A farmer was working in his jute field
construction of the road. ideal route for their journey to the Indian nearby. Before he could understand
third country could be Despite this, hundreds of Ershad Ali clutched a sliver of hope as he border. anything, the Pakistan army fired at him,
counterproductive as it trees are being cut on both searched for a familiar face among the dead Thousands of refugees started to gather killing him on the spot. As the occupation
will instill a false hope sides of the road. at Chuknagar Bazar. at Chuknagar at the beginning of May 1971. troops approached the village, they found
among them, and won’t He said it is necessary to It was May 20. The year -- 1971. On the 18th and 19th of May, thousands a demolished culvert, which connects two
HASAN MAHMUD solve the crisis. stop cutting the trees due Ershad was searching for his father, from Bagerhat, Rampal, Morelganj, parts of the village.
to the extreme heat. Chikon Ali. Each bloated face he flipped Sharankhola, Mongla, Dakope, Batiaghata, From that point, the platoon got divided
Hasan said US Assistant Secretary of State Donald It is possible to work on over was a shard of shattered hope, a silent Chalna and even many people from as far into three raiding parties -- one of which
Lu, during his recent visit, gave some suggestions to a six-lane road even if trees scream. as Faridpur and Barishal started to come to entered Chuknagar Bazar, another went
handle the crisis. “But I don’t want to disclose it right are preserved and people Suddenly, a whimper snagged his Chuknagar. towards Malopara-Raypara area along the
now,” he said. will be benefitted from it. attention. There laid the body of a woman, They used to rest at Chuknagar after Bhadra river, and the remaining group
Myanmar authorities are willing to start the Deputy Attorney General her lifeless eyes staring blankly at the sky. crossing the Bhadra before continuing strode towards Patkhola Beel.
Rohingya repatriation process to minimise the global Bepul Bagmar opposed the Beside her was a little girl, not more than their journey to the Indian border. A huge number of refugees took
pressure being mounted on the country, said the petition saying that there is two. At that time, Golam Hossain, a Muslim shelter at that time at Patkhola Beel. As
minister. no law in the country which With a heartbreaking innocence, she League leader, was the chairman of one of the marauding groups found the
He said Bangladesh has taken the path of prohibits cutting of trees. If suckled on her dead mother’s breast. the Atolia union council. When Golam refugees gathered there, they started firing
diplomacy to put pressure on Myanmar to repatriate the cutting of trees in six- Ershad’s heart clenched. He scooped up (now deceased) learnt about the massive indiscriminately, said Sk Quamaruzzaman
the Rohingyas, while Gambia filed a case with the lane Jashore-Narail highway the child. Her warmth provided him with gathering of refugees at Chuknagar, he Tuku, commander of Mujib Bahini in
International Criminal Court against Myanmar. is stopped, the development some comfort despite the chilling scenes informed the Pakistan army stationed in greater Khulna region.
The Gambia has informed Bangladesh that the case work will be disrupted. around them. He named her Sundori, she Satkhira district. Another group coming from Malopara-
is going in the right direction and a positive result will In response, Murshid told was his ray of sunshine in a very gloomy They sent a platoon of soldiers on May 20 Raypara area soon joined the army.
come soon to this end, he said. the court that according time. With the help of his friend Mander to conduct a raid at Chuknagar. People started running frantically for
“We hope the verdict will be delivered in favour of to media reports, Dhaka Das, Ershad raised Sundori as his own. The horror started around 11:00am. A life, but most of them were gunned down.
Bangladesh. Then, more global pressure will be put on will be one of the top hot He, however, could never find his father. truck and a jeep, full of Pakistani soldiers, The entire marsh turned into a sea of
Myanmar,” he added. cities in 2030. So, unless As Chuknagar, now a small town, was reached the Jhautala area of Malotia bodies, he added.
He also said the funding for Rohingyas declined last measures are taken now located near a navigable river channel intersection in Chuknagar under Khulna’s Meanwhile, many people drowned as
year, and hoped it will increase this year. to save the trees, it will not and was too remote to be occupied by the Dumuria upazila. SEE PAGE 4 COL 4
Foreign relations experts and senior journalists who be possible to mitigate the
cover the crisis also spoke on the occasion. sufferings of people, he said.

29 MINTO ROAD Ishraque

sent to jail in
treason case
Recovering canals
top priority: Taposh
Only from
the banks,
to welcome opposition leader COURT CORRESPONDENT
STAFF CORRESPONDENT

Dhaka South City Corporation

Tk 12,000
crore has been
plundered.
after 2 decades A Dhaka court yesterday
sent BNP leader Ishraque
Hossain to jail in a case
Mayor Sheikh Fazle Noor Taposh
yesterday said the information on
dengue patients by the Directorate
filed over committing
This isn’t my General of Health Services (DGHS)
treason by resorting to lies
statement; it’s contains anomalies, making it
in October last year.
difficult for them to take action.
the statement Judge Mohammed Ash-
The DSCC teams visit dengue
of the CPD. Shams Joglul Hossain of
patients’ homes and conduct
About 12 the Metropolitan Sessions
operations within 300 yards of the houses to
Judge’s Court of Dhaka
percent of our kill Aedes mosquitoes. However, they are having
passed the order after
GDP has been trouble locating the patients’ addresses due to
Ishraque, also former
inconsistencies in the DGHS information. It also
lost this way. mayoral candidate of Dhaka
wastes their time, said Taposh.
South City Corporation,
RUHUL KABIR He made the remarks at a press briefing
appeared before the court
RIZVI organised at Nagar Bhaban, centring the fourth
and sought bail in the case,
BNP senior joint anniversary of his taking office.
said defence lawyer Taherul
secretary general Taposh said they have evicted over 100 illegal
Islam Tauhid.
structures, recovering 57.724 acres of land worth
During yesterday’s
over Tk 4,900 crore. Moreover, DSCC has renovated
hearing, the lawyer told
and established 11 playgrounds in the last four years,
the court their client got
while the process to build five more is ongoing.
anticipatory bail for six
Regarding the relocation of chemical depots
weeks from the High Court
from Old Dhaka, he said they will start drives after
on February 29.
Eid-ul-Azha. He also claimed that in his four-year
The case was filed with
tenure, they have constructed 41 new STS and
Paltan Model Police Station
reduced waterlogging.
on October 29 last year
Taposh also said what could not be
against Mian Zahidul Islam
accomplished in 40 years in Dhaka city was
Arefy, who introduced
achieved in four years by the DSCC.
himself as an “adviser” to
The mayor said implementing the inner circular
US President Joe Biden.
PHOTO: ANISUR RAHMAN ring road and completing the development works
Ishraque and retired Lt
on four canals, alongside Adi Buriganga channel,
Gen Hasan Sohrawardi, were
DIPAN NANDY The Public Works Department has election in 2014, opposition leader are their priorities in the upcoming year.
also accused in the case.
BNP leaders started renovation work at 29 Minto Raushan Ershad of the Jatiyo Party
One Mahiuddin Sikder
are suffering From 10 Downing Street, the Road for the leader of the opposition requested for it, but the house
from Gopalganj filed the
from mental
trauma. That
UK equivalent of the US’s White
House, to the Gono Bhaban, the
official residence of the prime
in the 12th Parliament, GM Quader.
The PWD started the renovation
was not allotted to her. Following
the 11th parliamentary election
case with Paltan Model
Police Station against Arefy,
Return Anwara
work after Eid-ul-Fitr following an in 2018, the house was allotted to
is why they are
making absurd
minister of Bangladesh -- the
head of state in every democracy
application by GM Quader.
Contacted, GM Quader said,
opposition leader HM Ershad, but
he never moved in.
Ishraque and Sohrawardi.
park to DNCC
comments. has iconic residences and palaces
provided to them by the state
“I have been told that it will take
three months to renovate the
A RECENT VISIT
During a recent visit, this
34 more Atiqul to metro authorities
BNP has a
right to wage
during their tenure.
In contrast, the United Kingdom
house. I hope to move into the
house when the renovations are
correspondent found the main
gate of the establishment open,
hospitalised STAFF CORRESPONDENT

movement but
if they carry
doesn’t seem to provide official
residences for their opposition
completed.”
HISTORY OF 29 MINTO ROAD
without any security guards, while
renovation workers were on-site.
with dengue Dhaka North City Corporation
Mayor Atiqul Islam yesterday said
out arson leader, and the political system Minto Road is one of the safest The courtyard features green UNB, Dhaka the metro rail authorities should
does not formally designate such a areas in Dhaka. It is also known as grass and various trees -- including hand over the Farmgate Anwara
attack, we will position in the US. Thirty-four more people park to them as soon as possible.
“Mantripara” (ministers’ area). pine, radhachura, krishnachura,
take actions. But did you know Bangladesh According to the PWD, house mango, jackfruit, papaya, and were hospitalised with He said the park was handed
OBAIDUL QUADER stands out in this regard? number 29 was built on two and a banana. Around 30 people, who dengue in 24 hours till over to the metro authorities for
Awami League Have you heard of 29 Minto half acres of land during the British work in various government yesterday morning. constructing a yard. The work is over
general secretary Road, the official residence of period for the then government departments, live in a semi-pucca Of the new patients, eight but now it is being heard that a shopping
the leader of the opposition in officials to live. After independence, tin-shed house on the premises. were admitted to hospitals mall would be built there.
Bangladesh? the house was earmarked for the Mahbub Hasan, PWD executive in Dhaka, according to “But we want to keep it as a playground...,” he
Don’t worry if you didn’t know leader of the opposition. engineer, said due to the prolonged the Directorate General of said, speaking at a programme in Dhaka.
about it; you are not alone. The The house was last used by the absence of an opposition leader, Health Services (DGHS). Atiqul came up with the demand a day after
red-and-white building has faded then opposition leader Khaleda unauthorised individuals had Currently, 131 patients a group of protesters gave an ultimatum to the
from public memory, having not Zia in 1996. But she didn’t live taken up residence in the house, are receiving treatment metro authorities to return the park to the public
been inhabited by anyone for over there. She used the building as her but they have all been served at hospitals across the within the next 30 days.
two decades. political office until 2001. Since notices to vacate. country. The group comprising of rights activists,
But this is about to change. then, no other opposition leader “Hopefully, renovation works So far, 2,628 dengue environmentalists, and teachers have warned that
The house, once neglected and in has moved into the house. will be finished in the next two cases have been reported if the park is not handed back to the people within
disrepair, is coming back to life. After the 10th parliamentary months,” he said. since January 1, said DGHS. a month, they will launch a tougher movement.
 2nd Edition

NEWS
DHAKA MONDAY MAY 20, 2024

4 JAISHTHA 6, 1431 BS

Al Musabbir
Library with 15,000 books Anwara Ahmed
passes away
X-ray machine
Sadi’s death FROM PAGE 5 Dr Muhammad Nasir
anniversary
STAR REPORT
on verge of collapse CITY DESK

A nwa ra
Ahmed,
Tangail and Sherpur come
to this clinic seeking free
treatment for chest-related
complications.
Uddin, a junior consultant
at the clinic, admitted that
the clinic urgently needs to
install the X-ray machine
The 13th death anniversary
of Al Musabbir Sadi, a
Renovation stalled due to lack of fund wife
Manzoor
of “I came here to avail of
the free treatment while
and arrange for other
diagnostic facilities.
renowned sports journalist S DILIP ROY, Lalmonirhat Ahmed, also for the ease of access, Dr Md Nazrul Islam, civil
and former general professor emeritus at but now I am being referred surgeon of Mymensingh,
secretary of Bangladesh A village with its own library, that Brac University, chair of to BRAC centre and other claimed that he wrote
Football Federation (BFF), too with a collection of around Bangladesh ECD Network hospitals for tests,” said to the higher authorities
will be observed today. 15,000 books, is a wonderful, yet (BEN), and adviser to Abul Hossain, 42, from concerned for a secured
Sadi, also a senior rare feat in our country’s context. CAMPE Council, passed Paranganj in Mymensingh room to install the machine
member of Bangladesh Tiparbazar in Lalmonirhat’s away on May 18. She was 86, Sadar upazila. after he joined there three
Sports Journalists Aditmari upazila is one such rare said a press release. Abdul Kashem, 58, years ago.
Association (BSJA), died of village. Local youths, led by Jamal She is survived by her another patient, echoed “The Health Engineering
cancer in 2011 at the age of Hossain, established Sarpukur husband, one son and the same. Department recently
44. He left behind his wife Youth Forum Library with three daughters, seven Advocate Nazrul informed us that they
and two children to mourn only 10 books in 2014. grandchildren and a host Islam Chunnu, convener would build the X-ray room
his death. Back then, of relatives and friends. of a citizens’ platform this year,” he also said.
Sadi, prominently Jamal was just a She was laid to rest in Jonouddogh Mymensingh, Prof Dr Mazharul
known as Pommel, worked schoolboy. He Banani Graveyard. said, “It is sheer negligence Islam, director (health) of
at The Daily Star from 2004 felt the need for Anwara was born in of the clinic authorities in Mymensingh division, said
to 2009 before joining the a library in the performing their assigned the prevailing problems
Kolkata on July 2, 1938
BFF as the first-ever paid village for helping teacher, said, “The library played duties towards the at the clinic should be
the library. and her family was from
general secretary in 2009. the youth excel in an important role in spreading the patients.” mitigated soon.
During his journalism Unfortunately, Satkania, Chattogram.
their studies. The the members of the light of education in the village
career, he wrote two books and its neighbouring ones over the
Daily Star published library’s committee
on legendary cricketers years. Its renovation is necessary.”
a report on it in 2017. are unable to bear the
Sachin Tendulkar and Shamsul Haque, 58, a farmer
Brian Lara. All relatives and The library was set cost of the renovation
up in a small, tin-shed work as all of them are still in the village, said many farmers,
well-wishers are requested
house on land owned by RDRS students. including himself, visit this library
to pray for the salvation of
Bangladesh, a non-government Visiting the library recently, this to read books on agriculture, and
the departed soul.
organisation. correspondent saw the corrugated they have been greatly benefitted
The founders, who are now iron roofing has become rusty with from it.
PRAYER studying in different colleges and
universities now, still continue to
holes, leaking rainwater inside the
library. The walls and bamboo poles
“The farmers would cooperate
in repairing the library house,” he
TIMING oversee the library’s affairs. supporting the hut have become added.
MAY 20 However, over the years, the fragile and may collapse any time. Jamal Hossain, founder
hut that houses the library has Niramoy Kumar Roy, a schoolboy president of the library, said, “The
Fazr Zohr Asr Maghrib Esha
become dilapidated and is now in studying in the library, and Sujan renovation work is being discussed.
AZAN 4-05 12-45 5-00 6-40 8-00 Everyone in the village is ready to
urgent need of renovation. A new Mia, a college-goer, echoed the
JAMAAT 4-40 1-15 5-15 6-45 8-30 same. contribute to this end. Hopefully it
structure is also necessary to keep
SOURCE: ISLAMIC FOUNDATION the more than 15,000 books inside Shyamal Chandra Roy, a school will be repaired soon.”

Canada for boosting

FROM PAGE 5 first Indo-Pacific trade
Appreciating Bangladesh’s representative.
stable economy and Masud hoped that
growing market, he his appointment would
expressed Canada’s facilitate and promote
institutional investors’ the implementation of
interest in investment in Canada’s Indo-Pacific
Bangladesh. Strategy and contribute
The foreign secretary to the development of
welcomed the decision of the countries of the Indo-
the Canadian government Pacific region including
to appoint Thoppil as the Bangladesh.

The blood river

FROM PAGE 3 nearby Bhadra river was
they jumped into the quite torrential. People
Bhadra river in a largely of Chuknagar and the
futile attempt to flee the nearby villages became so
carnage. frightened that they never
On that day, more than ventured near these rivers
10,000 people, mostly for the rest of the war,” he
belonging to the Hindu said.
community, were slain Shankar Kumar
by the Pakistan army Mallick, Trustee of the
at Chuknagar in only 1971: Genocide-Torture
six hours, according Archive and Museum in
to “Bangladesher Khulna, said, “While 1,500
Shadhinota Juddho: people died in the Mai
Dalilpatro”. Lai massacre in Vietnam,
The Pakistan army over 10,000 were killed in
started the massacre at the Chuknagar genocide.
11:00am and stopped at However, the day is still
5:00pm on May 20 only underrepresented in
due to the fact that they ran history.”
out of ammunition. Most In 2005, the government
of the bodies were dumped purchased 78 decimals
into the Bhadra. of land, and in 2006, a
The survivors were 32-decimal portion of
left grappling with a it was used to build the
trauma that would scar Chuknagar Shaheed
them for life. Abul Kalam Smritishoudho memorial
Mohiuddin, is one of to honour the victims.
them.
“There were so many
bodies all around the field
that it was impossible to
bury them or burn them in
accordance with the ritual,”
he said.
“So, the bazar committee
decided to dispose of the
bodies into the river as the
 2nd Edition

CITY 5
DHAKA MONDAY MAY 20, 2024
JAISHTHA 6, 1431 BS

Hot spell compels A 2017 study found that if

temperature rises above 36
degrees Celsius, it disrupts the

bees to leave colonies natural activities of bees. They

tend to leave their colonies, and
move to cooler areas. This is an
Moulvibazar beekeepers fear losses adverse impact of climate change.
MINTU DESHWARA DR MD FUAD MONDAL
Chairman, entomology department
Beekeepers in Sylhet division are Sylhet Agricultural University
passing days amid worry of incurring
losses as their bees are leaving
colonies due to the ongoing hot spell
prevailing across the country.
There are thousands of bee
colonies (nests/bee-boxes) across
the division maintained by many
people who are earning a livelihood
through apiculture.
The heat wave has caused a
reduction in honey production as
bees are staying outside their nest-
boxes most of the time due to the
extreme heat and are thereby not
producing and storing honey in were staying outside the boxes, I of honey from each box. This time,
those. Some bees are also dying due thought the amount of honey inside I got only around 3-5kg of honey.
to the heat, while many are moving the boxes was too much. However, Only a few boxes had a maximum of
elsewhere. after opening the boxes, I found 7kg honey,” Mangal added.
Experts attributed the situation the honey inside was rather half of Altaf Mahmud Babul,
to the impacts of climate changes the usual amount,” said Sreejanam, president of Kamalganj Upazila
due to global warming. a beekeeper from Tilokpur area of Honey Cultivation Entrepreneur
Bees, often considered a wonder Kulaura upazila. Development Council, said, “If it
of nature, not only produce honey, Mangal Mia, another beekeeper rains now, then the production may
but also have a profound impact on from Konagaon village under increase next month.”
the global food production being Kamalganj upazila, said, “I have Dr Md Fuad Mondal, chairman of
pollinators. been a beekeeper for 13 years. I have the entomology department of Sylhet
This correspondent visited several 60 bee-boxes. Now is the season for Agricultural University, said, “A 2017
beekeepers in different villages bees to reproduce and store honey. study found that if temperature rises
under Moulvibazar’s Kamalganj and However, the ongoing hot spell has above 36 degrees Celsius, it disrupts
Kulaura upazilas to know more in been disrupting the bees’ activities. the natural activities of bees. They
this regard. As such, the honey production will tend to leave their colonies, and move
“Last year I did not collect be less than expected.” to cooler areas. This is an adverse
honey. When I noticed the bees “Usually, I get 6-10 kilogrammes impact of climate change.”

Canada for MYMENSINGH CHEST DISEASES CLINIC

boosting
trade with
X-ray machine gathers
Bangladesh dust for 8 years
Indo-Pacific trade OUR CORRESPONDENT, Mymensingh area while for GeneXpert, another
representative calls cough test, patients are referred to
on foreign secretary The lone Chest Diseases Clinic in Damien Foundation in Shambhuganj
Mymensingh has been operating Bazar, some five-kilometres away from
UNB, Dhaka without X-ray imaging services for the clinic.
patients. After the old X-ray machine The tests are done for free.
Bangladesh has suggested went out of order in early 2000, the The GeneXpert machine was also
Canada to take advantage of district Civil Surgeon’s Office got a new allocated to the clinic 10 years ago
its demographic dividend, machine for the clinic around eight but it was instead installed at Damien
geo-strategic location, and years back. Foundation due to space constraint.
liberal investment policy to However, since then it has been Established on 1.50 acres of land
boost trade and investment sitting idle in the District Reserve Store in 1962, the clinic is now being run
between the two countries. (Health) office. in a semi-concrete building on some
Foreign Secretary An X-ray machine is an important 10-decimal land. However, many
Masud Bin Momen had tool for treating patients with chest structures including a multi-storied
a meeting with visiting diseases, especially tuberculosis. As Mymensingh Civil Surgeon’s office are
Canada’s Indo-Pacific such, patients are being deprived of also located on the clinic’s premises.
Trade Representative the free X-ray imaging service that the Patients from not only Mymensingh
(CIPTR) Paul Thoppil at the clinic is supposed to provide. but also other neighbouring districts
Ministry of Foreign Affairs For X-ray, patients are referred to a including Netrokona, Jamalpur,
yesterday. BRAC centre in the city’s Mashkanda SEE PAGE 4 COL 7
They discussed a wide
range of issues underscoring
the mutual commitment
to strengthening the
existing excellent bilateral
relationship between our
two nations by advancing
bilateral trade and
investment.
Thoppil shared Canada’s
strong commitment to
deepening the Bangladesh-
Canada trade relationship
for the benefit of the people
of the two countries.
SEE PAGE 4 COL 4
 City

6 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

DHAKA MONDAY MAY 20, 2024
JAISHTHA 6, 1431 BS

I was numb at Cannes on

the first day: ADNAN AL RAJEEV
SHARMIN JOYA
Purnima Ghosh
Starting his journey in the media assisting inaugurates workshop
For the
Mostofa Sarwar Farooki, Adnan Al Rajeev
gradually cemented his name in the television on Rabindranritya
industry. Directing fictions like @18 All-time
emerging Dourer Upor, Middle Class Sentiment, and with 60 dancers
directors I Bikal Belar Pakhi, Adnan earned accolades
would say, for his direction. With immense talent, he Renowned Indian Manipuri dancer Purnima
slowly conquered the world of advertisement. Ghosh has arrived in Dhaka. On Saturday, she
try to focus inaugurated a Rabindranritya dance workshop at
Now, exploring a new forte as a producer
on making for quite a year, he has co-produced several Banani’s Jatra Biroti.
stories that web projects and films including 60 dancers are participating in the workshop
you believe in. Mohanagar and Priyo Maloti, organised by the Nrittoshilpi Foundation
Be it a short amongst others. Bangladesh and the Indian High Commission. The
Adnan and Tanveer week-long training concludes on May 26.
film, you have The event featured Nrittoshilpi Foundation
Hossain’s co-produced
to start! You Filipino short film Radikals Vice President Lubna Marium, Kabirul Islam
can only learn has been nominated for Ratan, Nilufar Wahid Papri, Mehbooba Mahnoor
from your its world premiere at the Chandni, and Indian dancer Namrata Rai.
own mistakes, prestigious 77th Cannes The team of ‘Radikals’. PHOTOS: COLLECTED
Purnima Ghosh began her dance journey
Film Festival, at the 63rd at six, guided by her father. She also studied
so you must idea of co-production for me time here, full of food, networking, watching Bharatanatyam under Maruthapa Pillai, Kolkata’s
go on to Semaine de la Critique
Adnan Al Rajeev is to help each other grow in films, and going to parties! first Bharatanatyam teacher. Now in her 80s, her
(SDLC) of Cannes, this year.
explore. In conversation with The the world of filmmaking.
In Bangladesh, there is a misconception in
dedication to dance remains unwavering, whether
Daily Star, Adnan shared insights on stage or at home.
How does it feel to be participating understanding the role of a producer. They
about participating in the world’s in the festival? are thought of more as investors. Would you
most prestigious festival, the It feels surreal! I believe it is the best beginning elaborate on the role?
film itself, and more. of my international career and we are lucky to From the idea developing stage to pre-
Tell us about have been a part of this prestigious film festival. production, the production itself, and even
producing ‘Radikals’. It’s been a while since I’ve been following the the post-production, communication,
How did you get artistic directors of SDLC, and I’ve been a fan distribution and marketing, and financial
connected with of their selections and it’s a dream come true oversight—these are the major concerns of a
director Arvin that they selected our film. producer. A producer is someone who ensures
Belarmino? When will ‘Radikals’ be screened? the best outcome of the project and does not
Around six months just only pay money and interfere without
Radikals will be screened tomorrow. We
ago, Tanveer Hossain understanding anything regarding the project.
caught up with
will be having two screenings with the
second scheduled for May 24. I am thrilled to Any advice for emerging directors and
‘Emilia Perez’ receives
me regarding this
project. He was
experience it with the entire team. producers?
For the emerging directors I would say, try to
nine-minute ovation
already a part of the During your journey in the festival, what
co-production and was your observation? focus on making stories that you believe in. Be
it a short film, you have to start! You can only
at Cannes
approached me if The first day actually made me numb with
I was interested in learn from your own mistakes, so you must go Selena Gomez’s latest featurette, the Spanish
anxiety, it took me a while to adjust to the on to explore.
joining. It was when environment. I’ve met important people from drama Emilia Perez, received a nine-minute
I was introduced different sections of the festival including Tell us about your plans for OTT platforms. standing ovation at the Cannes Film Festival, the
to Arvin, and producers, critics and with each day, I am When can we expect to see your directorial longest of this year’s festival so far.
producer Kristine meeting more people with different opinions ventures again? Directed by Jacques Audiard, this musical
De Leon. Arvin had on films. The best part of this event is that it After coming here, I have spoken to many drama marks a triumphant return for him to the
a very distinctive provides a greater opportunity to increase producers and programmers. I want to direct prestigious event.
style in his networking with the international film market. as soon as possible. I’ve also worked on some The director, a Cannes regular, enters his sixth
filmmaking which I’ve also watched some interesting films in scripts and those are ready. Hopefully, the main competition with Emilia Perez. It stars Zoe
was unique. The beautiful theatres. I am actually enjoying the bullets will be fired soon! Saldana, Édgar Ramírez, and Karla Sofía Gascón.

NEWS
AL working to contain feuds Govt mulling taxi service revival
FROM PAGE 1 vice-chairman (reserved) in as many Besides, relatives of a whip and an AL FROM PAGE 12 Ltd sought BRTA’s permission for a Division.
MPs, defeated MP candidates and the upazilas. central committee member are in the taxicabs have exceeded their fleet of 3,000 AC taxis in the capital, The division will hold a meeting
so-called AL independent lawmakers Besides, no election is needed in two race. economic life, they said. a BRTA official said. to “expand/assess” the taxi service
who won the January 7 national election upazilas -- Cumilla Adarsha Sadar and A total of 457 platoons of Border The economic life of the remaining As per its proposal, it will deploy in cities, according to the meeting
are all trying to tighten their grip on Chattogram’s Raozan -- as candidates Guard Bangladesh (BGB) have been 29 taxicabs will expire in December. 500 taxis for women, which would be notice. The meeting is expected
local politics by having their favoured in all three posts have won uncontested. deployed to maintain law and order Some taxicabs were turned into driven by women too, the official said, to be attended by the police
candidates win the upazila polls. In the 158 upazilas in the second ahead of the voting day, reports UNB. personal vehicles, they added.
The results of the infighting wishing not to be named. commissioners of all major cities and
phase, 605 candidates are running for “Taxicab service barely exists in the
involving the January 7 election were Meanwhile, Chattala Service representatives of transportation
also reflected in the first phase of the
chairman, 694 for vice-chairman and
529 for female vice-chairman posts. 4 Arsa men held country now,” BRTA Chairman Nur
Mohammad Mazumder said.
Private Ltd wants tp provide taxi associations.
upazila polls, held on May 8. The ruling party seems to have FROM PAGE 12
services in Chattogram city with 500 An official of the division said:
Fifty-five candidates supported 2 FIRMS SEEK PERMITS taxis, he said. “Taxi service is dormant now; the
softened its position on relatives after camps and are accused in the cases
by ministers and MPs won the local its instructions were ignored by the Of the two companies wishing Upon receiving their applications meeting will discuss how to revive
filed over those incidents, he said.
election race, while 38 lost. Seven grassroots. The party later narrowed to operate taxis in Dhaka and last year, BRTA forwarded those to it... If necessary, the guideline will be
At least four Rohingyas were killed
relatives of ministers and MPs were the definition of “relatives” down to just Chattogram, Carnival Automobiles the Road Transport and Highways amended too.”
in mid-May in the Ukhiya camps.
elected, while six lost. Three children of children and spouses. At the press briefing, Arefin Jewel,
MPs have also won the chairman post. In the second phase, 17 relatives of
Bangladeshis stay indoors
second-in-command of the battalion,
Attracting more voters is also on MPs, including two ministers and one said several teams of APBn conducted
AL’s mind as turnout in the first phase state minister, are running. raids after learning that some armed
was recorded at 36 percent, the lowest Nazrul Majid Mahmud, younger criminals gathered at a hill near FROM PAGE 12 foreign ministry statement. making deliveries.
since 2009. brother of Industries Minister Nurul
Party leaders expect a better turnout Rohingya Camp 20 (extension) of 13. A criminal case was initiated, It said through the embassy, Besides, locals were also helping
Majid Mahmud Humayun, is running
this time as they try to ensure equal Ukhiya upazila early in the morning. reported Kyrgyz media. the Bangladesh government is the international students, she said.
for chairman from Monohardi of
electioneering opportunities for all. Narsingdi. Eashanul Hakim, cousin When they reached the spot, the Around 3,000 police personnel coordinating with Kyrgyzstan “Some male students are going
AL sources say the turnout in the of Railways Minister Zillul Hakim, is criminals opened fire on the APBn have been deployed, they said. ministries of foreign affairs and out, and there was no problem since
first phase was low as candidates from running for chairman from Baliakandi members, triggering a gunfight. Later Meanwhile, Bangladesh expressed internal affairs to ensure the safety Saturday night,” she said.
the ruling party did not campaign hard of Rajbari. Jamil Hasan, elder brother of on, four of the criminals were arrested, concerns over the mob attacks on and security of the students. There are around 60,000
since BNP and other major political State Minister Rumana Ali, is running while others managed to flee, he said. South Asian students, said Foreign Jerit Islam, a representative of the foreign students, including 1,000
parties boycotted the polls. for chairman from Sreepur of Gazipur. Later, according to the information Minister Hasan Mahmud during a Bangladeshi students in Bishkek, Bangladeshis, studying in Kyrgyz
The ruling party’s desire to make the Brothers of two former ministers provided by the arrestees, four hand discussion organised by Overseas said the Bangladeshi students were medical universities, which have
election look participatory is also not Nuruzzaman Ahmed, MP from grenades, seven locally-made guns, Correspondents Association planning to return home after their easy admission procedures and
working in some cases. Lalmonirhat-2, and AHM Mustafa two walkie-talkies with chargers, nine Bangladesh (OCAB) at the Jatiya semester final exams by late June, but comparatively low cost.
Even before the voting day in the Kamal, MP from Cumilla-10, are running rounds of bullets, and sharp weapons Press Club yesterday. the exams are yet to be completed. There are also migrant workers
second phase, seven candidates each for chairman. Nuruzzaman’s younger were recovered, he added. He said Bangladesh ambassador They will sit for the exams online after from the South Asian countries,
have been elected unopposed as brother and son are vying for chairman Legal procedures over this incident in Uzbekistan will go to Kyrgyzstan returning home on charter flights. including Bangladesh, India, and
chairman, vice-chairman, and female from Kaliganj upazila of Lalmonirhat. are underway, he added. to address the challenges the “We have also talked to our Pakistan.
Bangladeshi students are facing. embassy in Uzbekistan. They said they
He said Bangladeshi students came would support us by communicating 49 constituencies
Another Bangladeshi on Mt Everest
under attack, but none faced major with the civil aviation authorities FROM PAGE 12
injuries. of Kyrgyzstan,” he told this Besides Rahul Gandhi, Rajnath Singh and
“We are closely monitoring the correspondent. Omar, Commerce and Industry Minister
FROM PAGE 12 Himalayas in Nepal and India since 2014. latest Bangladeshi to summit the Everest. situation through our embassy in “It won’t be safe if we plan to fly Piyush Goyal is among the 695 candidates
come back to the table,” said the In 2022, he climbed Ama Dablam, a His father mirrored the reaction of Uzbekistan, concurrently accredited home individually,” Jerit added. who will be in fray in the fifth phase.
beaming father, recalling his son’s mountain that is considered especially the rest of the country to this news. to the Kyrgyz Republic. The embassy is Asked how the students were The voter turnout in the fifth
early days. difficult as it involves technical challenges “Our happiness knows no bounds. in constant communication with our getting food and other supplies phase will once again be in focus after
“He was a brilliant student but had like ice climbing, rock climbing, and We are worried as well, but the students, as well as with the Kyrgyz as they are staying indoors, Samia the turnout in the same seats in the
no aim in his early academic life. So, high-altitude mountaineering. happiness far outweighs that. What government officials,” according to a said the university authorities were first three phases has been less than
he became a doctor as per our wishes,” He started his Mount Everest Babar has done is a matter of great compared to 2019.
said Lutfun Nahar. adventure on April 1, and reached the pride for the nation.” However, that trend was broken in the
Babar completed his MBBS degree
from Chattogram Medical College,
base camp on April 10, according to a
press release issued by his organisation,
Turning his focus, Babar Ali now
looks to create history, setting his
Invest in country’s economic zones fourth phase on May 13 when the overall
voter turnout in 96 constituencies was
going on to achieve an MPh degree Vertical Dreamers. course towards Mount Lhotse, the 69.16 percent, slightly higher than the
from Chittagong Medical University,
FROM PAGE 2 Alam, and Chairperson of the SME
To acclimatise to the extreme fourth-highest peak in the world. He She said that if proper training is turnout in the same seats in 2019, as
followed by Postgraduate Training Foundation Professor Md Masudur
conditions, Babar went up to Everest will begin his summit attempt once he provided, it will be possible to produce per the EC data.
from Dhaka’s Bangabandhu Sheikh Camp II on April 26 and then returned has made his way back to Camp IV. If Rahman also spoke.
those mechanical parts, which can A documentary on the Ministry of Until now, the Lok Sabha elections
Mujib Medical University. to the base, and sat tight for the right successful, he would become the first also be exported to many countries. in 2024 has seen the voter turnout
Throughout his time as a student, he weather to begin the real journey. Bangladeshi to summit this peak. Industries and SME Foundation was
“It will create a market in our own screened at the programme. of about 66.95 percent. Around 451
never missed an opportunity to explore The time finally came on May 14 and As of 7:30pm yesterday, he had country with the increase in our million people have already voted in the
the country. he began his journey, reaching Camp II reached Camp IV. On this occasion, the prime minister
purchasing capacity,” she said. first four phases of polling, according to
“He was especially fond of visiting later the same day, Camp III on May 17, Before him, Musa Ibrahim (2010), handed over the crests and certificates
Industries Minister Nurul Majid the EC.
the Chattogram Hill Tracts, or places and Camp IV the day after. MA Muhit (2011), Nishat Majumder Mahmud Humayun presided over the to seven micro, small, medium, and Rahul Gandhi is trying his luck in
with a waterbody that he could visit on Babar started the final stretch of his (2012), and Wasfia Nazreen (2012) programme where Senior Secretary start-up entrepreneurs who have won Rae Bareli in Uttar Pradesh, the Nehru-
a boat,” said Liakat Ali. “This is how his journey in the early hours of May 19. He successfully summited Mount Everest. of Industries Ministry Zakia Sultana, the National SME Entrepreneurship Gandhi family stronghold vacated by his
passion for climbing grew.” climbed the rest of the way to the peak, Mohammed Khaled Hossain had also President of the Federation of Award 2023. mother Sonia Gandhi. BJP has fielded
In fact, Babar is a prolific climber, known as the Death Zone, between summited Mount Everest in 2013 but Bangladesh Chambers of Commerce The prime minister also visited Uttar Pradesh minister Dinesh Pratap
having summited 11 peaks in the midnight and dawn, and thus became the passed away during his descent. and Industry (FBCCI) Mahbubul different stalls at the exhibition. Singh as its candidate from Raebareli.
INTERNATIONAL 7
DHAKA MONDAY MAY 20, 2024
City JAISHTHA 6, 1431 BS

INDIA ELECTION More than 57pc aspirants

FROM PAGE 1

Suspected rebels first phase listed “business”

as their profession. The
Senbagh, tops the list of
candidates with the most
numbers were 67 percent for amount of movable assets.
kill BJP activist in vice chairman candidates and
24 percent for women vice
His total movable wealth is Tk
84.76 crore.
chairman candidates. Sudhir Chowdhury
J&K Mentionable, 105 chairman
candidates have movable
assets worth at least Tk 1
of Dhaka’s Dhamrai was
second with Tk 35.55 crore.
Mohammad Idris Farazi was
AFP, New Delhi crore. There are eight such third with movable assets
vice chairman post aspirants worth Tk 22.87 crore.
Suspected rebels shot dead an activist from Indian and three other vice chairman According to the law,
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s party in Kashmir, local candidates vying for the an individual can acquire a
authorities said yesterday after the latest violent attack in reserved seats for women. maximum of 33 acres of land.
In total, 116 candidates have Four candidates were found to
the disputed region. assets worth at least Tk 1 crore. have land exceeding this limit.
Police named the victim as Aijaz Ahmad, a local leader According to the TIB, At the top of this list is
of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) who was fired a candidate’s moveable Shariatpur’s Jazira Upazila
upon in Shopian district on Saturday evening, days after asset value determines Parishad chairman candidate
the region began voting in India’s six-week national whether or not he qualifies SM Aminul Islam, who owns
elections. as a millionaire. Immovable 54.6 acres of land.
assets, like real estate, are Compared to the 2019
The BJP’s local office in Kashmir confirmed yesterday not taken into consideration upazila parishad elections,
that Ahmad had died and announced plans to stage a as evaluating them is Sonali Khatun, the female
protest against the attack. challenging. vice chairman candidate of
Two Indian tourists visiting the Himalayan territory Elections will be held in Daulatpur in Kushtia, has seen
were also wounded in a separate attack by suspected 160 upazilas in the second the highest growth in income
rebels in nearby Anantnag on the same day, police said, phase. Of them, affidavits of as her wealth increased by
adding that both had been hospitalised. candidates contesting in 157 10,900 percent over the last
upazilas have been received by five years.
Security forces had cordoned off the surrounding area the TIB. Seven more candidates,
to find those responsible for separate incidents, police said. Across these 157 upazilas, including three vying for the
Kashmir has been divided between India and Pakistan 599 candidates are vying for female vice chairman posts
since their independence in 1947, with both claiming the Mourners react next to the bodies of Palestinians killed in an Israeli strike, at Al-Aqsa hospital in Deir Al-Balah the chairman posts, 689 for and two for chairman posts,
Himalayan territory in full. in the central Gaza Strip yesterday. PHOTO: REUTERS vice chairman, and 523 for have increased their income
women vice chairman. by over 2,000 percent.
According to the TIB’s Apart from this, it was
analysis, 12.17 percent said disclosed that Asaduzzaman,
Iran hands GAZA AID SHORTAGES their profession is agriculture, candidate for chairman of
4.17 percent said they are Netrakona East, is the most
down jail
terms to pop UN aid chief warns of lawyers and 4.17 percent
teachers.
Meanwhile, 52 percent of
the women vice chairman
indebted candidate with
a loan of Tk 310.94 crore.
Cumilla
chairman
Sadar Dakshin
candidate
singer Tataloo
AFP, Tehran ‘apocalyptic’ consequences candidates said they are
homemakers, while 29 said
they are involved in business.
Businesspeople are
Mohammad Aktaruzzaman
was second with a debt of Tk
99.15 crore and Md Sohag Mia
Vice Chairman of Pirojpur’s
An Iranian court has AFP, Doha per day could reach the hardest-hit north of becoming keen on Nesharabad was third with
sentenced popular singer Gaza through the reopened Erez crossing. participating in the local debts of Tk 35.87 crore.
and rap artist Amir The stranglehold on aid reaching Gaza elections as well as the national Addressing the event,
But battles near the Rafah and Kerem elections. Their numbers have TIB Executive Director
Hossein Maghsoudloo, threatens an “apocalyptic” outcome, the Shalom crossings in Gaza’s south meant
known as Tataloo, to prison increased by eight percent Iftekharuzzaman said most
UN’s humanitarian chief Martin Griffiths the vital routes were “effectively blocked”, compared to the 2014 upazila of the candidates belong
for disseminating “obscene said yesterday as he warned of famine in the he explained. “So aid getting in through parishad elections. to the ruling party and the
content”, state media besieged territory. land routes to the south and for Rafah, and On the other hand, the dominance of businesspersons
reported yesterday. “If fuel runs out, aid doesn’t get to the number of homemakers, is the same as before.
the people dislodged by Rafah is almost nil,”
The underground people where they need it, that famine, which agriculturalists, and teachers “There are questions about
Griffiths added.
musician, 36, had been is decreasing by the day, as per the information given in the
we have talked about for so long, and which is The UN said that 800,000 people had been
living in Istanbul since TIB’s observations. affidavits of the chairman
looming, will not be looming anymore. It will “forced to flee” Israel’s assault in Rafah. With In the first phase of this
2018 before Turkish police candidates. In the available
handed him over to Iran in be present,” Griffiths said. fuel, food and medicine running out, Griffiths year’s upazila polls, almost 70 data, an abnormal surge in
December of last year. He “And I think our worry, as citizens of said the military action in Rafah was “exactly percent of the chairman post movable and immovable assets
has been in detention in the international community, is that the Gaza city of Rafah, launched in the face of what we feared it would be”. candidates were businessmen. has been noticed,” he said.
consequence is going to be really, really hard. international outcry, has deepened an already “And we all said that very clearly, that a Among them, 94 were The TIB executive director
Iran since then. millionaires.
His lawyer Elham Hard, difficult, and apocalyptic,” he told AFP perilous humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip. Rafah operation is a disaster in humanitarian said politics is directly linked
THE RICH
Rahimifar said Tataloo was on the sidelines of meetings with Qatari Griffith, the UN’s Under-Secretary-General terms, a disaster for the people already Jahangir Alam, chairman to the increase of power and
handed multiple “short and officials in Doha. for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency displaced to Rafah. This is now their fourth or candidate of Noakhali’s income which is why the party
long” jail terms, without An Israeli incursion into the southern Relief Coordinator, said some 50 trucks of aid fifth displacement,” he said. cannot maintain discipline.
elaborating. The sentences
can be appealed, Rahimifar
told state-run newspaper
Jam-e Jam.
Later, the Iranian
Slovak PM’s life no longer
judiciary’s Mizan Online
website said Tataloo was
given a three-year sentence
in danger after shooting
for “blasphemy”. Mizan said AFP, Bratislava he was greeting supporters after a
he was facing other charges, government meeting in the central
without elaborating. Slovak Prime Minister Robert town of Handlova. He underwent
Under Iranian law, Fico’s life is no longer in a five-hour operation on
jail sentences run danger following an Wednesday and another
concurrently. assassination attempt, on Friday at a hospital
The trial against Tataloo Deputy Prime Minister in the central city of
began in March on charges Robert Kalinak said Banska Bystrica.
of promoting “prostitution” yesterday. “We can consider his
and disseminating A lone gunman,
condition stable with
“propaganda” against the who appeared in court
a positive prognosis,”
Islamic Republic of Iran and Saturday, shot Fico four
times and he was at one Kalinak said outside the
other “obscene content”.
stage said to be fighting for hospital, adding, “We all
The heavily tattooed
singer, known for his life. feel a bit more relaxed now.”
combining rap, pop and “He has emerged from the The suspected gunman,
R&B, was previously immediate threat to his life, but his identified by Slovak media as 71-year-old
courted by conservative condition remains serious and he poet Juraj Cintula, has been charged
politicians as a way to reach requires intensive care,” Kalinak, Fico’s with premeditated attempted murder
young, liberal-minded closest political ally, told reporters. and was ordered held in custody at a
Iranians. The Slovak premier was shot as hearing on Saturday.
8 EDITORIAL
DHAKA MONDAY MAY 20, 2024
JAISHTHA 6, 1431 BS

FOUNDER EDITOR: LATE S. M. ALI

Banning rickshaws may not
Dhaka’s future rests be the big traffic solution
on decentralisation Azmin Azran
is digital features coordinator at
something that just goes away. People
need to get places, and when their
challenges, there is an economic
challenge to banning rickshaws in
The Daily Star.
Authorities must listen to experts preferred, or in many cases, only mode
of transportation is taken away from
Dhaka as well. According to a report in
this daily, there are over 11 lakh pedal
to ensure sustainable development them, whether or not it is banned
or illegal does not matter. Rickshaw
rickshaws in Dhaka, registered and
unregistered. These rickshaws sustain
Bangladesh’s urbanisation policies have historically been owners know this well, which is the livelihoods of millions of rickshaw
centred on Dhaka, and this will likely remain true in the future why when the previous bans were pullers and rickshaw mechanics,
as well. But the ongoing trend of rapid, unplanned urbanisation announced, they did not shy away who in turn contribute over Tk
AZMIN AZRAN from flouting the rules. The number 30,000 crore to the rural economy of
in the city has also underscored another truth: that without
effective decentralisation, Dhaka’s future will likely be of rickshaws in Dhaka’s roads may go Bangladesh every year. The prospective
doomed. This is a message that urban experts have been trying It is the number one complaint among and extremely uncomfortable; they up or down, but there is hardly a place unemployment of such a large number
to impress upon our policymakers for long, to little effect so social media users in Dhaka’s traffic don’t go everywhere, and when they in our city where rickshaws are never of individuals cannot be taken lightly,
far. Experts, at a recent event, have again stressed the need for forums, and also one of the first seen. and if any rickshaw bans are enacted,
do go somewhere, they go very slow.
decentralisation, creating more opportunities outside Dhaka, solutions suggested by the masses So, what is the outlook for the future? the gradual rehabilitation of rickshaw
Cycling on major roads is risky given
improving rural living conditions, and strengthening local when asked what could fix the anarchy Will Dhaka be forever inundated with pullers into productive and long-term
the lack of cycling lanes and other
government bodies so that they have enough discretionary on our roads. Going by internet rickshaws? Are motorists in this city employment must be a part of the
cycling infrastructure, and walking is bound for eternity to match the speed process.
powers to function without needing central supervision. discourse, it seems that rickshaws— difficult due to the dilapidated state of of a rickshaw blocking an exit?
Some of the statistics that emerged from the conference Dhaka’s trusty old three-wheeled footpaths. People have reacted to this The answer is yes, if rickshaws are
highlight the urgency of such interventions. For example, friend—have lost the love of its citizens, Banning rickshaws in
Dhaka is now home to nearly 39 percent of the country’s status quo in whichever way possible forever viewed as a problem in isolation
at least those in cars. for them: those who can afford motor and not as a part of a problem-stricken
Dhaka is an easy solution
urban population, which indicates how unbalanced its By itself, this brewing sentiment
transformation has been. Moreover, over 60 percent of its vehicles buy cars and motorcycles (or transportation ecosystem. If rickshaws to a difficult problem,
would have been meaningless. But use ride-sharing services), and those but Dhaka’s traffic is a
households are led by individuals who have migrated from must go, something must come and
last week, Road Transport and Bridges who can’t afford them are left to fight
other districts, primarily driven by rural poverty, landlessness, Minister Obaidul Quader directed
replace them. This something needs complicated problem
river erosion, and climate-induced disasters. Dhaka’s allure it out with the options remaining to be better in terms of speed, comfort, that needs multifaceted
the authorities concerned to take
also lies in its economic opportunities, superior education, to them. Rickshaws are one of these and cost. Considering the fact that
steps to stop battery-run rickshaws
Dhaka’s neighbourhoods are anything
efforts to combat it.
healthcare, and cultural facilities. The highly centralised options, and a particularly popular
from operating in the capital, lending
character of governance in Bangladesh also makes the capital one at that. but homogenous, these solutions must
credence to the view that rickshaws Banning rickshaws in Dhaka is an
a must-visit destination. However, this concentration of must go if the roads are to get safer and
resources, opportunities, and powers in one megacity has led easy solution to a difficult problem,
more efficient. but Dhaka’s traffic is a complicated
to not just disparities in other districts, especially rural areas, But how true is that? There must be
but also a decline in its own liveability standard. problem that needs multifaceted
a reason why rickshaws exist today and efforts to combat it. Rickshaws have
This last feature of present-day Dhaka is one that we have have existed for so many years.
repeatedly talked about in recent years. The quality of life in been around for nearly a century,
While battery-run rickshaws thus trying to get rid of them
Dhaka is directly affected by its rapid population growth. That present more extreme versions of
the basic needs of the majority of its residents are not being met overnight is a rash and unwise course
the same problems thrown up by an of action. Battery-run rickshaws
is evident among different socioeconomic groups. Moreover, abundance of their pedal-run brethren
heavy traffic congestion compared to its insufficient road pose a significant safety threat, so
in Dhaka, it’s useful to consider them standardising these vehicles to make
infrastructure is greatly inconveniencing commuters. There is together when trying to understand
also the abysmal quality of air endangering people’s health. In them safer and issuing licences
what purpose they serve. The reason for rickshaw pullers can be a more
fact, pollutions of all kinds are prevalent across the megacity. a rickshaw ban on the main roads
So, we need to decentralise Dhaka for the sake of both its deliberative first step, until viable
imposed in 2019 didn’t survive post- alternatives are presented. The illegal
residents and other districts where people are struggling due pandemic and two bans on battery-
to inadequate infrastructure and services. power consumption by battery-run
run rickshaws in 2014 and 2021 were rickshaws must be curbed—not by
Experts have made various suggestions about how to go never really implemented is because, FILE PHOTO: RASHED SHUMON
about decentralisation—administratively, economically, cutting them off from electricity, but
at the end of the day, rickshaws form If rickshaws are to be banned anywhere, they must be replaced with by creating legal options for charging,
educationally, culturally, etc.—which the government should a crucial link in the transportation
take note of. Strengthening other regional urban centres cheap, environment-friendly public transport alternatives. and making sure that only registered
hierarchy of Dhaka. rickshaws and licensed rickshaw
can also take some of the pressure off Dhaka, making other
The transportation system in a busy A significant segment of Dhaka be formulated on a case-by-case basis. pullers can access these legal, possibly
districts more attractive for residence, investment and, of
metropolis like our capital is supposed residents are people who can’t afford What is the reason behind battery-run cheap, charging options. Enforcement
course, migration. To achieve these goals, local government
to be made up of various parts, cars, but for whom cheap bus travel is rickshaws being abundant in Uttara of traffic rules on the roads is
bodies also must be empowered. These efforts are vital for the
with public transportation like the and parts of Mirpur, while in most paramount, not just for rickshaws, but
future of Dhaka and, by extension, the country as well. not appealing either. These are people
metro system serving long-distance other neighbourhoods, they only come for cars, buses, trucks, and all other
who typically travel shorter distances,
commutes, buses serving medium- out at night? If rickshaws primarily forms of transportation.
and they would rather spend some
distance travel or low-cost alternatives serve as a method of travel within a If rickshaws are to be banned
We need more parks, for long-distance travel, and walking
and cycling being the medium of last
extra money on a rickshaw than expose
themselves to the horrors of Dhaka’s
certain area, then the replacement
for rickshaws in that area must
anywhere, analysing the routes
where they are most common and
mile delivery, taking people to and public transportation. If our footpaths
not more malls from their homes and destinations. If
all of these components worked like
were wide and flat, shaded and clean,
then maybe these trips would be
consider the population and size of the
neighbourhood, consider whether the
dominant class of residents is families
deploying cheap, environment-
friendly alternatives are a must-
do. If a functional transportation
Metro authorities have no right to they were supposed to, the roads would
be empty enough for those in private
made on foot. If wide footpaths were
paired with safe cycling lanes, walking
with school-going children or younger hierarchy is established, demand for
professionals. If the roads in an area rickshaws within that system will
commercialise Anwara Park cars and motorcycles to travel—with and cycling could replace Dhaka’s are so narrow that only rickshaws can slowly shrink anyway. But forcefully
relative ease—distances that demand rickshaws altogether. use them, then banning rickshaws creating a vacuum in the amount of
It is heartening to see conscious citizens take a strong stance motor vehicles. However, this is not The problem with banning a would mean reorganising the area in transportation options available to the
against the Dhaka Mass Transit Company Ltd (DMTCL)’s even close to the ground reality. mode of transportation without such a way that all essential services public will only invite more anarchy,
continued occupation of the Anwara Park near the Farmgate The metro system in Dhaka is in its creating suitable alternatives is that are accessible on foot. something that is in ample supply on
area. Their demand for the park to be returned to the people early days. Buses here are dysfunctional the demand for transportation isn’t Beyond traffic and city-planning Dhaka’s roads already.
within 30 days is completely justified. Not long ago, Anwara
Park used to provide breathing space to visitors and local

How fashion is future-proofing by

residents. Today, it lies comatose, with the only sign of its
existence being on paper. The metro rail authorities have been
occupying the space since 2018 for storage and other purposes.
But as the construction of the rail line through the Farmgate
area has been over for some time, it is only right that they free
up the space and return it as it was.
Unfortunately, the DMTCL, despite having promised to do
that originally, reportedly wants to turn the space into a plaza
investing in technology
or shopping complex. This is not what the people want or
even need. The question is, who gave DMTCL the authority to RMG NOTES from apparel waste. are investing in non-core areas. In
take such decisions? Even the Dhaka North City Corporation Nylon and polyester make up 2022, H&M signed a multi-year carbon
(DNCC), to its credit, fought back against the DMTCL’s Mostafiz Uddin
roughly 60 percent of clothing removal agreement with Climeworks, a
ludicrous proposal, with the mayor making it clear that the is the managing director of Denim Expert produced today. Globally, around 87 carbon capture technology business,
park must be returned to serve its original purpose. Limited. He is also the founder and CEO of percent of discarded textiles either which covers the removal of 10,000
Bangladesh Denim Expo and Bangladesh end up in landfill, incinerated or leak tonnes of CO2. Besides, enabling H&M
What Dhaka needs most now are more open spaces such Apparel Exchange (BAE).
as parks and playgrounds, not more shopping malls—which into the environment. Until now, no Group to access capacity and establish
it already has plenty of. The implications of destroying what business has managed to scale the long-term relations in the sector, the
little open space is left in the city should not be lost on recycling of polyester. investment supported Climeworks’
MOSTAFIZ UDDIN
anyone. Unfortunately, government agencies often seem to be Samsara Eco’s innovation could capacity scale-up. Investment in
oblivious to this fact. Even the DNCC itself set a bad example be viewed as an important milestone carbon removal will potentially help
when it recently allowed the Gulshan Youth Club to construct Are fashion brands becoming more years, covering a significant share in tackling plastic pollution and H&M to meet its carbon emission
a football turf and other structures at the Shaheed Tajuddin than retailers of clothing? Many are of H&M Group’s long-term need for carbon emissions caused by textiles. reduction targets.
Ahmad Park, restricting access for the general public. The focusing on technology. For instance, recycled polyester, which is currently By investing in it, Lululemon takes Brands are also investing in
result of such activities is that people have increasingly less Shein has claimed it is not a fast fashion primarily sourced from rPET bottle-to- leadership role in this area, by future- renewable energy projects. In late
and less access to open areas which are essential for their brand but a technology business. textile. proofing the company and generating 2023, BESTSELLER and H&M Group
physical, mental and social well-being. I would however argue that Shein’s Through Syre, H&M Group said it huge amounts of positive PR. It’s an pledged to invest in the first utility-
This trend must end. We urge the DMTCL to take immediate core business remains fashion and wants to contribute to a meaningful obvious win-win. scale offshore wind project off the
steps to hand over the Anwara Park after necessary renovations. clothing. Yet, there are also grounds for shift in the industry by moving away Likewise, Spanish fast fashion coast of Bangladesh. Copenhagen
Moreover, all such parks similarly at risk of destruction or suggesting Shein is changing the way from virgin polyester. group Inditex this year launched a Infrastructure Partners (CIP) and local
alternation—in Dhaka and other cities—need to be protected. that clothing is accessed, by disrupting This is laudable. Another factor at partnership with chemicals giant partner Summit Power are developing
the rules of the game and other brands play here is that H&M, like many other BASF to create a new nylon called the project.
are having to respond accordingly. fashion brands, sees a potentially “Loopamid”, a polyamide 6 (PA6, also The 500 MW offshore wind
Many brands in the fashion huge and lucrative market in textile known as nylon 6). BASF and Inditex project, which is in early-stage
THIS DAY IN HISTORY industry are moving beyond their core
proposition and delving deep into their
recycling. Why depend on third parties
for recycled materials when it can invest
claim it is made from 100 percent
waste nylon. Inditex brand Zara has
development, could significantly
increase the availability of renewable
supply chains. In recent years, many in them itself? This could be a massive produced a jacket made entirely energy in Bangladesh—one of the
Vasco da brands invested in recycling technology
companies, becoming shareholders in
growth industry over the next two
decades. It also gives H&M a degree of
from Loopamid and made it available
globally.
fashion industry’s most important
manufacturing countries.
Gama arrives outfits such a Renewcell and Infinited vertical supply chain integration and BASF has said it plans to scale this Notably, only large multi-nationals
Fibre Company. places it in a powerful position. Could technology and is considering building are in a position to invest in this
at Calicut, H&M has recently gone one step this one day see H&M supplying other a PA6 recycling plant. Prior to this level of vertical integration and such
further. H&M Group and Vargas brands with their recycled polyester in 2022, Inditex had already signed moves are viewed by many as a way to
India Holding recently announced the needs? Don’t bet against it. a €100m deal with textile recycler future-proof enterprises, protecting
On May 20, 1498, two launch of Syre. Backed by TPG Rise US brand Lululemon has made Infinited Fiber Company committing issues such as supply chain volatility
years after he set sail Climate, Syre aims to rapidly scale similar moves in the past 12 months. The to purchase 30 percent of Infinited and impending climate targets (and
from Lisbon, Portugal, textile-to-textile recycling of polyester company partnered with Australian Fiber’s annual future production of associated regulatory scrutiny) further
Vasco da Gama arrived and “contribute to a more sustainable enviro-tech startup Samsara Eco on Infinna, a fibre created from textile down the line.
on the Western Sea coast textile industry.” a multi-year collaboration to scale waste. Whether small and medium
of India at Kozhikode In many ways, this is H&M Group textile-to-textile recycling, and see This suggests that like H&M, Inditex sized fashion brands could afford
(Calicut), Kerala. This attempting to future-proof its Samsara Eco create the world’s first sees vertical integration and strategic such investments is debatable. This
was the first time that a operations. The company has secured infinitely recycled nylon 6,6 and collaborations with technology potentially leaves them extremely
European had arrived in an offtake agreement with Syre worth polyester. The goal is to create new companies as the way forward. vulnerable in a sector where size and
India via the sea. a total of US$600 million over seven recycled nylon and polyester made It’s not just in recycling where brands scale are more important than ever.

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OPINION 9
DHAKA MONDAY MAY 20, 2024
JAISHTHA 6, 1431 BS

We should be worried about the

present fertility trends
Barkat-e-Khuda, PhD, accountability. dependent on temporary modern methods, inadequate staffing, lack of a regular, reliable
is a former professor and chairman of the The number of home visitations are not is the high rate of discontinuation, implying and uninterrupted supply of contraceptives,
Department of Economics at Dhaka University. He
can be reached at barkatek@[Link]. enough as well. One-fifth of currently married huge system losses for the programme. inadequate behavioural change through
women reported a visit by a fieldworker in Around half of the users stop using a method communication messages, lack of strong
the past six months in 2014, and it remained within 12 months of starting its use because technical and managerial leadership, and the
unchanged in 2017-18 (data for 2022 is not of method failure, side effects, health reasons, limited role of NGOs and the private sector,
available). This represents a sharp decline or because they want to become pregnant. except the Social Marketing Company (SMC).
from 43 percent in 1993-94. Dropping out on account of side effects and All these result in a general lack of access to
Plus, there has been a decline in the relative method failure indicates that FP services are good-quality FP services, especially in the low-
BARKAT-E-KHUDA share of long-acting or permanent method of low quality. performing areas, including urban slums.
(LAPM) of contraception from 47.8 percent of There is also a relatively high unmet need The transition from declining fertility to its
stalling should act as a signal for policymakers
Bangladesh has a population of over 170 contributed to that. to do something new or strengthen existing
million. With an annual population growth One of those factors is the decline in efforts so as to restart fertility decline. This
rate of around one percent, about two million percentage of currently married women will require a strong and sustained political
new faces are being added to the population wanting additional children. The desire to commitment to address the problem, and
every year. The population size will likely limit childbearing declined from 65 percent that is absent. As an example, the Population
stabilise at around 240-250 million, if in 2011 to 57 percent in 2022, indicating an Policy of 2012 has not yet been updated
fertility can be brought down soon to below increase in the desire for more children.
even after a lapse of 12 years, reflecting
replacement level. Slower decline in child mortality in recent
a lack of commitment on the part of the
Being the most densely populated country years is another factor. Child mortality
health ministry. There is no doubt that the
in the world, Bangladesh is at a great risk of declined substantially over the past two and a
Bangladesh Family Planning Programme
reaching saturation in terms of agricultural half decades; however, the decline has slowed
production and capacity to absorb further down in recent years. Between 1993-94 and has lost much of the focus and priority it
population increases into the rural labour 2017-18, the under-five mortality declined received until the mid-1990s. To fully achieve
force. from 134 to 45 and the infant mortality rate its development objectives and bring about
During the 1960s, fertility was high, with (IMR) declined from 88 to 38. However, the desired reduction in fertility levels, the
the total fertility rate (TFR) of over seven. It declines were notably slow between 2017-18 government should attach high priority to the
remained above six until 1981. Between 1989 and 2022, with the under-five mortality rate FP programme (especially giving top priority
and 1993-94, fertility declined sharply from declining from 45 in 2017-18 to 31 and the IMR to high-parity couples, and give greater focus
5.1 to 3.4. However, the decline was stalled from 38 to 25. on acceptance of LAPM).
at around 3.3 during 1994-2000, but then The slowing down in the rate of increase Hence, there is clearly a need to develop a
it declined sharply to 2.3 in 2011. However, it in CPR is also a matter of concern, given the supportive and proactive policy environment
has remained at that level since then. Thus, need to accelerate CPR to achieve the desired by sensitising the political leadership and
Bangladesh has been experiencing stalling in reduction in fertility. Family planning (FP) other stakeholders about the dangers of the
its fertility decline since 2011. programmes achieved commendable success fertility stalling in the country. Also, there is
The stall, which began in 2011, lasted for a until 2011, with CPR rising from around four One of the factors causing stalled fertility is the decline in percentage of currently a need for a more inclusive strategy, involving
10-year period, ending in [Link] increase percent in the 1960s to 62 percent in 2011. married women wanting additional children. PHOTO: TITU DAS greater involvement and participation of all
in contraceptive prevalence rate (CPR) slowed However, it has remained almost unchanged concerned ministries, especially the local
and, indeed, almost stalled on account of (64 percent in 2022) at that level since then. modern method use in 1994 to only 14 percent for contraception. In 2022, the unmet need government ministry that is entrusted with
the weakening of the family planning (FP) There is also a shortage of staff, in 2022. Global experience shows that the most for contraception was 10 percent, but if users the responsibility of providing FP services
programme efforts, as the initial enthusiasm including trained ones, at different levels successful FP programmes are characterised of traditional methods (nine percent) are in urban areas, NGOs, the private sector and
and political support waned. Since fertility of FP programmes, such as family welfare by considerably high use of LAPM. The considered, the total unmet need for modern professional groups. The political leadership
stalls result in postponing the achievement assistants (FWAs), family welfare visitors change in the contraceptive method mix has methods was 19 percent. Besides, exposure should renew its commitment to contain
of a level of fertility that is expected as well as (FWVs), nurses, and doctors. In addition, implications for the FP programme’s overall to FP messages in the mass media among the rate of population growth, as it had until
desired, their occurrence is at the very least absenteeism of providers at different levels sustainability. The decline in the relative women aged 15-49 years has also declined. For the mid-1990s, instead of putting the issue
disconcerting. has been commonplace. Furthermore, there share of LAPM should be of concern, since example, the percentage of women who saw on the backburner. Therefore, responding to
Bangladesh received global recognition is conflict between medical and non-medical most childbearing is completed by the mid- a FP message on television declined from 24 the signal will require, among other things,
for its speedy fertility decline during 1989 personnel and between cadre and non-cadre to-late-20s, and women face two subsequent percent in 2011 to 16 percent in 2017-18 (data rejuvenating and strengthening the FP
to 1993-94 and 2000-2011. However, the personnel within the Directorate General of decades of reproductive life during which for 2022 is not available). programme, bringing about substantial rise
stalling of fertility decline during 1994-2000, Family Planning (DGFP). Added to the HR they must protect themselves from unwanted FP service delivery, too, suffers from various in female ages at marriage and childbearing,
and especially since 2011, has become a problems are the lack of effective monitoring pregnancies. constraints. These include, for example, increasing female schooling and employment,
matter of serious concern and several factors and supervision, and lack of transparency and A key concern for FP programmes, overly inadequate funding by the government, and improving child survival rates.

Exploring a new political paradigm

Saifur Rahman organised and confident, attention
is a senior IT specialist and certified can gradually shift to tackling deeper-
professional, Australian Computer
Society. rooted issues and expanding efforts to
regional and national levels.
Social movements sometimes
can become violent. But they can
be confined to peaceful means. For
instance, consider a protest against
an upazila medical officer who
SAIFUR RAHMAN neglects duties at a public hospital
while running a private clinic. If he
cannot be held accountable through
Welfare of the people is an indicator leaders, bureaucrats, intellectuals, administrative and legal channels,
of a nation’s success. In the 2024 and professionals—may share other peaceful methods, such as
World Happiness Index, Bangladesh responsibility for the current boycotting his private clinic or
ranks notably low, even falling predicament, the ultimate hope for denying him essential commodities
behind Pakistan. In the Atlantic overcoming the nation’s challenges and services in the locality, can compel
Council’s freedom and prosperity rests with the people, guided by an him to comply. Given everyone’s
indexes, which cover 164 countries, effective political culture. reliance on society, any individual or
Bangladesh secured the 141st spot in Political philosopher Hannah entity can be forced to heed public
the Freedom Index this year, better Arendt conceived of politics not demands through such social actions.
than only Afghanistan in South Asia. solely as the exercise of power, This is not a blueprint for quickly
Despite achieving a relatively better but rather as revolving around the seizing state power, however.
position in the Prosperity Index, concept of “active citizenship,” Overhauling the entire system and
Bangladesh’s overall classification emphasising civic participation and political culture is an immense
still remains “Mostly Unprosperous.” people’s deliberation on all issues. VISUAL: SHAIKH SULTANA JAHAN BADHON
undertaking that requires unwavering
In recent decades, we have The primary objective of politics dedication, akin to the sustained
witnessed a consistent decline in should be to foster “active citizens,” the state apparatus carries inherent chiefly driven by their self-interests. utilise these fundamental aspects of
risks, such as adverse economic When individuals believe that joining human psychology. commitment seen in our preparatory
the Freedom Index, contrasted with who possess civic knowledge, phase of independence movement,
repercussions, which dissuade a protest outweighs the risks and Politics is warfare without
an upward trend in prosperity. This political consciousness, and the which lasted roughly 18 years (1952-
governments from taking decisive offers substantial benefits, they are bloodshed. Targeting areas of least
apparent paradox has confused capacity to fight for justice. Political 1970). With more than 40 political
actions. inclined to participate. Another resistance is one of the winning
many, yet the explanation is not culture should aim to foster such a parties in Bangladesh, I hold onto the
The sole remedy lies in demographic comprises those who tactics depicted in Sun Tsu’s Art
so puzzling: the responsibility for depth of socio-political awareness hope that certain existing ones, or
empowering the populace through have endured severe injustices from of War. Accordingly, initial social
ensuring freedom depends on state that even the most corrupt, self- the present system and seek reforms. perhaps new entrants, will ultimately
political leadership deeply movements could be confined to local
institutions, which have failed, interested individuals recognise that The third segment includes individuals adopt a long-term political agenda
connected to them. The political areas and issues where resistance from
while economic prosperity has prioritising the common good over propelled by genuine patriotism. It is rather than succumbing to short-term
entity must adhere to democratic the government machinery would
predominantly stemmed from the personal gain ultimately serves their crucial for leaders to understand and opportunistic goals.
principles in selecting its leaders be minimal. As people become more
endeavours of people, who have own interests and the well-being of
and maintain a decentralised
succeeded. their children. party structure. Units at both
Foreign remittances from both To enable the one-sided flow of union and upazila levels, guided
official and unofficial channels wealth, the British Raj established by the overarching strategic vision
amount to an impressive $45 an oppressive class known as the of the central leadership, should
billion annually. The multiplier Zamindars, supported by a coercive have autonomy in recruitment,
effect of money translates that bureaucratic system. The Indian training, fund management, and the
into approximately $135 billion Congress that emerged in late 1800s coordination of social movements.
of economic activity or about 30 was primarily composed of the elite The goals encompass, initially,
percent of the GDP. Without the classes, perpetuating the deeply advancing civic and political
efforts of overseas workers, garment entrenched colonial system that education within communities
employees and farmers, this prioritised the interests of the ruling to cultivate active citizenship;
nation would have still remained class over those of the populace. secondly, nurturing grassroots
a “bottomless basket.” Rampant Similarly, Pakistan and later leadership; and thirdly, engaging
corruption, absence of the rule of Bangladesh followed a comparable individuals in political, social, and
law, obstacles to doing business, and trajectory. Networks of exploitative environmental movements. The
poor governance have all contributed politicians, dishonest business existing “patron-client” leadership
to state institutions being perceived figures, and corrupt officials model, characterised by blind
more as hindrances than promoters continued to exploit the nation followers, must be supplanted by a
of economic progress. reminiscent of colonial practices. democratic framework grounded in
Given its favourable demographic The resolution hinges on the principles of “servant leadership.”
dividend, fertile soil, abundant dismantling this nexus and This philosophy, introduced by
freshwater, ample rainfall, sufficient restructuring all state institutions. organisational theorist Robert K
sunlight, and extensive coastlines, However, two significant hurdles Greenleaf in 1970, traces its origins
Bangladesh possesses all the obstruct progress. Firstly, over to earlier concepts, as expressed by
ingredients to emerge as one of time, this network has amassed Guru Nanak, “The one who serves
the happiest and most prosperous such influence that it is nearly the most deserves to lead.”
nations, provided that the rule of impossible for any political party to Success of any social movement
law and good governance are firmly gain or sustain power without its depends on people’s participation.
established. Although various backing. Secondly, once in office, Sir Paul Collier, professor at Oxford
stakeholders—politicians, business enacting comprehensive reforms in University, proposes that people are
10 IN FOCUS
DHAKA MONDAY MAY 20, 2024
JAISHTHA 6, 1431 BS

Steam Power and Scientific

Knowledge in Early British Bengal
Golak’s engine DANIEL E. WHITE encounter between South Asian and
was displayed European intellectual and material
In Europe, steam power evolved practices.”
at the Society’s gradually and uncertainly over On the one hand, then, Golak
annual the course of the eighteenth is a “mimic” engineer, copying a
exhibition on century, with innovative peaks European imported prototype and
January 16 and long plateaus, from Thomas demonstrating the native capacity,
at Calcutta’s Savery’s steam pump (1698) via in the well-known language of
Town Hall. In Thomas Newcomen’s reciprocating Macaulay’s “Minute on Indian
its report, the atmospheric engine (1712) to James Education” (1835), to become
Watt and Matthew Boulton’s double- “English … in intellect.” And the same
Society further acting rotative steam engine with goes for the 500 native members of
emphasized a separate condenser (1765-90). the Agricultural and Horticultural
that Golak The first steamer to complete the Society over the remainder of
designed and journey from England to India, the the nineteenth century, who, for
built the engine Enterprize (an “auxiliary” paddle ship Macaulay, would join the “interpreter”
“without any equipped with sails), left Falmouth class – “a class of persons, Indian
assistance on August 16, 1825 and arrived in blood and colour, but English in
in Calcutta via the Cape of Good taste, in opinions, in morals, and in
whatever from Hope a disappointing 113 days later, intellect” – prepared “to refine the
European of which (due to bad weather and vernacular dialects of the country,
artists upon the exhausted fuel) only 62 were under to enrich those dialects with terms of
mode, of a large steam. Between 1822 and 1837, the science borrowed from the Western
Steam Engine number of steam engines working in nomenclature, and to render them
belonging to the Bengal rose from 2 to 67, and by 1845, by degrees fit vehicles for conveying
according to the Bengal Hurkaru knowledge to the great mass of the
missionaries
newspaper, there were 150 engines population.”
at Serampore,” in use (mostly imported). By the end On the other hand, the activities
for which the of this period, in 1844, the journalist and language of the Society work
“ingenious J.H. Stocqueler could report that “On against its diffusionist ideology: the
blacksmith” approaching Calcutta, the smoking “first endeavours” of the Society
was awarded chimneys of steam-engines are now “would be directed to the obtaining
a prize of 50 seen in every direction, on either side of information upon the almost
of the river, presenting the gratifying Photo 2 : Detail from “Chandpaul Ghaut. Steam Engine. Supreme Court,” by William Wood, A Series of Twenty- innumerable subjects which present
rupees. themselves,” and “Native Gentlemen”
appearance of a seat of numerous Eight Panoramic Views of Calcutta (1833), Plate 1; from the British Library Archive shelfmark 1781.c.22
would thus be essential not just
to the civilizing process by which
Serampore, and his suite, the Diana Thus elevated, the European mind is “plotting of Indian dependence as a
they would receive communicated
steamed to Chinsurah against a prepared, as The Calcutta Journal function of technological incapability
European science but to the Society’s
strong tide, making the journey in six concludes its depiction of the Diana even in the era of steam a spurious
own acquisition of a hybridized
to seven hours and then returning by Packet, to “promote the cause of fabrication.” But something else is
“stock of knowledge”: “the methods
way of Serampore, where an “elegant science and the arts, and add to the at stake too in the early nineteenth
entertainment” had been “prepared sum of human enjoyments.” The century. If we zoom out to the
for the occasion,” arriving back in native, on the contrary, like a dark, context in which this engine was
Calcutta on the next morning. heathen temple, can be an object, not exhibited in 1828, at an exhibition of
Here is the account reproduced by a subject, of the sublime. the Agricultural and Horticultural
The Asiatic Journal in London from The crowds that came to witness Society, we find, according to the
The Calcutta Journal in Bengal: (See the Diana dispelling the darkness Society’s Prospectus, written by the
Photo 1) recall the contrast established in the Baptist missionary William Carey
All the terms of the Romantic account of the Serampore engine on April 15, 1820, a mere three
sublime are there, so we expect the between collective and childlike weeks after the demonstration of
minds of the beholders to be awed and native curiosity, which “tried the the Mission’s new steam engine,
elevated, yet their wonder is “stupid,” patience of the engineman,” and the that “It is peculiarly desirable that
their fears “superstitious,” their individualized and mature curiosity Native gentlemen should be eligible
amazement or astonishment, whether of “many a European who … came as members of the Society, because
“silent” or “loud,” indifferently a to study and to copy it.” One Indian one of its chief objects will be the
sign of utter incomprehension. not only came to study and copy it, improvement of their estates, and of
For Edmund Burke in his famous however, but then proceeded to build the peasantry which reside thereon.
Enquiry into the Origin of Our Ideas a working engine based on its design. They should therefore not only be
of the Sublime and Beautiful (1757) We do not know if Golak Chandra, eligible as members, but also as
and, especially, for Immanuel Kant blacksmith of Titagarh, immediately officers of the Society in precisely the
in The Critique of Judgment (1790), opposite Serampore, crossed the river same manner as Europeans.” A further
what we call sublime does not reside on March 27, 1820 to join the “crowds reason why it was peculiarly desirable
in the object so described but rather of natives” curious about the new to associate “Native Gentlemen of
in the mind that apprehends it. Kant machine. But he did cross the river landed estates with Europeans who Photo 4 : Photograph of the model
is explicit that “the judgement upon to study it many times thereafter: have studied this subject” was that of steam engine preserved at
the Sublime in nature needs culture at its meeting on January 9, 1828, “we should gradually impart to them Serampore
(more than the judgement upon the Agricultural and Horticultural more correct ideas of the value of
employed to raise crops, and conduct
the Beautiful)”: “That the mind be Society of India resolved, “at the landed property, of the possibility of
the other parts of rural economy
attuned to feel the sublime postulates suggestion of the Rev. Dr. Carey, improving it, and of the best methods
must so vary with soil, climate, and
Photo 1: The Asiatic Journal in London a susceptibility of the mind for ideas that permission be given to Goluk- of accomplishing so desirable an end.”
other local circumstances, as to make
… In fact, without the development of chundra, a blacksmith of Titigur, to Such “improvements” would bring
it impossible for any individual to
moral ideas, that which we, prepared exhibit on Wednesday next, a Steam about “the gradual conquest of the
be practically acquainted with them
by culture, call sublime presents itself Engine made by himself without indolence which in Asiatics is almost
all. Too much praise can scarcely be
to the uneducated man merely as the aid of any European artist.” become a second nature, – and the
During the early extensive manufactories, vying with given to local establishments whether
terrible.” Unprepared by culture, the Golak’s engine was then displayed introduction of habits of cleanliness …
years of the 19th many British cities.” public or private.” Carey, Professor of
crowds of natives who gather to see at the Society’s annual exhibition in the place of squalid wretchedness,
During the early year of the 19th Bengali, Sanskrit, and Marathi at the
century, Bengal the Baptist missionaries’ “machine on January 16 at Calcutta’s Town neglect, and confusion.” Through
century, Bengal was becoming the College of Fort William and as devout
was becoming of fire” in 1820 experienced only an Hall. In its report, the Society further the diffusion of western science to
epicenter of an imperial imagination a practical botanist as a Particular
the epicenter irritating curiosity, while now in emphasized that Golak designed the native members of the Society,
in which steam in particular was “industry and virtue” would replace Baptist, was far less invested in
of an imperial 1823 “the more ignorant natives” and built the engine “without any
firmly fixed as an engine that would “idleness and vice.” assimilation and anglicization than
imagination in diffuse European civilization. The In this light, the insistence that the evangelical wing of the Church
which steam in public history of steam power in India Golak’s ingenuity was a form of of England associated with Charles
particular was begins with three remarkable scenes “imitative skill” and the emphasis Grant, Zachary Macaulay, and the
firmly fixed as from the 1820s. here on the “improvement” of Clapham Sect, or than Alexander
First, just north of Calcutta in native estates (Britons being Duff of the Scottish Church
an engine that the Danish colony of Serampore Mission: above all, for Carey local
would diffuse forbidden from owning land) reveal
(Srirampur), on March 27, 1820 the a tension in the period between circumstances (and languages) were
European English Baptist missionaries staged what historian Kapil Raj has always paramount. And finally, in
civilization. a demonstration of their new engine called the later historiographical a moment of reverse-diffusionism,
imported from Messrs. Thwaites and perspectives of “diffusionism” and the Agricultural and Horticultural
Rothwell of Bolton to assist with “relocationism” with respect to Society of India, founded in 1820 and
paper production for the mission the creation and transmission of shaped by intercultural encounter,
press: “The ‘machine of fire,’ as they scientific knowledge. According to translation, and local practices,
called it, brought crowds of natives to the dominant diffusionist model, then formed the model for the Royal
the mission, whose curiosity tried the science is developed in the West Agricultural Society of England,
patience of the engineman imported and then spread to the East as “the founded in 1838.
to work it; while many a European embodiment of basic values of As the convergence of steam
who had never seen machinery driven truth and rationality, the motor of power, science, and colonialism
by steam came to study and to copy moral, social, and material progress, in early British Bengal shows,
it.” the marker of civilization itself.” the relocation of technology
The second high-profile stationary Photo 3 : The Enterprize departed Falmouth on August 16, 1825, bound Knowledge and technologies are undermined the equation between
engine in Bengal went into operation for India. Despite high hopes, its journey to Calcutta via the Cape of Good fundamentally stable in function stable knowledge and the transfer of
two and a half years later, on Hope took a disappointing 113 days, marking the first steamship voyage and significance, adapting the new civilization from West to East. From
November 1, 1822, in Calcutta at from England to India. location to the universal values and the effect of the Diana’s “triumph of
Chandpal Ghat to supply water from progress they bear while remaining science over the elements, on some
the Hugli river via aqueducts to the experience only terror. assistance whatever from European themselves unmodified by local of the more ignorant natives” to the
streets of the city’s “White Town” in Having already noted that artists upon the mode, of a large environment or experience. The display of Golak’s engine before the
order to keep down the dust. “Almost all the heathen temples were Steam Engine belonging to the alternative “relocationist” perspective annual exhibition of the Agricultural
In the following summer, “At dark,” Burke, in fact, denominated missionaries at Serampore,” for proposed by Raj, on the contrary, and Horticultural Society of India,
exactly nine minutes past four on darkness and blackness themselves which the “ingenious blacksmith” rooted in the New Imperial History’s the production of knowledge in the
Saturday afternoon (12th July) the as intrinsically terrible objective was awarded a prize of 50 rupees. A emphasis on asymmetric circulation contact zone was always a form of
first steam vessel, which ever floated properties, citing the example of a contemporaneous account in the and the mutual constitution of hybridization bearing the marks of
on the waters of the East,” the Diana boy who “saw a black object,” which Calcutta Gazette echoed the phrase Britain and its empire, suggests specific and unequal relationships of
Packet, “left the stocks at Kyd’s Yard, “gave him great uneasiness,” and then “without any assistance whatever that “South Asia was not a space for power.
Kidderpore,” with a more public “some time after, upon accidentally from European artists” while the simple application of European
launch following on the morning of seeing a negro woman, … was struck adding its own praise for the “native knowledge” but rather “was an active, Daniel E. White is Professor of
August 9, when the Diana departed with great horror at the sight.” ingenuity” and “imitative skill” of the although unequal, participant in an English at the University of Toronto,
from Chandpal Ghat, “stemming In accounts of steam as sublime, “ingenious Blacksmith.” emerging world order of knowledge Canada. His new book, Romanticism,
the rapid freshes of the river with accordingly, it is the European viewer The story of Golak Chandra’s … [T]he contact zone was a site for the Liberal Imperialism, and Technology
a velocity perfectly astonishing.” whose mind is elevated and “admitted engine, for scientist and scholar production of certified knowledges in Early British India: “The all-
Bearing a party including Colonel … into the Counsels of the Almighty Professor Amitabha Ghosh, which would not have come into changing power of steam,” is
Jacob Krefting, Governor of by a consideration of his works.” demolishes a myth, making the being but for the intercultural forthcoming from Palgrave.
 CITY EDITION

DHAKA MONDAY MAY 20, 2024, JAISHTHA 6, 1431 BS

Scan the QR
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the latest
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Incredible City make history

AGENCIES Guardiola’s side a phenomenal sixth
title in seven years. Fans danced in
Manchester City created English their seats, belting out: “Champions
football history on Sunday, again!” and “Are you watching
overcoming West Ham 3-1 to win Arsenal?”
their fourth straight Premier League Arsenal started the day two points
title and break Arsenal’s hearts. behind their rivals and praying
City, who have now won six titles for a miracle to deny City their
in seven years, stand alone as the coronation, knowing that a win
only English team to have won four against Everton would not be enough
straight top-flight titles, eclipsing the
achievements of the great Liverpool Manchester City became not only the
and Manchester United teams of the first team in the Premier League but the
past. only team in English top-flight history to
Two glorious early goals from win four successive league titles.
league player of the season Phil
Foden created a party atmosphere in City took their unbeaten tally to 35
the sunshine at the Etihad Stadium matches in all competitions (W29 D6),
before a stunning bicycle kick from the longest run ever by a Premier League
Mohammed Kudus before halftime team. In English top-flight history,
brought West Ham briefly into the only Nottingham Forest has a longer
game. unbeaten run (40 matches in a row).
“It is so hard to put into words
what we’ve done today,” Foden told if the champions won on home turf. Phil Foden, who was voted the Player
Manchester City players celebrate with the Premier League trophy after completing an unprecedented Sky Sports. “No team has ever done The Gunners, without a Premier of the Season, scored six goals from
run that saw them win the top-flight English football league four times in a row following a it (won four in a row). We have put League title since 2004, came from outside the box in the Premier League
commanding 3-1 victory over West Ham United at Etihad Stadium on Sunday. [Inside story] City’s ourselves into the history books.” a goal down to beat Everton 2-1 this season, the most by any player in the
incredible showing left Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta and midfielder Declan Rice dejected, much like Rodri sealed the victory for but had to content themselves with competition since Christian Eriksen hit six
their fans, as the Londoners had to stay satisfied with a second-place finish despite a 2-1 win over City with a low 59th minute shot second in the table for a second in 2018-19.
Everton on the final matchday. PHOTO: REUTERS/AFP from outside the area, giving Pep straight season.

Can Fizz break SHORT CORNER

CYCLE OF REGRET?
ABDULLAH AL MEHDI

When Bangladesh pacer Mustafizur MUSTAFIZUR IN T20 WORLD CUPS

Rahman took part in his first T20
World Cup, he was still in his first
YEAR MATCHES WICKETS ECON RATE STK-RATE AVERAGE
year in international cricket. He came 2016 3 9 7.16 8 9.55 Hyderabad chase 200-plus total
into the 2016 T20 World Cup as a
prodigious talent, having already 2021 7 8 9.25 18 27.75 for first time this IPL
bamboozled some of the biggest
Indian batter Abhishek Sharma smashed 66 as
stars in world cricket. 2022 5 3 5.6 40 37.33 Sunrisers Hyderabad chased a total north of 200
That World Cup, however, ended for the first time in this edition of the Indian
Premier League to down Punjab Kings by four
him. His reputation swelled further after tournament and he needs to be fresh to wickets on Sunday. Chasing 215 for victory,
BANGLADESH WITH he helped Sunrisers Hyderabad win their bowl at his best. Hyderabad, who are already among the top four
FIZZ IN T20 WC maiden IPL title in his debut season,
picking up 17 wickets in 16 games.
Cutting his IPL stint short should help
him to rest, recharge and be at his effective
teams to have made the play-offs, reached the
target with five balls to spare at their home.
2016 Bangladesh won their first-round matches It appeared the left-arm seamer is best in the T20 World Cup.
against the Netherlands and Oman but lost bound to reach greater heights but Momentum is on Mustafizur’s side as From the boxing rings of XBC to
struggles with injuries among other he steps into his fourth T20I World Cup,
against Australia, India, and New Zealand in the
things halted his rise. which also presents him with a chance to the prestige of WBC
Super 10. So sharp was his decline, questions correct the biggest regret of his career. For the first time, a Bangladeshi professional
2021 Mahmudullah Riyad-led Bangladesh were
were raised whether he would ever touch “When it comes to big players, after boxer has qualified to contest under the
those heights again. After many average winning a big event or a trophy one can prestigious international boxing professional
stunned by Scotland in their opening first-round to underwhelming seasons at the IPL, be called a big player. So, that regret has
fixture but came back to beat Oman and Papua
organisation, WBC (World Boxing Council).
Mustafizur conjured up some of his old always been there,” the 28-year-old said in Rajshahi’s boy, Utshob, will contend for the WBC
New Guinea to qualify for the main stage of the magic for the Chennai Super Kings this a video posted by the Bangladesh Cricket
tournament in which the Tigers lost all five of Board (BCB) on social media yesterday.
Asia Silver Super Flyweight Title against one of
season.
their encounters. He bagged 14 wickets for Chennai, and This statement from Mustafizur, India’s top super flyweight boxers, 32-year-old
was the joint highest wicket-taker in the who is usually known as a man of few Mazhar Hussain.
2022 Bangladesh’s best outing in a T20 World tournament before his NOC ended. words, bears the mark of maturity.
Cup came in this edition as they managed There was plenty of criticism regarding The likes of Shakib Al Hasan, who has Paolo Montero to manage Juve
to win two matches (against Zimbabwe and his tournament being cut short, many featured in every editions of the T20 until end of season
the Netherlands) in the main stage of the experts feeling he would have been better World Cup, may have similar regrets
and the onus will be on Mustafizur and
Paolo Montero will take charge of Serie A side
tournament for the first time. The Tigers lost the served by continuing to play in the IPL
and skipping the Tigers’ series against Shakib to lead Bangladesh’s charge in Juventus for the remainder of the season, the
other three fixtures. Zimbabwe at home. The BCB, however, the tournament. club said on Sunday following the dismissal
had other plans. If Mustafizur can carry his IPL form of Massimiliano Allegri. Juventus sacked their
in disappointment for Mustafizur and Mustafizur, in a literal way, is a man into the USA and the Caribbean, and former coach Allegri on Friday over his behaviour
Bangladesh, much like the ones that have with the golden arm. His cutters, with fellow pacers like Taskin Ahmed, Shoriful during and after this week’s Coppa Italia final in
followed since. great revolutions that he puts on the ball, Islam and Tanzim Sakib can be at their which he was sent off.
Following that first T20 World Cup, takes a lot out of him. There is a limit to best, the Tigers can dream of putting *Read full stories on The Daily Star website
where he picked 11 wickets in four matches, how many of those special variations he forth a far better display then they have
Mustafizur had the mark of big player on can bowl under duress in a month-long ever done.

‘Leverkusen engraved in
BUNDESLIGA HISTORY’
AGENCIES “We will remember this day. It is a
special day to have the league trophy
Bayer Leverkusen’s undefeated run to here and having done it undefeated.
their maiden Bundesliga title will need This team has now been engraved in
time to sink in as coach Xabi Alonso Bundesliga history.”
said that the club now have made Alonso’s team also stretched their
themselves an irreplaceable part of European record unbeaten run
the German top-flight football‘s across all competitions this season
history. to 51 matches as they look to add
Long derided as ‘Neverkusen’ for two more titles next week.
their failure to win a major title for While Xabi realises how big
decades, Leverkusen became the an achievement is to go an entire
first-ever team in the Bundesliga to season unbeaten is for his team, he
complete a full season without a loss also mentioned that they barely have
following a 2-1 victory over Augsburg a moment to enjoy their exceptional
in the season finale on Saturday. season as they are chasing more
The club hailed the achievement by trophies in an attempt to complete the
giving themselves a new nickname on treble.
their social media channel - ‘Bayer 04 Leverkusen face Atalanta on
Neverlusen’. Wednesday in the Europa League final
“It is an exceptional season, not only before taking on Kaiserslautern in the
We have to be
in Germany but in Europe,” Alonso said German Cup final on May 25.
in a press conference. “We deserve now proud of the way we played. “I believe it (the unbeaten title win), but Ukraine’s Oleksandr Usyk lands a punch on Britain’s Tyson Fury during a heavyweight boxing world
to be part of that history of European 90 points and undefeated,” he said. I need more time. But we have no time championship fight at Kingdom Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on Saturday. Usyk beat Fury by split
football. In 20 years we will look back “We need a bit more time to value this because we have the next big goal (on decision to win the world’s first undisputed heavyweight championship in 25 years. Usyk, who remains
and we will say ‘we did that’. title. The first Bundesliga title but a big Wednesday). It is a unique opportunity,” undefeated, joins the likes of Muhammad Ali, Joe Louis and Mike Tyson as undisputed heavyweight
“It is an important day for the club. Bundesliga title victory. Alonso said. champion, the first since boxing recognised four major belts in the 2000s. PHOTO: REUTERS
 City

12 DHAKA MONDAY MAY 20, 2024, JAISHTHA 6, 1431 BS

Another KYRGYZ CAPITAL

Bangladeshi Bangladeshis
on Mt Everest stay indoors
AZMIN AZRAN and SIFAYET ULLAH for fear of
On Sunday morning, Liakat Ali and
Lutfun Nahar’s home in Burischar of
mob attacks
Chattogram’s Hathazari upazila was filled DIPLOMATIC CORRESPONDENT
with utter elation as their son Babar Ali, a
doctor and already a source of immense Out of fear, foreign students, including
pride for the family, became the newest Bangladeshis, are mostly staying indoors
Bangladeshi to in Bishkek of Kyrgyzstan even though the
summit the Mount situation, following attacks on foreigners,
Everest. has largely been stable since Saturday
Yesterday, at night.
8:30am local “The situation is now stable. A good
time (8:45am number of police personnel have been
Bangladesh time), deployed. We have been, however,
Babar summited instructed to stay indoors,” Samia Kabir,
the 8,849 metre a Bangladeshi medical student in Bishkek,
peak, the highest told The Daily Star yesterday.
in the world. The Bangladeshi students are trying
He is the first Babar Ali to come home on charter flights amid
Bangladeshi to do a tense situation after mob attacks on
so in the last 11 years. international students since the evening of
Sitting in the middle of a living room May 17, said a representative of Bangladeshi
with showcases stacked top to bottom students there.
with crests and trophies as proof of their The tension boiled over after videos
son’s many achievements in life, Liakat Ali of a fight between Kyrgyz students and
and Lutfun Nahar were the perfect image medical students from Egypt on May 13
of two proud parents. were shared online.
“Babar was a bit restless and adventurous According to the Kyrgyz health ministry,
PHOTO: ANISUR RAHMAN
as a child, but he was always very talented. 29 people were injured. According to
He couldn’t sit down and study for long, Locals of Trimohoni Khilgaon’s Notun Nasirabad area in DSCC’s ward-75 had to build this makeshift bamboo bridge over a canal by the police, four citizens of Egypt were
he’d get up and walk around a bit and then themselves, as their repeated requests for a concrete bridge remain unheeded. The authorities concerned seem oblivious to the fact that detained over a brawl in a hostel on May
SEE PAGE 6 COL 1 many people, including children, may be at risk, as hundreds cross this rickety structure every day. The photo was taken yesterday. SEE PAGE 6 COL 4

METRO RAIL SERVICES

PM requested Al-Aqsa hospital overwhelmed Govt mulling taxi
to review NBR’s as Gaza camp bombed service revival
decision on VAT
TUHIN SHUBHRA ADHIKARY
31 more Palestinians killed; US security envoy visits Israel for The government is thinking about reviving taxi service,
Says Obaidul Quader talks on more focused military campaign which is almost non-existent in Dhaka and other major
cities.
STAFF CORRESPONDENT AGENCIES Road Transport and Highways Division will hold a
Israeli forces also pushed deeper The UN said on Saturday that
meeting today with its Secretary ABM Amin Ullah in the
into the narrow alleyways of Jabalia 800,000 people had been “forced to flee”
Road Transport and Bridges Minister An Israeli strike killed 31 Palestinians and chair to discuss the issue.
in northern Gaza, returning to an area Israel’s assault in Rafah. Aid agencies
Obaidul Quader yesterday said he wounded 20 more in a family house in The move comes at a time when the economic life of
that they said they had cleared earlier have warned of widespread hunger and
requested Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina the central Nuseirat refugee camp, Gaza’s almost all existing taxis has expired.
in the conflict, residents said. shortages of fuel and medical supplies.
to reconsider NBR’s decision to impose 15 civil defence agency said yesterday, as At least two new companies have sought permission to
Amid the political turmoil, White
percent VAT on metro rail service. White House national security adviser provide taxi services in Dhaka and Chattogram, officials
House national security adviser Jake
He said this while speaking at a travelled to the region amid US calls for a said.
Sullivan was scheduled to hold talks
branding seminar on Dhaka Metro Rail at more focused military campaign. Although the shortage
yesterday with his Israeli counterpart
a city hotel. Rescue workers were continuing to Israeli forces push deeper Tzachi Hanegbi and with Netanyahu on
of transport services is a
He said metro rail service is getting search for missing people under the into Jabalia major problem in Dhaka
the Gaza offensive, after earlier meeting
popular day by day, but the National Board rubble, the agency said. The Al-Aqsa and Chattogram, the
Saudi de facto ruler Prince Mohammed
Martyrs Hospital had said it had received 8 lakh Palestinians flee fierce companies will have to
of Revenue suddenly decided to impose 15 bin Salman in the kingdom.
the bodies of 20 people killed in the fighting in Rafah compete with the now
percent VAT. Washington has pushed for a post-
strike which witnesses said occurred popular ride-sharing
Even neighbour India has not imposed offensive plan for Gaza involving
around 3:00am local time. Death toll in enclave rises to services, they added.
any VAT on metro rail service, he said. “I Palestinians and supported by regional
The attack was not carried out in 35,456 In November 2010, the
have pleaded the prime minister that this Nuseirat only. In the north of the enclave, powers, as well as for a broader government formulated the
decision is not right, it is wrong. She has there were two strikes. One targeted an diplomatic deal under which Israel Taxicab Service Guidelines
given assurance to reconsider it,” Quader evacuation centre. Three Palestinians and regional powerhouse Saudi Arabia 2010 to improve taxi service.
said. have been reported killed in that attack. The Israeli military has said its would normalise relations. In 2014, two organisations -- Toma Construction
Earlier in the day, MAN Siddique, Six people were killed when the Israeli operations in Jabalia - the largest of Riyadh has demanded deeper security Company Limited (Toma Tax) and Bangladesh Army
managing director of Dhaka Mass Transit army targeted a residential building, Gaza’s eight historic refugee camps - are ties with the United States and that Israel Welfare Trust (Trust Taxi) -- started providing taxi services
Company Limited (DMTCL), said the metro reports Al Jazeera online. precise and meant to stop Hamas from agree to steps on ending the decades-old in Dhaka.
users will have to bear the VAT burden. Residents in the enclave said Israeli reestablishing its grip there. Two more conflict and towards the creation of a Two companies brought only 425 taxis, against their
In April this year, NBR decided to cancel planes and tanks pounded areas across Israeli soldiers were killed in a battle in Palestinian state, reports AFP. approval of 650, BRTA sources said.
the tax exemption it has been given since the Strip overnight. Israel has been southern Gaza, reports Reuters. Saudi state media said Prince The service lost popularity within a few years due to the
the beginning of metro rail operation in pushing into the Rafah city that it says At least 35,456 Palestinians have been Mohammed and Sullivan discussed “the small number of taxis and high fares. Besides, the launch
December 2022. As per the NBR’s fresh is the last bastion of Hamas forces. killed in Israeli strikes since October 7, semi-final version of the draft strategic of ride-sharing services in 2016 hit taxi services hard.
decision, 15 percent VAT will have to be Hundreds of thousands of Palestinians according to the enclave’s health ministry agreements between the Kingdom and Taxis imported by the two companies were
paid on metro rail’s revenue earned from have fled the area that was one of their yesterday. The toll includes at least 70 the United States of America, the work manufactured between 2011 and 2014, and all but 29
passengers from July 1 this year. few remaining places of refuge. deaths over the past 24 hours, it said. on which is close to being completed”. SEE PAGE 6 COL 4

49 constituencies 4 Arsa men

held with
go to polls in 5th firearms,
grenades
phase today STAFF CORRESPONDENT,
Cox’s Bazar

Rahul Gandhi, Rajnath Singh, Omar Armed Police Battalion

(APBn) arrested four
Abdullah, among key candidates, in fray members of the Arakan
Rohingya Salvation Army
OUR CORRESPONDENT, New Delhi (ARSA) with firearms
and grenades following a
An estimated 8.95 crore people are expected to vote in the fifth phase of reported gunfight between
polling in India’s Lok Sabha elections covering 49 constituencies across Arsa and APBn members at
eight states and union territories today. a refugee camp in Ukhiya
The fifth phase will witness key contests in various constituencies. upazila of Cox’s Bazar early
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, BJP leaders Rajnath Singh, Smriti yesterday.
Irani and National Conference leader Omar Based on a tip-off,
Abdullah, among others, will be looking for APBn-14 conducted a raid
electoral success. on a hill near Camp 20
With the seven-phased voting exercise extension and arrested
spanning 44 days already well into the them, said Additional
second half, voting will be held in around Deputy Inspector General
94,732 polling stations spread across Bihar, INDIA (Addl DIG) Mohammad
Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Jharkhand, ELECTION Iqbal, commanding officer
Maharashtra, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh and (CO) of the battalion.
West Bengal. The arrestees are Amir
Metropolitan cities like Mumbai, Lucknow are going to polls in this Hossain, 29, and Zaiur
phase which have in the past suffered from urban apathy in voting. Rahman, 32, of Camp 17,
The Election Commission (EC) yesterday said it has especially called Syedul Amin, 28, of Camp
upon these city-dwellers “to erase the stigma by turning out in higher 4, and Md Harun, 30, of
numbers.” Camp 7, said the CO at
After the fifth phase, voting in 428 Lok Sabha constituencies out of a press briefing in the
a total of 543 will be completed. Polling in the sixth phase and seventh afternoon.
phase are scheduled for May 25 and June 1 before the votes are counted The arrestees are behind
on June 4. A man carries the dead body of a Palestinian child recovered from a house hit by an Israeli strike in Nuseirat, in the central the recent killings in the
SEE PAGE 6 COL 6 Gaza Strip yesterday. PHOTO: REUTERS SEE PAGE 6 COL 3
DHAKA MONDAY MAY 20, 2024, JAISHTHA 6, 1431 BS • starbusiness@[Link]

BUSINESS
Although there are
around 40 steelmakers in
Bangladesh, just four based
in Chattogram are currently
catering to 53 percent of
the total demand
Story on B4

Online tax returns can bring $32b Achieving $110b

export target by
extra revenues annually: CPD FY27 is difficult
STAR BUSINESS REPORT Say economists and
Bangladesh can raise an additional $32.6 businesspeople
billion in revenues annually within the CPD’S OBSERVATIONS Projection on additional revenue REFAYET ULLAH MIRDHA
next four years if the electronic filing of
tax returns can be ensured, said the Centre collection thru e-filing The government’s target of earning $110 billion
for Policy Dialogue (CPD) yesterday. (In billion $)
from exports by the fiscal year of 2026-27 would

652.2
This is around 5 percent of the nation’s

603.9
gross domestic product (GDP), said the be difficult to attain because of the persisting

538.5
independent think-tank at a dialogue on challenges in the global and local economies,

481.4
the digitalisation of the taxation system. economists and businesspeople said.
The CPD organised the event in Over the last two decades, Bangladesh’s
partnership with the European Union shipment has grown by 10.25 percent annually on
(EU) at the Lakeshore Hotel in Dhaka. Bangladesh’s Development Revenue-to- average. This means if the country wants to pull
“Through the digitalisation of the revenue-to- spending GDP ratio can off the goal by FY27, the export growth has to be
whole taxation system, Bangladesh can accelerated.
GDP ratio becoming rise to 16% The government has fixed the new target in its

30.2

32.6
24.1

26.9
gradually enhance the tax revenue to GDP
low despite debt- by FY30 Export Policy for 2024-27.

7.8
7.2
5.8

6.5
ratio to 16 percent by fiscal year 2029-30,”
said Mustafizur Rahman, a distinguished high dependent Exporters and economists, however, expressed
fellow of the CPD. economic doubts about whether the goal can be hit since
In other words, $167 billion can be growth FY24 FY25 FY26 FY27 consumers globally have long been feeling the
generated in the form of tax revenue by pinch of an elevated level of inflation caused by
FY2030 through digitalisation, he said Nominal GDP the global supply chain disruptions amid the
while presenting a paper. Increase in revenue for mandatory e-filing SOURCE: CPD dragging fallout of the Covid-19 and the Russia-
Tax revenue generation in Bangladesh plan, which ended in 2020. Ukraine war. READ MORE ON B3
remains low in context to its neighbours,
Growth in revenue for e-filing one-fourth of taxes
“Had the target been achieved, the
which has led policymakers, economists entire revenue budget and annual
and stakeholders to draw attention to development programme (ADP) for external STOCKS
the country’s increasing dependence on FY2024 could have been financed with borrowing. the mobilisation of resources through
DSEX CASPI
loans to finance public expenditure. domestic resources,” said Rahman, “It is also necessary to reduce debt taxation, including direct taxation.
Bangladesh’s revenue-to-GDP ratio who co-authored the paper with CPD servicing obligations on account of In Bangladesh, both tax elasticity -- the 1.56% 1.68%
declined from 10.99 percent in FY2010 Programme Associate Isabela Rozario interest and principal payments which change in revenue to change in income 5,431.28 15,737.26
to 8.26 percent in FY2023. The target for Mumu. is eating away an increasing share of -- and tax buoyancy -- which reflects
FY2024, set at 9.9 percent, is also unlikely The tax to GDP ratio is one of the lowest revenue earnings,” said Prof Rahman. efficiency and responsiveness of revenue
to be achieved, said the CPD. in Bangladesh. Among South Asian “The low revenue income has given mobilisation to growth in GDP -- have AS OF
The ratio has also fallen short of the 16 countries, it lags behind all its neighbours rise to a situation where the entire been low, said Rahman. COMMODITIES FRIDAY

percent targeted in the seventh five-year in terms of public expenditure to GDP development budget is having to be Digitalisation can help bridge the gap, Gold Oil
ratio. financed by borrowed money, either detect tax avoidance, remove loopholes,
The CPD said domestic or external.” end exemptions, and reduce tax evasion, $2,413.93 $79.99
greater domestic Low domestic resource mobilisation he said. (per ounce) (per barrel)
resource mobilisation means that there is hardly any surplus in The CPD said the National Board
was important for the revenue budget, he added. of Revenue (NBR) has been able to
Bangladesh to meet “Consequently, this entire ADP has to put in place some basic IT and digital FRIDAY

increasing demand be financed by domestic borrowings and infrastructure.

ASIAN MARKETS CLOSINGS

for public sector external loans.” “However, the experience is that if MUMBAI TOKYO SINGAPORE SHANGHAI
expenditure, ensure a The CPD said Bangladesh has witnessed the entire spectrum of digital-human-
more equitable income rapid GDP growth and a rise in per capita institutional architecture does not work 0.46% 0.34% 0.26% 1.01%
distribution, and cut income over the past couple of decades. in tandem, these will not deliver the 74,005.94 38,787.38 3,313.48 3,154.03
reliance on domestic and However, this has not been reflected in READ MORE ON B3

Stocks plunge to 3-year low

STAR BUSINESS REPORT sector, devaluation of the local to hit 5,431 points.
currency, and reinstatement of The DSES Index, which is
Stocks in Bangladesh dropped for a a capital gain tax for individual comprised of shariah-based
fifth consecutive day yesterday for a investors was the main reason companies, was down by 20 points,
selling spree of some large investors, behind the selling spree, according or 1.69 percent, at 1,191 points.
sending the major index of the to market analysts. The blue-chip index, DS30,
Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) to a The DSEX, the benchmark index slipped by 1.29 percent to 1,948
three-year low. of the DSE, plunged by 86 points, or points.
High interest rate in the banking 1.56 percent, from that on Thursday READ MORE ON B3
B2 BUSINESS
DHAKA MONDAY MAY 20, 2024
JAISHTHA 6, 1431 BS

Bank Asia wins IFC’s China industrial

‘Best Trade Partner Bank output picks up
in South Asia’ award AFP, Beijing

Chinese industrial production picked up in

STAR BUSINESS DESK the list of awardees. April but consumption slowed, official figures
This prestigious award stands showed Friday, as woes in the property sector
Bank Asia PLC has been awarded as as recognition of Bank Asia’s and elsewhere continued to weigh on economic
the “Best Trade Partner Bank in South enduring commitment to excellence recovery.
Asia” at the International Finance and a testament of its unmatched Industrial output rose 6.7 percent on-year
Corporation’s (IFC’s) Global Trade capabilities among South Asian last month, according to the National Bureau of
Partners Meeting in Spain. banks in fostering seamless trade Statistics, building on a 4.5 percent increase in
Zakia Rouf Chowdhury, vice- transactions and driving economic March.
chairman of the board of directors of growth across the world. The figure was higher than the 5.5 percent
Bank Asia, received the award from an Romo Rouf Chowdhury, chairman tipped in a Bloomberg forecast of economists.
IFC representative at an award-giving of the board of directors of Bank Asia, However, retail sales growth -- China’s key
programme in Barcelona, the bank said and Sohail RK Hussain, managing gauge of consumer spending -- continued to
Zakia Rouf Chowdhury, vice-chairman of the board of directors of Bank Asia, in a press release. director of the bank, were also present, slow, expanding just 2.3 percent -- down from 3.1
receives an award from a representative of International Finance Corporation at the Along with Bank Asia, some other among others, at the award presentation percent in March and lower than forecasts.
IFC’s Global Trade Partners Meeting in Barcelona, Spain recently. PHOTO: BANK ASIA globally recognised banks were also on ceremony. The sales figures are “depressed by low
consumer prices and further contraction in
housing sales”, said Dan Wang, chief economist at

Prime Bank launches Hang Seng Bank China.

“Business and consumer confidence will remain
low without policy support directly targeting
PrimeAcademia to transform family income and durable goods,” she added.
China’s economy is charting an uneven
economic recovery, with a heavily indebted
academic banking property market, sluggish consumption and high
unemployment -- particularly among youth --
STAR BUSINESS DESK fee management for institutions, payroll among the challenges facing policymakers.
banking for a more streamlined payroll Official figures show that property prices and
Prime Bank yesterday signed an services for academic staff and student sales in the country continued to slip in April,
agreement with Bluebird High School savings accounts with special benefits for adding further pressure on the debt-ridden real-
and College as the first educational student savers. estate sector.
institute after launching PrimeAcademia, It will have institutional accounts The central government has recently signalled
a banking solution of the bank tailored with attractive interest/profit-bearing plans to step up support, announcing earlier this
for academic institutions, teachers and options for schools and colleges, week the sale of an initial batch of long-term
students across the country. teacher savings accounts with added sovereign bonds -- a move expected to boost
The solution will address the diverse insurance coverage for teachers, and annual growth.
financial needs of the academic loan facilities for financing solutions Nazeem A Choudhury, deputy managing director of Prime Bank, and Husne Ara,
community, offering features such as for parents to support their children’s principal of Bluebird High School and College, pose for photographs after signing
fees collection for simplified and efficient education. an agreement on banking solution in Sylhet yesterday. PHOTO: PRIME BANK PRICES OF KEY ESSENTIALS
IN DHAKA CITY
Southeast Bank provides aid to PRICE
(MAY 19,
% CHANGES
FROM A
% CHANGE
FROM A
farmers thru Gana Unnayan Fine rice (kg)
2024)
Tk 6-Tk 76
MONTH AGO
-3.55
YEAR AGO
.74
STAR BUSINESS DESK Md Masum Uddin Khan and Abidur
Rahman Chowdhury, deputy managing Coarse rice (kg) Tk 50-Tk 54 1.96 8.33
Southeast Bank recently provided directors of the bank, handed over Loose flour (kg) Tk 35-Tk 45 -15.79 -30.43
financial assistance to grassroots level a cheque of the financial assistance
farmers across the country from its for farmers to M Abdus Salam, chief Lentil (kg) Tk 105-Tk 110 0 13.16
special corporate social responsibility executive of Gana Unnayan Kendra, at Soybean (litre) Tk 145-Tk 155 -1.64 -17.81
fund to help their cultivation and the bank’s head office in Dhaka.
facilitate purchases of agri-machinery. Nuruddin Md Sadeque Hossain, Potato (kg) Tk 48-Tk 55 -1.90 37.33
Md Masum Uddin Khan and Abidur Rahman Chowdhury, deputy managing directors The financial assistance was channelled managing director of the bank, attended Onion (kg) Tk 70-Tk 75 16.00 -6.45
of Southeast Bank, hand over a cheque of financial assistance for farmers to M to farmers through Gana Unnayan Kendra, a the programme. Other senior officials
Abdus Salam, chief executive of Gana Unnayan Kendra, at the bank’s head office in non-government development organisation, from both organisations, among others, Egg (4 pcs) Tk 48-Tk 50 19.51 1.03
Dhaka recently. PHOTO: SOUTHEAST BANK the bank said in a press release. were also present. SOURCE: TCB

Walton unveils new models of electronics

with advanced features ahead of Eid
STAR BUSINESS DESK freezers, solar hybrid technology’s compressor of these refrigerators.
split type air conditioner, 4 and The air conditioners Walton
Walton recently unveiled a slew of 5-tonne cassette and ceiling type unveiled at the event included 1 and
new models of products, including air conditioner, 65-inch OLED TV, 1.5 tonne solar hybrid split type AC
refrigerators, air conditioners, washing machine and BLDC fan, designed with a superpower saving
OLED TVs, washing machines and said a press release. model. This type of AC will run on
fans, with advanced technology and Of these products, there were solar power during the day.
features ahead of Eid-ul-Azha. 7 types of refrigerators which Walton also unveiled a 65-inch
New model products include are AIoT (artificial intelligence of ultra-slim design OLED TV with
multi-coloured side-by-side things) based, energy efficient and hands free voice command facility.
refrigerators with inverter environment friendly. Globally The TVs feature 3GB RAM, 32GB
technology, European design recognised environment-friendly ROM, 120Hz refresh rate, gaming
combi model refrigerators, vertical R600a gas has been used in the mode, MEMC etc.

Mohammad Rayhan, managing director of Walton Plaza, presses a button to inaugurate a number of new models
of products ahead of Eid-ul-Azha at the company’s corporate office in Dhaka recently. PHOTO: WALTON

Alliance Finance, Concord Real Estate

sign MoU on home loans
STAR BUSINESS DESK

Alliance Finance recently signed a

memorandum of understanding
(MoU) with Concord Real Estate to
finance the potential apartment
buyers of the realtor and offer them
exclusive home loan benefits at a
competitive rate.
Wishva Wickramarachchi, chief
financial officer of the non-bank
financial institution (NBFI), and
Enamul Haque, executive director
for marketing and sales of the
realtor, penned the MoU at the
former’s head office in Dhaka, said
a press release.
Shahanur Rashid, head of
business of the NBFI, Ali Tasben
Haque Riyad, unit head of corporate
business, and Shah Md Abu
Ruyhun, assistant vice-president for
retail business, were present. PHOTO: ALLIANCE FINANCE
Among others, Ahmed Alamgir
Zavid, senior manager for customer Wishva Wickramarachchi, chief financial officer of Alliance Finance, and
service of the realtor, along with other Enamul Haque, executive director for marketing and sales of Concord
senior officials and executives of both Real Estate, pose for photographs after signing a memorandum of
organisations were also present. understanding on home loans at the former’s office in Dhaka recently.
 BUSINESS
DHAKA MONDAY MAY 20, 2024
JAISHTHA 6, 1431 BS
B3
Banglalink’s revenue
rises to Tk 1,544cr
in Jan-Mar
STAR BUSINESS REPORT

Banglalink’s revenue rose by 5.6 percent year-

on-year to Tk 1,544 crore in the January-March
quarter of 2024 thanks to an expansion in its
customer base.
In the three months, the telecom operator’s
mobile data revenue also grew by 6.2 percent year-
on-year to Tk 523.6 crore.
Veon, the parent company of Banglalink, said
Bangladesh’s national elections along with a variety
of factors slowed Banglalink’s growth in January,
which later picked up in February and March.
Banglalink CEO Erik Aas gives credit for the
company’s success to its ongoing Digital Operator
1440 or DO1440 strategy, under which the
operator is committed to providing customers
with services in every minute of a day or 1,440
minutes a day.
Banglalink’s subscriber base has been growing
significantly for the past few years, as it reached
4.44 crore in March of 2024, up from 4.1 crore in
the same month in the previous year, according to
the data of the Bangladesh Telecommunication
Regulatory Commission.
The number of its 4G users also grew by a
PHOTOS: PID, RASHED SHUMON
remarkable 23 percent year-on-year to 2.2 crore in
the three months to March this year.
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina checks a handbag at a stall after inaugurating the week-long National “Banglalink’s subscribers trust the country’s
Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) Fair-2024 at the Bangabandhu International Conference Center in fastest 4G network, as evidenced by the growth in
the capital’s Agargaon yesterday. Inset, handicrafts are on display at another stall. our subscriber base and revenue,” said Aas.

IDLC, CWT Committee formed to return

to issue Tk
50cr mutual e-commerce customers’ funds
that received a staggering Tk the settlement of complaints
funds STAR BUSINESS REPORT
6,050 crore in just four months received against e-commerce
The Directorate of National from clients through payment companies.
STAR BUSINESS REPORT Consumers’ Right Protection gateways and banks. “There is no trace of
(DNCRP) has formed a committee Most of the customers who companies like E-orange and
Bangladesh Securities and
to return customers’ Tk 127 crore were defrauded have not received Dhamaka Shopping,” he said,
Exchange Commission yesterday
stuck in payment gateways since their products or refunds yet. adding that Dhamaka has
gave the approval for IDLC Asset
Management and CWT Asset the detection of fraudulence by The process of returning laundered more than Tk 200
Management Company to issue some e-commerce platforms money to the customers started crore abroad.
mutual funds. during the pandemic. in January 2022. “That is why it is not possible
IDLC Nagorik SDG Fund aims The platforms had offered Around Tk 407 crore which for the DNCRP to solve the
to raise Tk 25 crore, of which hefty discounts to lure was stuck in payment gateways problems of such organisations,”
Tk 2.5 crore will come from unsuspecting customers to make has already been returned, AHM he added.
the asset manager, IDLC Asset advance payments of thousands Shafiquzzaman, director general Shafiquzzaman said most
Management, and the rest from of crores of taka. of the DNCRP, told journalists people who were in charge of
general investors. In 2022, the central at the directorate’s head office these companies were now
CWT High Income Fund will bank identified 25 online yesterday. fugitives living abroad.
raise Tk 25 crore, of which Tk 2.5 sellers, including Evaly, The new committee will figure If they can be brought back
crore will come from CWT Asset E-orange, Qcoom, Dhamaka, out how to return the remaining through Interpol, it may be
Management Company and the Aladinerprodip, Sirajganj Shop, Tk 127 crore soon, he said after possible to resolve some of the
rest from general investors Alesha Mart, and Dalal Plus a review meeting regarding issues, he added.

Online tax returns

FROM PAGE B1 If the government’s Waseqa Ayesha Khan,
Achieving $110b
expected outcomes in
terms of greater domestic
resource mobilisation,”
political will is not visible,
the “helpless NBR” falls
into trouble during the
state minister for finance,
said: “Of course, the
government has political
export target
said Rahman. collection of taxes, he said. will. Had there been no FROM PAGE B1 He cited the crises of
The CPD suggested NBR Chairman Abu political will, we would not The higher consumer gas and power and the
ensuring interoperability Hena Rahmatul Muneem have sat here.” prices have badly affected challenges in the banking
of systems. said the NBR’s helplessness Kazi Nabil Ahmed, a people’s income and sector.
In order to improve the is exposed when it goes lawmaker and chairman spending. The Export Policy offers
effectiveness of the value- for attaining the higher of the parliamentary Bangladesh exported a financial package as an
added tax administration revenue target. standing committee on goods worth $55.55 billion alternative to the direct
(VAT), additional data from “The finance division the ministry of posts, in the last fiscal year of cash subsidy on export
transactions and third- sets a miraculous target. telecommunications and 2022-23 and services worth receipts.
party sources are essential However, we have to IT, Syed Khaled Ahsan, $7.50 billion, with their The government
to enhance data analytics achieve it at any cost since senior public sector combined growth rate is phasing out direct
for identifying revenue the government has framed specialist, at The World
standing at 3.42 percent, subsidies since Bangladesh
risks. the expenditure budget Bank, Enrico Lorenzon,
Debapriya Bhattacharya, on the basis of it. But they team leader for inclusive according to data from the can’t keep providing aid
a distinguished fellow don’t take into account the governance of the Export Promotion Bureau in the current forms once
of the CPD, said those NBR’s capacity.” delegation of the EU to (EPB). it becomes a developing
who don’t pay taxes and “As a result, many Bangladesh, Md Alamgir “If the government nation in 2026 as per World
are involved in money innovative ideas are not Hossain, a former member wants to reach the target, Trade Organisation rules.
laundering are influential, materialised since we have of the NBR for tax policy, the growth rate will have As part of the financial
politically, financially and to run after the target.” and Shams Mahmud, a to much higher than the package, the government
as businesspeople. Muneem said the director of the Bangladesh current pace. However, has proposed forming an
“It is not a technical revenue target is fixed on Garment Manufacturers this will be difficult given Export Development Fund
issue -- it’s totally an issue the basis of the previous and Exporters Association, the global and local with the EPB. Exporters
of government’s political year’s goal, not on the basis also took part in the economic outlooks,” said may get loans in the form
economy.” of actual collections. discussion. MA Razzaque, research of venture capital at a lower
director of the Policy interest rate and on easy

Stocks plunge to 3-year low Research Institute (PRI).

The economist also
pointed out the lack of
terms.
The government will
also provide consultancy
FROM PAGE B1 that had not been acquired top official of another product diversification. and technical assistance
A top official of a leading up until recently. brokerage firm. Bangladesh is heavily for product development
stock brokerage, preferring The company recently Local institutional
reliant on garments for and diversification of
anonymity, said large decided to issue 250 crore investors were buying the
investors, especially preference shares to the shares but they are also export earnings. The sector exportable goods.
foreign investors, were Ministry of Power, Energy cautious as these stocks accounts for about 85 Assistance for
not optimistic with the and Mineral Resources. may fall further. So, the percent of receipts from warehousing and setting
macroeconomic outlook Investors feared that stock indices were eroded sales in overseas markets. up sales centres abroad,
of the country and so are the issuance of shares massively, he added. “The restricted import skills development for
selling shares. may reduce the earnings Turnover, which policy will also affect the marketing in international
Although most of the per share of the company, indicates the amount of export,” Razzaque said. markets, and low-cost
blue-chip stocks are already and thus its dividends. So, trading activity, of the DSE The depreciation bank loans to set up green
cheap, the investors are many investors sold off the came down to a one-month of the local currency energy units and effluent
selling those of significant stocks. low of Tk 409 crore, which against the US dollar treatment plants have been
amounts, he said. However, the was 39 percent lower than might help exporters gain proposed.
“I think they fear that Bangladesh Securities and that of the previous day’s competitiveness to some The government will
Bangladesh may face a Exchange Commission Tk 676 crore. extent. The taka has lost its also provide 5 to 10 percent
serious crisis of foreign in a press release said Out of the 388 issues
exchange reserves, which these preference shares that were traded, 347 saw value by about 35 percent rebates on electricity,
spurred them to sell off would not be a part of its price falls, 22 managed in the past two years. water and gas bills, fix a
shares even at a loss,” he ordinary shares and would to end higher while 19 When the currency of an reasonable cost for their
said. not increase the paid-up remained unchanged. economy weakens, exports use by industrial units, and
The country is still capital. Beach Hatchery became receive a boost and become examine if the same can
sitting on a foreign Companies pay the most traded share with more competitive in the be provided for the use of
exchange reserve of $18.4 dividends to shareholders Tk 19 crore worth being global market. diesel and furnace oil.
billion but it did little to of preference shares before transacted, followed by “Still, it is not enough to Besides, exporters will
convince them to keep common stock dividends eGeneration, ICB AMCL achieve the targeted export enjoy waivers on licencing
their investments within are issued. Sonali Bank 1st Mutual by the stipulated time,” fees and exemptions on all
the country, he added. British American Fund, Orion Infusion and Razzaque said. duties on imports of capital
Power Grid Company Tobacco Bangladesh Orion Pharma. Mohammad Hatem, machinery and spare parts.
dragged down the DSEX brought down the index by Chittagong Stock executive president of Incentives of 2 percent
by the biggest margin of the second biggest margin Exchange also plunged
the Bangladesh Knitwear to 2.5 percent on the export
12 points, apparently for of 7 points, followed by yesterday with its all-
news going round that the Beximco Pharmaceuticals share price index (CASPI) Manufacturers and receipts will be extended
government had decided to and Renata by 5 points shedding 269 points, or Exporters Association, said to the service sector, the
issue shares against share each. 1.68 percent, to 15,737 the export may stand at a policy said. A 2 percent
money deposit. These companies’ points. maximum of $80 billion cash incentive has been
Share money deposit shares dropped mainly The port city bourse’s by FY27 because there are proposed for local shipping
is money the government due to sales pressure from turnover amounted to Tk a lot of challenges that are companies carrying
paid in exchange for shares foreign investors, said a 8 crore. affecting the export sector. export-oriented goods.
B4
DHAKA MONDAY MAY 20, 2024
JAISHTHA 6, 1431 BS
BUSINESS
Robi, Banglalink Four steelmakers Building a brand
sign MoU on SALEKEEN IBRAHIM

sharing network control 53% of The word brand means a product, service or
concept that is evidently distinguished from other
products, services or concepts so that it can be
simply communicated and frequently marketed.
resources Brand is the emotional and psychological

STAR BUSINESS REPORT

Mobile network operators Robi and Banglalink recently

market: insiders connection that our customers have with our
business, product, or service. It is their collective
perception and impression. Building a brand is the
act of shaping that perception, which is essential
if we want to compete.
signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to In Bangladesh, the life of small and medium
evaluate the potential sharing and rationalisation of their enterprises (SMEs), and their pursuit for growth
network resources.
This collaboration is set to expand 4G access MANUFACTURING 47 Steelmakers’ and recognition is perpetual. Being in the
competition, standing out is not just an option
nationwide, enhancing both the quality and speed of
mobile broadband for customers.
CAPACITY OF Others market share now, rather it is an obligation. This is where
branding appears as the inspiration, guiding
Sharing network resources is a global best practice in MAJOR PLAYERS (In %) these enterprises towards success.
the telecom industry. It promotes an asset-light business (In lakh tonnes) SOURCE: The transformative power of effective branding
BIGMINT AND INDUSTRY can’t be overlooked if we really want to flourish
model and supports both companies’ commitment to INSIDERS
SOURCE: INDUSTRY INSIDERS
environmental sustainability through optimised use of as a business entity, and it is really indispensable
energy resources. for us to know how enterprises in Bangladesh
Additionally, it ensures better cost efficiency and usage can embrace branding literacy and craft winning
of telecom resources, enabling investments in service strategies for sustainable growth.
quality and value-added services. Furthermore, the sharing At its core, branding is more than just a logo
of network resources among operators helps save foreign or a catchy tagline -- it is the soul of our business
and spirit of the entity. It is what sets us apart
currency. As such, Robi and Banglalink signed the MoU to
from competitors and establishes a connection
strengthen their collaboration in sharing network resources.
In a joint statement, Banglalink and Robi said this 90 25
with our audience. We must know why branding
is indispensable for enterprises seeking stable
potential collaboration is a timely and dynamic initiative lakh tonnes growth.
BSRM
that will transform telecommunications in Bangladesh. Firstly, in a crowded marketplace, a strong
“We are excited for our customers to experience brand helps us stand out. It communicates
improved service quality with expanded and our unique value proposition and builds trust
uninterrupted nationwide coverage. Our first step is to with customers. Setting ourselves apart from
evaluate the technical and financial feasibility of network competitors doesn’t have to cost much, but it can
sharing,” the statement said. significantly impact how our brand is perceived.
“With the necessary policy changes and regulatory Secondly, a well-defined brand inspires
approval, we will share network infrastructures. Our 24 15 8 8 14 confidence in the offerings. It signals
BSRM AKS GPH GPH AKS professionalism and reliability, which are
shared goal is to provide robust telecom connectivity 6 extremely crucial factors for attracting and
for every citizen, contributing to the Smart Bangladesh KSRM
retaining customers.
vision,” it added.
The two telecom operators also said they are grateful
8 35 A real brand evokes emotions and
KSRM Others elevates loyalty. When customers’
to the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory
compares with our brand,
Commission for its persistent support in facilitating such they’re more likely to remain
forward-looking initiatives. JAGARAN CHAKMA higher income status, with people’s Additionally, the government loyal, becoming advocates
“We are on a mission to make the Bangladeshi telecom purchasing capacity growing reduced its steel consumption who spread the good word
industry a driving force in achieving the government’s Although there are around 40 to others.
despite the ongoing economic to around 45 percent from 55
vision of a Smart Bangladesh,” said Zunaid Ahmed steelmakers in Bangladesh, just four Lastly, often a
stress,” he said. percent of the total production
Palak, state minister for posts, telecommunications and based in Chattogram are currently dependable brand
Regarding the BSRM’s last fiscal year amid a slowdown in
information technology. catering to 53 percent of the total commands higher
He said that as an essential service, telecommunications commanding market share, he development activities. prices. Customers are
demand, according to market ruled out the possibility of there Chowdhury, also managing
hold the potential to serve as a bridge for customers to willing to pay a premium
studies and industry insiders. being a monopoly in the steel director of Rani Re-Rolling Mills, for products or services
access to various digital services.
The four major steelmakers are industry as even many small said his company holds around 3 they perceive as valuable and
“This potential collaboration between Banglalink
and Robi will encourage innovation and promote Bangladesh Steel Re-Rolling Mills units are trying to develop their percent market share. trustworthy.
efficient utilisation of the nation’s resources in critical (BSRM), Abul Khair Steel (AKS), capacity. According to him, a number of Self-exploration is compulsory
development initiatives, ultimately transforming the lives GPH Ispat and Kabir Steel Re- Besides, some big companies are small companies have now entered t o embark on a remarkable and cost-effective
of Bangladeshi citizens through seamless connectivity,” Rolling Mills (KSRM). entering the industry as well. the market, leading to overcapacity brand journey. We should start by defining the
According to BigMint, a Sengupta also attributed the in production compared to existing brand’s identity. What values do we stand for?
Palak added.
platform for commodity price What makes our offering unique? This clarity will
BSRM’s significant hold on the demand.
reporting, market intelligence and guide all our branding efforts.
market to the company’s enduring However, BigMint projects that Understanding the target audience inside
Krishi Bank’s losses consulting, the BSRM caters to
around 25 percent of the domestic
demand while AKS contributes 14
legacy in the industry.

At present, the 40
steel consumption in Bangladesh
will rise by 25 percent to around
1.06 crore tonnes in 2027 from
out is eventually essential. What are their needs,
preferences, and pain points? We should tailor the
products and the communication of our brand
up 78% in FY23 percent, GPH 8 percent and KSRM
6 percent.
At present, the 40 steelworks
steelworks active in
Bangladesh have a
85 lakh tonnes at present due
to growing infrastructure
must echo with them effectively.
Consistency is key to building a strong brand.
We must ensure the brand elements i.e. logo,
combined capacity development projects and
STAR BUSINESS REPORT active in Bangladesh have a individual consumption. colours, tone of voice, etc. are consistent across
combined capacity to produce to produce 90 lakh As such, Bangladesh’s steel all touchpoints, from our physical store to website
Bangladesh Krishi Bank (BKB), a state-owned lender, 90 lakh tonnes of steel each year tonnes of steel each and social media.
production capacity is expected Every brand has a story. Share that with an
reported a 78 percent year-on-year increase in losses for against an annual requirement of year against an annual
the fiscal year that ended on June 30, 2023. to rise to 1.30 crore tonnes by art of effective communication. Whether it’s
The bank’s net loss was Tk 2,384 crore, up from the
around 85 lakh tonnes. requirement of around 2027. our journey, mission, or commitment to quality,
previous financial year’s loss of Tk 1,336 crore. Individually, the BSRM has an 85 lakh tonnes BigMint also said Chattogram storytelling cultivates the brand and creates a
Rising interest payments on deposits and loans annual production capacity of accounts for 62 percent of the spiritual connection with customers.
contributed to the loss, according to the financial about 24 lakh tonnes while AKS Having entered the domestic country’s overall steel-melting We should leverage digital platforms to
statements of the bank. 15 lakh tonnes. Meanwhile, the steel industry in 1952, the BSRM capacity while Dhaka can only amplify brand’s reach. Establish a strong online
The classified loans, which are at risk of defaulting, GPH and KSRM can each produce has vast experience in the sector meet 32 percent. presence through social media, website, and email
kept rising. The government-owned lender’s classified around 8 lakh tonnes of steel and a renowned brand image, for Shahriar Jahan Rahat, marketing. Engage with the audience regularly
loan was Tk 6,500 crore, which was 21.51 percent of its annually. and authentically. We must stay relevant to
which the company controls a big deputy managing director of the
total debts. “We expanded our production evolving customer needs.
market share, he said. KSRM, said the steel industry Branding isn’t a luxury reserved for big
While the bank’s profitability and classified loan capacity while maintaining quality, Sumon Chowdhury, secretary in Chattogram was established
situation remain worrying, it did experience growth in corporations, rather it is a strategic imperative
which was helpful in increasing general of Bangladesh Steel around six decades ago and has for enterprises looking for sustainable growth.
deposits. Deposits surged to Tk 40,570 crore in FY23 our market share,” said Tapan Manufacturers Association, echoed greatly developed since then as By embracing branding literacy and crafting a
from Tk 38,086 crore in the preceding year. Sengupta, deputy managing him. access to the Chattogram port robust brand strategy, Bangladeshi entrepreneurs
BKB has been incurring losses for at least 30 years, as director of the BSRM. can elevate their enterprises from obscurity to
it has to lend at lower interest rates while paying more He said there is no scope for major is convenient for importing raw
He said steelmaking is a basic manufacturers to monopolise materials. distinction.
for deposits, highlighting the structural weakness of the We should remember, building a brand isn’t
lender. The bank suffered a loss of Tk 165 crore in 1994-95. industry that provides essential the market as small units remain According to him, major steel
products for infrastructure competitive by offering quality manufacturing plants set up in a one-time effort; it’s an ongoing commitment
It has been in the red since then except for 2000-01 when to authenticity, consistency, and customer-
it logged a profit of Tk 2.91 crore. development. products at lower prices. Chattogram have been contributing centricity. So, embark on branding journey today
The specialised bank was established under a “So, the demand for steel will However, he said market demand to the country’s infrastructure and unleash the full potential of our enterprises.
presidential order in 1973 to support the agriculture keep growing for the next 30 years has slightly reduced due to ongoing development by providing the
sector of the war-torn country. as Bangladesh is moving toward economic pressure. necessary steel products. The author is a banker.

Russia seizes
Deutsche Bank,
China unveils ‘historic’ steps to stabilise
UniCredit assets crisis-hit property sector
REUTERS, Beijing/Hong Kong population. China’s CSI 300 Real Estate whether the government purchase yuan worth of bank financing. It
AFP, Moscow
China Real Estate Newspaper, index of shares jumped 9.1 percent programme will induce private would also further lower mortgage
China announced “historic” steps a publication managed by the on the announcements. sector demand. Clearing inventory interest rates and down payment
A Russian court has ruled that Deutsche Bank
and UniCredit’s assets in the country are to be on Friday to stabilise its crisis-hit housing ministry, said the “It’s a bold step,” said Raymond will increase cashflow to developers requirements.
seized, documents showed. property sector, with the central “heavyweight policies” marked “a Yeung, chief Greater China and help their financial stability, Additionally, it would make
European banks have largely exited Russia bank facilitating 1 trillion yuan significant historic moment” for economist at ANZ of the measures. but it does not address private another 500 billion yuan available in
after Moscow launched its offensive on ($138 billion) in extra funding and the sector. “The biggest problem is sector confidence.” its pledged supplementary lending
Ukraine in 2022. easing mortgage rules, and local After waves of support measures facility to support policies including
A court in Saint Petersburg ruled in favour governments set to buy “some” over the past two years failed to put the redevelopment of some urban
of seizing 239 million euros ($260 million) apartments. a floor under the property sector, areas with older dwellings.
from Deutsche Bank, documents dated May Investors hoped the measures China’s housing ministry said local Officials did not provide an
16 showed. marked the beginning of more governments can instruct state- estimate of the total cost of state-
The same day, it ordered the seizure of decisive government intervention owned firms to buy “some” homes directed housing purchases.
around 463 million euros of assets belonging to compensate for waning demand at “reasonable” prices. Goldman Sachs estimates
to Italy’s UniCredit. for new and old apartments, to slow Municipal financing vehicles, saleable housing inventory at 13.5
Both decisions were issued in answer to down falling prices and to reduce a blamed for what Beijing calls trillion yuan at the end of 2023.
a request from RusKhimAlians, which was growing stock of unsold homes. “hidden debt,” won’t be allowed to There were 391 million square
planning to build a major gas processing Analysts have long called for buy. The homes would be used to metres (4.2 billion square feet) of
and liquefaction plant in cooperation with the government to step in with its provide affordable housing, Vice new housing for sale in January-
German company Linde, which pulled out of own purchases to prop up a sector Premier He Lifeng said, without April, up 24 percent year-on-year,
the project due to Russia’s military campaign. which at its peak accounted for a giving a timeline or a target for the the latest official data show.
RusKhimAlians sued UniCredit and Deutsche
fifth of GDP and remains a major purchases. Analysts at Tianfeng Securities
Bank -- both guarantors of the project.
Deutsche Bank said it would “need to see drag on the world’s second-biggest He also said local governments, estimate it will cost around $1
how this claim is implemented by the Russian economy. already some $9 trillion in debt, can trillion to buy the entire stock.
courts and assess the immediate operational Since the property market repurchase land sold to developers, “The policies on clearing
impact in Russia”. UniCredit said it “has began its steep downturn in and promised that authorities will inventory are considered quite
been made aware” of the decision and was 2021, a string of developers have “fight hard” to complete stalled powerful compared to all previous
defaulted, leaving scores of idle This aerial view shows a housing complex by Chinese property developer projects. ones,” said a senior executive
“reviewing” the situation in detail.
UniCredit was one of the European banks construction sites behind, and Evergrande in Nanjing, in China’s eastern Jiangsu province. With an China’s central bank said it at a defaulted Shanghai-based
most exposed to Russia when Moscow started sapping confidence in what had anticipated strong post-pandemic recovery failing to materialise, would set up a relending facility developer, speaking on condition
its campaign in Ukraine, with a large local for decades been the preferred continuing woes in the property market are raising concerns about for affordable housing that it of anonymity due to the sensitive
subsidiary operating in the country. savings instrument for the Chinese potential spillover effects. PHOTO: AFP/FILE says would result in 500 billion nature of the topic.