Shibbir Ahmed, UN, New York: The United Nations has called for the establishment of a strong and independent national institution to oversee the activities of Bangladesh’s security and law enforcement agencies. UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk made the remarks on Monday, September 7, during the 63rd session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, while addressing global human rights issues and developments in Bangladesh.

Türk reiterated the UN’s call for effective and independent oversight of law enforcement agencies in Bangladesh. He stressed the importance of ensuring accountability and providing mechanisms for independent investigations into allegations of human rights violations involving security and law enforcement personnel.

Recommendations Following the July-August 2024 Events

The UN’s latest remarks follow its fact-finding report on the human rights situation surrounding the July-August 2024 protests in Bangladesh. The UN Human Rights Office published its fact-finding report on February 12, 2025, containing a series of recommendations concerning accountability, institutional reform, independent investigations and civilian oversight.

The recommendations also called for strengthening the independence and effectiveness of Bangladesh’s National Human Rights Commission, including ensuring that it has the necessary authority and capacity to investigate allegations of human rights violations involving security forces.

Oversight, Not Direct UN Control

The UN’s call does not mean that the United Nations is seeking to directly control or supervise Bangladesh’s security forces. Rather, the recommendation calls for Bangladesh to establish an independent and effective national oversight mechanism capable of monitoring security and law enforcement agencies and independently investigating allegations of human rights abuses. The latest statement by the UN human rights chief is part of the organization’s continuing call for stronger accountability, institutional reform and human rights protections in Bangladesh.

Orpi Ahmed: For Bangladeshis living in the United States, immigration policy is no longer an issue limited to lawyers or immigration experts. It is an important reality for families, workers, business owners, students, new immigrants and Bangladeshis planning to come to the United States in the future. In recent times, the U.S. immigration system has shown a clear trend toward stricter enforcement, increased scrutiny and stronger emphasis on immigration law enforcement. As a result, Bangladeshi expatriates now need to be more aware, cautious and committed to complying with the law than ever before.

At the beginning of 2026, the U.S. Department of State temporarily suspended the issuance of immigrant visas to nationals of 75 countries, including Bangladesh. However, on August 21, 2026, a federal court in New York declared the policy unlawful. According to the current information from the Department of State, the suspension is no longer in effect following the court order. At the same time, the department has indicated that the financial self-sufficiency of immigrants and the likelihood of their reliance on U.S. public benefits are receiving greater scrutiny.

This means there is no reason to assume that everything has returned completely to normal. Rather, immigration applications may face greater scrutiny regarding documentation, financial capacity, applicant information and overall eligibility.

In this reality, the first responsibility of Bangladeshi expatriates is to have a clear understanding of their immigration status. They should know whether they are lawful permanent residents, whether they are in the United States on valid employment visas, when their visas or other immigration documents expire, whether an application is pending, and whether they have any matter before an immigration authority or court.

Many immigrants who have lived in the United States for years may begin to take their status for granted. But even a minor mistake under immigration law can sometimes lead to serious consequences. Therefore, it is important to regularly check the validity and status of visas, green cards, employment authorization, applications, court documents and other important records.

The second important issue is to avoid providing false or inaccurate information on any immigration application or government form. Intentionally withholding information, providing a false address, using fraudulent documents or submitting inconsistent information can create serious legal problems in the future.

In an era of social media and extensive online communication, inconsistencies between information provided by an applicant in different places can also raise questions. Therefore, before submitting any application, all information should be carefully reviewed and verified. Where necessary, applicants should seek advice from a qualified immigration attorney.

The third issue is the need to remain cautious about misleading advice. Many Bangladeshi expatriates obtain immigration-related information from friends, social media or unlicensed advisers. But U.S. immigration law is highly complex and changes frequently. A strategy that works in one person’s case does not necessarily apply to another person’s circumstances.

Therefore, before making an important immigration decision, it is advisable to consult a qualified immigration attorney or a recognized legal assistance organization. This is particularly important in cases involving detention, removal notices, court proceedings, asylum applications, green-card issues or citizenship matters.

There is also growing concern over detention and deportation. In a recent case, the United States used for the first time a special “Alien Terrorist Removal Court,” established many years ago but never previously used, to deport an Afghan lawful permanent resident. The case was not a specific action against Bangladeshis, but it demonstrates how seriously U.S. authorities are approaching immigration enforcement.

At the same time, U.S. courts are also defining the limits of various immigration policies adopted by the administration. Recently, the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that a policy requiring certain immigrants to be detained without bond hearings was unlawful. With federal courts taking differing positions on immigration detention policies, some issues could eventually reach the Supreme Court.

This means that while immigration enforcement is becoming stricter, awareness of legal rights is equally important. If a Bangladeshi expatriate comes into contact with immigration authorities, they should not make decisions out of fear or panic. They should have a basic understanding of their legal status, rights and the procedures that may apply to their situation.

Families also need to be prepared. Particularly in families where the immigration status of a parent or guardian is uncertain, important documents, children’s school and health information, and emergency contact details should be kept in a secure and accessible place. Family members should also know whom to contact in an emergency.

Employment-related matters require caution as well. Individuals holding employment-based visas should comply with the terms of their visas, employment authorization requirements and applicable rules governing their employment. Before changing jobs, changing locations or making any major employment-related decision, they should make sure they understand the relevant immigration requirements.

Similarly, those who wish to apply for U.S. citizenship after obtaining permanent residence should prepare carefully for the naturalization process. Citizenship is not merely a status or privilege; it also involves long-term legal and civic responsibilities. Applicants should therefore make sure their immigration history, tax-related matters and required documents are in order before applying.

Another major responsibility for the Bangladeshi community is to promote awareness about reliable information. Immigration-related rumors can spread rapidly. People should not assume that everything they see on social media is true. Official information from the U.S. Department of State, Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and the courts should be given priority.

During periods of immigration-policy changes, exaggerated claims such as “all Bangladeshis will be deported,” “all visas have been suspended” or “everyone will be arrested under the new rules” can spread quickly. Such rumors do more than create fear; they can sometimes lead people to make harmful legal decisions.

Bangladeshi organizations, community leaders, mosques, social institutions and the media can also play an important role in this regard. Regular awareness programs on immigration law, dissemination of reliable information and guidance on where to obtain legitimate legal assistance can help protect the community from misinformation.

Most importantly, Bangladeshis living in the United States need to remember that complying with the law and knowing one’s rights are equally important. It is not enough to be aware of tougher enforcement. People must also understand their legal protections and what steps they should take when facing an immigration-related issue.

Under the current circumstances, several matters are particularly important for Bangladeshi expatriates: regularly reviewing their immigration status; keeping track of the expiration dates of important documents; providing accurate information on government forms; fulfilling tax and other legal obligations; never ignoring an official notice or court document; and seeking assistance from a qualified immigration attorney when necessary.

Another point deserves particular emphasis: awareness, not fear, is the strongest form of protection. It is wrong to make rushed decisions out of panic simply because immigration enforcement is becoming stricter. At the same time, it would be equally unwise to underestimate the changing situation.

The Bangladeshi community in the United States is now an important and established community. Its economic contributions, businesses, professional achievements and social engagement continue to grow. Therefore, creating greater awareness of immigration policies and legal rights among Bangladeshis is not merely an individual responsibility; it is a matter of concern for the entire community.

Ultimately, U.S. immigration policy is constantly evolving, and every policy decision does not apply to everyone in the same way. One person’s experience cannot determine another person’s future. Therefore, rather than rumors, rely on official information; rather than assumptions, seek legal advice; and rather than fear, prepare.

At a time of increasingly strict immigration enforcement, the safest approach is to understand the law, comply with it and seek appropriate legal assistance when necessary. For every Bangladeshi living in the United States, the most important responsibility now is to remain informed about their own and their family’s immigration status and to take prompt and appropriate action whenever circumstances change.

— Journalist, Elmhurst, New York

FLORIDA: The 41st Convention of the Federation of Bangladeshi Associations in North America (FOBANA), one of the largest organizations representing Bangladeshi communities in North America, will be held in New York next year. The Bangladesh League of America, New York, one of the oldest Bangladeshi organizations in the United States, has been selected as the host organization for the 2027 convention.

The announcement came during FOBANA’s Annual General Meeting held in Florida, where a new Executive Committee was elected for the next two years. Atiquer Rahman Atiq was elected Chairman of the new committee, while Ziaul Haque Zia and Aminul Jilani Collins were elected Vice Chairmen. Nehal Rahim was elected General Secretary. Md. Shahabuddin and Imran Jony Alam were elected Joint Secretaries, while Shahedul Islam Anjan was elected Treasurer.

The election of the new leadership is expected to bring renewed momentum to FOBANA’s organizational activities over the next two years. With the 41st FOBANA Convention scheduled to take place in New York in 2027, the new leadership will face significant organizational responsibilities in preparing for the major gathering of Bangladeshi Americans and their families from across North America.

Meanwhile, the 40th FOBANA Convention was held in Orlando, Florida, from September 4 to 6, bringing together Bangladeshi community members from different states across the United States and Canada. The three-day convention was held at the Holiday Inn Resort Kissimmee by the Parks in Kissimmee, Florida, featuring cultural programs, music, discussions, business networking, youth activities, women’s leadership programs and community recognition events.

The three-day convention officially began on Friday, September 4. Registration and exhibition activities began at 4 p.m., followed by a cultural parade and flag ceremony at 6 p.m. A business and leadership discussion was held at 8 p.m., bringing together business leaders and community representatives.

The opening events highlighted FOBANA’s four-decade journey, the unity of the North American Bangladeshi community, preservation of Bangladeshi culture and heritage, and the importance of engaging younger generations in community activities. FOBANA Convention President Mohammad Shamim Mridha emphasized the importance of unity and cooperation among Bangladeshi Americans. Convention Convener Anwar Hossain Sentu expressed appreciation to members of the community for their support in organizing the event. FOBANA Executive Committee Chairman Zahid Hasan and Executive Secretary Nehal Rahim also spoke about the convention, organizational activities and the future direction of FOBANA.

Saturday, September 5, was one of the busiest days of the convention. A Youth Innovation Summit was held at 10 a.m., focusing on youth leadership, innovation, technology, entrepreneurship and the future role of the younger generation within the North American Bangladeshi community. A Women in Leadership program followed at 1 p.m., bringing together Bangladeshi women from different professional and community backgrounds to discuss leadership, social engagement and their contributions to community development.

The major attraction of the evening was the cultural concert featuring popular Bangladeshi performers. According to the organizers’ published list, the participating artists included Imran Mahmudul, Dinat Jahan Munni, Protic Hassan, Dilshad Nahar Kona, Arzeen Kamal, Annana Yeasmin Ankon and Rafiq Ahmed Milton.

Actor Sazu Khadem, actress Pori Moni, singer Sania Sultana Liza and actress Srabasti Tinny were also promoted as participants or special guests of the convention. The performances of the popular artists turned Saturday night into a vibrant celebration of Bangladeshi music and culture, drawing enthusiastic participation from the Bangladeshi-American community.

Sunday, September 6, marked the final day of the three-day convention. The Community Awards ceremony was held at 11 a.m., recognizing individuals for their contributions to the Bangladeshi community. A vendor and business showcase was held at 2 p.m., giving participating entrepreneurs and service providers an opportunity to highlight their businesses and activities.

The convention concluded with a farewell luncheon at 4 p.m. One of the notable recognitions of the convention went to musician Nafeez Al Amin, who received a special award for his contribution to Bangla rock music. The recognition highlighted his contribution to the development and promotion of Bangla rock music.

The participation of well-known Bangladeshi artists was one of the major attractions of the 40th FOBANA Convention. Performances by Imran Mahmudul, Dinat Jahan Munni, Protic Hassan, Dilshad Nahar Kona, Arzeen Kamal, Annana Yeasmin Ankon and Rafiq Ahmed Milton generated considerable interest among attendees. Their performances brought the sound and atmosphere of Bangladesh to the diaspora, featuring contemporary Bangladeshi music and popular cultural performances. The presence of actors and other cultural personalities added another dimension to the three-day celebration. Direct interaction between artists and members of the audience further enhanced the festive atmosphere.

The 40th FOBANA Convention carried special significance as the organization marked four decades of its journey. For four decades, FOBANA has served as a platform for cultural connection, community networking and engagement among Bangladeshi communities across North America, while helping younger generations maintain ties with Bangladeshi culture and heritage. The return of the convention to Orlando after a long interval generated considerable enthusiasm among the local Bangladeshi community.

The host committee was led by President Mohammad Shamim Mridha, Convener Anwar Hossain Sentu, Member Secretary Russel Miah, Executive Member Secretary Murad Hossain, Chief Coordinator Nazim Ullah Liton and Event Management Convener A.K.M. Hossain Hitu, along with other committee members. The three-day gathering combined cultural activities with business discussions, leadership programs, youth initiatives, women’s leadership activities, community engagement and recognition programs.

The 40th FOBANA Convention in Orlando ultimately became a vibrant gathering of Bangladeshi Americans, celebrating music, culture, community and heritage while strengthening connections among Bangladeshis living across North America. With New York selected as the host city for the 41st FOBANA Convention in 2027 and a new executive leadership team now in place, attention is already turning toward the next chapter of FOBANA’s journey.

New York Correspondent: The upcoming election of the Bangladesh Society of New York, one of the largest organizations representing Bangladeshi immigrants in the United States, has become a major topic of discussion within New York’s Bangladeshi community. The election is scheduled for October 25, with approximately 35,000 members expected to be eligible to vote.

Candidates submitted their nomination papers on Sunday, September 6, at Queens Palace in Queens amid a festive atmosphere. More than a thousand supporters and activists attended the event, carrying banners and posters supporting their respective candidates and panels. Supporters also chanted slogans in favor of their preferred candidates.

The election is shaping up as a competitive contest between two major camps. The current president of the Bangladesh Society, Ataur Rahman Selim, and General Secretary Mohammad Ali are leading one panel. Challenging them are Azmal Hossain Kunu for president and Firoz Ahmed for general secretary.

Interestingly, both candidates contesting for the presidency are originally from Sylhet, Bangladesh, and are business partners in a restaurant business in New York. Despite their business partnership, they are now facing each other as political rivals in the community organization’s election. Syed Fazle Rabbi has submitted his nomination papers as the only independent candidate for the position of general secretary.

The Election Commission accepted nomination papers from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday. Chief Election Commissioner Abu Naser presided over the nomination process, assisted by Election Commissioners Badrul Hossain Khan, Shamsuddin Azad, Ruhul Amin Sarkar, Ahbab Chowdhury, Mithu Hamid and Mia Mohammad Dulal.

According to the Election Commission, nearly 300,000 Bangladeshis live in New York, while approximately 35,000 people have become members of the Bangladesh Society. Membership required a $20 fee, generating approximately $700,000 in membership revenue for the organization.

A total of 21 positions will be contested in this year’s election. Nomination fees range from $2,000 to $6,000, depending on the position. The nomination fee for president is $6,000, while candidates for general secretary must pay $5,000. Candidates running for member positions are required to pay a $2,000 nomination fee.

The unusually high nomination fees have sparked considerable discussion within the community. Many observers say the amount required to run for office in a nonprofit community organization is notable, particularly when compared with the overall cost of participating in the election.

The presidential and general secretary nomination fees of $6,000 and $5,000, respectively, have drawn particular attention. Beyond nomination fees, candidates and their supporters are expected to spend significant amounts on campaign activities, meetings and rallies, posters, banners, social media promotion and other election-related activities.

As a result, the Bangladesh Society election is increasingly being viewed as one of the most expensive community elections in the history of New York’s Bangladeshi community, particularly in terms of nomination and campaign expenses.

The final outcome will be determined through voting on October 25. As election day approaches, campaign activities are expected to intensify, with competing panels and candidates increasing their outreach and mobilization efforts across the community.

International Desk: Joheirry Mola Dominguez of the Dominican Republic has been crowned Miss World 2026, becoming the 73rd winner of the prestigious international beauty pageant. The 24-year-old educator, journalist, model and community advocate claimed the crown during the grand finale of the Miss World Festival on September 5 in Nha Trang, Vietnam. She emerged victorious from a field of 111 national representatives at a spectacular seaside final held at 2 April Square.

Mola received the Miss World crown from Thailand’s Opal Suchata Chuangsri, who won the title in 2025. Spain’s Elisabeth Reynés was named first runner-up, while Malaysia’s Taanusiya Chetty finished as second runner-up.

From educator to Miss World

Mola holds a degree in Business Management and Administration from Universidad Iberoamericana. She works as a Literature and Social Studies teacher, news correspondent and professional model.

She is also the founder and president of Voices of Tomorrow, an initiative focused on expanding access to English-language education for children and young people in vulnerable communities in the Dominican Republic.

Her social-impact work played a major role in her Miss World journey. During the final, Mola spoke about using English education to help children express themselves, pursue educational opportunities and build a better future.

Strong performance throughout the competition

Mola’s success was not limited to the final night. She secured a place in the Top 40 after winning the Top Model challenge for the Americas and Caribbean region. She subsequently advanced through the Top 20, Top 12 and Top 6, ultimately winning the Miss World crown.

The final six contestants represented South Africa, the Dominican Republic, Vietnam, Spain, Malaysia and Eritrea. Mola represented the Americas and Caribbean region.

Second Miss World crown for Dominican Republic

Mola’s victory is historic for the Dominican Republic. She becomes only the second woman from the country to win the Miss World title, ending a 44-year wait since Mariasela Álvarez won the country’s first Miss World crown in 1982. Her victory brought celebrations across the Dominican Republic, with national leaders and public figures congratulating her on the historic achievement.

The 2026 competition marked the 75th anniversary of Miss World and was held in Vietnam for the first time. The four-week festival brought together 111 national ambassadors for a series of challenges, cultural activities and social-impact initiatives before the final crown was awarded in Nha Trang.

As the new Miss World, Joheirry Mola will now represent the organization internationally while continuing its Beauty With a Purpose mission and her own work supporting education and young people.

Shibbir Ahmed, New York: Twenty-five years have passed since the devastating terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. A quarter-century later, the loss of nearly 3,000 lives, the sacrifice of thousands of first responders, and the attacks’ lasting health and social consequences remain deeply embedded in the American memory. This year, New York, Washington and Pennsylvania will mark the 25th anniversary of 9/11 with a series of commemorations and public events.

Main Commemoration in New York

The main 9/11 commemoration will take place Friday at the 9/11 Memorial Plaza in Lower Manhattan, with family members of the victims participating in the ceremony. The program will begin at 8:40 a.m. and is primarily a private gathering for victims’ families, although the ceremony will be streamed live online.

Family members will read the names of those killed in the 2001 attacks as well as victims of the 1993 World Trade Center bombing. Moments of silence will mark several key moments of the attacks, including the aircraft impacts, the collapse of the Twin Towers, the attack on the Pentagon and the crash of Flight 93.

A special moment of silence will also honor those who died in the years following the attacks from 9/11-related illnesses. Vice President JD Vance and other administration officials are expected to attend the New York commemoration. President Donald Trump, meanwhile, will mark the 25th anniversary at the Pentagon instead of attending the New York ceremony.

First Moment of Silence at 8:46 a.m.

At 8:46 a.m. on September 11, 2001, the first hijacked aircraft, American Airlines Flight 11, struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center. The moment will be marked with the first moment of silence during the New York commemoration.

The ceremony will also remember the impact of the second aircraft on the South Tower, the collapse of both towers, the attack on the Pentagon and the crash of Flight 93 in Pennsylvania.

A total of 2,753 people were killed in New York, while 184 people died at the Pentagon in Arlington, Virginia. Another 40 passengers and crew members were killed when United Airlines Flight 93 crashed in Pennsylvania.

New Exhibition at the 9/11 Museum

For the 25th anniversary, the National September 11 Memorial & Museum in New York is launching a new exhibition titled “In Their Honor: 25 Years of 9/11-Inspired Service.”

Opening to the public on September 12, the exhibition will highlight stories of service, sacrifice and humanity over the 25 years since the attacks. It explores how individuals and communities transformed grief into public service and acts of compassion.

The museum is also introducing a new digital educational experience designed to help a new generation understand the history of 9/11 and its long-term impact. According to the museum, nearly 100 million Americans were either not yet born or were too young to remember the attacks. Connecting this generation with the history and legacy of 9/11 is one of the major goals of this year’s anniversary programs.

Trump to Mark Anniversary at Pentagon

In Arlington, Virginia, President Donald Trump is expected to attend and speak at the 25th anniversary commemoration at the Pentagon Memorial. The Pentagon was the third major target of the September 11 attacks. At 9:37 a.m., American Airlines Flight 77 struck the Pentagon. A total of 184 people were killed, including people inside the building as well as passengers and crew members aboard the aircraft. Vice President Vance will attend the main commemoration in New York.

Pennsylvania Also to Hold Commemorations

At the Flight 93 National Memorial in Pennsylvania, a commemorative ceremony will take place Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. The names of the 40 passengers and crew members aboard Flight 93 will be read, followed by the ringing of the Bells of Remembrance. A second ceremony will take place from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., featuring additional commemorative activities and a public wreath-laying ceremony at the memorial.

New York’s Nighttime “Tribute in Light”

After a full day of remembrance, New York’s skyline will once again be illuminated by the historic Tribute in Light—two powerful beams of light representing the Twin Towers destroyed in the attacks. For the 25th anniversary, a special program titled “9/11 Tribute in Light: Live from Lower Manhattan” is scheduled to air nationally beginning at 8 p.m. on major television networks and other platforms.

The program will connect audiences across the country with the commemoration in New York and the annual Tribute in Light, bringing the day of remembrance to a national audience.

New Initiative in New York City

As part of this year’s 25th anniversary observance, New York City is officially recognizing September 11 as a Day of Remembrance and Service. The administration of Mayor Zohran Mamdani is emphasizing citywide remembrance, moments of silence, educational programs and volunteer service.

The city has also established a new Continuity and Mission Assurance Team, aimed at ensuring that essential city government operations and services can continue during emergencies while strengthening preparedness and coordination among city agencies.

25 Years Later, the Memory of 9/11 Endures

Twenty-five years later, 9/11 remains far more than a historical event. It continues to shape the security, politics, foreign policy and public health of New York, Washington and the United States as a whole.

This year’s commemorations are therefore not limited to honoring those who were killed. They also recognize first responders, rescue workers, survivors, families who lost loved ones and a new generation born after the attacks. A quarter-century later, the message remains the same: Never Forget.

Shibbir Ahmed, UN, NEW YORK — Bangladesh Foreign Minister Dr. Khalilur Rahman is set to assume the presidency of the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday, placing a Bangladeshi diplomat at the helm of the UN’s most representative body at a critical moment for global diplomacy. Rahman will formally open the 81st General Assembly session at United Nations Headquarters in New York at 3 p.m. local time on September 8, succeeding Germany’s former foreign minister Annalena Baerbock. The session will run through September 7, 2027.

His year-long presidency comes as the international community faces continuing conflicts, climate emergencies, development challenges and growing concerns over trust in multilateral institutions. The United Nations has identified the theme of the 81st session as “Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation: A United Nations That Delivers for All.”

Rahman was elected president of the 81st session in June after defeating Cyprus’ candidate, Andreas Kakouris, in a closely contested secret-ballot vote. He received 99 votes, compared with 91 for Kakouris, out of 190 ballots cast.

The presidency marks Bangladesh’s return to the top post of the General Assembly after four decades. The first Bangladeshi to hold the position was former Foreign Minister Humayun Rasheed Choudhury, who presided over the 41st session in 1986–87.

Rahman’s tenure will coincide with several major developments at the United Nations, including the high-level General Debate from September 22 to 28 and the selection of a successor to Secretary-General António Guterres, whose second term ends on December 31, 2026.

The 81st session is expected to address a wide range of global issues, including conflicts, climate change, sustainable development, pandemic preparedness, nuclear disarmament and reform of the United Nations.

For Bangladesh, Rahman’s presidency represents a significant diplomatic milestone and provides the country with a prominent platform to contribute to international consensus-building during a period of major geopolitical and institutional change.

NEW YORK — A protest rally was held in New York demanding an end to persecution of minority communities in Bangladesh, an impartial investigation and swift justice in the killing of retired Rangpur teacher Ganapati Chakraborty and four members of his family, the release of political prisoners, restoration of political rights, protection of freedom of expression, and measures to control the soaring prices of essential commodities.

The rally, organized by Probashi Bangladeshi American, was held on September 2 at Diversity Plaza in Jackson Heights, Queens. Speakers said no citizen should be deprived of security or justice because of their religion, ethnicity, political identity or social status. They called on the state to ensure the life, liberty and constitutional rights of every citizen.

The killing of Ganapati Chakraborty and four members of his family received particular attention at the rally. Speakers said such a brutal attack on an entire family cannot be ignored and called for a prompt and impartial investigation to identify those responsible and bring them to justice.

Speakers expressed concern over what they described as growing incidents of attacks, persecution, killings and sexual violence against members of minority communities in Bangladesh. They warned that failure to ensure proper investigations and justice could embolden perpetrators and further increase insecurity among ordinary citizens. They urged the authorities to guarantee the constitutional rights and security of all citizens without discrimination.

The speakers also expressed their dissatisfaction with Bangladesh’s ongoing political situation. They called for the release of political prisoners, the withdrawal of restrictions on political activities, and the holding of a free, fair and credible election with the participation of all political parties.

According to the speakers, genuine democratic development is not possible without ensuring citizens’ voting rights and meaningful political participation. The country’s economic situation was also discussed at the rally. Speakers said the sharp rise in the prices of essential goods has made everyday life increasingly difficult for ordinary people. They called for effective measures to stabilize the market and bring the prices of essential commodities within the reach of consumers. They also alleged that failure to control the market and what they described as government indifference were contributing to the growing hardship faced by the public.

The rally was chaired by Pradip Kar, an adviser to the U.S. Awami League. Among those who addressed the gathering were U.S. Awami League Organizing Secretary Abdul Hasib Mamun; Office Secretary Mohammad Ali Siddiqui; former president of the U.S. Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Unity Council Nabendu Dutta; U.S. Eastern Awami League Organizing Secretary Hasibul Hasan Mamun; U.S. Awami League leaders Faruk T. Molla, Sheikh Atiq, Lutfor Karim, Shyamal Kanti Chandra and Bishwas Liton Hossain; City Awami League Vice President Akhtar Hossain Sakhawat; senior journalist Haqikul Islam Khokon; New York State Awami League Vice President and member-secretary of the Sheikh Hasina Mukti Sangram Parishad Sheikh Atiq; former president of the U.S. Awami Swechhasebak League Nuruzzaman Sardar; U.S. Sramik League General Secretary Jewel Ahmed; U.S. Awami League Vice President Manzur Chowdhury; Jubo League leader Sheikh Jamal; Connecticut State Awami League General Secretary Humayun Ahmed Chowdhury; Sammilito Borshoboron Convener Mozahid Ansari; former press minister of the Bangladesh Embassy in Washington Sazzad Hossain Sabuj; Mahanagar Awami League leader Shah Selim; Sheikh Hasina Mancha President Abdul Jalil and General Secretary Kaykobad; Ataur Rahman, Shahidul Islam, Rumana Akter, Z.A. Joy, former Chhatra League President Anisuzzaman Sabuj, U.S. Swechhasebak League General Secretary Syed Kibria Zaman, Shakti D. Gupta, a candidate for cultural secretary of Bangladesh Society, and former U.S. Chhatra League General Secretary Mohammad Jahangir Mia.

Speakers said justice for Ganapati Chakraborty and his family members is not merely a matter concerning one family, but is directly connected to the security, human rights and rule of law of every citizen in Bangladesh. They called for those responsible to be brought to justice through an impartial investigation, regardless of their political, religious or social identities.

They further emphasized that freedom of expression, political rights, religious freedom and cultural rights are not privileges granted to any particular group, but fundamental rights of every citizen. They urged the state to play an effective and impartial role in protecting those rights. Participants displayed banners and placards carrying various demands and chanted slogans in support of justice, human rights, democracy and citizen security.

From Jackson Heights, New York, the protesters delivered what they described as a clear message to Bangladesh: No citizen’s life or rights should be made unsafe because of religion, identity or political beliefs. Every killing must be impartially investigated and prosecuted, and the fundamental rights of every citizen must be guaranteed.

ATLANTA — Democratic candidate for Georgia governor Keisha Lance Bottoms has proposed allowing cities and counties to suspend or eliminate local sales taxes on groceries and several essential household products as part of her plan to address rising living costs. Bottoms announced the proposal Wednesday at Al Huda Groceries in Lawrenceville, where she said local governments should have greater flexibility to provide tax relief on essential purchases.

Under the proposal, local governments would be allowed to suspend or eliminate sales taxes on groceries, baby formula, feminine hygiene products and diapers. The plan would also allow local jurisdictions to use temporary tax relief during periods when families face increased financial pressure.

Sheikh Rahman opens Lawrenceville event

Georgia State Sen. Sheikh Rahman, D-Lawrenceville, opened the event where Bottoms unveiled the proposal. Rahman said the cost of living is putting pressure on Georgia families and contrasted Bottoms’ focus on household expenses with the priorities of Gov. Brian Kemp and Republican gubernatorial nominee Rick Jackson.

“Things are tough for everyone,” Rahman said, according to Capitol Beat/WABE, arguing that Bottoms would prioritize families as governor. Rahman represents Georgia’s 5th Senate District, which includes parts of Gwinnett County.

Georgia already exempts groceries from state sales tax

Georgia does not impose the state’s general sales tax on groceries, but local sales taxes can still apply to grocery purchases. Bottoms’ proposal would give cities and counties the option to suspend or eliminate those local taxes. The proposal would require approval by the Georgia General Assembly before local governments could receive the additional authority.

Bottoms also said her administration would provide a $250 million state-funded backstop to help local governments that participate in the program adjust to the loss of sales-tax revenue. She described the funding as temporary assistance for local governments as they adjust their budgets.

Cost of living becomes campaign issue

Affordability has become a major issue in Georgia’s 2026 gubernatorial campaign. Republican nominee Rick Jackson has separately proposed eliminating the state sales tax on residential electricity as part of his approach to lowering household expenses. Bottoms’ grocery proposal focuses specifically on giving local governments the option to reduce taxes on food and other family necessities.

The proposal’s implementation would ultimately depend on action by the state legislature and decisions by individual cities and counties. For now, Bottoms is presenting the plan as part of her broader campaign focus on household affordability, while supporters and opponents are expected to debate its potential effect on local government revenues and budgets.

NEW YORK — The Federation of Bangladeshi Associations in North America (FOBANA), one of the longest-running platforms representing Bangladeshi communities in North America, is marking nearly four decades amid a deepening leadership dispute that has resulted in separate conventions being organized in four U.S. cities.

The divisions have raised questions about the future direction of the organization, with critics accusing rival groups of moving away from FOBANA’s original objectives and focusing instead on personal influence and leadership control.

FOBANA was established as a platform intended to bring Bangladeshi community organizations together in North America. Over the years, its annual convention has become an important gathering for Bangladeshi Americans, featuring cultural programs, community discussions and organizational activities. However, disagreements over leadership and organizational control have increasingly divided the community platform.

Four conventions reflect growing divisions

The latest dispute has resulted in four separate FOBANA conventions being held in different U.S. cities, highlighting the extent of the organizational split. The competing groups have each claimed legitimacy and sought to maintain their own leadership structures, while disagreements have continued over the organization’s direction and representation of Bangladeshi community organizations in North America.

The fragmentation has also prompted criticism from members of the Bangladeshi diaspora who believe FOBANA should return to its original mission of strengthening cooperation among community organizations.

Some community representatives have accused the competing leadership factions of using FOBANA as a vehicle for personal influence, rather than concentrating on broader community interests.

Questions over FOBANA’s future

The leadership conflict comes at a time when the Bangladeshi-American community in North America has grown significantly. Community organizations now play an increasingly visible role in cultural preservation, youth engagement, charitable activities and advocacy.

Supporters of a unified FOBANA argue that a single representative platform would give Bangladeshi community organizations greater influence and help coordinate activities across North America.

The competing conventions, however, have made it increasingly difficult to maintain that unified role. Community leaders and observers say resolving the dispute will require the different factions to prioritize FOBANA’s founding objectives over personal or organizational rivalries.

As FOBANA approaches its 40-year milestone, the organization faces a critical question: whether it can overcome its internal divisions and rebuild a common platform for Bangladeshi community organizations across North America. For many in the diaspora, the anniversary is therefore not only a celebration of FOBANA’s history but also an opportunity to reconsider what the organization should represent in the decades ahead.