Desk Report: A new development has emerged in the widely discussed Bangladesh Bank reserve heist case. As part of a significant step forward in the proceedings, a court in New York has directed former governor Ahsan H. Mansur to provide a deposition. According to the court’s order, he is scheduled to testify on April 10.

This information was revealed in an internal document from the Bangladesh Financial Intelligence Unit (BFIU). The document states that on March 11, legal representatives involved in the case confirmed the court’s directive via email. They also informed the relevant parties about preparations for the deposition.

According to the document, Mansur has already submitted an affidavit at the court’s request. The next phase requires him to give an in-person deposition. To facilitate this, the legal firms appointed by Bangladesh Bank have arranged preparatory meetings for him on April 6 and April 10.

It has been reported that Mansur departed Dhaka for the United States on April 4. He is expected to travel via Washington, D.C., before arriving in New York. His return to the country is scheduled for April 12.

Sources indicate that a related official has been requested to accompany him on the trip. The BFIU document also notes that all expenses for the visit—including airfare, accommodation, and protocol—will be covered by Bangladesh Bank. He is expected to receive facilities equivalent to those of the current governor, with arrangements coordinated by the governor’s office.

Staff Reporter: Leaders and activists of the United States Awami League have strongly protested what they described as a conspiracy to ban the Bangladesh Awami League. They warned that if such activities are not stopped, a widespread movement will be launched across the United States. The remarks were made at a protest rally held on April 5 in Jackson Heights, New York City. Speakers at the event alleged that BNP and Jamaat are involved in efforts to push for a ban on the Awami League.

Addressing the rally, speakers said that the Awami League is not just a political party, but a historic organization that led the birth of Bangladesh. They argued that those who do not believe in the country’s red and green flag are capable of such actions. They further stated that in the past, Pakistani military rulers had also attempted to ban the Awami League, drawing parallels with the current situation.

Speaking at the rally, Dr. Siddiqur Rahman, President of the US Awami League, said, “Those in power through what we consider a staged and illegitimate election should not forget that an election excluding a large portion of Awami League supporters lacks credibility. This issue will soon resonate across New York and the wider United States.”

The rally began with an opening speech by Dr. Siddiqur Rahman and was conducted by General Secretary Abdus Samad Azad.

Among those present were Sajjad Hossain Sabuj, Press Minister at the Bangladesh Embassy in Washington, DC; Imdad Chowdhury, General Secretary of New York City Awami League; Vice President Sakhawat Hossain Chanchal; Dr. Masudul Hasan, Vice President of US Awami League; freedom fighter Sharaf Sarkar; Solaiman Ali; Zainal Abedin; John Sikder; Organizing Secretary Mohiuddin Dewan; Sharif Kamrul Hira; M A Malek; Professor Shahnaz Momtaz, President of US Mahila Awami League; Sheikh Atik, Vice President of New York State Awami League; Shahin Azmal, General Secretary; Ashrafulddin, Vice President of US Swechchhasebak League; Bronx Awami League leader Md. Muhit; US Awami League leader Md. Tulon; Jubo League leader Sebul Mia; Chhatra League leaders Hriday Mia and Zahid Hasan, among others. Also present were journalist union leader Saban Mahmud, Organizing Secretary Abul Hasib Mamun, and Executive Member Shahanara Rahman.

New York: The “Bangladesh Day Parade 2026” will take place in New York City on May 17, promising a vibrant celebration of culture and community. The announcement was made during a press conference held on Wednesday (April 1) at the Nabanno Restaurant Party Hall in Jackson Heights. This year’s parade will be led by Grand Marshals M. M. Shaheen, Chairman of the Weekly Thikana, and M. Aziz, CEO of NY Homecare and former Chairman of the Trustee Board of the Bangladesh Society.

Organizers have invited all members of the Bangladeshi community to participate in the event. The parade is scheduled to run from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM along 37th Avenue in Jackson Heights.

Key figures present at the press conference included Parade Committee Chair Attorney Moeen Chowdhury, Convener Gias Ahmed, Member Secretary Fahad Solaiman, Co-Chair Captain Prince Alam, Event Coordinator Famed Rocky, and Faisal Aziz, Director of NY Homecare and Grand Sponsor of the event. Speakers emphasized that the parade aims to strengthen unity and patriotism among the Bangladeshi diaspora, while also introducing the history and culture of Bangladesh to younger generations.

Organizations can register to participate in the parade free of charge this year. The event is jointly organized by the Jackson Heights Bangladeshi Business Association, Humanity Empowerment Rights, and Immigrants International. Organizers stated that extensive preparations are already underway, and a convening committee has been formed to ensure the success of the event. They expressed optimism that this year’s celebration will be even more colorful and engaging than previous editions.

A tragic incident in Fort Myers, United States, has claimed the life of a Bangladeshi expatriate woman, Yasmin, who was fatally attacked at her workplace. The attack occurred on Thursday (April 2) at approximately 7:14 a.m. at a gas station and convenience store on Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard. Emergency responders arrived quickly, but Yasmin was pronounced dead at 7:27 a.m., just 13 minutes after the assault.

According to reports, the incident stemmed from an altercation the previous night. A Haitian immigrant had attempted to withdraw money from an ATM at the store but was unsuccessful. He then demanded money from Yasmin. She calmly explained that the ATM was controlled by a vendor and suggested contacting customer service, as the issue might have been caused by an incorrect PIN. Although the situation appeared to de-escalate, the suspect reportedly remained agitated.

Surveillance footage from the following morning shows the suspect first vandalizing Yasmin’s vehicle. When she stepped outside, he suddenly attacked her with a hammer, striking her repeatedly. She collapsed at the scene. The attacker, described as wearing a yellow T-shirt, black shorts, and a backpack, fled immediately afterward.

Yasmin was originally from Chandraganj in Lakshmipur, Bangladesh. Family members said she had moved to the United States with her two teenage daughters in pursuit of a better future. Her death has left the family and the local Bangladeshi community in deep mourning.

After the attack, authorities warned that the suspect was armed and dangerous, urging residents not to approach him or open their doors. Several nearby schools were temporarily placed on lockdown as a precaution.

Following an extensive search, police arrested the suspect about a mile from the crime scene near Dunbar Park. The suspect, identified as Rolbart Joaquin (40), has been charged with murder and criminal mischief. He is currently being held at the Lee County Jail without bond.

This incident highlights the reality that sudden acts of violence can occur even in developed countries like the United States. Community members are urged to remain vigilant, avoid escalating confrontations, and prioritize personal safety in uncertain situations.

DHAKA – Bangladesh received a special honour from the U.S. state of Georgia in recognition of its contributions to United Nations peacekeeping missions worldwide. According to an ISPR press release, a resolution was presented to Chief of Army Staff General Waker-Uz-Zaman on Tuesday, acknowledging the professionalism and dedication of Bangladeshi peacekeepers.

Georgia Governor Brian P. Kemp handed over the resolution during a State Senate session. It was adopted with bipartisan support, praising Bangladesh’s significant global role in peacekeeping. The initiative was led by State Senator Sheikh Rahman.

Earlier, the Army Chief met Governor Kemp to discuss issues of mutual interest, including military cooperation. The Army Chief has been on an official visit to the United States since March 28.

News Desk: “Bangladesh Day” was celebrated on March 23 at the New York State Senate in Albany, marked by the vibrant presence of Bangladeshi expatriates carrying red-and-green flags. The annual observance coincides with Bangladesh’s Independence Day and has been held in Albany for the past 14 years.

Earlier, on March 10, the New York State Senate passed a resolution recognizing Bangladesh’s Independence Day. The resolution mentions Sheikh Mujibur Rahman as the architect of independence and also notes that Ziaur Rahman broadcast the declaration of independence on his behalf via radio in 1971.

The document, signed by State Secretary Alexandra N. Paulino and proclaimed by Governor Kathy Hochul, officially recognizes March 26 as Bangladesh’s Independence Day in New York State. Copies of the resolution were distributed among attendees.

To mark the occasion, members of the Bangladeshi community departed from the Bangla Bazar area in the Bronx early in the morning and traveled to Albany. Upon arrival around 11:00 a.m., they were joined by State Senators Luis Sepúlveda and Nathalia Fernandez in a brief rally in front of the Senate building, holding “Bangladesh Day” banners. A photo session followed in the lobby, where Assemblywoman Karines Reyes also participated. A luncheon was later hosted for attendees.

A short program was held on the Senate floor in honor of the Bangladeshi community. Speakers included Senators Sepúlveda, Fernandez, John Liu, and Assemblywoman Reyes, who addressed issues concerning Bangladesh and the diaspora. Several individuals were recognized with awards for their contributions to community service.

The cultural segment featured performances by Bangladesh Academy of Fine Arts (BAFA). Following the performances, leaders of the organizing committee delivered remarks highlighting the significance of the event.

At around 3:30 p.m., the “Bangladesh Day” resolution was formally read during the Senate session. Senator Fernandez presented a brief history of Bangladesh’s independence, referencing the March 1971 crackdown known as Operation Searchlight, the nine-month Liberation War, and the sacrifices made by the Bangladeshi people.

Several lawmakers, including Senators Sepúlveda, Liu, Jessica Ramos, and Robert Jackson, spoke during the session. They praised the contributions of the Bangladeshi community to the overall development of the United States and highlighted Bangladesh’s humanitarian role in sheltering nearly 1.2 million Rohingya refugees.

Organizers stated that “Bangladesh Day” is a special initiative by the state to honor Bangladeshi Americans, with participation from people across political lines.

Notably, the “Bangladesh Day” resolution was first passed in the New York State Senate on March 24, 2012, through the efforts of former Bronx Senator Ruben Diaz Sr., with support from community leaders and attorney Luis Sepúlveda, widely known among Bangladeshi expatriates as “Luis Bhai.”

Desk Report: The funeral for Nishat Jannat, 19, a Bangladeshi teenager who was killed in a truck accident in Woodside, New York, was held on Tuesday, March 31, after Zuhr prayers at Baitul Jannah Mosque. Community leaders and local residents attended the ceremony.

Nishat Jannat was killed while crossing the road in the Woodside area of Queens when she was struck by a garbage truck. The incident occurred late Sunday night near Roosevelt Avenue and 62nd Street. Emergency responders pronounced her dead at the scene.

She was a student at the City College of New York and also worked as a receptionist at a parking garage. Her father, Helal Uddin, serves as the imam of Baitul Jannah Mosque. Following the funeral prayers, she was laid to rest in New York. Nishat was originally from Uttar Ghorgao village in Golapganj upazila, Sylhet, Bangladesh, and had moved to the United States with her family around eight years ago.

The truck driver involved in the accident remained at the scene and sustained minor injuries. Police said no arrests have been made, and the incident is under investigation. The tragic death has left the local Bangladeshi community in deep grief.

New York: The 56th Independence Day of Bangladesh was celebrated with enthusiasm by the United States Awami League, its affiliated organizations, and various pro-Liberation groups, including political, social, and cultural associations. Journalists, poets, researchers, and prominent expatriate leaders also attended the event.

The program was held on the evening of March 22 at Juice Center in Jackson Heights, New York City. It was presided over by Dr. Pradip Ranjan Kar, veteran freedom fighter, former General Secretary of BAKSU, and advisor to the US Awami League. The event was jointly organized by US Awami League Office Secretary Engineer Mohammad Ali Siddiqui and Legal Secretary Advocate Shah Mohammad Bakhtiar Ali.

The discussion, titled “The Significance of Independence Day and Today’s Bangladesh,” featured speeches by senior journalist and US Awami League advisor Hakikul Islam Khokon, freedom fighters Golam Mostofa Khan Miraj, Shawkat Akbar Richy, Faruk Hossain, Khurshid Anwar Bablu, Ismail Khan Ansari, Helal Majid, poet and freedom fighter Avinash Acharya, and Dr. Selina Afrin Rita, child of a martyr family and YouTube host. Other leaders from Awami League and its affiliated organizations also addressed the gathering.

Patriotic poetry recitations were delivered by Hasan Al Abdullah, Minhaj Ahmed Shammu, Gopon Saha, and Awami League leader Rina Abedin. The program began with a collective rendition of the national anthem, followed by a one-minute silence honoring the martyrs of the 1952 Language Movement, the 1962–1969 education and democracy movements, the 1971 Liberation War, the assassination of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and his family in 1975, the 2004 grenade attack on Sheikh Hasina, and other struggles for democracy.

Speakers expressed concern over the resurgence of forces defeated in 1971 and emphasized the need for unity at home and abroad. They called for keeping the spirit of liberation alive, strengthening the legacy of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and ensuring that those responsible for historical atrocities face justice.

New York: Leaders of the New York State unit of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) have expressed their commitment to accelerating Bangladesh’s development under the leadership of Tarique Rahman. The pledge was made during a discussion meeting held on March 29 at Diversity Plaza in New York City, organized to mark Independence Day.

In his opening remarks, BNP central committee member Gias Ahmed said that following Tarique Rahman’s vision, expatriate Bangladeshis remain united in working to build a democratic and prosperous Bangladesh, fulfilling the dreams of the late President Ziaur Rahman.

Speaking as a special guest, BNP USA Joint Secretary General Akter Hossain Badal highlighted that party members abroad are committed to supporting Tarique Rahman, the rightful successor to Ziaur Rahman and former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, in building an equitable society.

Another special guest, Golam Faruk Shaheen, member of the BNP Chairperson’s Foreign Affairs Advisory Committee, said that expatriate activists—long engaged in political struggle—now face the critical task of providing full support for Tarique Rahman’s development mission.

The event, moderated by State BNP General Secretary Saidur Rahman Said and chaired by State BNP President Oliullah Atikur Rahman, was attended by numerous party leaders and activists. The program concluded with a special prayer for the martyrs of Bangladesh’s Liberation War. Organizers expressed gratitude to participants for attending despite adverse weather conditions.

Florida: The Bangladesh Association of Florida hosted its Eid Reunion 2026 in a festive and vibrant atmosphere on Sunday, March 29, at a hall in Belle Glade, Florida. The association has been organizing this reunion regularly since 1996. The program began with recitations from sacred texts of different religions, reflecting a spirit of unity and harmony. The event was hosted by Association President ABM Golam Mostafa. Secretary Rafiqul Islam delivered the welcome speech, while Vice President Mohammad Shahed oversaw the overall arrangements.

A lively cultural program was one of the main attractions of the event. Performers including Lovlu, Babu, Rusho, child artist Prodip, Dulal, and others entertained the audience with music, creating a joyful Eid atmosphere. The celebration was further enriched by a nostalgic segment where participants shared memories of their childhood Eid experiences.

Participants in this segment included Senior Director Md. Harun, Organizing Secretary Awal Dayan, Joint General Secretaries Reza Islam and Md. Khorshed, Executive Directors Asim Roy and Bulbul, among others. Event decoration was managed by Executive Directors Titu and Tanvir, while sound was handled by Tanvir and Babu. Special contributions were made by Senior Advisors Abdul Wahed Mahfuz and Nazmun Mahfuz.

The discussion segment featured distinguished guests, including Awal Dayan (Convener), Naeem Khan Daud (Chairman), and M.K. Alam (Secretary) of the 31st Asian Food Fair & Cultural Show 2026. Other notable attendees included Pabon (General Secretary of Dhaka Club), Imran Jony (CEO of Ektara Florida), Rubaiya Mamun (President of Ektara Florida), Liton Majumdar (President of Bangladesh Club), Zaman (Chief Advisor of Miami Boishakhi Mela), Dr. Salauddin, FOBANA Chairman Atikur Rahman, founding member Junayed Akhtar, political figure Manjur Shaheen, and community leaders Shaheen Mahmud, Alinur Monju, and Shahed Nur Azad.

Speakers noted that although Eid celebrations abroad differ from those in Bangladesh, the spirit remains strong through communal prayers, visiting one another, and exchanging greetings. Many shared that the joy of childhood Eid celebrations is deeply missed. Former President and founding member Md. Imran joined virtually from Bangladesh and delivered a brief message.

After lunch, representatives of various community organizations—including Ektara Florida, Bangladesh Club, Miami Boishakhi Mela, Karigor, and Dhaka Club—were honored on stage. Prominent community figures Naeem Khan Dadan and Rubaiya Mamun were present during this segment.

Later, the organizers of the upcoming 31st Asian Food Fair & Cultural Show were introduced, including Convener Awal Dayan, Chairman Abu Naeem Daud, and Secretary M.K. Alam. In his closing remarks, President ABM Golam Mostafa highlighted the association’s commitment to supporting underprivileged communities both in Bangladesh and in the United States. He expressed gratitude to all board members, advisors, members, and well-wishers for their continued support.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks from community figures Mahfuz and Nazmun Mahfuz. The program was made successful through the dedicated efforts of Executive Directors Habib, Uttam, Hakim, Rashed, Morshed, Jitu, Sohel, Kamal, Faisal, Titu, Naser, Lebu, Mostafiz, and others.