11 buses burned down in Savar

Eleven CNG-run buses of Trans Silva Company Limited were burned down in Savar this morning.
Fire service sources said the fire originated in a bus at around 6:30am and burned down 11 buses, out of 23, kept at Anandapur bus depot in Savar.
Several fire fighting units with their frantic efforts could save the rest 12 buses.
Police and fire service said that the fire might have originated in one of the buses due to leakage in the gas line.
There was no report of casualty in the incident.

US to share 10% swine flu vaccine globally

President Barack Obama says the United States will share 10 percent of its swine flu vaccine supply with other nations.
The White House on Thursday announced that the move would help fight the global spread of swine flu, known among scientists as H1N1.
The White House says the flu vaccines would be available through the World Health Organization.
The White House says the virus does not recognize international borders and the United States is working with Australia, Brazil, France, Italy, New Zealand, Norway, Switzerland, and Britain to share vaccines.

Karzai rules out new vote round over fraud

Afghan President Hamid Karzai on Thursday ruled out calling a second round of elections over fraud allegations, which cast a shadow over US deliberations on whether to send more troops.
Preliminary results from Afghanistan's second-ever presidential election put Karzai on track to defeat rival Abdullah Abdullah without a second round, but European Union observers said nearly a quarter of votes could be fraudulent.
Asked if he would agree to a second round to ease concerns about the election's legitimacy, Karzai told CNN: "That is not in my authority to do."
"Taking it to a second round or a runoff by engineering it in that direction, that is itself fraud and not the right thing to do. It's against Afghan constitution," he said.
"We cannot claim a wrong and then commit another wrong in order to make a right."
Karzai did not exclude inviting Abdullah into a coalition government but said he would only do so to unite the country, not to respond to fraud allegations, which he insisted were false.
Senior US officials acknowledged they were in a bind over how to handle the election.
President Barack Obama has made fighting extremism in Afghanistan a top priority of his young administration and is weighing calls to again boost the US military force in the country, which is set to reach 68,000 by year's end.
"I would tell you that there is no question that the nature of the election in Afghanistan has complicated the picture," Defense Secretary Robert Gates told a news conference.
Karzai, first installed in the wake of the US-led military operation that ousted the Taliban in 2001, enjoyed a warm relationship with former president George W Bush but Obama has distanced himself from the Afghan leader.
Vice President Joe Biden said that if Afghans doubted the legitimacy of Karzai's government in a second term, it "makes everything considerably more difficult."
"That's why we have to follow the process to the end here," Biden, who as a senator once reportedly stormed out of a dinner with Karzai, told CNN.
"But to be honest to you, it would make this very hard to have a sustainable policy if the government with whom we're cooperating is viewed as illegitimate by the people -- in this case, the people of Afghanistan. But that's not determined yet."
Echoing earlier remarks to reporters in Kabul, Karzai acknowledged there may have been irregularities but insisted there was no systematic fraud.
"It's unfortunately mainly in the international community that these allegations are coming," Karzai said. "I can assure you, the vote was true and fair."
His remarks came on one of the deadliest days for Western troops in Kabul. A bomber destroyed a vehicle of Nato-led forces, killing 10 Afghan civilians and six Italian soldiers.
Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi later said he hoped to bring home his country's 3,250 troops "as soon as possible," but only in consultation with Nato allies.
Britain's main opposition Conservative Party, which leads in polls ahead of elections due by mid-2010, called for more commitment by Nato in Afghanistan and said it would consider sending more troops if it takes office.
But Liam Fox, the shadow defense secretary, warned in an address to a Washington think tank that any build-up would be futile without an accompanying strategy to persuade insurgents to give up violence.
"Unless we have identified a more comprehensive political solution for Afghanistan, any increase in troop members alone would merely maintain the status quo, which is arguably an increasingly dysfunctional state apparatus surrounded by a burgeoning insurgency," Fox said at The Heritage Foundation.

England suffer ton of Paine against Australia

Tim Paine scored his maiden international century as Australia inflicted fresh one-day misery upon England with a crushing 111-run win here at Trent Bridge on Thursday.
Victory in this day/night fixture left world champions Australia 6-0 up and on course to complete the first ever 7-0 clean sweep in a bilateral series in Sunday's finale at Durham's Riverside ground.
Paine's 111 was the cornerstone of Australia's 296 for eight as the holders continued to warm-up in style for next week's start of the Champions Trophy tournament in South Africa.
England, chasing 299 to win, collapsed to 60 for four inside 15 overs.
They were eventually dismissed for 185, with nine overs to spare as they suffered their 11th heaviest defeat, in terms of runs, in 517 one-day internationals (ODIs).
No England batsman made more than number eight Tim Bresnan's 31 not out.
Wicketkeeper Paine, an opener in the one-day format, reached three figures in only his seventh match at this level.
Together with Michael Hussey (65), Paine - who only made his one-day international debut against Scotland in Edinburgh last month - put on 163 for the third wicket after the duo came together with Australia 40 for two.
Fast bowler James Anderson, back in the England side after being rested for two matches, returned fine figures of four for 55 before running out Brett Lee for nought with a direct hit from long-on.
Paine's match got even better off only the second ball of England's reply.
England captain Andrew Strauss appeared to have swayed out of the way of a Lee bouncer in near textbook fashion, the ball brushing his shoulder on the way through to Paine.
But Pakistani umpire Asad Rauf, after a prolonged appeal, gave Strauss out to the visible disbelief of the left-hander and England were nought for one.
Joe Denly drove James Hopes's second ball for six but the medium-pacer had his revenge when, off his 11th delivery, the Kent opener skied him to Lee.
Australia captain Ricky Ponting, long one of the world's best outfielders emphasised Australia's all-round superiority with two magnificent direct hit run-outs to dismiss Matt Prior and Ravi Bopara.
After Ponting had called correctly to end Strauss's streak of five straight toss wins, Anderson made a double breakthrough.
He had Shane Watson playing on and then made it two wickets for seven runs in 16 balls when he had Ponting hooking straight to Ryan Sidebottom at deep backward square leg.
But England's joy at removing Ponting for six, 120 fewer than he managed in Australia's four-wicket victory here on Tuesday, was short-lived as his fellow Tasmanian Paine unfurled a fine array of strokes.
The 24-year-old Paine, only playing after first-choice keeper Brad Haddin was ruled out of the series with a broken finger that will also sideline him from the Champions Trophy, had made his maiden ODI fifty at Lord's on Saturday.
Here he advanced into the 90s when he flicked left-arm quick Sidebottom off his pads for a four which split the fielders at deep square and fine leg.
His single off Graeme Swann saw him to a hundred off 130 balls, including a superb straight six off Dimitri Mascarenhas and 13 fours
Paine was eventually when expertly caught by opposing gloveman Prior, standing up to the stumps, after getting a bottom edge off Mascarenhas.

US pledges support for democracy, economy

Dipu Moni talks to Hillary on wide range of issues

US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton (R) answers a question as Foreign Minister Dipu Moni looks on during a joint press conference following their meeting at the State Department in Washington on Wednesday.Photo: AFPStaff Correspondent

US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has said Washington will continue its support to Bangladesh to strengthen democracy and democratic institutions, promote economic development and counter terrorism.
She also expressed her government's desire to work with issues relating to climate change, global financial crisis, human rights and improvement of skills of Bangladesh's law enforcement agencies.
The top US diplomat made the remarks during talks with Foreign Minister Dipu Moni in Washington on Wednesday, according to separate press statements issued from Washington.
“We are united by shared values, common interests, and a commitment to work together to strengthen democracy, promote economic development, deny space to terrorists, and create a more peaceful and prosperous future,” she said after the talks.
The partnership between Washington and Dhaka is growing stronger, said Hillary.
During the hour-long meeting, Dipu Moni and her counterpart discussed in detail the issues that are of concern to both the countries.
Terming Bangladesh a model of empowerment of women and a country with strong secular and democratic heritage, Hillary said Bangladesh embodied the promise that President Obama spoke of in Cairo.
“We are committed to work with you, with your government, and with the people of Bangladesh for a brighter future,” she told Dipu Moni at the meeting.
Dipu Moni briefed her about the December 29 parliamentary elections and the vision of the new government led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
“Our resolve is to ensure rule of law, good governance, protect the inclusive and the pluralist nature of our society, promote women's empowerment, opportunities for the young and the disadvantaged,” she said.
Dipu Moni said the government's goal is to attain a level of socio-economic development that would elevate Bangladesh to a middle-income country by 2021.
“We need support and assistance from our friends, particularly from the United States,” she said.
The foreign minister discussed with Hillary various areas of cooperation between the two countries that include enhanced trade opportunities, US investment in Bangladesh, and cooperation in the area of counter terrorism and debt relief for Bangladesh.
Dipu Moni requested Hillary to give Bangladeshi products duty-free and quota-free access into the US market and sought cooperation in deportation of the killers of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. Some of them have reportedly been living in the US.
Referring to her visit to Bangladesh, the US secretary of state said she met many dynamic women in positions of responsibility, and saw the way that pioneering micro-credit projects really invented in Bangladesh -- especially through the Grameen Bank -- helped women living in poverty gain self-sufficiency and offered them a better life.
She lauded the government's efforts to increase access to education for young girls.
Terming the last parliamentary election the freest and fairest in the country's history, she said Bangladeshis now have the opportunity to build on this success and strengthen their democratic institutions.
“The United States stands ready to work with Bangladesh. And we will work to enhance economic opportunities,” said the secretary of state.
She also discussed the possibility of a bilateral trade and investment framework agreement, which would make it easier for US companies and investors to expand their activities in Bangladesh and increase trade.
Hillary thanked Dipu Moni for Bangladesh's leadership on a range of regional and global issues that include efforts to combat violent extremism, providing peacekeeping forces in trouble spots around the world, enhance food security and global health and address the threat of climate change.
“President Obama and I look forward to discussing these issues further next week in New York at the United Nations General Assembly,” said the top US diplomat.
The foreign minister briefed Hillary on the adverse impact of the climate change on vulnerable countries such as Bangladesh and stressed the need for collective action to cope with the challenge.
Dipu Moni said she drew Hillary's attention to the increased cost of development endeavours due to climate change and underscored the need for developed countries' assistance in adaptation and mitigation.
On the global financial crisis, Dipu Moni said they agreed that the challenges cannot be resolved by any single country and that there is need for concerted action.
Replying to a question on duty-free access of Bangladeshi goods to the US market and the country's inclusion into Millennium Challenge Corporation, Hillary said they discussed both the issues along with many others in a very comprehensive discussion.
“Certainly with respect to the Millennium Challenge Account, the foreign minister recognised that circumstances have changed with the election of a new government in December. We are both young administrations and working hard to get established and proceed on the numerous goals that we share,” Hillary said.
With respect to the foreign minister's request for duty-free access, she said the two countries have a vibrant trade relationship now, and it has been growing, and they look forward to continuing to grow that trade.
“We did specifically talk about the Trade and Investment Framework Agreement, which has been discussed between our two governments -- your trade officials along with our trade representative,” said Hillary.
Bangladesh Ambassador to US Akramul Qader, Director General of Bangladesh Foreign Office Mohammed Ali, Deputy Chief of Mission of Bangladesh Embassy in Washington Mohammed Belal and Press Minister at Bangladesh Embassy Akhter Ahmed Khan were present on the Bangladesh side.
On the US side, Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Robert Blake and the secretary of state's deputy chief of staff Huma Abedin were present.

Huge account flaws in donor-funded projects

CAG raises 160 audit objections involving Tk 1,745cr in 4 years, Tk 819cr in power sector alone

Shakhawat Liton and Rashidul Hasan

The office of Comptroller and Auditor General has raised around 160 objections involving over Tk 1,745 crore in foreign-funded projects with around half the amount against anomalies in the power and energy sector.
It raised the objections while auditing the accounts of four fiscal years from 2002-03 to 2005-06 when the BNP-Jamaat-led alliance government was in power.
The audit reports placed in parliament Tuesday show 29 objections against over Tk 819 crore only in the power, energy and mineral resources ministry. The ministry was mired in allegations of corruption and irregularities in implementing power projects.
According to the audit reports, around 95 foreign-funded projects were taken under 14 ministries in the previous years.
The 13 other ministries are primary and mass education, environment and forest, agriculture, education, fisheries and livestock, women and children affairs, LGRD and cooperatives, communications, water resources, planning, post and telecommunications, health and family welfare, and commerce.
The office of Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) has blamed the irregularities and financial loss on lack of effective plans, violation of government financial rules and expenditures beyond project proposals.
The CAG is empowered by the constitution to audit and report on public accounts of the republic and all courts of law, and all authorities and officers of the government.
Detecting irregularities like payment without approval and imaginary purchase, the CAG recommended complying with rules in purchasing, appointing consultants and keeping all expenditures within the project proposals. It also recommended determining the irregularities and take necessary steps.
"Government auditing standards, audit code, audit manual and existing rules and regulations were properly followed while conducting the audit on the accounts of the foreign funded projects," Mohammad Zakir Hossain, director general of Foreign Funded Project Audit Directorate, said in the preface of the audit report of FY2005-06.
The parliamentary standing committee on public accounts will examine and dispose the objections.
PAYMENT WITHOUT APPROVAL
During the auditing, the CAG found that a company named Arab Construction was paid additional Tk 13.15 crore against the original work order of Tk 9.83 crore for the work in the 210MW Siddhirganj power project funded by Russia.
In response to the audit objections, the project office claimed that the additional payment was made for extra work.
The audit findings say the extra work was assigned to Arab Construction without floating any tender. But the project office claimed that it did not comply with the formalities to expedite the project work and save the government money.
The audit report says the cabinet purchase committee approved the payment of the additional amount.
LOSS OF TK 676 CRORE
Auditing the accounts of fiscal years 2003-04 and 2004-05 in the Siddhirganj project, the CAG found that the Tk 548.17 crore power station was scheduled to go for production by 1999 but the timeframe for its construction was extended up to June 2003, which increased the expenditure to Tk 1,080.72 crore. The time was further extended up to June 2005, which resulted in an increased expenditure of Tk 1,273.91 crore.
According to the report, the government incurred a loss of Tk 676.35 crore because of this delay.
IMAGINARY PURCHASE
Auditing the accounts of fiscal years 2002-03 and 2003-04, the CAG revealed an instance of imaginary purchase of computers, computer hardware, five vehicles and iodine tasting kits spending Tk 7.50 crore from a foreign funded project under the health ministry.
The project office, however, claimed that it had published the tender notice for the purchase in a newspaper.
The audit team found newspaper clippings of the tender notice at the project office. But, interestingly, it did not find any tender notice published in the said newspaper on that day.
The audit report says the audit team even examined the list and addresses of the suppliers but did not find any authenticity of those. The report recommended taking stern actions against those involved in the purchase.

Thousands start leaving for home

Bus, launch terminals, rail stations in city witness huge crowd as Eid holiday begins today

A father cautiously picks up his child on a launch from a crowd of homebound people at Sadarghat launch terminal as mass exodus from the capital begins ahead of the Eid-ul-Fitr. Photo: Shafiqul AlamStaff Correspondent

Thousands of people left the capital for home yesterday to share the joy of Eid-ul-Fitr with family and friends as many of them got five-day festival vacation including weekly holidays.
A huge number of people were seen anxious for tickets at different terminals, particularly of long-route buses, as broker syndicates control the ticket sale in the city.
However, many of them could finally manage tickets paying double and in some cases triple the usual charges.
The staff of most of the bus counters said the tickets were already sold out although during visits to different bus terminals some staff were seen selling tickets at the counters at higher rate. They however claimed that they were not charging extra rather maintaining the government rate.
In reality, bus fare of different routes fluctuates by Tk 20 to 150 more than the usual.
Homebound people crowded the city bus and launch terminals and Kamalapur rail station after office hours yesterday.
Bangladesh Road Transport Corporation (BRTC) and Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) will initiate special transport arrangements from Saturday to ease the home going rush.
People of the northern districts suffered a lot yesterday as a number of trains were delayed by over two hours, as the intersections in the city were jammed with traffic.
The train Ekota Express, which was scheduled to leave Kamalapur Railway Station at 9:40 am, left at 12:20 pm.
Special train service starts from today with seven more locomotives in addition to the 22 existing ones.
At Bikash Paribahan counter in Gabtoli one Selim Sikder of Moksudpur was found bargaining with the employees, as they demanded Tk 220 per ticket instead of the usual fair at Tk 140.
Terminal authorities of Saidabad, Gabtoli and Mohakhali on loud speakers have been asking the passengers not to purchase tickets from outside the counters to avoid black marketers, brokers, frauds, muggers and other criminals.
To ease the situation for the home goers Rapid Action Battalion (Rab), police and intelligence personnel have been deployed at the terminals.
BRTC EID SERVICE
The BRTC will start its special Eid service from Saturday and it will continue for the next three days.
BRTC sources said around 500 buses--either owned by the BRTC or on lease--will ply on different inter-district routes while 77 other buses, now running as city service and staff buses, will be added to the service.
The corporation has already started selling advance tickets in Dhaka and all other BRTC bus depots across the country. People can collect their tickets at Zoarshahara, Motijheel, Kalyanpur, Mirpur-12 double-decker bus depot, Phulbaria CBS-2. The buses will leave for destinations from these places.
THE WATERWAY
With the Eid-ul-Fitr approaching the owners of passenger-launches have started charging the homebound people extra, even double the fare, in absence of proper monitoring by the authorities.
Heavy rush coupled with additional fare has doubled the sufferings of the passengers in reaching homes and relatives on the occasion of holy Eid-ul-Fitr.
Owners of the launches from Dhaka to the southern part of the country have already started selling tickets with extra fare, which is likely to continue at least 10 days after the Eid. However, they claimed that they were maintaining the rate fixed by the Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) last year. The rate is yet to be revised this year.
The usual fare for Dhaka-Barisal route is Tk 80-120 per head on deck, Tk 300-350 for luxurious chair, Tk 700 for single cabin, Tk 1,000-1,200 for double cabin and Tk 1,500-2,000 for VIP cabin.
But during the Eid the fare rose to Tk 180 to 200 per person in deck, Tk 400 to 500 for luxurious chair, Tk 800 to 1000 for single cabin, Tk 14,00 to 1600 for double cabin and Tk 2,000 to 2,400 for VIP cabin.
The fare for all the places to south including on Dhaka-Bhola, Dhaka-Patuakhali, Dhaka-Chandpur, Dhaka-Rangabali routes, increased on the occasion.
Secretary of the BIWTA Monwar Hossain said the launch owners are indeed charging higher fare but it does not exceed the rate fixed by the BIWTA.
However, denying the allegations of charging extra fare President of Launch Owners Association Badiuzzaman Badal said stern actions would be taken if such allegations were proven against any launch service.
He also said the owners, who run their launches at lower fare round the year to compete with others, charge fare according to the BIWTA fixed rate during Eid season. That is why it seems to people that they are charging more during the Eid holidays.
Vice-president of Launch Owners Association Shahbuddin Milon, also the owner of MV Parabat, said, "We have to bear losses throughout the year. Eid is the high time to make up for the losses but we never charge more than the government rate."
Sources said the workers of different southbound launches are playing a vital role in making the fare go high. They by forming a syndicate grabbed most of the tickets of different launches and selling them at a high price.
Talking to The Daily Star a passenger of Bhola-bound launch yesterday alleged that the ticket manager forced him to pay Tk 900 for a double cabin while the normal rate is Tk 600.
Another passenger of a Barisal-bound launch said he faced a little difficulty buying tickets for a place on the deck, as he could not manage any for a cabin.
About security, Officer-in-charge of Kotwali Police Station Md Salauddin Khan said additional police have been deployed at Sadarghat since last Tuesday and they will remain deployed till the Durga Puja.
Operation Officer of Rab-10 ASP Enam said 35 Rab personnel have already been deployed at Sadarghat and reinforcement would be mobilised if necessary.
Asked about the monitoring activities of Sadarghat Md Shafiqul Haque, director (traffic) of BIWTA, said if the allegation of charging extra fare is proved the route permit of that launch would be suspended.
He also said a special control room has been set up from September 16 at the launch terminal to keep the law and order under control.

SC stays bail to 4 BNP leaders in triple murder case

The Supreme Court today stayed for four weeks a High Court order granting bail to four accused in Karwan Bazar triple murder case.
The four accused are Lutfor Rahman, also known as L Rahman, president of Ward No. 39 BNP, Nabi Solaiman, former religious affairs secretary of Jubo Dal, and Abu Sayeed and Nurul Islam, two ward level leaders of BNP.
Justice SK Sinha of the chamber judge passed the order upon a petition filed by the government.
Deputy Attorney General Motahar Hossain Sazu told The Daily Star that the accused will not get released from jail following the SC order.
Earlier yesterday, the HC granted ad interim bail for six months to the four accused in this case.
After hearing a bail petition jointly filed by the four, a HC vacation bench of Justice AFM Abdur Rahman and Justice Md Rezaul Hasan had also issued a rule upon the government to explain why the petitioners should not be granted regular bail.
Three people -- Faruque Mollah, Ashraf Miah and Nuruddin Sarkar Jewel -- were killed in a gun attack at Karwan Bazar on June 26.
Mobarok Hossain Mollah, brother of Faruque Mollah, filed a case with Tejgaon Police Station the same day against the petitioners and seven other unknown persons in this regard.

US to support strengthening democracy in Bangladesh: Hillary

US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton on Wednesday said the US will continue to support democratic institution building, counter-terrorism efforts and improvement of skills of law enforcement agencies in Bangladesh.
Hillary also expressed Washington’s desire to work with Dhaka on issues related to climate change.
The US secretary of state made the remarks during a meeting with Foreign Minister Dipu Moni in Washington, according to a message received here today.
“I had a substantive and fruitful discussion,” Dipu told a press briefing after the meeting. She said Bangladesh attaches great importance to its relations with the United States.
During the hour-long meeting, Dipu and Hillary discussed various bilateral issues. Hillary said the US would stand by Bangladesh in its effort to development. She termed Bangladesh a model of empowerment of women and also mentioned about the innovative ideas of social empowerment.
The secretary of state also assured of looking into the other issues raised by the foreign minister during the meeting.
Hillary congratulated the foreign minister and the people of Bangladesh for their efforts to return to democracy.
Dipu briefed Hillary about the vision of the new government of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for bringing changes.
She said the resolve of the newly elected government was to ensure the rule of law, good governance, to protect the inclusive and pluralist nature of the society, promote women’s empowerment, opportunities for the young and the disadvantaged.
“The goal of the government is to elevate Bangladesh to a middle-income country by 2021, which would coincide with fifty years of Bangladesh’s independence.”
Terming the task of achieving the goal as daunting, Dipu Moni said Bangladesh cannot do it alone. “It needs support and assistance from friends, particularly from the United States.”
Recognising the consistent support from the United States in the transition of democracy, she said the US government, the Congress and the people always stood by Bangladesh in support of the democratic cause.
The foreign minister requested the US secretary of state to allow duty-free and quota-free access of Bangladeshi products to the US markets, continuation of GSP facilities to Bangladesh and debt relief.
She also raised the issue of deporting the killers of the father of the nation Bangabaddhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, who have been living in the US.
Bangladesh Ambassador to the US Akramul Qader, DG of Bangladesh Foreign office Mohammed Ali Sorcar, Deputy Chief of Mission at Bangladesh Embassy in Washington Sheikh Mohammad Belal and Press Minister at Bangladesh Embassy Akhter Ahmed Khan were present at the meeting on Bangladesh side while Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Robert Blake and Secretary of State Hillary Clinton’s Deputy Chief of Staff Huma Abedin on the US side.

BNP leader Arifur placed on 3-day remand

A Dhaka court today granted a three-day remand to BNP leader Arifur Rahman in connection with the Communist Party of Bangladesh (CPB) rally blast case.
Metropolitan Magistrate Munshi Abdul Mazid granted the three-day remand after the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) produced Arifur, also the councillor of ward-53 of Dhaka City Corporation, before the court and sought a 10-day remand.
CID arrested Arifur at his Malibagh residence yesterday in the case after over seven years of the blast.
Senior Assistant Superintendent of CID Police Abdul Kahar Akand yesterday said the arrest was made following the information extracted from the other accused in the case.
Earlier, the CID detained Harkatul Jihad al Islami (Huji) leader Arif Hasan Sumon in connection with the blasts at Paltan Maidan on January 20 in 2001 that killed seven people and injured several others.
Besides, former Huji chief Maulana Sheikh Abdus Salam was also arrested in this connection and now he is on bail.

Hijackers kill taxicab driver in city

Criminals stabbed a taxicab driver to death and hijacked the cab, which was recovered later, at Mirpur in the capital last night.
Police arrested a criminal, who was injured in police firing.
According to police, three criminals in the guise of passengers hired the taxicab and at one stage they stabbed its driver at about 12:00 midnight at Mirpur-6, leaving him critically injured.
Doctors declared him dead at about 1:30am after he was rushed to the Dhaka Medical College Hospital.
The deceased was identified as Nuruzzaman, 30, son of Khalilur Rahman of that area.
On information, police rushed to the spot and shot fire on the muggers, leaving Imran injured, officer in-charge of Pallabi Police Station Abdul Malek told The Daily Star.
Police arrested Imran and admitted him to a city hospital, he added.

Lottery for Purbachal plots begins

The draw of the lottery for plot allocation in four categories in Purbachal New Town Project started this morning.
The lottery was held at the Osmani Memorial Auditorium in the city.
Today 296 plots were allotted for the freedom fighters, 176 for the applicants in sports and education category, 14 for the judges while the foreign wage earners got as many as 599 plots.

SC stays bail to 4 BNP leaders in triple murder case

The Supreme Court today stayed for four weeks a High Court order granting bail to four accused in Karwan Bazar triple murder case.
The four accused are Lutfor Rahman, also known as L Rahman, president of Ward No. 39 BNP, Nabi Solaiman, former religious affairs secretary of Jubo Dal, and Abu Sayeed and Nurul Islam, two ward level leaders of BNP.
Justice SK Sinha of the chamber judge passed the order upon a petition filed by the government.
Deputy Attorney General Motahar Hossain Sazu told The Daily Star that the accused will not get released from jail following the SC order.
Earlier yesterday, the HC granted ad interim bail for six months to the four accused in this case.
After hearing a bail petition jointly filed by the four, a HC vacation bench of Justice AFM Abdur Rahman and Justice Md Rezaul Hasan had also issued a rule upon the government to explain why the petitioners should not be granted regular bail.
Three people -- Faruque Mollah, Ashraf Miah and Nuruddin Sarkar Jewel -- were killed in a gun attack at Karwan Bazar on June 26.
Mobarok Hossain Mollah, brother of Faruque Mollah, filed a case with Tejgaon Police Station the same day against the petitioners and seven other unknown persons in this regard.

Affected besiege Barapukuria coalmine for compensation

 

Local people affected by the Barapukuria Coal Mine Limited besieged its office this morning demanding compensation as they were living in the area amid life risk.
Chase and counter-chase were taken place between the local people and police at about 12:00pm after the law enforcers have been deployed in the area.
A tense like situation was prevailing there till filing of this report.
People in Barapukuria area are living under high risk. Land and water related problems have been affecting livelihoods of at least 15 villages around the mine.

Asian terror mastermind Noordin dead

Asian terror mastermind Noordin Mohammed Top was among four people who died in a raid on a militant hideout in Indonesia's Central Java province Thursday, the country's police chief said.

Asked by reporters after meeting President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono if Noordin died in the raid, national police chief Bambang Hendarso Danuri said: "yes, yes ... the details are with national police headquarters".

Draft Nat'l ID Registration Bill okayed

Draft Nat'l ID Registration Bill okayed File photoStar Online Report The cabinet today in principle approved the draft of the National Identity Registration Bill 2009 with a provision that any misuse of the national identity cards would be punishable offence. According to the proposal, the Election Commission has both the authority to register and cancel the national identity and punish if anyone has more than one identity card or fake cards or provide false information for the cards, Prime Minister’s Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad told reporters after the meeting. Held at the prime minister's office, the meeting chaired by premier Sheikh Hasina amended the Representation of the People Act 2009 with a provision that political parties will lose their registration if they failed to submit their party constitution within January 25.

BDR men at DMCH after TFI cell quizzing

BDR men at DMCH after TFI cell quizzing Star file photoStar Online Report Two Bangladesh Rifles members were admitted to Dhaka Medical College Hospital today as they were allegedly tortured during questioning at Task Force for Interrogation (TFI) cell in the BDR mutiny case. Ailing BDR members are identified as sepoy Reazul Islam, 22, of Battalion-5 in Khagrachhari, and sepoy Mohammad Arafat, 24, of Battalion-13 in Dhaka. Both the jawans were present at Pilkhana headquarters during the mutiny on February 25-26. DMCH sources said members of the TFI cell and New Market police admitted them at the DMCH around 5:00pm. They bore severe injury marks at their knees. According to hospital sources the injury marks showed that they faced torture. While laying on the DMCH bed, one of the BDR jawans said, "We were tortured brutally during the interrogation since taken to the TFI cell on Thursday." New Market police told The Daily Star, "We were informed from the Pilkhana over phone about the sickness of two BDR jawans and our forces helped them to got admission to hospital." Senior assistant superintendent of police Abdul Kahar Akand of CID, who is the main investigating officer of the mutiny case, said, "We have taken 16 more jawans on Thursday for interrogation under TFI cell." Asked, the CID ASP said, "I hard about the sickness of two jawans but yet to know about the cause as they were being interrogated under TFI cell."

JS passes municipality bill

JS passes municipality bill Star Online Report The Parliament today passed the Local Government (municipality) bill rejecting a parliamentary body’s recommendation for making lawmakers advisers to the municipalities in their respective constituencies. The parliamentary standing committee on LGRD and cooperatives ministry in its scrutiny report made the recommendation. But during passage of the bill, ruling AL lawmaker AKM Mozammel Haq brought an amendment proposal to drop the parliamentary body’s recommendation amid protests of some ruling party lawmakers. Replying to the amendment proposal, LGRD and Cooperatives Minister Syed Ashraful Islam agreed to accept it and then the House rejected the committee’s recommendation. So, from now, lawmakers are not advisers to the municipalities but the upazila parishads. Besides, another provision for two deputy mayor posts was also scrapped from the bill.

Oil gas protection body sets Oct 15 ultimatum

Oil gas protection body sets Oct 15 ultimatum Picketers bring out a procession during their half-day hartal in the capital this morning. Photo: Anisur RahmanStar Online Report The National Committee to Protect Oil, Gas, Mineral Resources, Power and Ports that enforced a half-day hartal in the city today gave an ultimatum till October 15 to the government to cancel the decision of giving offshore gas exploration rights to two foreign companies. Addressing a hartal-hour rally at Paltan, convener of the committee Engineer Md Shahidullah said they would announce next course of action from its national convention on October 16 if their demands are not met by then. Meanwhile the capital Dhaka witnessed a 6 am- 12 noon general strike after many months today without much of an impact on normal public life. Except ransacking of a few vehicles by the pro-hartal pickets at Shabagh, Paltan areas, the hartal passed off largely peacefully with transports, both motorized and non-motorized plying most of the city streets normally. A few activists of the hartal enforcers, however, set several copies of the daily Prothom Alo and the daily Amader Somoy on fire at Shahbagh accusing these newspapers of giving ‘misleading’ information about today’s hartal programme. Main opposition BNP threw its ‘moral support’ to today’s hartal call while the AL-led alliance government’s allies – Workers Party and Samyabadi Dal – who have representations in the oil, gas protection committee too, preferred not supporting the strike. Huge contingent of forces from different law enforcing and intelligent agencies were deployed at different strategic points of the city including Paltan, Dainik Bangla, Zero Point, National Press Club, Bijoynagar and Shahbagh areas. The hartal was called to press the government to retract from awarding three offshore gas exploration deals to two foreign companies with, what they claim, having provision of up to 80 percent gas export. Earlier in the morning several hundred leaders and activists of the committee with banners, placards and festoons in their hands brought out processions parading the main city thoroughfares including Paltan, the National Press Club, Dainik Bangla and Shahbagh areas. The law enforcers restricted transport movements in the above mentioned areas after the picketers took to the streets after 8:00am when some of them made attacks on several running vehicles pelting brick chips. At places, the law enforcers diverted the transport movements to alternate routes in a bid to avoid possible conflicts with the pickets. Rickshaws and other three-wheelers are plying city roads as usual while motorized vehicles also rolled out on the streets as the day progressed with private cars following the suit. Home Minister Sahara Khatun on Sunday warned of stern action in the events of any chaos in the name of hartal. To maintain law and order during hartal hours 1,650 armed forces personnel were deployed additionally at different strategic points of the city, said Walid Hossain, additional deputy commissioner of DMP (Public Relations). In a statement issued on the eve of today’s general strike the national committee convenor Engineer Sheikh Muhammad Shahidullah and member secretary Prof Anu Muhammad called upon the city dwellers to observe hartal spontaneously and peacefully, ignoring all kinds of propaganda. Ambulance, emergency electricity supply, hospitals, medicine shops, fire brigade vehicles and kitchen markets were kept outside the purview of hartal.

Bill tabled for union parishad law

Bill tabled for union parishad law Star Online Report The government today placed a bill in the parliament proposing enactment of a law on union parishads, the lowest tier of the local government system. The bill placed by LGRD and Cooperatives Minister Syed Ashraful Islam came up with some new ideas including one for introduction of ward assembly system. According to the proposed bill each of the wards of a union parishad will have a ward assembly, which will be consisted of voters of the ward and it will hold meeting in open space at least thrice in a year. The ward assembly will discuss and review the problems the area facing and play a role in implementation of the government's various schemes. The assembly will also scrutinise the authenticity of the beneficiaries from the government welfare programmes including old age allowance and subsidies. The assembly will also work to prevent child marriage, dowry, acid violence and try to resolve all other social problems and the decisions will be taken on majority’s opinion. However the bill was placed over six months after the country’s around 4,500 union parishads run without any law. It was sent to the parliamentary standing committee on LGRD ministry for scrutiny and place report in seven days. The past caretaker government repealed the then union parishad ordinance and promulgated a new one. But the ordinance ceased to have effect, as it was not ratified in the parliament within the timeframe stipulated in the Constitution.

Excess liquidity shows economy not on right track: Muhith

Excess liquidity shows economy not on right track: Muhith Finance Minister AMA MuhithStar Online Report Finance Minister AMA Muhith today said in Parliament rise of liquidity in the banks shows country’s economy is not running on the right track. “We have to confess that investment is not being made properly due to world economic recession,” Muhith said. “We cannot say that we would be able to get rid of the current situation easily." “However, we hope, the situation may change by the end of this year,” he said. Muhith said the amount of surplus liquidity increased to Tk 347.62 billion in June 2009 from Tk 129.89 billion in June 2008. “Debt flow to private sector has been decreased little due to uncertain investment situation caused by global meltdown. It’s not because of country’s monetary policy,” Muhith said. He said the main obstacles to investment are shortage of power and energy, which are must for investment. “We have taken various measures at government level to deal with the situation,” he added. The finance minister said the investment situation might take positive turn after starting of implementation of the public private partnership. On stimulus package to address the global meltdown, Muhith said the taskforce formed to deal with the prevailing situation would sit on September 16 to review the implementation of the package. He said the government is emphasizing to implement the stimulus package to tackle the impact of global economic recession on country’s economy.

Ministerial meeting on BDR trial deferred

Ministerial meeting on BDR trial deferred File photoStar Online Report The inter-ministerial meeting to decide the trial mode of the BDR mutiny, scheduled for this morning, has been deferred to 10:30am tomorrow. The meeting was postponed, as Law Minister Shafique Ahmed joined another meeting of the parliamentary standing committee on home affairs ministry on the issue of a mobile court bill, information officer of the ministry Mizanur Rahman told The Daily Star. Home Minister Sahara Khatun, State Minister for Law Qamrul Islam, Attorney General Mahbubey Alam, representatives from Bangladesh Army and Bangladesh Rifles, prosecutor of the mutiny probe and government high officials concerned are due to attend the ministerial meeting tomorrow, sources said. Earlier on Sunday the law ministry received the SC opinion on the presidential reference on the issue and convened an inter-ministerial meeting. Law Minister Shafique Ahmed officially announced the SC's opinion to journalists saying, "Although the Supreme Court has given opinion against holding trial of BDR mutiny under the army act, it has given some guidelines in this regard. We'll discuss the matter at an inter-ministerial meeting on Monday [today] to decide how the trial of the offenders can be completed expeditiously." Supreme Court gave its opinion on the BDR trial mode upon receipt of a presidential reference on the issue. After the Supreme Court's recent opinion against trying the BDR mutineers under the army act, Bangladesh Rifles requested the government to ensure a fast-track trial under any laws for the offences committed during the bloody mutiny on February 25-26.

Govt decides BDR trial mode tomorrow

Govt decides BDR trial mode tomorrow File photoStar Online Report The government will tomorrow decide under which law the BDR mutiny be tried, the law minister said today. Law Minister Shafique Ahmed said his office has received the Supreme Court opinion on the presidential reference whether the BDR mutiny can be tried under the army act. He was talking to reporters at his secretariat office after the law ministry received the opinion from Bangabhaban. The minister said so far they read the SC opinion they came to understand that the apex court gave its opinion in disfavour of holding mutiny trial under military law. He said there are some guidelines on holding trial of BDR incident. "We will hold an inter-ministerial meeting tomorrow morning to decide under which law the trial of the BDR incident will be held," he said. The minister further stated: "We will hold the trial under such law which can complete it within a very short time as BDR incident was deadly and brutal". Earlier on Thursday, the apex court sent the opinion to the Bangabhaban. The court in its opinion said it thinks the army act cannot be applied to try those accused of mutiny and massacre at the BDR headquarters on February 25-26. On August 17, President Zillur Rahman sent a reference to the SC for its views on the mode of trial for the border guards and others complicit in the Pilkhana bloodbath that left 57 top- and mid-ranking army officials killed. The presidential reference sought to know if the Army Act 1952 applies to trial of the BDR personnel. The full-bench Appellate Division that comprises Chief Justice MM Ruhul Amin, Justice Mohammad Fazlul Karim, Justice Md Tafazzul Islam, Justice Md Joynul Abedin, Justice Md Abdul Matin, Justice Shah Abu Nayeem Mominur Rahman, Justice Md Abdul Aziz, Justice BK Das, Justice ABM Khairul Haque, Justice Md Muzammel Hossain and Justice Surendra Kumar Sinha gave its opinion after hearing for six days the submissions of 10 amici curiae (friends of the court). Of them, seven opposed the idea of trial under the army act, two favoured, and one refrained from giving any opinion. The SC began hearing on the reference on August 25 and completed it on September 3.

Karnaphuli Bridge opens next month

Karnaphuli Bridge opens next month File photoStar Online Report Karnaphuli Bridge will be opened to traffic next month, Communications Minister Syed Abul Hossain told the Parliament today. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will inaugurate the bridge any day in October, the minister said in reply to a question from a lawmaker in the House.

Railway gets 100 coaches by 2011

Railway gets 100 coaches by 2011 Star Online Report The government has planned to add 100 metre gauge (MG) coaches to Bangladesh Railway by 2011, Communications Minister Syed Abul Hossain informed the parliament this morning. In reply to a query of Awami League lawmaker Israfil Alam, the communications minister disclosed some plans to purchase new compartments and new locomotives in efforts to make the railway sector profitable and popular. He said the coaches would be purchased under ‘Bangladesh Railway Sector Development Project’. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is financing the project. Besides, 50 MG flat wagon and five break-vans would be purchased for container transportation by 2011, said the communications minister. He said an agreement has already been signed with China on May 4, 2009. The government has also planned to purchase 21 locomotives for the railway by 2012, he said. The House proceedings resumed this morning after a two-day recess.

2 outlaws killed in Kushtia 'crossfire'

2 outlaws killed in Kushtia 'crossfire' Star Online Report Two top outlawed party leaders were killed in separate incidents of 'crossfire' between police and their cohorts in Kushtia early today. The dead were identified as Marfat Hossain, 40, son of Ishaq Biswas of Ailchara in sadar upazila, and Biplob, 33, son of late Tofazzel Hossain of Kataikhana area in Kushtia district town. Marfat was one of the top leaders of Gono Bahini (GB) while Biplob was that of Gono Mukti Fouz (GMF). The first 'shootout' took place at Ailchara village where the GB cadres got into a gunfight with police at about 3:30am, reports our Kushtia correspondent. According to police, a team of sadar police raided Ailchara when the GB cadres led by Marfat were holding a meeting beneath the Ailchara Bara Bridge. The police cordoned off the area and asked the outlaws to surrender. But the criminals opened fire, prompting the law enforcers to retaliate that triggered the gunbattle. The body of Marfat was found on the spot after the operatives fled the scene. Police recovered a shutter gun and eight bullets from the spot. Marfat was accused in six cases including for murder and abduction filed with Kushtia sadar and Islamic University police stations. In another incident, a police team led by Assistant Police Super (ASP) Alamgir Hossain raided Chadgara Eidgah ground after information that outlawed GMF was holding a meeting there at about 5:00am. Sensing the police, the GMF cadres led by Biplob opened fire on police, forcing the law enforcers to fire back. At one stage, the outlaws fled the scene and Biplob was found dead on the spot. Police recovered two LG and nine bullets from the spot. Biplob was accused in a dozen of cases including five for murder filed with the sadar police station. According to police, Biplob recently threatened a police official in the district to kill him. With this, the death toll in the district in ‘crossfire’ reaches 21 in last 17 days.

Work on Dhaka-Ctg 4-lane project starts this year

Work on Dhaka-Ctg 4-lane project starts this year In an undated file photo, Communications Minister Syed Abul Hossain seen speaking to reporters.UNB, Dhaka Communications Minister Syed Abul Hossain today said in Parliament his ministry would start the work the Dhaka-Chittagong 4-lane project this year. Replying to a supplementary question from AL lawmaker Subid Ali Bhuiyan (Comilla-1), he said the communications ministry received the tender papers on September 8. The minister said the evaluation of the bids would be completed by the Roads and Highway Division (RHD) by next month. After completing the procedural works by November, his ministry would be able to start the work by the end of this year, he said.

Thousands rally against Obama govt

Thousands rally against Obama govt Protesters against US President Barack Obama's health care plan and other policies gather in Washington, DC, on September 12. Photo: AFPAFP, Washington Tens of thousands of protestors from across the United States descended on the nation's capital Saturday, decrying President Barack Obama, "big government" and big spending. They carried hand-painted posters protesting Obama's proposed health care reforms and accusing his administration of leading the United States down the road to socialism. "Abortion is not healthcare," read one sign. Another, held aloft by an immigrant from Ukraine, said: "I had enough of socialism in the USSR." The demonstrator, who refused to give his name, said he had come to Washington from Baltimore because "too many things remind me of what I saw in the communist countries. "Communism didn't work over there and it's not going to work over here," he told AFP. Quinn Ryan, 11, stood in the middle of Pennsylvania Avenue, near the spot where Obama and his wife Michelle greeted supporters in January after he was sworn in as America's first black president, brandishing a sign reading: "Born free, taxed to death." The protest was coordinated by Freedomworks, a grassroots movement calling for lower taxes, less government and more economic freedom for all Americans The march had to set off before the scheduled 11:30 am start time as Freedom Plaza near the White House filled to overflowing. Police were unable to say how many people had turned out for the rally, but at mid-afternoon the crowd stretched out of sight from the legislature and onto the National Mall. The organizers said earlier in the week they hoped to attract between 20,000 and 30,000 people from around the country for the protest, which was supported by prominent conservatives, including former House Majority leader Dick Armey. Holly and Nick Bikakis had come from California for the protest. "It's not convenient for us to be here, and it's costing us money we'd rather not spend, but we felt strongly enough that we decided we would come no matter what," Nick Bikakis told AFP. The couple were among many at the protest carrying signs that read: "You lie" -- the words shouted by Republican lawmaker Joe Wilson at Obama during the president's speech about health care to Congress this week. Lois Calzone from Maryland carried a poster showing Obama painted as Batman character "the Joker" with the captions "Un-American" and "cap and traitor." "He is a traitor. He's either a Marxist or a Communist and we're not. He's totally un-American," Calzone told AFP. "I think Saudi Arabia is behind him. Where did he get all that money to fund his campaign?" she said. Her daughter, who refused to give her name, said: "The reason he hasn't picked a church in DC is because he's not Christian. He's Muslim. "We were willing to give him the benefit of the doubt but this is too much." Some in the crowd were there to try and engage those skeptical of the Obama administration. Georgetown University law student Lindsay Windsor asked demonstrators to explain their opinions of the president. "A lot of the slogans are very inflammatory and I want to understand what they actually mean," said Windsor, 22, who was wearing an Obama-Biden T-shirt, as she walked over to Calzone and her friends. "I don't want to try to convince you that I'm right. I want to try to understand you. If we are going to fix our country's problems, we need to have a conversation together," Windsor said to the group of women. "Obama is a sleeper cell... Go have a conversation with someone else," Calzone's daughter told her.

Prisoners of ropes

Prisoners of ropes Dozens of kids engaged in worst form of child labour at rope factories in city outskirts; rigours apart, they routinely suffer from lung ailments At school going age these children are exhausting themselves working in a rope factory beneath the Second Buriganga Bridge at Keraniganj. Photo: Shafiqul AlamEmran Hossain Big sacks containing coils of rope pile up on the floors of four rope factories under the Buriganga Bridge in Aganagar in Keraniganj as 40 children toil away all day long every day. Since daybreak the children aged between five and twelve work hard for at least 12 hours, featuring one of the worst forms of child labour with exposure to various health hazards. These children constantly run between two pillars, carrying strings from a spinning wheel to the other end covering a distance of 33 feet for rope production. There are four such wheels each in all the four factories producing ropes suspending huge jute particles in the air. The children have to run non-stop between the pillars the whole day, as the production requires continuous hanging of strings. Short of breath with their faces flushing red, the children are forced to run or walk fast for unusually long hours for the sake of production. Moreover, they are burdened with making coils of rope, carrying huge sacks of bobbins, turning the wheel and applying glue to the rope. As the children don't have any protection gears like masks or eyeglasses, they are forced to inhale jute particles suspended in the air as long as production continues. It has become a routine for seven-year-old Sohag, who works at one of these factories, to suffer respiratory ailments twice or thrice every month. "Sohag suffers from inhaling problems, fever, itching, abdomen pain, and skin diseases routinely each month," says his day labourer father Sirajul Islam. Whenever his son's condition deteriorates, Siraj buys him some cheap pills from the local pharmacy. And that's all he can afford. Siraj realises that he should have sent his kid to school, but instead he engaged him in the hazardous task as he is unable to run his family alone. Now at this tender age Sohag also suffers from hernia, which intensifies so much a few times every month that he can't help crying in unbearable pain. Sohag and other children risk all these health hazards for wages ranging between only Tk 35 and Tk 100 per day. The wages are not fixed and paid based on their daily performance, satirising all the national and international laws regarding child labour and human rights. "Besides jute particles, these children are also exposed to micro-fibres that might cause fibrosis in the lungs. The fibres affect the normal spongy and elastic features of the lungs, gradually making it stiff and non-functional in performing its main duty of exchanging oxygen and carbon dioxide," says Asif Muztaba Mahmud, associate professor, National Institute of Diseases of the Chest and Hospital. "As the lungs lose elasticity, its respiratory function will naturally be retarded and the person suffer from restrictive diseases. Thus the children might become respiratory crippled and ultimately meet early death from respiratory failure," Mahmud adds. Medical experts also say inhaling jute particles might cause cough and lung problems like asthma and also hamper normal physical growth. "The atmosphere is risky for the children who are yet to develop immunity. Many other children might have sensitivity to the particles and might suffer from allergic problems if they continue this work," says Prof ARM Luthful Kabir, director, Institute of Child and Mother Health. Explaining preference for the children, Deen Islam, head operator of a factory, said, "Employing children ensures more production than employing adults as the height of a child is more appropriate for operating the wheel and pulling thinner strings." "The work is tiresome as it requires day-long running, which adults do not feel comfortable with. Secondly, employing children costs low wage," said Nahid, younger brother of Iqbal, who owns the factory. "Many of the child labourers here are either orphan or abandoned by their fathers, while families of many others are indebted. These children are earning money for their families," Deen Islam added. One of the factory owners says his factory produces eight to nine maunds of rope every day. He adds he sells the produce at Tk 120 per maund in the wholesale market in Imamganj. Interestingly, neither the government nor the non-government organisations have any clear idea how many rope factories exist in the country. According to the labour laws, children under 14 cannot be employed in any industry that may cause harm to their health.

Tributes pour in for 'Baul Samrat'

Tributes pour in for 'Baul Samrat' Photo: TV grab Star Online ReportThousands of people from different walks of life paid homage to legendary folk artist Shah Abdul Karim, who died this morning at a hospital in Sylhet. Different political and socio-cultural organisations placed wreaths on the coffin of the 'Baul Samrat' after it was brought to Sylhet Shaheed Minar at about 1:00pm. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina expressed her deep shock at the death of the renowned folk lyricist, singer and composer. In a condolence message, the prime minister said the demise of Shah Abdul Karim is an irreparable loss to the cultural arena of the Bengali nation. The first namaz-e-janaza of Shah Abdul Karim was held after Zohr prayers on the mazar premises of Hazarat Shah Jalal (RA) in Sylhet. The 'Baul Samrat' will be buried beside his wife Sarala Devi at his village home Ujandhol in Derai upazila of Sunamganj following another namaz-e-janaza after Zohr prayers tomorrow. The legendary folk artist died of old age complications at Nurjahan General Hospital in Sylhet at 7:58am at the age of 93, reports our staff correspondent in Sylhet. Before the death, the legendary folk artist was kept on artificial life-support system at the Intensive Care Unit after his condition deteriorated yesterday morning, his physician at the Nurjahan General Hospital said. He was suffering from respiratory problem along with other complications, his doctor added. The poet was brought to the hospital from his village home in Ujandhol under Derai upazila of Sunamganj on September 3. Abdul Karim was born in 1916 in a low land area (locally known as 'Bhati anchal') called Ujandhol in Sunamganj district. The place remains submerged almost eight months of a year. Karim never had a chance to attend any school. Growing up with poverty and hardship, he started expressing his thoughts and emotions musically from very early age. Ektara, a traditional single string instrument has been his constant companion. His songs had spell-binding effects on the people in and around his village, not to mention his melodic, soothing and pleasingly rustic voice. He was so indulged in music that unlike other typical Bangladeshis he failed to engage in some 'jobs' and continued entertaining people with his music (by and large, music is yet to be recognized as a full grown profession in Bangladesh). However, poverty forced him to get into agricultural labour. But nothing could stop him from making good music. As he was growing up, he received training on spiritual and baul music from Kamal Uddin, Shadhak Rashid Uddin, Shah Ibrahim Mastan Baksh. His versatility ranged from Baul song, Spiritual song to Bhatiali. He went on learning all the exclusive modules of Baul song afterwards along with Shariatti, Marfatti, Nabuoti, Belayati, the various devout form of music. He was motivated by philosophy of renowned Lalan Shah, Panju Shah and Duddu Shah. He was awarded the Ekushey Padok in 2001 for his outstanding musical achievements. His contribution reflected by the modern singer Habib. He also received Drouhee Kotha-shahitayk Abdur Rouf Choudhury Award in 2000. Baul Shah Abdul Karim has written and composed over 1600 songs. These songs are organized in six books, like: Aftab Sangeet, Gano Sangeet, Kalnir Dheu, Dholmela, Bhatir Chithi and Kalnir Kooley. Bangla Academy has translated ten of his songs into English language. Shah Abdul Karim, the legend of Baul songs and a versatile genius, had all through lived a very simple life often faced with harsh reality. However, with the recent trend of popular 'modern' versions of his (and other) Baul songs in Bangladesh, he is now widely recognized and honoured by people, even by the younger generations who had never been 'fans of tradition folk songs'. Some of Karim’s most famous musical numbers include – Agey ki shundor din kataitham, Gari cholena cholena, Jil Mil Jil Mil Kore, Ashi Bole Gelo Bondhu, Kano piritee barailarey bondhu, Maiya lagaise, Ami koolhara kolonkini, Ami tomar kol-er gari, Shokhi kunjo shajao, Ailai na ailai na and Boshonto Batashey.

Govt mulls outlaw surrender

Govt mulls outlaw surrender Star Online ReportState Minister for Home Shamsul Haque Tuku today said the government might consider allowing the outlaws to surrender if they decide to return to a normal life, reports our Pabna correspondent. The sate minister was talking to reporters after a meeting with top officials of law enforcing agencies of the country's southwest region in Pabna today. He also said there is no term called 'crossfire' in the activities of law enforcing agencies. But when criminals attack the law enforcement personnel, they (criminals) apparently prompt them (law enforcers) to fire back to save their lives. In the wake of rising criminal activities by different outlawed parties in the southwest part of the country, the state minister held the meeting to give the law enforcers necessary guidelines to improve the overall law and order situation immediately. High officials of Police and Rapid Action Battalion (Rab) including Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of police of Khulna Range, Rab Additional Director General Col Mizanur Rahman and Police Superintendents of ten districts of the region were present at the meeting. Earlier on August 20, Inspector General of Police Nur Mohammad and Director General of Rapid Action Battalion (Rab) Hassan Mahmood Khandaker visited Kushtia and directed the law enforcers to launch a joint drive. Since then the law enforcers have been conducting a special drive in the region in which at least 16 extremists have been killed in 'shootouts' between the law enforcers and their cohorts. "The combing operation will be launched to cut down the strength of the outlawed parties and force their armed members to give in," said a senior official of the home ministry. The home ministry is working as to whether the outlawed party activists, if surrendered, could be brought under general mercy of the government like that of 1999 when 2,700 members of different outlawed parties surrendered with 2,100 firearms. Different sources said the outlawed party members have so far killed around 250 people in the southwest region after the Awami League-led grand alliance government assumed office. The southwest region includes Kushtia, Meherpur, Chuadanga, Jhenidah, Jessore, Narail, Magura, Satkhira, Bagerhat and Khulna.

BSF kills 2 in Dinajpur

BSF kills 2 in Dinajpur Star online ReportIndian Border Security Force (BSF) today gunned down two Bangladeshi nationals on Shundra border in Dinajpur Sadar upazila. The deceased were identified as Ashraful Islam, 40, son of Fazar Ali of Jhulkagram village, and Md Aminul Islam, 30, son of Mokshed Ali of Jaygirpara village in the upazila, reports our Dinajpur correspondent.

Pirate killed in Khulna 'encounter'

Pirate killed in Khulna 'encounter' Star Online ReportA pirate was killed in an 'encounter' between his associates and police in Dacope upazila of Khulna last night. He was identified as Md Faruk Khan, 32, son of Majid Khan of Banishanta village of the upazila, reports our staff correspondent in Khulna. Two police constables -- Bidyut Kanti and Babul Sheikh -- were also injured during the gunfight, police said. Acting on a tip-off, a team of police at about 12:20am raided the bank of Bhatra river where Faruk and his accomplices were preparing for a robbery, police said. Sensing the presence of the law enforcers, the criminals opened fire on the police. Faruk was killed in the resulting gunfight that lasted around 20 minutes. His associates however managed to flee the scene. According to Officer-in-charge of Dacope Police Station Syed Ziauzzaman Faruk is accused in at least seven cases including for murder, arms and robbery under Dacope and Koyra police stations. Police recovered a shutter gun, a pipe gun and two rifles from the spot. Two cases were filed with the local police station in this connection.

7 Afghan police killed in Taliban raid

7 Afghan police killed in Taliban raid File photo AFP, KabulSeven Afghan policemen were killed in a Taliban raid on their post in northern Afghanistan where attacks linked to the Islamist militants are soaring, the local governor said Saturday. The attack happened late Friday in Kunduz province and comes as the country faces its worst violence in an eight-year war. "Last night, Taliban attacked a police post in Durai area of Kunduz province and killed seven policemen, one of them the commander of the post," said Juma Khan Babar, district governor of Kunduz Imam Sahib district. "Two of the policemen were left alive," he told AFP. Kunduz was until recently relatively peaceful but has seen a surge in attacks since early this year. Two New York Times reporters were kidnapped last week in the province, areas of which appear to have come under Taliban influence in recent months. British-Irish journalist Stephen Farrell escaped unharmed in a Nato commando operation on Wednesday, but his Afghan colleague Sultan Munadi was killed in the crossfire along with a British soldier, and an Afghan woman and child. The Taliban regime was toppled in a US-led invasion in late 2001, but the extremists have regrouped to take on about 100,000 Nato and US troops in the war-scarred nation. A London-based think tank said on Friday the Taliban now had a presence in virtually all areas of Afghanistan.

In shift, US offers to talk directly to NKorea

In shift, US offers to talk directly to NKorea A combination of file photos created on Saturday shows US president Barack Obam (L) and North Korean leader Kim Jong Il. Photo: AFP AFP, WashingtonIn a policy shift, the Obama administration said Friday it is prepared to hold direct talks with North Korea in a bid to bring Pyongyang back to six-nation nuclear disarmament negotiations. The administration -- which has conditioned talks with North Korea on Pyongyang's agreeing to return to a nuclear deal it quit in April -- made the offer after consulting partners China, South Korea, Japan and Russia. "We had consultations with our partners in the six-party process," Assistant Secretary of State Philip Crowley told reporters at the daily news briefing. "We are prepared to enter into a bilateral discussion with North Korea, but it's important to characterize it properly," Crowley added. "It's a bilateral discussion that (is) hopefully... within the six-party context, and it's designed to convince North Korea to come back to the six-party process and to take affirmative steps towards denuclearization," he said. Crowley denied the move amounted to a significant policy change, but suggested it amounted to a tactical shift when he called it a "short-term" measure to bring the reclusive Stalinist state back to talks. He said it is too early to say when and where envoys such as Stephen Bosworth, the pointman for North Korea in President Barack Obama's administration, and his deputy Sung Kim would meet their North Korean counterparts. "Given the consultations that we have, given the invitation that was extended (from North Korea for direct talks), we'll make some decisions, you know, in the next couple of weeks," Crowley said. He was referring to consultations that Bosworth had with his counterparts from China, South Korea and Japan during a tour of Asia in the last week. Kim stayed on in Asia to consult with his Russian counterpart. Bosworth gave no hint of a change in plan when he spoke in Tokyo on Tuesday. On August 25, State Department spokesman Ian Kelly said the United States would sit down with the North Koreans only if they agreed to return to six-party disarmament talks. North Korea quit the six-way talks grouping in April in protest at UN censure of a rocket launch. The UN Security Council then tightened sanctions on North Korea after it staged an underground nuclear weapons test in May. The United States has long said that any bilateral talks would come only within the framework of six-party talks, which also include China, Japan, Russia and South Korea. The six-party consultations came after North Korea began to soften its posture recently and sought bilateral talks with Washington, while attempting to scrap the six-way talks aimed at ending its nuclear ambitions. But Pyongyang said last week it had reached the final stages of enriching uranium and was also building more plutonium-based atomic weapons. A senior State Department official told reporters on the condition of anonymity that "it will probably be Ambassador Bosworth" who meets with the North Koreans. "I wouldn't say it's imminent, probably not before UNGA," the official added. He was referring to the UN General Assembly (UNGA) meeting in New York at the end of September in New York. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Obama are expected to discuss North Korea there with their international partners.

India accuses Pakistan of cross-border shelling

India accuses Pakistan of cross-border shelling AFP, WagahIndia accused Pakistani frontier troopers Saturday of firing two rockets across the border near a popular tourist attraction in northern Punjab. The shells exploded in a village farm in Indian Punjab's border Wagah region late Friday but caused no casualties, Himmat Singh, chief of India's Border Security Force (BSF) in Punjab, told reporters. "We retaliated with machine-gun fire," Singh said. The shelling occurred near the Indian border crossing of Wagah which is often thronged with tourists who gather on both sides of the border every day to watch a ceremonial military change of Pakistani and Indian guards at sunset. Singh said border commanders from both sides would meet soon to discuss the alleged shelling. The Indian military said it was the first such incident in decades in Wagah. There was no immediate comment available from Islamabad. Tensions between the neighbours flared in the wake of the Mumbai attacks last November, which India blamed on Pakistan-based militants and "official agencies" of Pakistan, a charge Islamabad has denied. Exchanges of heavy fire were routine along the disputed border in divided Kashmir until a 2003 ceasefire agreement between nuclear armed India and Pakistan. Since the Mumbai attacks there have been sporadic small arm exchanges. An elected Punjab village councillor accused Pakistani soldiers of trying to intimidate an all female paramilitary contingent which was the first to be deployed at the Wagah border. "Firing from Pakistan is a vicious attempt to demoralise the village folks as well as newly deployed lady soldiers," Baljit Singh, the councillor, said. India and Pakistan have fought two of their three wars since independence in 1947 over the Himalayan region of Kashmir, which is claimed by both nations. Wheat-bowl Indian Punjab was the location of a fierce land-air battle during the second war between the countries in 1965.

19 killed in crossfire in Aug: Odhikar

Taking the total number of dead to eight in the last two weeks Friday September 11 2009 11:12:52 AM BDT Ruling Awami League MP Saber Hossain Chowdhury has placed a bill in parliament proposing life-term sentence to perpetrators of killings in custody of law-enforcement agencies. Chowdhury brought the bill in the wake of a recent spate of killings of a number of alleged criminals by elite force RAB and police in so-called 'crossfire' and 'encounters'.(bdnews24.com, Dhaka) Another militant outlaw was killed in alleged shootout with police and RAB early on Thursday in Kushtia, taking the total number of dead to eight in the last two weeks. The MP presented two bills-Torture and Custody Death (Prevention) Bill 2009 and Resisting Eviction of Slum Dwellers from Government Land Bill 2009, which have been sent for scrutiny to the relevant parliamentary committees. In his written statement, Chowdhury said: "The state organisations, particularly the law enforcers forget the basic rights of people. It cannot be possible to ensure justice in many cases. "People are tortured on various excuses through the administration and police forces. They face brutal torture at various times under the custody of law. Even deaths are taking place frequently in security custody." The former AL organising secretary in his bill proposed life term and at least Tk 1 lakh fine for the perpetrators if found guilty. Home minister Sahara Khatun has claimed that no extra-judicial killing was taking place during the crackdown in the southwest. "Those who are getting killed are dying in gun battles with the police and RAB," she said last Sunday. 'Odhikar', a human rights organisation, said at least 19 people were killed in August across the country in so-called 'crossfire, encounter or gunfight'. Of the deceased, 10 allegedly belonged to different underground militant outfits. According to available figures, a total 577 people died in 472 'crossfire' incidents across the country since RAB was constituted on March 26, 2004.

Delhi offers transit, power

Delhi offers transit, power Dhaka discusses use of Ctg port; both countries agree to a host of issues at foreign minister level talks in India Staff Correspondent In a major breakthrough in bilateral relationship, India has agreed with Bangladesh to facilitate Bangladesh's transit to Nepal and Bhutan, provide at least 100MW power on priority basis, increase trade and communication facilities and resolve other outstanding issues. Recognising the importance of bilateral and regional connectivity, Bangladesh discussed allowing India to use Chittagong Port and designating Ashuganj as a new port of call under the Inland Water Transit and Trade Agreement, says a joint press statement of Foreign Minister Dipu Moni and Indian External Affairs Minister SM Krishna. Both sides agreed to resolve outstanding issues relating to Dahagram and Angarpota enclaves and Tin Bigha Corridor, said the statement issued in New Delhi yesterday during Dipu Moni's September 7-10 official visit to the neighbouring country. Both the countries recognised the need to finalise the water-sharing agreement for the Teesta and agreed to begin Joint Hydrological Observations on the river immediately. If finalised, this will be the second water management treaty with India after the 1996 Ganges Water Treaty. Bangladesh and India did not have any dialogue on water sharing in the last four years. The two countries agreed to finalise three agreements on mutual legal assistance on criminal matters, transfer of sentenced persons and combating international terrorism, organised crime and illegal drug trafficking. They agreed on re-opening of Sabroom-Ramgarh trade point as well as a land route at Demagiri-Thegamukh on the Mizoram border for bilateral trade. India agreed in principle to provide Bangladesh with a line of credit for railway projects and supplying locomotives, coaches and buses. It offered to take up construction of Akhaura-Agartala railway link under Indian assistance. India also agreed to assist Bangladesh in dredging rivers. Both the sides agreed to start markets on the Bangladesh-Meghalaya border and allow movement of container cargos by rail and water for bilateral trade. Bangladesh raised the issue of duty-free access for its commodities, removal of non-tariff and para-tariff barriers and improvement of infrastructure on the Indian side. India requested Bangladesh to remove barriers to Indian investments and port restrictions for specific commodities. Foreign Minister Dipu Moni earlier discussed a range of issues with the Indian foreign minister. She also called on Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Union Minister for Finance Pranab Mukherjee and Union Minister for Water Resources and Parliamentary Affairs Pawan Kumar Bansal. Dipu was accompanied by her spouse Tawfique Newaz, Foreign Secretary Ambassador Mijarul Quayes, and Director General (South Asia) of foreign ministry Muhammad Imran. The Indian premier told Dipu that India attaches highest priority to its relations with Bangladesh. He reiterated his invitation to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to visit India, expressing the hope that her visit would write a new chapter in Indo-Bangladesh relations. During the official talks, the two ministers noted that recent elections have provided both the countries with a historical opportunity to take their bilateral relations to a greater height. Our New Delhi correspondent writes: This is the first time that India and Bangladesh reached such substantive agreements in the area of security cooperation. Replying to a question from media persons at the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi after the release of the joint statement, Dipu said Bangladesh government is taking action against militants and India and Bangladesh agreed to cooperate on the issue. She reiterated "our resolve not to allow use of our territories against each other". Asked about the joint operation against militants, she said the two countries can cooperate by sharing intelligence about the ultras. She, however, made it clear that the two countries "have not finalised anything on extradition agreement". "We agreed to work together and move together not only in bilateral relations but also for entire South Asia," Dipu Moni said. She said since both the countries believe in the rule of law and democratic and secular societies, "this is a historical opportunity for the two countries to move together to take bilateral relations to a new height". The two countries were understood to have had differences on a "few words" in the joint statement, which were sorted out after Dipu had telephonic calls with "appropriate authorities in Dhaka". Excerpts from joint press statement Both sides recognised the need to expedite negotiations with a view to finalise an agreement for sharing of the waters of Teesta river. Towards this end, they agreed to mandate their respective Foreign Offices to meet and discuss the technical and other parameters of this issue. They agreed to immediately commence Joint Hydrological Observations on the river. They also agreed to undertake bank protection works, dredging of Ichhamati river and minor irrigation/drinking water schemes on Feni river. The Bangladesh side thanked the Indian side for the hospitality and cooperation extended to the Bangladesh Parliamentary delegation during their visit to the proposed Tipaimukh Dam site. In this context, the Bangladesh side welcomed India's reassurance that it would not take steps that would adversely impact Bangladesh. Both sides recognised the importance of bilateral and regional connectivity. In this context, both sides discussed designating Ashuganj as a new port of call under Article-23 of the Inland Water Transit and Trade Agreement as well as the use of Chittagong port by India. Bangladesh side agreed to provide access to Ashuganj Port to facilitate the transportation of the Over Dimensional Consignments for the Palatana Power Project in Tripura. Indian side agreed to facilitate Nepal-Bangladesh and Bhutan-Bangladesh connectivity. Both sides agreed to enhance cooperation in the power sector. India agreed to provide at least 100 MW to Bangladesh on a priority basis. Ahead of this, it will also undertake a feasibility study on power grid inter-connectivity for transmission lines, etc from India to Bangladesh. Both sides agreed on the re-opening [of] Sabroom-Ramgarh trade point as well as opening a land route at Demagiri-Thegamukh on the Mizoram border for bilateral trade. India agreed in principle to provide a Line of Credit for railway projects and supply of locomotives, coaches and buses. India offered to take up construction of Akhaura-Agartala railway link under Indian assistance. India also agreed to assist Bangladesh in the dredging sector. Both sides agreed to start Border Haats [markets] at the Bangladesh-Meghalaya border for mutual benefit of the people in these areas. Both sides agreed to movement of containerised cargo by rail and water for bilateral trade. Both sides welcomed the holding of the Joint Working Group on Trade last month and discussed broad economic issues with a view to fully activate all institutional mechanisms to promote two-way trade, initiate long pending trade facilitation measures and facilitate movement of businessmen and professionals. Bangladesh specifically raised the issue of duty free access to Bangladeshi commodities, removal of Non Tariff and Para Tariff Barriers and improvement of infrastructures on the Indian side. Indian side expressed its readiness to assist Bangladesh in strengthening the Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institute. It also requested for removal of barriers to Indian investments and port restrictions for specific commodities. Both sides agreed to comprehensively address all outstanding land boundary issues. Both sides expressed their intent to resolve outstanding issues relating to Dahagram and Angarpota enclaves and the Tin Bigha Corridor. Both sides also recognised the need for electrification of Dahagram and Angarpota enclaves as a humanitarian gesture. The two Ministers reiterated their resolve to strengthen bilateral co-operation to deter the recurrence of terrorist incidents. Both sides also reiterated their resolve not to allow the use of their territories for activities inimical to each other's security interests. Both sides agreed to conclude the following three agreements: a. Agreement for mutual legal assistance on criminal matters; b. Agreement of transfer of sentenced persons; c. Agreement on combating international terrorism, organised crime and illegal drug trafficking. The two Ministers reiterated their conviction that opportunities for fruitful collaboration between the two countries in furthering mutual interests were enormous and resolved to remain engaged to expeditiously address all bilateral issues.