New York — Taseen Ferdous, a 35-year-old dancer, educator, and cultural artist, has died in New York, leaving the Bangladeshi American community and the local cultural world in mourning.  Ferdous passed away early Sunday, October 18, while receiving treatment at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center in Queens, New York. Reports indicate that she developed a severe viral infection, and her condition deteriorated rapidly despite medical treatment.

Ferdous was the only daughter of Annie Ferdous, artistic director of the Bangladesh Institute of Performing Arts (BIPA), and engineer Zafar Ahmed. Her unexpected death has brought profound grief to her family, friends, colleagues, students, and members of the Bangladeshi American community.

In addition to her work as a teacher with the New York City Department of Education, Ferdous was actively involved in dance and cultural activities. She was known for her dedication to preserving and promoting Bengali cultural traditions through performance and education. She began her dance journey at an early age under the influence of her mother and through her association with BIPA. Over the years, she developed her skills in traditional, folk, and contemporary dance.

At the age of 13, Ferdous began studying Bharatanatyam, a classical Indian dance form, under renowned dance teacher Tejaswini Raj at the Shiva Jyoti Dance Academy in New York. After years of training, she completed her arangetram, a traditional solo debut performance marking a significant milestone in a Bharatanatyam dancer’s journey, in 2013.

Through her involvement with BIPA and the Shiva Jyoti Dance Academy, Ferdous participated in multicultural events and performances that helped showcase South Asian and Bengali cultural traditions to wider audiences.

Beyond her professional and artistic pursuits, Ferdous was also involved in community initiatives. Published reports describe her participation in social service and efforts supporting immigrant communities, including activities in the Kensington neighborhood of Brooklyn. Her work reflected a commitment to education, cultural expression, and community engagement. Her sudden passing at the age of 35 has left a deep void among those who knew her and appreciated her contributions.

Ferdous is survived by her husband, young son Lucas, parents, and other family members. Her death has been a devastating loss for her loved ones and the wider community. Members of the Bangladeshi American community have expressed condolences and sympathy for the bereaved family. Her contributions as an educator and dancer are being remembered by those whose lives she touched through her work and cultural activities. Further details regarding funeral arrangements and memorial services should be confirmed with the family or official community announcements.

New York Correspondent — The two-day Times Square Durga Utsav 2026 concluded successfully in the heart of New York City, bringing together members of the Bengali diaspora for a vibrant celebration of religious tradition, culture, music, and dance. The festival, held on October 10 and 11, drew enthusiastic participation from the Bengali community despite challenging weather conditions on the second day.

Following the conclusion of the event, the Times Square Durga Utsav Association expressed its heartfelt gratitude to everyone who attended, volunteered, contributed, and supported the celebration.

On Saturday, October 10, thousands of Bengalis gathered at Times Square under bright, sunny skies to celebrate the spirit of Durga Puja. The event transformed the iconic Manhattan destination into a lively gathering place for Bengali culture, devotion, and community spirit. Participants from New York and surrounding areas came together to pay their respects to Goddess Durga and celebrate their cultural heritage far from their ancestral homeland.

The festival provided an opportunity for members of the Bengali diaspora to reconnect with their traditions while sharing their rich cultural identity with the wider public. Weather conditions changed on Sunday, October 11, as rain swept through the area. Despite the unfavorable weather, hundreds of people continued to visit the festival venue to offer their prayers and pay homage to Goddess Durga.

Their presence reflected the deep devotion, enthusiasm, and cultural bonds that unite Bengalis across geographical boundaries. The turnout demonstrated that adverse weather could not dampen the community’s spirit or its connection to one of its most cherished festivals.

The two-day celebration featured religious rituals, prayers, floral offerings, the distribution of prasad, music, dance, and other cultural activities. Through these programs, the organizers sought to showcase Bengali heritage and the traditions of Durga Puja on an international platform. The celebration also served as an opportunity for younger generations of Bengali Americans to connect with their cultural roots.

For many members of the diaspora, the gathering represented more than a religious celebration. It was a moment to strengthen community ties, preserve traditions, and share Bengali culture with people from different backgrounds.

One of the notable highlights of this year’s festival was the recognition of six organizations for their contributions to preserving Bengali culture and the tradition of Durga Puja in the United States. The organizations honored were Bay Area Probashi Incorporated, Bengali Association of Greater Chicago, Bengali Cultural Society, East Coast Durga Puja Association, Kallol, and Pragati.

Their work in maintaining Bengali cultural traditions, promoting community engagement, and passing heritage on to younger generations was recognized as an important contribution to the Bengali diaspora.

In a message following the conclusion of the festival, the Times Square Durga Utsav Association thanked everyone who contributed their time, effort, and support to make the event possible.

The organizers highlighted the enthusiastic participation on the first day and the determination of devotees who attended despite the rain on the second day. They said the community’s love, devotion, and cooperation would remain a source of inspiration for future events.

The association also emphasized that although this year’s celebration had come to an end, the spirit of unity, friendship, and cultural harmony would continue. Organizers expressed their hope of welcoming Goddess Durga again next year with renewed enthusiasm and fresh aspirations.

The Times Square Durga Utsav has become an important occasion for the Bengali community to celebrate its religious traditions and showcase its cultural identity in one of the world’s most recognizable public spaces.

Beyond the religious ceremonies, the event highlighted the importance of preserving Bengali language, heritage, and traditions among communities living abroad. As the 2026 celebration concludes, organizers and participants look forward to returning next year for another gathering centered on devotion, cultural pride, and community solidarity. The Times Square Durga Utsav Association concluded its message by wishing peace, prosperity, and well-being for all and thanking everyone who helped make the festival memorable.

Shibbir Ahmed, New York – Channel i and Impress Telefilm, two prominent names in Bangladesh’s television industry, celebrated their 28th anniversary with a colorful event in New York. The celebration brought together prominent members of the Bangladeshi diaspora for an evening of awards, musical performances and greetings.

The event was jointly hosted by Ekushey Padak-winning writer, filmmaker and singer Afzal Hossain and journalist and television presenter Mainul Islam. One of the highlights of the program was the presentation of awards recognizing contributions to journalism, environmental journalism, and the promotion and expansion of Channel i across North America.

Mainul Islam, special correspondent and presenter at Channel i, was honored for his contributions to journalism. Special correspondent Md. Soumik Ahmed received recognition for his work in environmental journalism, while General Manager Md. Mohiuddin Khan Moin was honored for his role in promoting and expanding Channel i’s presence in North America. The award ceremony was attended by Faridur Reza Sagar, managing director of Impress Telefilm Limited and Channel i, along with Afzal Hossain, entrepreneur Kona Reza and other distinguished guests.

Speakers emphasized the importance of the media in promoting the Bengali language and culture and showcasing Bangladesh’s heritage abroad. They noted that Bangla-language media serving expatriate communities can help strengthen the connection between younger generations and Bangladesh’s language, culture and traditions. The cultural segment was another major attraction of the evening. Popular actress Moushumi and singer Dinat Jahan Munni delighted the audience with a duet performance.

Other notable attendees included journalist Khalid Mohiuddin, Bangladesh’s Press Minister in Washington, Golam Mortuza, and Anisuzzaman, Bangladesh’s Deputy Consul General in New York. Leaders of the Bangladesh-American Police Association (BAPA), along with artists, businesspeople and guests from various professional backgrounds, also attended the celebration. The 28th anniversary celebration of Channel i and Impress Telefilm served as a gathering of the Bangladeshi diaspora, highlighting the enduring role of Bengali-language media in preserving cultural identity and strengthening community ties abroad.

New York: Several Bangladeshis have been detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in New York State, raising concern within the expatriate community. Among those detained is Inamul Haque Inam, a familiar face in the Bangladeshi community and a cultural worker. Inam was detained last Wednesday. Since then, acquaintances have said they have been unable to contact him.

Inam came to the United States about 42 years ago. He lived for a long time in Jamaica, New York. Alongside his cultural activities, he was involved in organizing entertainment events. Inam used to bring actors, actresses and singers from Bangladesh to the United States to take part in various events. In the 1990s, artists such as Ferdous Wahid and Kumar Bishwajit visited New York at his invitation.

A few years ago, Inam moved to Virginia. Later, he began living in Buffalo, a city about 400 miles from New York City. Some acquaintances have claimed that despite living in the United States for many years, he was unable to obtain the necessary documents for lawful residence. However, no statement from the relevant authorities has been obtained regarding this claim.

ICE also detained another Bangladeshi businessman in Buffalo about a week ago. The man, known as Babu, owns a Bangladeshi restaurant on Kenmore Avenue. He was originally from the T&T Colony area of Moghbazar in Dhaka. He has not yet been released following his detention, according to people who know him. His restaurant has also closed.

Earlier, Bangladeshi national Zakir Hossain was detained in Buffalo. Although he had a green card, he did not have it with him at the time of his detention. He was subsequently released. These incidents have increased concern among the Bangladeshi community in Buffalo.

A report published on September 1 by Western New York media outlets Buffalo Toronto Public Media (BTPM) and WXXI News said the number of people detained by ICE in Upstate New York had exceeded 600 in July 2026.

An analysis of government data cited in the report also showed that the number of people detained by ICE across New York State had reached approximately 1,500 by the same period. The analysis found that nearly four out of every five people detained in Upstate New York had no criminal history. However, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security disputed the accuracy of the data and analysis.

Subrata Chowdhury, Atlantic City – A mobile consular service program for Bangladeshi expatriates will be held in Atlantic City, New Jersey, on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The program is being organized by the Bangladesh Association of South Jersey (BASJ), in collaboration with the City of Atlantic City’s Multicultural Services Department. As part of BASJ’s ongoing community initiatives, the program will be conducted with the assistance of the Consulate General of Bangladesh in New York.

The mobile consular services will be provided at the Bangladesh Community Center, located at 2709 Fairmount Avenue in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Through this initiative, members of the Bangladeshi community will have the opportunity to access a range of consular services, including e-passport services, national identity card services, Bangladeshi passport renewal and correction, dual citizenship certificates, attestation of various Bangladeshi documents, power of attorney services, and No Visa Required (NVR) endorsements.

Zahirul Islam Babul, president of the Bangladesh Association of South Jersey; Zakirul Islam Khoka, general secretary; and Abdur Rafiq, chairman of the Board of Trustees, have urged members of the Bangladeshi community to take advantage of the mobile consular services.

QUEENS, NY — Flushing Town Hall will celebrate its 12th annual Diwali Festival on Sunday, November 1, with an Indian wedding-themed cultural event featuring traditional Kathak dance, Indian cuisine, live drumming, and interactive arts workshops for families. The festival, titled Diwali Festival: The Indian Wedding, will take place from noon to 4 p.m. at Flushing Town Hall, 137-35 Northern Boulevard in Flushing, Queens. The event will bring Indian wedding traditions to life through live performances and hands-on activities designed to introduce audiences of all ages to South Asian culture. Admission is free for children.

The centerpiece of the festival will be a wedding dance drama presented by Abha B. Roy and the Srijan Dance Company at 2:15 p.m. The performance will showcase traditional Indian wedding customs, including henna application, the haldi ceremony, regional dances, marriage rituals, and the bride’s farewell. A tassa drumming procession will welcome the bridal party, inviting audiences to experience the atmosphere of a traditional Indian wedding.

Throughout the afternoon, visitors can participate in Indian classical and folk dance workshops, explore block printing with Dr. Alka Mukerji, and create colorful rangoli designs with Josh Roychowdhury. Additional activities will include henna art by Bella Beauty and Hindi calligraphy with Jasbir Bhatia.

Food will also be a central part of the celebration. Queens Curry Kitchen will offer Indian food and beverages, while Chef Nupur Arora will demonstrate how to prepare traditional vegetarian Indian dishes.

“Our theme for this year’s Diwali Festival is the Indian Wedding, offering audiences a festive window into one of India’s most cherished cultural traditions,” said Ellen Kodadek, executive and artistic director of Flushing Town Hall.

Kodadek said the festival reflects the organization’s commitment to presenting international arts and creating meaningful cultural experiences for the diverse communities of Queens and the greater New York City area. She also acknowledged the Guru Krupa Foundation for its longstanding support of the annual event.

Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is widely celebrated as the Festival of Lights. Its name comes from a Sanskrit expression meaning “row of lights,” and the holiday symbolizes the triumph of light over darkness, hope over despair, and knowledge over ignorance.

Celebrated by millions of people around the world, Diwali is marked by the lighting of traditional oil lamps, festive gatherings, family activities, and cultural performances. While the festival has deep roots in Hindu traditions, it is also observed by people from different religious and cultural backgrounds.

Gabrielle M. Hamilton, director of education and public programs at Flushing Town Hall, said the Indian wedding theme would allow visitors to experience the vibrant colors, music, dance, and traditions associated with the celebrations.

The festival’s teaching artists will encourage participants to engage directly with Indian art and performance traditions, making the event an opportunity for both cultural discovery and family entertainment.

Roy, artistic director of Srijan Dance Center, has led Flushing Town Hall’s annual Diwali Festival since its inception. A specialist in Kathak, a classical dance form from northern India, she trained under renowned gurus Kundan Lal Gangani and Pandit Durgalal and completed her specialization at Kathak Kendra in New Delhi. She has performed and taught internationally, including appearances at Lincoln Center, Flushing Town Hall, and the Queens Museum.

Arora, founder of Queens Curry Kitchen and author of The Vegan Indian Home, combines her culinary background with a passion for Indian home-style cooking. Mukerji, a professor in the Studio Art Department and director of the Berger & Brownson Art Gallery at Manhattanville University, explores themes of cultural identity, coexistence, social justice, and peace through her artistic practice.

Adult admission is $20, while adult members can purchase tickets for $15. Children will be admitted free. Tickets and additional information are available at https://www.flushingtownhall.org/show-details/diwali-festival-the-indian-wedding.

Flushing Town Hall will continue its international music programming on Saturday, November 14, with GLOBAL MASHUP: Bollywood Meets Hollywood. The concert will bring together musicians from both traditions, blending Bollywood rhythms with Hollywood musical classics and pop anthems. The evening will begin with a dance lesson at 7 p.m., followed by individual performances and a collaborative musical finale.

Flushing Town Hall is a nonprofit cultural institution operated by the Flushing Council on Culture and the Arts. Located in a historic 1862 landmark, the organization presents international and local artists through performances, arts education, and community programs. As a Smithsonian Affiliate and a member of New York City’s Cultural Institutions Group, it promotes cultural exchange and artistic engagement across Queens and beyond. For more information, visit www.flushingtownhall.org or call (718) 463-7700, extension 222.

BOGURA CORRESPONDENT: Alamgir Hossain, an executive member of the Helping Hand Foundation and a Bangladeshi expatriate living in the United States, recently visited Bogura to observe the foundation’s humanitarian activities and meet people who have benefited from its various support programs.

Arriving in Bogura from Dhaka, Hossain, accompanied by his family members, toured several of the foundation’s ongoing initiatives and spoke directly with beneficiaries. He also followed up with people who had previously received assistance from the organization, including financial support, sewing machines, and help with house construction.

During the visit, Hossain personally distributed clothing and cash assistance among beneficiaries. He also listened to their experiences and learned about their current living conditions and the impact of the support they had received from the foundation.

Hossain was accompanied by his wife, one son, and two daughters. Together, they visited several of the foundation’s humanitarian initiatives aimed at supporting underprivileged and disadvantaged people in Bogura.

Foundation officials said the Helping Hand Foundation has been carrying out a range of programs not only to provide immediate humanitarian assistance but also to improve the livelihoods and living standards of disadvantaged people.

They described Hossain’s visit and his direct involvement in the assistance programs as a positive and encouraging development, particularly because he continues to remain connected with the foundation’s activities while living abroad.

At the conclusion of the visit, foundation representatives expressed their gratitude to Alamgir Hossain and his family for their support and participation. They said they hope such humanitarian initiatives will continue in the future for the welfare of vulnerable and underprivileged communities.

Shibbir Ahmed, Jackson Heights, New York: A commemorative program marking the 51st death anniversary of Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and National Mourning Day was held in Jackson Heights, New York, with due respect and solemnity. The daylong program included a memorial gathering, prayer session, blood donation drive, and distribution of food and prayer mats.

The program was organized by the Jackson Heights Elakabashi on Saturday, August 15, in front of Nabanna Restaurant at 37-22, 73rd Street, Jackson Heights. The blood donation drive began at 1:00 p.m., followed by the distribution of food and prayer mats from 3:00 p.m.

At the beginning of the program, prayers were offered for the eternal peace and forgiveness of those who lost their lives during the month of August. Imam Kazi Qayum led the prayers and supplication. Following the prayer session, food and prayer mats were distributed among those attending the program.

According to the organizers, five cows were slaughtered for the event, and food and tabarruk were distributed among approximately 1,500 people. Fresh mango juice was also prepared and distributed among members of the general public. Prayer mats were also distributed. Chief Coordinator Shah J. Chowdhury said approximately 40 people voluntarily donated blood during the blood donation program.

President of Jackson Heights Elakabashi Sakil Mia, General Secretary Mohammad Alam Nomi, Convener Mir Nizamul Haque, Member Secretary Mamun Miaji, Chairman Redwanul Haque, Chief Coordinator Shah J. Chowdhury, and other leaders and representatives of the organization were present at the event.

Speakers at the program recalled the August 15, 1975 assassination of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and members of his family. They prayed for the eternal peace and forgiveness of all those who were killed during August and remembered the events of August 15 as one of the darkest and most tragic chapters in the history of Bangladesh.

On August 15, 1975, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman was assassinated along with members of his family. Several family members and close relatives were also killed in the massacre. His two daughters, Sheikh Hasina and Sheikh Rehana, survived because they were abroad at the time. Bangabandhu’s nephew Sheikh Fazlul Haque Moni, his pregnant wife Arzu Moni, and members of the family of Abdus Rab Sernabat were also killed during the attacks.

Following the fall of the Awami League government on August 5, 2024, the National Mourning Day designation and public holiday associated with August 15 were abolished in Bangladesh. Despite this, Bangladeshi expatriates in Jackson Heights organized the program to remember Bangabandhu and those who lost their lives on August 15.

President of Jackson Heights Elakabashi Shakil Mia said, “Although we live abroad, expatriate Bangladeshis have a deep connection with the history and heritage of Bangladesh. This type of program is organized with the aim of introducing the younger generation to the history of the country and the spirit of the Liberation War, while also bringing everyone together in social and humanitarian activities.”

General Secretary Mohammad Alam Nomi said, “A large number of people participated in the program organized by the Jackson Heights Elakabashi. Through distributing food and prayer mats among approximately 1,500 people and preparing tabarruk from five slaughtered cows, we tried to strengthen our connection with the community. We will continue such social and humanitarian activities in the future.”

Chairman Redwanul Haque said, “It is our responsibility to remember Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and those who were killed on August 15, even while living abroad. At the same time, we must work together for the welfare of our community.”

Chief Coordinator Shah J. Chowdhury said, “This year’s program included a memorial gathering, prayer session, distribution of food and prayer mats, as well as a blood donation drive. Approximately 40 people voluntarily donated blood. We will continue organizing similar programs in the future as part of our commitment to serving people and fulfilling our social responsibilities.”

Children’s author and a prominent voice for the Liberation War, Humayun Kabir Dhali, said that remembering the history of Bangladesh’s Liberation War, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and those who were killed on August 15 is a moral responsibility even for Bangladeshis living abroad. He emphasized the importance of presenting the younger generation with an accurate account of the Liberation War and the sacrifices made during that period. He also called on expatriate Bangladeshis to remain united and participate in social and humanitarian activities while preserving the history and heritage of the nation.

Also present at the program were Joint Conveners Mia Md. Dulal, Alamgir Hossain, Abdul Malek, and Abdul Hamid. The program was conducted by Shah Newaz. Joint Member Secretaries were Duke Khan and Md. Mahbub Rahman. Bipul Saha and Moinuzzaman Chowdhury were responsible for supervision. The principal patrons were M. A. Aziz and Asef Bari Tutul.

Co-Chairmen present at the event included Sakhawat Biswas, Z. R. Chowdhury (Litu), and Mofizur Rahman. Patrons included Moinul Islam, Attorney Moin Chowdhury, Ashraf Chowdhury Khokon, Sohel Gazi, Fahad Solaiman, Nurul Azim, and Tarek Hasan Khan.

The chief adviser to the program was Shah Newaz. Other advisers included Harun Bhuiyan, Md. Mohiuddin Dewan, Rashed Ahmed, Ishtiaq Rumi, Sirajul Haque Kamal, Kamruzzaman Kamrul, Mansur Chowdhury, Md. Piar, Rafiq Ahmed, Iqtaruzzaman Ratan, Md. Kabir Ratan, Shafiuddin Mia, and Shahadat Hossain.

The program received support from Golden Age Home Care, NY Home Care, All County Home Care, Bari Home Care, NY Senior Adult Day Care, Caring Friend Direct, Eternal Care Service, Dera Restaurant, Ruposhi Chandpur Foundation, Premium Sweets, Reliable Home Care, First Home Care, SS Brokerage, JBBA, Patel Brothers, and various individuals, organizations, and business owners.

Additional supporters included Md. Manik Babu, Zahid Alam, Kamruzzaman Bakul, Humayun Kabir Dhali, Anwar Milon, Abu Nasr, Shams Jony, Shaheen Chowdhury, Aftab Jony, Akram Hossain Biplob, Md. Sayem Ullah, Mukta Mia, Gopal Sanyal, Z. A. Joy, Jahangir H. Mia, Nuruzzaman Sardar, Golam Kibria, Kamal Hossain Rakib, H. M. Iqbal, Zafar Ahmed, Wasim, Ganesh Kirtaniya, Md. Radbi, Shahriar Hossain, Shovon, Anwar Uddin, Mohiuddin Rahul, Redwanur Rahman Jewel, Jahanara Akter (Lucky), Farhana Chowdhury, Monir Hossain, Shyamal Nath, Matiur Rahman, Matin, Manzur Chowdhury, Md. Zahid Mia, Anisuzzaman Sobuj, Abdul Hadi Rana, Bidyut Hossain, and Hasanuzzaman Sabu, among others.

Also present at the event were Rashed Ahmed, Faruk Hossain, Golam Mostafa Khan Meraj, Mukit Chowdhury, Lavlu Ansar, Abul Bashar Chunnu, Khurshed Alam Bablu, Mizanur Rahman, Md. Chana Ullah, and Saikat Akbar (Ritchie).

The organizers said that Bangladeshi expatriates in Jackson Heights intend to continue organizing such programs to remember the history of Bangladesh, the spirit of the Liberation War, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and those who lost their lives on August 15. They also expressed their commitment to standing beside members of the Bangladeshi community in New York through continued social and humanitarian initiatives.

Staff Correspondent, New York: BNP Member of Parliament from Dinajpur-1, Monzurul Islam, has warned that a “difficult time” awaits Nasiruddin Patwary, Chief Coordinator of the National Citizen Party (NCP), stating that the beating he has faced so far is only the beginning.

“The beating of Patwary has just begun. The real beating hasn’t even started yet,” said the BNP lawmaker. “Speaking as an MP, a very difficult future awaits him.”

He made these remarks on Friday during a civic rally organized at the Bangladesh Consulate in New York, USA, to mark the second anniversary of the July Mass Uprising. According to Monzurul Islam, Nasiruddin Patwary’s remarks crossing the boundaries of freedom of speech regarding Prime Minister Tarique Rahman and his family are unacceptable.

“Not only the Prime Minister, but when he speaks about his wife and daughter, we cannot tolerate it because they are not a part of this. Yet Patwary is doing this constantly,” he added.

Staff Correspondent, New York: A documentary screened at the Bangladesh Consulate in New York on August 7 to mark the second anniversary of the “July-August Mass Uprising” sparked intense controversy and tension. Nur Hossain, an expatriate who identified himself as a “July fighter,” was ejected from the venue after protesting that the documentary distorted history.

During the event, a documentary focusing on the July-August uprising was shown. Immediately following the screening, Nur Hossain stood up in strong protest, pointing his finger at the Consul General, Press Minister Golam Mortuza of the Bangladesh Embassy in Washington, and other officials present. He stated, “The July revolution is the harvest of BNP’s 17-year movement. Yet, BNP’s Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir himself said that the fall of fascism is the harvest of the students’ movement. Didn’t we fight? History has been distorted in the documentary.”

His remarks triggered immediate anger and backlash among the BNP and affiliate leaders attending the event. Heated arguments ensued between Hossain and several leaders. As the situation quickly escalated, he was pushed out of the venue, and consulate security guards barred him from re-entering.

Despite the high tension, the consulate’s scheduled program continued, and the event concluded as planned. Among others, Member of Parliament Monjurul Haque delivered a speech.

Amidst the commotion, Democratic Party District Leader-at-Large and Attorney Moin Chowdhury took the microphone to calm the attendees, urging them: “Brothers, do not be unruly. This is a government institution.”

Strongly criticizing the incident, Gias Ahmed, a member of the BNP Central Executive Committee, remarked, “For 40 years, we have been in continuous movements in this country against Ershad, against 1/11, and against fascist Sheikh Hasina. We have never seen this person before. He is an agent of fascist Hasina. It seems he has no idea about the July movement and its success. In the future, we must ensure that such covert intruders cannot enter such events.”

Meanwhile, Golam Faruk Shahin, a member of the Advisory Committee on Foreign Affairs to BNP Chairman Tarique Rahman, described the situation as “unwanted.” He stated, “Under the banner of US BNP, all of us were vocal in the movement to oust fascism. There is no scope for arguing over this.”