New York, Queens: A 19-year-old Bangladeshi-American woman was tragically killed late Sunday night after being struck by a garbage truck while crossing a street in Woodside, Queens. According to police, the incident occurred around midnight at the intersection of Roosevelt Avenue and 62nd Street. Nishat Jannat had just gotten off a train after finishing work and was crossing the street in a marked crosswalk, holding a cake she had bought for her younger sister.

At that moment, a large garbage truck operated by Royal Waste Services, traveling westbound on Roosevelt Avenue, made a right turn and struck her. Emergency responders pronounced her dead at the scene. Her home was just a 10-minute walk away on 55th Street.

Back home, Nishat’s older sister, Naushin Jannat (21), had been waiting for her return. As time passed and calls to Nishat went unanswered, concern quickly turned into fear. Around 2:00 a.m., Naushin tracked her sister’s phone location and rushed to the intersection with family members. Upon arrival, they were met with police vehicles and the devastating sight of Nishat’s lifeless body.

“Everyone in the house is in tears. Her parents are completely broken. Nothing will ever be the same again,” said her uncle, Jamal Ahmed Shimu.

Nishat worked part-time as a receptionist at a parking garage on Parsons Boulevard in Jamaica, Queens. On Sunday night, she finished work around 11:00 p.m. and took the train to Woodside. Before heading home, she decided to buy a cake for her younger sister—a simple, loving gesture that tragically became her final act.

Her sister Naushin, through tears, described Nishat as deeply optimistic and faithful.

“She always told us to trust in Allah and to live in the present moment,” she said. “She used to say that death can come at any time, so we should always be prepared. She didn’t know her own time would be so short.”

Nishat was one of four sisters, including two younger siblings aged 9 and just 4. The sister she bought the cake for will now never see her return home.

Nishat’s father, Helal Ahmed, is an imam at Baitul Jannah Mosque in Woodside. A figure who regularly offers comfort to others, he is now facing the unimaginable loss of his daughter. The family immigrated to the United States in 2017 on an immigrant visa. Their hometown is in Golapganj, Sylhet, Bangladesh. Like many immigrant families, they came seeking a better life—one that has now been shattered by this tragedy.

The NYPD Highway District’s Collision Investigation Squad is currently investigating the incident. The truck driver, a 38-year-old woman, remained at the scene and was treated for minor injuries. No arrests have been made so far. In a statement, Royal Waste Services’ parent company, Waste Connections, expressed deep sorrow over the incident and said they are fully cooperating with authorities.

The news has sent shockwaves through New York’s Bangladeshi community, particularly in Woodside and Jackson Heights. Community members have expressed grief and pledged support for the family. At the same time, concerns are being raised about safety standards, driver training, and oversight of private garbage truck operations, as pedestrian fatalities involving such vehicles have been a recurring issue in the city.

Family members said Nishat’s funeral prayer will be held after the Zuhr prayer on Tuesday at Baitul Jannah Mosque in Woodside. She will then be laid to rest at a Muslim cemetery in New Jersey.

New York: The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has arrested several undocumented immigrants involved in serious criminal activities across the United States in a recent enforcement operation, according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Authorities said the individuals were either convicted or accused of grave offenses, including child abuse, rape, sexual violence, drug trafficking, fraud, and assault. Among those detained are several Bangladeshi nationals, whose names, photos, and alleged crimes have been প্রকাশ on the official DHS website.

In a statement, Lauren Vees, Deputy Assistant Secretary at DHS, confirmed that law enforcement agencies targeted individuals involved in dangerous and violent crimes. She emphasized that those who harm vulnerable individuals, particularly children, or pose a threat to public safety should not be allowed to remain in the country.

According to DHS data, Kazi Abu Sayeed was arrested in Fort Scott, Kansas, facing charges of exploiting a minor as well as operating illegal gambling activities. Shahed Hasan was detained in Raleigh, North Carolina, on allegations of carrying a concealed weapon and committing theft. In Buffalo, New York, Mohammad Ahmed was arrested over accusations of sexual assault and other related offenses, while MD Hossain was taken into custody in Queens, New York, also on allegations of sexual abuse.

Elsewhere, Mahtab Uddin Ahmed was apprehended in Chantilly, Virginia, for alleged involvement in marijuana distribution and possession of hallucinogenic substances. Nawaz Khan was arrested in Marlin, Texas, in connection with serious drug-related offenses. Shahriar Abir was taken into custody in Pensacola, Florida, on theft charges, while Alamgir Chowdhury was arrested in Mount Clemens, Michigan, accused of credit card fraud.

Authorities further reported that Ishtiaq Rafi was detained in Manassas, Virginia, facing charges related to weapons violations and possession of synthetic drugs. In Phoenix, Arizona, Kanak Parvez was arrested on allegations of fraud.

DHS stated that these arrests were part of coordinated operations carried out by ICE along with federal law enforcement partners, as part of ongoing efforts to identify and remove individuals involved in serious criminal conduct from the United States.

Washington, D.C. — Dr. Zubaida Rahman, a prominent physician and social worker, held a meeting with U.S. Special Envoy Charles J. Harder, according to a verified Facebook post by the BNP Media Cell.

The discussion focused on key issues related to the development of future generations, ensuring a safe and healthy environment for children, and advancing sustainable progress in education and public health sectors. Particular emphasis was placed on family-based support programs, child nutrition and mental development, and fostering inclusive societies through mutual cooperation.

Among those present at the meeting were Dr. Morshed Hasan Khan, Tarek Md. Ariful Islam, Dr. Shah Muhammad Aman Ullah, Mehnaz Mannan, and D. M. Salahuddin Mahmud.

Washington, D.C. — Dr. Zubaida Rahman delivered a speech at the “Fostering the Future Together Global Coalition Summit,” held in Washington, D.C., at the invitation of U.S. First Lady Melania Trump. The two-day summit was inaugurated on Tuesday at the U.S. State Department.

Dr. Rahman, wife of Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, addressed the opening session, emphasizing the transformative potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in education. She called on developed nations to support Bangladesh in leveraging AI responsibly to bring meaningful reforms to its education system.

She highlighted that the government is working to deliver innovative technologies and healthcare services to children at their doorsteps. “It is a great honor for me to join you all at this historic ‘Fostering the Future Together Global Coalition Summit,’” she said, expressing gratitude to the First Lady for bringing together global leaders to focus on children’s future and shared commitments.

“We believe that the future of every nation is written in the lives of its children,” Dr. Rahman stated. “The education we provide today and the values we instill will shape the nations of tomorrow.”

Speaking from her perspective as a physician, she reaffirmed her commitment to ensuring quality healthcare for every child, with a strong emphasis not only on treatment but also on preventive care from early stages of life.

Dr. Rahman also stressed the role of technology, particularly ed-tech, in bridging the gap between urban and rural communities. She underscored the importance of ensuring the safe and ethical use of these technologies so that children can grow up in a secure and supportive environment.

On women’s empowerment, she noted Bangladesh’s strong legacy, referencing former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia for her contributions to human rights and for introducing free education for girls up to the 12th grade. She added that the current government is committed to extending free education for women up to the postgraduate level.

The United States Department of State has temporarily suspended the issuance of visas for citizens of Bangladesh. The U.S. Embassy in Dhaka announced this in a statement on Monday (March 23). According to the embassy, it is the responsibility of the U.S. government to protect taxpayers’ interests and ensure that immigrants do not misuse public welfare benefits after entering the country. A recent review found that the usage rate of such benefits is comparatively higher among citizens of certain countries, and Bangladesh is included in that list.

The objectives behind this decision include reducing pressure on public welfare programs, safeguarding taxpayer funds, and reassessing immigration policies. This suspension is not limited to immigrant visas only. It also includes Tourist visas, Student visas and other non-immigrant visas

The statement further mentioned that this temporary suspension will allow for a comprehensive review of the visa screening and selection process. The goal is to ensure that future policies prioritize the interests of U.S. citizens. It is worth noting that no specific timeline has yet been announced regarding how long this suspension will remain in effect or when normal visa services will resume.

New York: The Bengali New Year celebration will be held for the fourth time at Times Square on April 11. Manhattan Borough President Brad Hoylman-Sigal has confirmed his participation in the Mangal Shobhajatra (festive procession).

The information was confirmed by Bishwajit Saha, founder and president of NRB Worldwide, the organizing body. According to organizers, the Mangal Shobhajatra will be one of the main attractions of the Bengali New Year 1433 celebrations in New York and is expected to draw attention from Bengalis around the world.

As part of the preparations, the third round of rehearsals was held on Sunday at Nabanna Auditorium. The session, hosted by the organization’s General Secretary Tofazzal Hossain, was attended by over a hundred artists and performers, including director Mohitosh Talukdar Tapas.

Under the direction of Mohitosh Talukdar, rehearsals for five new songs took place over the weekend. Sunday’s sessions included children and teenagers in the first segment, followed by a combined group of young and adult performers, with nearly a hundred participants in total.

Earlier, a special rehearsal of traditional Jari, Sari, and Marfati songs was conducted under the supervision of folk artist Shaheen Hossain, featuring 15 selected performers. Another rehearsal, led by Rabindra Sangeet artist Kartik Chandra Das, included 12 participants. Additionally, more than 50 dancers have been regularly practicing under the choreography and direction of Chandra Banerjee for the Times Square event.

Celebrations for the Bengali New Year will take place on April 11 at Times Square and continue on April 12 at Diversity Plaza, creating a festive atmosphere across New York City’s boroughs. Professor Hossain Kabir of University of Chittagong noted that despite various challenges, the festival has brought cultural vibrancy to the expatriate community over the past four years, a spirit clearly reflected in the recent rehearsals.

New York: The New York Bangladeshi American Lions Club, one of the prominent organizations of Bangladeshi expatriates in Jackson Heights, organized a food distribution program on the occasion of Ramadan and Eid-ul-Fitr. The event took place on Tuesday, March 17, where essential food items were distributed among more than 200 low-income families, creating a strong positive impact within the expatriate community.

The event was presided over by the club’s President, Lion JFM Russell (MJF). Special guests included former Lions District Governors Lion Madadi C and Lion Amadou C, Founding President Lion Matiur Rahman, Immediate Past President Lion Rocky Alian, former President Lion Mohammad Saeed, Secretary Lion Md. Mashiur Rahman Mazumdar, Lion Fahad Solaiman, and Treasurer Lion Masud Rana Tapan.

In his speech, President JFM Russell said that Ramadan teaches restraint, compassion, and humanity. Through this food distribution initiative, they aim to put those values into practice so that underprivileged members of the community can share in the joy of Eid.

Former President Rocky Alian stated that even while living abroad, they do not forget their social responsibilities. He added that such initiatives help strengthen unity within the community. Former President Mohammad Saeed emphasized that humanitarian service is the core mission of the Lions Club and expressed hope that such activities will continue in the future.

Secretary Md. Mashiur Rahman Mazumdar mentioned that club members worked sincerely to make the event successful, adding that community support is their greatest strength. He also noted that the Lions Club successfully implemented more than 60 service programs during the 2025–2026 term.

Treasurer Masud Rana Tapan said that with the support of well-off individuals, they have tried to stand beside expatriates in need and will continue this effort. Chairman of the Convening Committee, Md. Mofizul Islam, remarked that standing beside people during the holy month of Ramadan is a moral responsibility. Convener Mohammad Kamruzzaman said the main objective of the initiative was to deliver essential food items to underprivileged families and share the joy of Eid.

Member Secretary Anik Raj added that the success of the program was made possible through collective efforts and that similar initiatives will continue in the future. Lion Abdur Rashid Babu served as Co-Convener, while Lion Zahid Alam acted as Chief Coordinator. Coordinators included Lion Hasan Jilani (MJF), with Co-Coordinators Lion Md. Ruhul Amin, Lion Kamrul Mazumdar, Lion ASM Uddin, and Lion Moinuddin Tuhin.

Other members present included Lion AFM Zaman, Lion Jahangir Alam Joy, Lion Mizanur Rahman, Lion Tarikul Islam Mithu, Lion Mohammad Khan (Duke), Lion Rafiqul Islam Dalim, Lion Syed Kibria, Lion Ehsanul Haque Babul, Lion Nargis Rahman, Lion Kazi Nahar, Lion Mohammad Suman Mahmud, among others.

New York: Focusing on the turbulent March of the 1971 Liberation War, writer and journalist Shibbīr Ahmed has recently released five patriotic songs on YouTube. These songs vividly portray the history of the Liberation War, the leadership of the Father of the Nation, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and the bravery of the Bengali people through music. Shibbīr Ahmed stated that the songs aim to connect the younger generation with the history of 1971 and keep the spirit of independence alive. He said, “The spirit of the Liberation War is not just a memory of the past; it is a source of inspiration for the present and future of the country. Through these songs, I have tried to depict the struggles, scenes, and love for the country during that time.”

The five songs are “Don’t Cry for Me Bangladesh,” “The Thunderous Finger,” “Immortal in the Heart: Bangabandhu,” “Freedom Bought with Blood,” and “Joy Bangla – The Soul of Bangladesh.” Each song focuses on key moments of the Liberation War, highlighting the sacrifices and struggles of the Bengali people.

“Don’t Cry for Me Bangladesh” is dedicated to patriots. During the Liberation War, Pakistani forces destroyed cities and villages, crippling the economy and halting social progress. This song captures those dark times and the courage and dreams of the Bengali people in an emotionally powerful way.

“The Thunderous Finger” symbolizes a resolute voice for independence and resistance against oppressive forces. It reflects the historic 7 March speech of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, which inspired the entire nation to rise for freedom. The song is a musical representation of that courage and determination.

“Immortal in the Heart: Bangabandhu” was composed to honor the Father of the Nation on his birthday. The song reflects his leadership, personality, ideals, and fighting spirit, instilling respect for Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and a sense of responsibility toward the country in listeners.

“Freedom Bought with Blood” narrates the sacrifices and bravery of the martyrs. On the night of 25 March 1971, Pakistani forces began massacring innocent Bengalis. At that critical moment, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman declared the independence of Bangladesh, prompting the Bengali people to take up arms against the Pakistani military. On 26 March 1971, Bangladesh officially emerged on the world map, fulfilling a thousand-year-old dream of the Bengali nation. The song commemorates the history and sacrifices of the martyrs.

“Joy Bangla – The Soul of Bangladesh” expresses the joy of victory and boundless love for the country. The slogan “Joy Bangla” was the rallying cry and the lifeblood of the Liberation War in 1971. Through this slogan, freedom fighters fought against the Pakistani army to achieve victory. “Joy Bangla” is not a personal slogan; it belongs to Bangladesh, to the Liberation War, and to the spirit of independence.

In addition, Shibbīr Ahmed has recently released “The House of History: Dhanmondi 32,” written and composed by him. This song focuses on the historic Dhanmondi 32 residence, which during the Liberation War was the place where women who survived sexual violence found refuge, making it a significant site in Bangladesh’s history. Recently, the house suffered vandalism and destruction. Through this song, Shibbīr Ahmed seeks to preserve history through music, honoring the truth and memory of the past while sending a warning against the destruction of historical heritage.

The music videos for all the songs include historical images of the Liberation War, personal moments of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and scenes depicting the courage of freedom fighters. Viewers can emotionally connect with history through these videos. The songs have already received a warm response on YouTube and have sparked widespread discussion on social media. All songs are available on YouTube at [https://www.youtube.com/@TrishnarGaan].

Shibbīr Ahmed has worked for many years as a journalist, exploring the country’s history, social culture, and cultural movements. Analysts have remarked that his initiative is not just entertainment but a powerful medium to bring the glorious history of Bangladesh’s independence to the younger generation. The songs combine history, patriotism, and the spirit of the Liberation War, encouraging the youth to understand the value of independence and inspiring emotional engagement with the nation’s legacy.

Shibbir Ahmed, New York: Continuing its annual tradition, Graphics World, located in Jackson Heights, New York, has been hosting a month-long Iftar gathering during the holy month of Ramadan. The initiative has been organized by Sakil Mia, owner of Graphics World and president of the Jackson Heights Elakabashi Organization.

Throughout the month of Ramadan, expatriate Bangladeshis along with people from various communities have been gathering there daily to participate in Iftar. Amid the busy life of expatriates, the gathering has turned into a warm social reunion for the community.

Before Iftar each day, guests engage in friendly conversations, exchange greetings, and discuss the significance of Ramadan, creating a sincere and welcoming atmosphere. The Iftar gathering is attended by community leaders, activists, poets, writers, journalists, businesspeople, employees of Graphics World, as well as friends and family members from different walks of life. Many attendees expressed that such gatherings help strengthen brotherhood, harmony, and mutual relationships among expatriate Bangladeshis.

Organizer Sakil Mia said that the holy month of Ramadan is a time for spiritual purification, compassion, and self-restraint. He noted that the annual Iftar gathering is arranged to strengthen bonds among people living abroad and to bring everyone together.

“We want everyone to share the joy of Ramadan together even while living abroad. This Iftar gathering is part of that effort,” he said.

He also mentioned that new guests join the Iftar gathering every day throughout the month, making the event more vibrant. Attendees have also praised the initiative, saying that such gatherings help promote harmony and unity within the Bangladeshi community in the diaspora.

The month-long Iftar program has created a festive atmosphere among expatriate Bangladeshis living in Jackson Heights. The event is supported by Anwar Hossain, Muhammad Mohiuddin, Mohammad Sayem, Abdullah Noman, Amir Hamza, Shyamal, and many others.

Among those present at the Iftar gathering were mainstream leader Fahad Solaiman; writer and journalist Akbar Haider Kiron; children’s writer Humayun Kabir Dhali; Nurul Azim, president of the Elite Club; Lion Ahsan Habib; artist Kamaruzzaman Bokul; Shahidul Islam, editor of Weekly Thikana Barta; Monjur Hossain, publisher of Desh newspaper; editor Mizanur Rahman; Moshiur Rahman Mazumder, news editor and publisher; photojournalist Nihar Siddiqui; Yasin K Joy; Amanat Hossain Aman; Sarwar Babu; Razu Biplob, president of Ruposhi Chandpur Foundation; its general secretary Gazi Sohel; Mohammad Shafi; journalist Abu Nasr; businessman Moinu Chowdhury; Mohammad Saeed, editor of Weekly Probash; and Shibbir Ahmed, chairman of the editorial board of Dewal Patrika and NewsNow, among others.

Commenting on the event, mainstream leader Fahad Solaiman said, “Such gatherings are extremely important to maintain brotherhood and unity among the Bangladeshi community abroad. Sakil Mia’s initiative certainly deserves appreciation.”

Writer and journalist Akbar Haider Kiron said, “This type of Iftar gathering plays an important role in strengthening communication and goodwill among expatriates. It creates a sense of family-like bonding within the community.”

Children’s writer Humayun Kabir Dhali said, “Ramadan teaches us restraint and humanity. Such gatherings give the new generation growing up abroad an opportunity to connect with our culture and religious values.”

Nurul Azim, president of the Elite Club, said, “Such noble initiatives bring people together and deepen mutual relationships. I express my sincere gratitude to the organizers.”

News editor and publisher Moshiur Rahman Mazumder said, “These types of Iftar gatherings play an important role in strengthening communication and goodwill among expatriate Bangladeshis. Ramadan teaches us patience, compassion, and humanity. The month-long Iftar organized at Graphics World is strengthening the spirit of brotherhood and unity within the community.”

The Iftar menu at Graphics World includes dates, chickpeas, puffed rice, onion fritters, jilapi, sherbet, various fruits, chicken nuggets, haleem, mashed mango, tehari, khichuri, meat, and many other traditional dishes.

Among those present and assisting in the organization were Zed Alam Nomi, general secretary of the Jackson Heights Elakabashi Organization; joint conveners Aftab Jony and Shams Jony; Kazi Aminul Islam Swapan; Golam M. Haidar Mukut; Iktaruzzaman Ratan; Ashrafuzzaman Ashraf; coordinator Rafiqul Islam Dalim; Professor Monirul Islam Khan; Mofizur Rahman; BN Badshah; Jibon Shafik; Shawn Babla; Faruk Hossain Mazumder; Nazmul Hossain Babu; A.Z.M. Jahangir; vice president Mohammad Manik Babu; assistant general secretary Mia Mohammad Dulal; chief adviser Mir Nizamul Haque; Marshal Murad; Mazharul Robin; Professor Rafiqul Islam; Namis Ahmed; Maksudul Haque Chowdhury; Mazharul Islam Jony; Mahbubur Rahman Mukul; joint member secretary A.B. Siddiq Patwari; Jahangir Alam Joy; Sheikh Noman Polash; Asadul Islam Asad; Shafiuddin Mia; Khulku Rahman; businessman Rana Ahmed; Anisul Kabir Jasir; Mohammad Khokon; realtor Hasan and many others.

The Iftar gathering organized by Graphics World remains open to everyone. The ongoing month-long event continues to spread the message of harmony, unity, and community spirit among expatriate Bangladeshis during Ramadan.

New York: Toby Ann Stavisky met with members of the Bangladeshi diaspora at a Nabanno Party Iftar gathering in Jackson Heights. The event was organized by the Global Bangladeshi Alliance (GBA), CUDC, and BATC. The meeting was presided over by GBA President Mizanur Rahman, while Administrative Director Ahmed Sohel served as the host of the program.

During the gathering, Senator Stavisky officially announced her candidacy for the upcoming New York State Senate election, with the primary election scheduled for June 21. Addressing the audience, she asked members of the Bangladeshi-American community for their support and cooperation in the upcoming election.

The event was attended by a large number of Bangladeshi community leaders, activists, and journalists from across New York. Many participants expressed their appreciation for the senator’s continued engagement with the Bangladeshi community and assured her of their support in the upcoming election.

Senator Stavisky thanked the community for their warm reception and recognized the important role Bangladeshi-Americans play in the social, cultural, and political life of New York.