NEW YORK: A violent clash erupted between two rival factions of the Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL) in Jackson Heights, Queens, leaving one senior leader seriously injured and another arrested by the New York City Police Department (NYPD). The incident occurred at approximately 10:30 p.m. on August 3 during an event held on 73rd Street, commonly known as “Bangladesh Street,” in Jackson Heights.

According to eyewitnesses and local sources, a heated verbal altercation broke out between members of the two factions over longstanding organizational disputes and leadership rivalry. The confrontation quickly escalated into a physical fight, resulting in a bloody clash.

During the violence, several people at the scene were heard shouting warnings that a weapon or firearm might be present, prompting panic among attendees. Multiple videos of the incident later circulated widely on social media, drawing significant attention and concern within the Bangladeshi-American community.

Mohammad Shihab, Joint General Secretary of the United States Bangladesh Chhatra League, was reportedly assaulted during the clash and sustained serious injuries. Local residents and bystanders rushed him to a nearby hospital, where he remains under medical treatment.

Responding to emergency calls, officers from the NYPD arrived promptly at the scene and brought the situation under control. Based on allegations of assault, police detained and later arrested Zakir Hossain Rahul, also a Joint General Secretary of the United States Bangladesh Chhatra League.

Local party members said the violence stemmed from longstanding internal divisions within the organization, including demands for the resignation of the recently appointed president of the U.S. unit, Mahmud Hasan, and disagreements over the current leadership committee. They alleged that the clash was the result of escalating political rivalry and a struggle for organizational control.

The incident has drawn criticism from many members of the Bangladeshi diaspora, who expressed disappointment over the outbreak of violence involving a prominent student organization on U.S. soil.

Following the incident, the President of the United States Awami League, Dr. Siddiqur Rahman, and General Secretary Abdus Samad Azad issued a joint statement urging party leaders and activists to remain calm and exercise restraint.

In the statement, Dr. Rahman said those responsible for the violence would be investigated and that strict organizational action would be taken in accordance with the party’s constitution. The leaders also urged supporters to refrain from spreading rumors or misinformation on social media and to rely only on verified information regarding the incident. The NYPD investigation into the incident remains ongoing.

New Jersey: Two Bangladeshi nationals have been arrested in New Jersey after allegedly posing as bank security officials to scam a woman out of $25,000 and attempting to collect an additional $30,000, according to police. The suspects, identified as Mohammad N. Islam, 48, of Egg Harbor, and Mohammad Z. Islam, 58, of Westville, were arrested Friday by the Riverside Township Police Department. Authorities said N. Islam is originally from Narail, Bangladesh, while Z. Islam is from Mirsharai in Chattogram.

According to a spokesperson for the Riverside Township Police Department, both men have been charged in connection with fraud and deception offenses.

Police said the investigation began after a local woman reported that she had been targeted by a sophisticated scam. According to her complaint, fraudsters falsely claimed that her computer had been infected with a virus that was compromising the security of her Wells Fargo bank account. They also warned that the FBI was investigating the matter and threatened that she could face serious legal consequences if she failed to cooperate.

The woman was then instructed to call a phone number provided by the scammers. During the call, she was told that paying $25,000 in cash would resolve the issue. She was further instructed to withdraw the money, place it in a Wells Fargo envelope, and hand it over to a person posing as a bank security employee, who would collect the cash from her residence.

Believing the claims to be legitimate, the woman withdrew the money from her bank and handed over $25,000 to an individual who arrived at her home.

Shortly afterward, the scammers contacted her again and demanded an additional $30,000. At that point, the woman became suspicious and contacted police.

Following police instructions, she agreed to have the suspects return to her home to collect the second payment. Officers, who had been waiting inside the residence, arrested the two men when they arrived.

Investigators said the suspects later appeared in court and were released pending further court proceedings.

Riverside Township Police are urging residents to remain vigilant against similar scams and to contact law enforcement immediately if they receive suspicious calls demanding money or claiming to represent banks, government agencies, or law enforcement.

The case follows another fraud-related arrest involving a Bangladeshi national earlier this year. In February, police arrested Niamat Ullah, 31, a resident of Buffalo, New York, in connection with a spam-call scam. Authorities said he allegedly impersonated a member of the Norton Antivirus support team and threatened a victim into paying a large sum of money. Police recovered gold coins and more than $100,000 in cash from his vehicle. He faces multiple felony charges and was lodged at Tygart Valley Regional Jail, according to law enforcement.

NEW YORK: At the first moment of August (12:01 a.m.), the US Awami League and its affiliated organizations held a candlelight vigil and remembrance meeting in honor of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and the family members who were killed on August 15, 1975.

The program took place at Diversity Plaza in Jackson Heights, Queens, where leaders and members of the US Awami League, Jubo League, Chhatra League, and Swechchhasebak League gathered to pay tribute.

US Awami League President Siddiqur Rahman attended the event as the chief guest. Special guests included General Secretary Abdus Samad Azad and Member of Parliament Nazrul Islam Babu.

Participants lit candles and observed a moment of remembrance in tribute to Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, widely recognized as the architect of Bangladesh’s independence, as well as all those who lost their lives in the August 15, 1975, assassination.

In brief remarks, speakers condemned the killings of August 15, 1975, and called on Bangladeshis living abroad to remain united against what they described as conspiracies targeting the nation’s history and ideals. They also emphasized preserving the spirit of the Liberation War and the legacy of Bangabandhu.

The observance created a solemn atmosphere at Diversity Plaza, where members of the Bangladeshi community gathered to mark the beginning of the month of mourning with candlelight and prayers.

New York: The first-ever New York Bengali Film Festival concluded successfully after a four-day celebration of Bengali cinema, drawing enthusiastic participation from the Bangladeshi diaspora and local film enthusiasts. Held at the Jamaica Performing Arts Center, the festival featured a vibrant showcase of films, cultural performances and an awards ceremony.

The festival was jointly organized by Priyojon Films and Lemon Studio, with support from the American Bangladeshi Producers Association. All County Home Care served as one of the event’s principal sponsors.

During the first three days, audiences enjoyed a diverse selection of short films, documentaries and feature films by filmmakers from Bangladesh and North America. The strong turnout reflected the continued passion of expatriate Bangladeshis for Bengali cinema despite living abroad.

The closing ceremony featured a red carpet reception, cultural performances and an awards presentation attended by prominent Bangladeshi entertainment personalities, including actors Zayed Khan, Kazi Maruf, Emon, Sojol and Bindu, as well as popular singer Pratik Hasan. Members of the Bangladeshi community in New York welcomed the opportunity to meet their favorite artists in person.

The festival recognized outstanding achievements in Bengali cinema from 2023 to 2025 across multiple categories.

Actor Shakib Khan won the Best Actor award for his performance in Priyotoma, while Shabnam Bubly was named Best Actress for Deyaler Desh. Hridi Haq received the Best Director award for 1971 Shei Shob Din.

Among the other major winners, Chanchal Chowdhury received the Best Supporting Actor award for Toofan, while Sanjida Preeti won Best Supporting Actress for 1971 Shei Shob Din. Kacher Manush Dure Thuiya, directed by Shihab Shaheen, was named Best Web Film.

Other award recipients included Mamunun Emon (Maya), Afsana Ara Bindu (Unish 20), child actors Kazi Arisha (Green Card) and Nairita Hasin Roudromoyi (Jongli), singers Balam, Pritom Hasan and Avanti Sithi, story writer Dr. Enamul Haque, screenwriters Nazim Ud Daula and Raihan Rafi, cinematographers Suman Sarkar and Sahel Rony, editors Simit Roy Antor and Kamruzzaman Rony, sound recordist Ripon Nath, lyricists Asif Iqbal and Someshwar Oli, composer Prince Mahmud, and music director Imon Saha.

In the film categories, Lost won Best Short Film, while Songs for a Country was named Best Documentary.

Veteran actor Ahmed Sharif received the festival’s Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his outstanding contribution to Bengali cinema. Special honors were also presented to Bioscope Films, Star Cineplex, and the streaming platform Chorki for their contributions to the growth and promotion of the Bangladeshi film industry.

According to the organizers, the festival aims not only to screen films but also to strengthen the connection between the younger Bangladeshi diaspora and Bengali cinema while expanding the global reach of Bangladesh’s film industry.

Following the overwhelming success of its inaugural edition, organizers, filmmakers and audiences expressed optimism that next year’s festival will be even larger, with broader international participation and greater opportunities to showcase Bengali cinema on the world stage.

Tampa, Florida: The roommate of a USF doctoral student who went missing last week along with his friend has been charged with two counts of murder, authorities announced April 25. Hisham Abugharbieh, 26, is facing two counts of premeditated murder in the first degree with a weapon for the deaths of Zamil Limon and Nahida Bristy, both 27, the Hillsborough County Sherriff’s Office said.

Abugharbieh was arrested at his family’s Tampa home April. 25 following a standoff with authorities that resulted in the SWAT team’s assistance, but the charges did not include murder. Earlier in the day, the body of Zamil was discovered on the Howard Frankland Bridge. Bristy’s body has not been located.

“Evidence was presented to the State Attorney’s Office, resulting in further charges against Abugharbieh,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement. “At this time, the search for Bristy continues.”

In addition to murder, Abugharbieh is charged with domestic violence, tampering with evidence and unlawfully holding or removing a dead human body. He was interviewed by detectives April. 23, and after initially talking, he ended the interview and left. That was the same day authorities upgraded the case from missing to endangered.

Authorities were called to Abugharbieh’s family’s home for a domestic dispute about 9 a.m. April 24. Investigators were able to get relatives safely out of the home. Abugharbieh then barricaded himself inside and the SWAT team was called to assist. After about 20 minutes, Abugharbieh emerged from the home with his hands raised wearing no shirt and a blue towel around his waist.

“This is a deeply disturbing case that has shaken our community ad impacted many who were hoping for a safe resolution,” Sheriff Chad Chronister said. “While the discovery of Zamil Limon’s remains is heartbreaking, I want the public to know that our detectives are working tirelessly and relentlessly to uncover the truth.”

Limon and Bristy were last seen the morning of Thursday, April 16. A family friend reported both of them missing shortly before 5 p.m. April 17 after not being able to reach either of them. Both University of South Florida Police Department and Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office documented and processed missing persons reports. Limon was pursuing a degree in geography, environmental science and policy while Bristy was studying chemical engineering.

Both families described Limon and Bristy as hardworking, dedicated, responsible students and said it was unusual for both to go days without talking to family members. They both had summer trips planned to their home country of Bangladesh. Abugharbieh is a U.S. citizen who previously took classes at USF from 2021 to 2023, according to a university spokesperson. He does have a criminal record including a 2023 charge of batter and burglary. Also that year, a relative filed two domestic petitions against him.

New York: Leaders and activists of the United States Awami League have strongly protested what they described as a conspiracy by BNP-Jamaat groups to ban the Bangladesh Awami League, warning of a strong movement if such efforts continue.

Speaking at a rally held on April 5 in Jackson Heights, New York City, party leaders expressed anger and concern over what they called a political conspiracy. They asserted that Bangladesh did not create the Awami League; rather, Bangladesh itself was born under the leadership of the Awami League. According to the speakers, those who do not believe in the red-and-green national flag are capable of engaging in such actions.

The speakers further noted that even Pakistani military rulers had once banned the Awami League, and alleged that BNP-Jamaat are now attempting to repeat that history. They said such efforts would never be allowed to succeed.

Dr. Siddiqur Rahman, President of the US Awami League, stated that the current government should not forget that the February 12 election lacks legitimacy, as it excluded what he claimed to be 55 percent of Awami League supporters. He added that this issue is increasingly coming to light and that similar voices of protest will soon rise across the United States, including New York. He warned that the power structure of what he described as extremist elements would eventually collapse.

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

Among those who spoke at the event were Sajjad Hossain Sabuj, Press Minister at the Bangladesh Embassy in Washington, D.C.; Imdad Chowdhury, General Secretary of New York City Awami League; Vice President Sakhawat Hossain Chanchal; Dr. Masudul Hasan, Vice President of US Awami League; freedom fighters Sharaf Sarkar and Solaiman Ali; Zainal Abedin; John Sikdar; Organizing Secretary Mohiuddin Dewan; Sharif Kamrul Hira; M.A. Malek; Professor Shahnaz Mumtaz, President of US Mahila Awami League; Sheikh Atik, Vice President of New York State Awami League; General Secretary Shaheen Azmal; Ashraful Uddin, Vice President of US Swechchhasebak League; Bronx Awami League leader Md. Muhit; US Awami League leader Md. Tulon; Jubo League leader Sebul Mia; Chhatra League leaders Hridoy Mia and Zahid Hasan, among others.

Also present were journalist union leader Saban Mahmud, US Awami League Organizing Secretary Abul Hasib Mamun, and Executive Member Shahanara Rahman.

Shibbir Ahmed, United Nations, New York: A large protest rally was held in front of the United Nations on April 20, where demonstrators strongly condemned the reported ban on the Awami League in Bangladesh and demanded its immediate withdrawal. Protesters warned that if the decision is not reversed, a strong আন্দোলন (movement) would be launched from the United States to overthrow the Jamaat-BNP-led government under the leadership of Tarique Rahman.

The main organizer of the program, Dr. Pradip Kar, an advisor to the United States Awami League and a freedom fighter, also called for intervention from President Donald Trump and the United Nations to address the rise of militancy and terrorism in Bangladesh.

Among those who spoke at the rally were leaders and activists from various affiliated organizations, including the Awami League, Jubo League, Chhatra League, and Mohila Awami League. Key speakers included Dr. Siddiqur Rahman, Abdus Samad Azad, Dr. Masudul Hasan, Abul Hasib Mamun, Abdur Rahim Badsha, Rafiqul Rahman, Imdad Chowdhury, Shaheen Azmal, Mohiuddin Dewan, Sheikh Atik, M.A. Karim Jahangir, Hakikul Islam Khokon, Advocate Shah Bakhtiar, Solaiman Ali, Sakhawat Ali, Advocate Rokibuddin Dulal, Advocate Morsheda Zaman, Rumana Akter, Baker Bhuiyan, Jalal Uddin Jalil, Tarek ul Haider Chowdhury, Sheikh Jamal, Jewel Ahmed, Shahidul Islam, and Hriday Mia, among others.

During the rally, Dr. Pradip Kar announced a peaceful human chain demonstration to be held in front of the U.S. State Department on May 4 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM, demanding the repeal of the law banning the Awami League. He also stated that a memorandum would be submitted to the U.S. Secretary of State. Additionally, a memorandum has already been submitted to the Secretary-General of the United Nations following the protest.

Meanwhile, the United States Awami League, along with its New York State and city units, has also announced another protest rally scheduled for April 30 at 12:00 PM in front of the State Department and the White House to oppose the passage of the law banning the Awami League.

Shibbir Ahmed, New York: A historic milestone has been achieved in New York, as a resolution has been adopted recognizing April 14 as “Bengali New Year Day,” marking a significant acknowledgment of Bengali culture and heritage. The resolution was passed on April 22 during a legislative session held in the state capital, Albany, bringing a grand conclusion to three days of vibrant New Year celebrations.

The proposal was introduced in the New York State Senate by Senators Luis Sepúlveda, Nathalia Fernandez, and Toby Ann Stavisky. Speaking in support of the resolution, Senator Stavisky emphasized the vital contributions of the Bengali community in education, business, and culture across New York’s diverse society. Her remarks were met with enthusiastic applause from fellow lawmakers and attendees. Approximately 50 prominent members of the Bengali diaspora were present at the session, rising to their feet in recognition of the moment.

The resolution calls upon Governor Kathy Hochul to officially proclaim April 14, 2026, as Bengali New Year Day in New York State. It highlights the festival as a secular and inclusive cultural celebration with roots in the agrarian economy of the Mughal era, bringing together people of all backgrounds through music, dance, art, and traditional heritage.

It further acknowledges the Bengali-speaking population—one of the largest linguistic communities in the world—for its strong cultural presence in New York. From the late 19th century to the present day, Bengalis have made notable contributions in education, research, business, healthcare, and literature across the United States.

The resolution also recognizes the decades-long cultural contributions of Muktadhara Foundation, including its festivals and book fairs, and highlights the role of its founder Biswajit Saha. His contributions have been formally acknowledged by the state legislature, as his name is included among those receiving official copies of the resolution.

Following the formal proceedings, a cultural program began at 1:00 PM. The event opened with Rabindra Sangeet performances led by music director Mahitosh Talukder Tapas. Senator Stavisky delivered remarks during the program, praising the role of community organizations such as NRB Worldwide and the Muktadhara Foundation in promoting Bengali language and culture in New York.

Additional speakers included NRB Worldwide Vice President Kallol Basu, General Secretary Tofazzal Liton, and Mahitosh Talukder Tapas. In his remarks, Biswajit Saha expressed his vision of elevating Bengali New Year celebrations beyond the diaspora and into the broader American mainstream.

The cultural segment featured performances by young dancer Bhasha Saha and singer Durga Khatriya. Folk artist MD Shahin Hossain captivated the audience with traditional music. Under the musical direction of Mahitosh Tapas, five special songs were performed, making the hour-long program lively and festive. The event concluded with a collective rendition of the national anthem of Bangladesh.

The celebration, organized by the New York State Senate and led by Biswajit Saha under the banner of NRB Worldwide, began on April 11–12 in New York City—notably in Times Square and Jackson Heights—and concluded on April 22 at the State Capitol in Albany.

With the adoption of this resolution, Bengali New Year is now on a clear path toward official recognition as a cultural observance in New York State—marking a proud and historic achievement for the Bengali community in the United States.

Shibbir Ahmed, New York: Times Square in New York City turned into a vibrant hub of celebration on Saturday as thousands gathered to welcome the Bengali New Year 1433. The day-long event, organized by NRB Worldwide with support from the New York State Senate, brought together members of the Bangladeshi diaspora, artists, writers, and American political figures. A total of 27 segments throughout the day kept the audience engaged.

The opening ceremony featured distinguished participants including Bishwajit Saha, Rokeya Haider, Hossain Kabir, and Mohitosh Talukdar Tapas. Greetings displayed on a large digital screen included messages from prominent figures such as Brad Hoylman-Sigal, Donovan Richards Jr., Grace Meng, and John Liu. A tribute was also paid marking the birth centenary of renowned writer Shamsuddin Abul Kalam, followed by a literary discussion hosted by Tofazzal Liton. The opening musical performance was delivered by Kartik Chandra.

The first half of the day featured music and dance performances, including solo acts by children, songs by Alvan Chowdhury, dance performances by Ranjani, and artistic showcases by Chitra. A special presentation of “Mymensingh Geetika” was performed by Jibon Chowdhury. Artists from Nepal, Laos, and Thailand also participated, highlighting multicultural diversity. A thematic performance titled “Six Seasons” further enriched the program.

At midday, an award ceremony honored international guests and community representatives, hosted by Dr. Kollol Basu. A commemorative publication was unveiled by Rokeya Haider and Bishwajit Saha.

In the afternoon, a stage play titled “Jyoti Songhita” was performed. The program also included a colorful procession, a tribute to legendary composer Salil Chowdhury, a performance of protest songs by Rahman Tito, dance presentations by Adda and Srishti Academy, folk songs by Shah Mahbub, and a performance by the Odissi Dance Academy. A special tribute segment was dedicated to iconic actor Uttam Kumar.

In the evening, children participated in a mass choral performance titled “Shatokonthe Borshoboron,” followed by a collective performance by senior artists. The program concluded at 10 PM with closing musical performances by Rituporna Banerjee from Kolkata and Nakul Kumar Biswas from Dhaka.

In their closing remarks, organizers stated that the Times Square celebration has grown into a significant cultural event on the international stage, symbolizing unity and cultural pride among the global Bengali community.