“The Awami League, the party instrumental in leading Bangladesh to freedom from Pakistani colonial rule, is once again prey to assaults by those who have historically been uncomfortable with its role in Bengali life. … Every time the Awami League has been under assault from martial law or unconstitutional regimes, it has bounced back through the dedication of its leaders, workers and nationwide supporters.”
In the aftermath of prolonged unrest, Manipur is witnessing a hopeful resurgence of peace and stability. With President’s Rule in place, security forces have restored law and order, particularly in violence-hit regions like Jiribam. As public trust grows and militant groups fracture, communities are now reclaiming their lives, signaling a united push toward a brighter, violence-free future.
Bangladesh Army Chief Gen Waker-uz-Zaman attempted to dismiss Lt Gen Kamrul Hassan on May 11, but was stopped by interim authority head Mohammad Yunus, revealing deep divisions within the Army over the humanitarian corridor issue. National Security Adviser Khalilur Rahman strongly supports the corridor, a position that led to the removal of Foreign Secretary Jashim Uddin, who opposed it. The split has impacted international relations, with Gen Zaman’s visit to the U.S. being canceled. Meanwhile, U.S. Charge d’Affaires Tracey Ann Jacobson’s intervention reportedly prevented Hassan’s removal, highlighting geopolitical stakes.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has arrived in Turkey for new peace talks, but Russian President Vladimir Putin’s absence has drawn criticism from Western officials. Zelenskyy, accompanied by top Ukrainian officials, will first meet Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan before potential discussions with Russia’s delegation, led by Putin aide Vladimir Medinsky.
Putin’s absence has fueled doubts about Moscow’s sincerity in negotiations, with European leaders warning of consequences if diplomacy fails. Ukraine is pushing for an immediate 30-day ceasefire, but Russia has declined to halt hostilities before talks.
The initiative has gained momentum amid growing international pressure, with U.S. presidential candidate Donald Trump advocating for direct negotiations between Zelenskyy and Putin. The situation remains uncertain, with global leaders closely watching developments in Turkey.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has called for international oversight of Pakistan’s nuclear weapons, questioning their safety in the hands of what he termed a “rogue and irresponsible nation.” During his visit to Jammu and Kashmir, Singh urged the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to monitor Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal. Meanwhile, the IAEA has clarified that there was no radiation leak from Pakistani nuclear facilities during the recent conflict.
Air Marshal A K Bharti dismissed claims that India targeted Kirana Hills, a site linked to Pakistan’s nuclear infrastructure, stating that India’s strikes were confined to an airbase in Sargodha. The External Affairs Ministry also refuted US President Donald Trump’s assertion that he had prevented a nuclear conflict, emphasizing that India’s actions remained within conventional warfare.
Singh’s remarks have sparked debate over whether India will formally push for global scrutiny of Pakistan’s nuclear capabilities. The situation continues to develop amid heightened regional tensions.
Bangladesh’s Barisal University Vice-Chancellor Suchita Sharmin was abruptly removed from her position on May 13, sparking allegations of nepotism and political maneuvering. The Mohammad Yunus-led interim government replaced her with Professor Toufiq Alam, amid claims that university administrators sought to advance their own positions.
Sources suggest that Pro Vice-Chancellor Golam Rabbani, Treasurer Mamunur Rashid, and Professor Mohammad Mohsinuddin conspired against Sharmin, allegedly using student protests as leverage. Sharmin has now rejoined Dhaka University, while the controversy continues to unfold.
Aaranyak has been honoured with the Mark Shand Award by Elephant Family at the Wonders of the Wild ceremony in London on May 13. The award, presented by King Charles III and Queen Camilla, recognizes Aaranyak’s commitment to Asian elephant conservation in Northeast India, focusing on human-elephant coexistence, ecological research, and habitat restoration. Dr Bibhuti Prasad Lahkar accepted the award on behalf of the organization. Aaranyak’s 20-year strategic plan aims to mitigate human-elephant conflict while ensuring long-term conservation.
The Centre has enhanced security cover for External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, adding an extra bulletproof vehicle to his convoy amid heightened India-Pakistan tensions. His Z-category security, already comprising 33 CRPF commandos, was upgraded following India’s precision strikes on terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir on May 7. The government is also reassessing security arrangements for senior officials, including Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri and Delhi CM Rekha Gupta, as threats escalate in the wake of Operation Sindoor.
“Air India has announced the suspension of operations at Silchar Airport, with the final flight scheduled for May 31, 2025, marking the end of nearly 70 years of service. While no official reason has been provided, experts link the decision to operational shifts amid regional tensions and security concerns, including ‘Operation Sindoor’. Passengers with bookings beyond May 31 are advised to contact Air India for assistance. Local stakeholders worry about the impact on accessibility and economic development, as other airlines continue limited operations but may face increased demand.”
“Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha revealed that cases of illegal immigration from Bangladesh have surged by 36% in the past two years, attributing the rise to heightened security vigilance. Speaking at a police appointment ceremony, he highlighted Tripura’s three-tier security system comprising the BSF, Tripura State Rifles, and Tripura Police. Saha emphasized that despite challenges, the state’s crime rate remains significantly lower than the national average, with a 19.4% drop in 2024 and further reductions in 2025. Additionally, he addressed concerns over firearm smuggling while announcing plans to recruit 900 more police constables soon.”
Barak Bolchhe!
