Professional Documents
Culture Documents
www.dhakatribune.com
SECOND EDITION
In many cases, the whips could not ensure presence of adequate number of MPs while the House was in session
The new whips are Atiur Rahman Atik (Sherpur 1), Shahiduzzaman Sarker (Naogaon 2), Iqbalur Rahim (Dinajpur 3), Soaliman Haque Joarder (Salun) of Chuadanga 1 and Md Shahab Uddin (Moulvibazar 1). In ninth parliament while holding the post of a whip, equivalent to a state minister, Noor-E Alam was the chairman of parliamentary standing committee on shipping ministry and member of two other important committees the watchdogs on LGRD and housing and public works ministries. He was made the chairman of the shipping ministry watchdog in viola-
A stage is being set up on the main road in Feni city yesterday, blocking vehicular movement. The road has been blocked for five days for the preparation of a rally to be held today to welcome visiting Awami League leaders. Story on Page 2 DHAKA TRIBUNE
INSIDE
News
3 A section of Jatiya Party leaders who withdrew nominations on Ershads instruction are now set to break away from the Ershad-led Jatiya Party to form a new platform for doing politics.
News
4 The irregularities in solar panel installation have risen, with a section of employees in power distribution companies being in cohort with consumers.
News
5 The waste management departments of the two city corporations of Dhaka falters as they fails to provide waste management service for the city people properly.
Op-Ed
11 Every modern society and state has the duty to protect minorities, and ensure equal rights for them. If anywhere, minorities feel insecure, and are tortured or persecuted by the majority community or any group of the majority community, it is a shortcoming of that society and a failure of the state.
Workers build structures at Suhrawardy Udyan yesterday for the upcoming Amar Ekushey Gronthomela (Ekushey Book Fair). Usually held on Bangla Academy ground, the venue of the fair has been extended to the adjacent Udyan this year Rajib Dhar
Entertainment
12 Rock Strata, one of the pioneering bands of Bangladeshs metal scene, is back after 22 long years with a brand new album titled Notun Shad-er Khojey. The album is scheduled to be released on February 7.
Female Rana Plaza victim Indecision eats Hefazat-e-Islam and other Islamist parties found dead at home
n Ashif Islam Shaon
An injured female garment worker, who had survived the deadliest factory disaster Rana Plaza collapse, was found dead in her residence yesterday. The husband of the deceased claimed that she committed suicide for mental stigma and unbearable pain she was suffering from her injuries she received from the building collapse. The victim was Salma, 27, who had been living for the last two months in a rented house with her husband Babu, a bus helper, in Bamnartek area in the capitals Turag. Police recovered the hanging body of Salma from the house around 11am after Babu informed them. A Sub-Inspector of Turag police station Kamal Hossain quoting Babu said Salma sustained injuries to her head and body in the building collapse on April 24 last year. She had severe headache and also suffered from mental stigma. Babu claimed that she committed suicide failing to bear the pain, he said.
PAGE 2 COLUMN 4
n Manik Miazee
Hefazat-e-Islam is now wavering over declaring a fresh agitation programme to realise its 13-point demands when it could not stage any large demonstration in the last six months. Now they are considering new programmes which can connect the ordinary Muslims and avoid government harassment, said leaders of Hefazat and some other Islamist parties. For that, religious conferences including waz mahfils (sermons) have
been their initial choice. Following the crackdown of law enforcers on the Hefazat supporters on May 5 last year, the Hathazari madrasa-based non-political organisation called rallies in Dhaka more than three times. But the government did not allow them to gather in the capital. They could not even hold rallies in Chittagong areas. After May 5, Hefazat leaders and activists are facing many cases on charges of vandalism, arson and killing of police and general people. Most of the
leaders and activists are now hiding to avoid arrest. Hefazat leaders said they were not clear about the possible plan of action at this moment. Sources said many of the Hefazat leaders who are also top leaders of the 18-party allies are communicating with the government high-ups for the release of its detained members and withdrawal of the cases against them. They are also pursuing the government to hold a programme in the capital.
PAGE 2 COLUMN 4
DHAKA TRIBUNE
News
State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shahriar Alam receives a gold boat from Rajshahi AL leaders at a reception programme organised in Bagha High School field yesterday DHAKA TRIBUNE
Minister gets gold boat, school kids kept hungry for hours
n Tribune Report
Keeping hundreds of school-kids hungry and waiting in queues for hours, Bagha upazila Awami League accorded a reception to new State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shahriar Alam in Rajshahi yesterday. The kids were kept standing on both sides of the road directing to Bagha High School where the ceremony was held. The kids starved and burnt under the sun while Rajshahi 6 (Bagha-Charghat) lawmaker Shahriar got a goldmade boat and coat pin from his fellows at the reception. Local municipality Mayor Akkas Ali handed over the golden boat to the lawmaker and ward 8 Awami League President Kawser Hossain gave him the coat pin. The state minister in reply requested his fellows not to give him such gift in future and declared that he would donate money (in comparison with the gifts monetary value) to a local handicaps organisation.
'I came to my school having breakfast and teachers took us here before lunch time. They gave us nothing to eat'
The ruling party men also constructed over 50 ornamental gates in Charghat and Bagha upazila sponsored by his fellows, education and business organisations. The students who were kept standing said they were asked to attend their respective schools before noon and around 2:30pm they were taken to the venue. I came to my school having breakfast and teachers took us here before
lunch time. They gave us nothing to eat, said a sixth grader Sohrab Hossain of Harirampur High School. Talking to this correspondent around 2pm, student of local Rahmatuallah Girls High School Sarmin Sultana, Sakil Ahmed echoed the same as Sohrab. When the students were in queues, the state minister after Juma prayer went to upazila Awami League leader Azizul Alams residence. He came to stage at 4:38pm to attend the occasion. Around 5:30pm, president of upazila unit Jubo League Babul Islam announced through loudspeaker that the children who were starving can go back home. After the state minister arrived, students of Shishu Academy sang the national anthem. Later, on behalf of more than 500 people and organisations, he was given a bouquet. l
from their department as well as media attention. On the other hand, the RAB said they had conducted chemical tests on the substances themselves and affirmed that those were cocaine. The RAB sources, however, accused a quarter of unscrupulous policemen of altering the cocaine samples and replacing by soda, fertiliser or others. The blame game has given the criminals to walk free, sources said adding that many innocent people were also harassed because of the conflict. Sometimes innocent people are arrested based on false information
provided by their rivals. Informants of the law enforcement agencies also implicate innocent people with a view to serve their anterior purposes, the sources said. Banaz Kumar Majumder, additional commissioner (crime and operation) of the CMP, told the Dhaka Tribune that the findings of any seizure by the police or the RAB had been tested by the CID forensic department. The CIDs test is acceptable by the court. There is no scope either for the police or the RAB to change the seizure list and the items, he said adding that the RAB was responsible for their recoveries.
Lt Col Mifta Uddin Ahmed, commanding officer of RAB 7, said: There is no possibility of irregularities in our recoveries. Any quarter may have been changing the samples to serve their ulterior purposes. He also said they had conducted chemical tests of the recovered drugs by their own Kit Box tools initially adding that it gave accurate result most of the time. If there is any suspicion, we send the samples to the RAB Headquarters Forensic Lab, which is the countrys most modern forensic test, he added. Mofiz Uddin, deputy director and in-charge media wing of RAB 7, said they had tested the seized cocaine from
Mehedi in their own way both in Chittagong and Dhaka, and found positive result. I cannot not understand how the cocaine turns into soda in CIDs forensic test, he said. Azizul Islam, officer-in-charge of Pahartoli police station, said they had sent the item to the forensic lab, and that they had no responsibility in this regard. Kamal Uddin, father of Mehedi, claimed that his son was trapped by a RAB source to get recognition. The Rab 7 chief, Lt Col Mifta Uddin, said he had not received such complaints but would investigate if there was any. l
standing committees he was members of. According to the affidavit he submitted to the Election Commission for contesting the 10th general elections, Noor-E Alam had an income hike of 330 times during the previous government tenure 2008 to 2013. In the 2008 affidavit, he had shown his annual income to be Tk4.48 lakh from business. Now his income shot up to Tk14.79 crore, says the latest affidavit. He also gets Tk1.31 crore as bank interest. According to the previous declaration, the deposit of his and his dependents was over Tk1.65 lakh. After five years, his bank deposit stands at over
Tk53.97 crore while his spouse maintains a deposit of around Tk36 crore. He has also invested Tk20 crore in the newly-launched Modhumoti Bank in which his another cousin Sheikh Fazle Noor Taposh has major shares. Profiles of new chief whip and whips ASM Feroz was elected MP in the second, fifth, seventh, ninth and 10th parliament from Patuakhali 2 constituency (Bauphal). Born on February 1, 1953 in Kalaiya village under Bauphal upzila of Patuakhali, he joined the War of Independence in 1971. His career with the Awami League started ahead of the third general elections in 1986.
Born on December 13, 1955, Shahiduzzaman Sarker had his masters degree in jurisprudence from Rajshahi University. He quit the judicial service and joined politics in 1986. He was elected MP in the fifth, ninth and 10th parliaments. Sherpur 1 lawmaker Atik is a fourtime MP. He was born on December 1, 1957 in Baroghoria under Sherpur sadar upazila. He started his career in politics joining Bangladesh Chhatra League, the Awami Leagues student front, in 1968. He was first elected as an MP in 1996 on Awami League ticket. Then he was elected in the general elections of 2001, 2008 and 2014. Iqbalur Rahim is a two-term MP
from Dinajpur sadar constituency. He was first elected as an MP in 2008. His father Abdur Rahim also contested from the Awami League. He was the general secretary of Rajshahi College unit of Chhatra League. Later became the president of Dhaka University unit Chhatra League. Iqbalur Rahim was born on August 16, 1965 in Dinajpur. Md Shahab Uddin was born on December 31, 1954 in Borolekha of Moulvibazar. He was first elected MP in 2008 as an Awami League candidate. Soaliman Haque Joarder is a freedom fighter. He was born on March 15, 1946 in Chuadanga. He was first elected MP in the 2008 general elections from the Awami League. l
Police, however, detained Babu for questioning. According to Babu, Salma worked at a factory on the sixth floor of Rana Plaza, where more than 1,135 workers died and hundreds injured when it collapsed. Salma was rescued from under the debris three days after the building had collapsed. She was under treatment for many days in a hospital but did not recover fully. She used to bump his head against the wall when her pain became unbearable, Babu told police. He said they had so far got Tk60,000 as aid from the government and organ-
isations following the incident. In the inquest report, police said Salma became mentally imbalanced in the wake of her illness and her husband claimed that they used to lock into quarrel often. They fell asleep after having dinner Thursday night and around 6am in the morning Babu noticed her hanging. As the incident needs to be investigated further, the body has been sent to Dhaka Medical College Hospital for autopsy, the inquest report reads. Officer-in-Charge of Turag police station Sheikh Farid said they talked with the neighbours who said the victim was a bit mentally imbalanced since the collapse. l
Nilphamari chapter, according to news agencies. However, Asaduzzaman Ripon, a spokesperson of the BNP, said on Friday that there was a gulf of ideological differences between BNP and Jamaat. The two parties might have formed an electoral alliance, but Jamaat has its own political ideology, said Ripon, the international affairs secretary of BNP, at a press conference. The party organised the press conference at its Nayapaltan central office yesterday in reaction to a remark by the prime minister, who had said BNP Chairperson Khaleda Zia was the
Ameer of Jamaat. At a public meeting in Jessore on Saturday, Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina termed made the remark. Labelling such a statement devoid of political decorum, Asaduzzaman said: Could I call her [PM] the ameer of Jatiya Party or the chairperson of JaPa? Asaduzzaman claimed that the BNP had not made any mistake by boycotting the January 5 election. The claim was made in reaction to another statement of the PM, who had said BNP chief Khaleda Zia had understood the mistake that she had made by not joining the polls. l
Awami League has given instructions to the presidents and secretaries of district units through a letter signed by party General Secretary Syed Ashraful Islam recently. According to the Election Commission, the polls of 98 upazila parishads from 40 districts will be held on February 19. Although dates for 102 upazilas were declared, problems were found about the delimitations of four upazilas in Rangpur. The second phase of upazila election will be held in 117 upazilas from 52 districts on February 27. BNP Standing Committee member Mahbubur Rahman confirmed about the partys participation in the upcoming election and said they had decided to fulfill the local leaders desires, as it was a local bodys elections. We have some reservations about
the Election Commission, but it is also decided from our party to be part of the election, Mahbubur Rahman told the Dhaka Tribune yesterday. Senior Awami League leader Amir Hossain Amu said it was great news for national politics that BNP wanted to participate in the upazila parishad election, though they had missed the national election train. Though BNP chairperson has boycotted the last national ballot battle, I think now she has realised that she had made a great mistake, and now she is willing to take part in upazila poll, Amu, also the industries minister, told the Dhaka Tribune over phone. However, at a programme earlier in the day, Amu had said: If Khaleda Zia wants to participate in upazila poll, she must accept the new government led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Replying to the AL leaders comment, Mahbubur Rahman said there was no
way to think like that, adding: They can say anything; but not to be part of the national election was not a mistake made by BNP. We have no regret about it. Today is the last day for filing the nomination for the first phase of upazila parishad election. Meanwhile, reports from different correspondents suggest that BNP leaders were more active in some areas, compared to the election activities shown by the ruling party activists. Our Barisal correspondent said 12 aspirants from the BNP purchased nomination forms in two upazilas of Barisal, while only two aspirants from the AL and Jatiya Party (Ershad) had collected nominations so far. Bogra has also reportedly become festive with election mood following the announcement of the election schedule. The BNPs district unit Secretary Jainul Abedin Chan directed his party
activists to be publicly active for the candidates, while the partys district committee is set to select their candidates in a meeting today. Mir Shahe Alam, incumbent chairman of Shibganj upazila and also the district BNP organizing secretary, said, lots of new aspirants have been found this year and it would be a colorful election. Our Gopalganj correspondent said election hopefuls were holding meetings and attending cultural programs in different areas of Kashiani upazila In Sirajganj, the AL supporters reportedly declared the local lawmaker Ishaque Hossain Talukder unwelcome in Rupganj upazila over disputes surrounding the selection of candidate. Ruling party men also blocked the Bogra-Nagarbary highway on Thursday as the lawmaker allegedly forcefully declared upazila AL President Almizi Zinnah as the candidate. l
The Islamist parties, most of which are involved with Hefazat and the BNP-led 18-party alliance, are also uncertain about resuming the anti-government movement. Islami Oikya Jot (IOJ), Bangladesh Khelafat Majlish and Jamiat-e-Ulamae-Islam are part of the 18-party alliance. Bangladesh Khelafat Andolon and Khelafat-e-Islami Bangladesh are not part of any alliance. Hefazat Secretary General Junaid Babunagari, who is also the vice-chairman of IOJ, yesterday told with Dhaka Tribune: Now we are discontinuing our programmes. But it is a temporary situation. We will come up with new programmes soon. Muhammad Zafrullah Khan, an ad-
viser of the Hefazat, yesterday told the Dhaka Tribune that for the governments undemocratic activities, the countrys political and also social groups, except for the ruling party, were unable to hold programmes. For these reasons, now we have to rethink our programme strategies. Also secretary general of Bangladesh Khelafat Andolon, Zafarullah said Hefazat and the Islamist parties would be organising religious gatherings on special days. The chairman of a faction of 18-party ally IOJ, Abdul Latif Nezami, also a Hefazat adviser, yesterday told the Dhaka Tribune that the Hefazat had to temporarily stop its programmes because of the governments harassing its leaders and supporters. l
DHAKA TRIBUNE
News
Sources said Ranas murder could also be linked to the disappearance of cable businessman Fakhrul, allegedly orchestrated by Rana last September. However, Mohammad Mithu, younger brother of Rana, accused Tanvir Rahman of taking part in the crime and killing him on the spot. Tanvir did this in revenge for my brothers protest against his drug business. Meanwhile, police detained ruling party activists Ripon and Bahar who had been accompanying Rana before the murder. We detained Ripon and Bahar for questioning, said Mashiur Rahman, officer in charge of Ramna police station. Several other individuals were also questioned about the killing. We suspect Ronny and Zisan could be involved with the murder. No case was filed in this connection as of 6:30pm yesterday. l
A father helps his son get down a missing step of a foot-over bridge in the citys Kamalapur Railway Station yesterday. Though many people use the bridge to come to the station, the authorities are yet to take any necessary measures to fix the broken steps RAJIB DHAR
Skeletal remains Next polls in 2019: Maya found again at n Our Correspondent, Chandpur Rana Plaza debris
n Adil Sakhawat
Nine months after the tragic Rana Plaza disaster, skeletal remains of the victims continue to be found at the site of the building, with 18 pieces of bones being unearthed yesterday. Mazed, the husband of missing Arina Begum who used to work on the fifth floor of the Rana Plaza, found the bones and skulls from the debris yesterday afternoon. Mazed told the Dhaka Tribune: My wife worked in the Rana Plaza. After the incident, I did not find her body. I sometimes go to the debris site with my two children who continuously ask me about their mother. Yesterday at 2:30pm, I went there as the date was the 24th [ninemonth anniversary of the disaster]. I entered the debris, as there were many openings to the site. Suddenly I saw a dress and a shoulder bone. Then I pulled the dress and found the hair of a woman, dental gum, and the bones of hand and chest. I recovered 18 parts of bones and skulls, he added. Police were seen to be threatening Mazed for entering the site and finding the bones, but he was allowed to go after journalists had reached the site. Abdul Mannan, assistant subinspector of the Savar model police station, said: I have seized 17 bones and skulls from there. However, I think those are not skulls of the victims. There are some groups who bring those from outside and then claim that those are remains of Rana Plaza victims. However, Officer-in-Charge of Savar model police station Mostafa Kamal snubbed out news of the bone recovery as rumour, and said: We have not recovered any type of human remains today. Earlier, at least 310 pieces of human bones and skulls had been recovered from the collapsed Rana Plaza debris from December 13, 2013 to January 4 this year by local people, street children and the survivors of the Rana Plaza disaster. l Disaster and Relief Management Minister Mofazzal Hossain Chowdhury Maya yesterday said the 11th parliamentary election would be held under the present government headed by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in 2019. The 10th parliamentary polls was held as per the constitution. The elected governments tenure is five years, so the next polls will be held in 2019 under the present government, he said while talking to journalists at a view-exchange meeting at Chandpur circuit house. Asked about holding dialogue with BNP over the next general election, the minister said: There will be no dialogue regarding elections. He, however, said talks can be held
on democracy, war crimes trial and well-being of the country. Maya said: Those who tried to foil the election by terrorist activities have failed. Instead, they were destroyed. Those, who will conduct terrorist activities, call hartal and blockade, have broken their backbone, they cannot stand straight, their movement will never be successful in Bangladesh, he added. The minister also urged the journalists to criticise and point out the mistakes of the government so that they rectify it. Golam Kibria Jibon, the president of Chandpur press club, Giasuddin Milon, general secretary, Ikram Chowdhury, former president of the press club, Iqbal Hossain Patwary, former general secretary, among other, were present. l
4
NEW POWER CONNECTION
DHAKA TRIBUNE
News
A woman tries a necklace at the Dhaka International Trade Fair yesterday. The weekend saw a large number of visitors thronging the fair at Sher-e-Bangla Nagar in the city. Story on page 4 MAHMUD HOSSAIN OPU
Source: Power Division A good number of the guilty parties have already been caught. In December 2013, some 406 consumers under five power distribution companies were caught as their solar panels were found non-functional and running at low capacity. Of them, power connections of 269 were cut off, according to the documents placed at the Power Divisions coordination meeting held a few days back. Even some were found to have removed the solar panels. In a drive of August 2013, the number of wrongdoers was 261. Of them, electricity connections of 27 were cut off as a punitive measure. The authorities also asked the consumers whose connections had already been cut off to re-apply to get the new power supply. The newly appointed State Minister for Power Nasrul Hamid in a meeting on January 13 asked the Power Division officials about the progress in setting up solar panels across the country. The minister also asked about the rules of setting up solar panels for getting new electricity connections. According to the Power Division, those who are eager to get new domestic connections and will consume up to two kilowatts of electricity do not need to install solar panels, but if the demand exceeds two kilowatts, instal-
ASSAULTING TEACHER AT JU
6 pound cocaine seized from capital Another youth shot n dead in city
Kailash Sarkar
Detectives seized six pounds of cocaine and arrested six from the capitals Nikunja yesterday for allegedly smuggling drugs into the country under the pretense of importing raw materials. The arrested are Md Kamrul Alam, director of Madina Pharmaceuticals, Taher Mondol alias Zoba, a Spain expatriate, Kazi Khalilullah Mahmud, Mamun Hawlader, owner of a recruiting agency, Mosharraf Hossain Bhuiyan, and Mosharraf Hossain Rana, a herbal medicine trader. Detective Branch officials said the detainees smuggle in cocaine as chemicals and raw materials used for drug manufacturing at pharmaceuticals in association with several other rings of smugglers and foreigners. All of them were caught red handed with the cocaine worth near Tk5 crore while they were trying to sell them at Seema pharmacy located in Zaman Market in Nikunja, said Monirul Islam, joint commissioner of Dhaka Metropolitan Polices Detective and Criminal Intelligence Branch. Madina Pharmaceuticals Director Kamrul Alam and Spain expatriate
n Kailash Sarkar
Another youth was shot to death at Mohakhali in the capital by a gang of unidentified armed criminals last night, just a day after the killing of a Swechchhasebak League leader at Moghbazar. Dulal Sarder, 35, was shot in front of Wireless Gate in Mohakhali around 9pm while he and three friends were returning from a restaurant. The friends took him to Dhaka Medical College Hospital where he died around 10:30pm. We were on our way to Jhaowla Bosti [slum] when a gang of unidentified armed criminals opened fire on Dulal, said Jamal, one of the three youths. Son of Sultan Sarder of Munshiganj, Dulal resided in Korail slum along with his family. Hearing the news, his wife Nur Banu rushed to the DMCH. Opurbo Hasan, officer-in-charge of Banani police station, said feuds and rivalry over the control on earnings from setting up illegal gas, water and elec-
tricity connections at the Korail slum might have led to the killing as Dulal had been the cashier of the group that ran the business. A murder in the slum a year ago might also have links to the killing of Dulal as he was suspected to have involvement in the murder, he said. We will investigate the incident.
Police present six detainees before the media yesterday. Detective police nabbed these people with Cocaine from the citys Khilkhet area DHAKA TRIBUNE Taher Mondol Zoba had smuggled the cocaine into Bangladesh through the Hajarat Shahjalal International Airport in the name of importing of pharmaceuticals raw materials, said Monirul Islam. He said the smuggled cocaine was handed over to Mosharraf Hossain, who kept it at his pharmacy for sale while the rest -Khalilullah Mahmud, Mamun Hawlader, and Mosharraf Hossain Rana-were assigned for selling the cocaine to different drug peddlers. Some pharmaceutical owners and officials are involved in smuggling cocaine with the support of some foreigners, Monirul added. The detainees were produced before the court seeking remand for interrogation. l
Feuds and rivalry over the control on earnings from setting up illegal gas, water and electricity connections at the Korail slum might have led to the killing
In reply to a question, the OC said police were also verifying the roles of the three youths who accompanied Dulal during the shooting whether they had any link to the killing and the killers. Sources at the hospital said Dulal had sustained gunshots in his head, chest and back. l
WEATHER
PRAYER TIMES
Fajar Sunrise Zohr Asr Magrib Esha 5:24am 6:42am 12:10am 4:02pm 5:38pm 6:57pm
Source: IslamicFinder.org
DHAKA TRIBUNE
News
Waste containers are kept on a road at Taltola in the citys Sher-e-Bangla Nagar, hampering traffic as well as pedestrains movement cific area to dump the garbage. A project namely secondary transformation station has already been introduced to a number of wards in DNCC and it would take two to three years to complete, said Bipon. Captain SM Javed Iqbal, Dhaka South City Corporation chief waste management officer, echoed the same. He said: The urban public and environmental health development project will give Dhaka a better look. I hope
NASHIRUL ISLAM
after completion of the project, people of the capital would be able to live free from the filth of open roadside dustbins. l
with 371 small public and private holding owners. Among the major 70 tax-defaulters, Tk60.88lakh is due with the Barisal Government Brojo Mohun College, Tk39lakh with upazila education office, Tk38lakh with district judge courtship, Tk27lakh with executive engineer Public Works Department, Tk26lakh with
It is also expected that the premier might announce further initiatives for several other projects that have long been demanded by the Gaibandha residents
of the people here. We must place the demands to the prime minister during her visit so that it can be accepted. On the other hand, the different socio-cultural organizations have also put up roadside banners highlighting their demands for the districts development. l
A human chain was formed in front of the National Press Club yesterday, protesting attacks on Jatra artistes at Shyamnagar in Mymensingh recently NASHIRUL ISLAM
DHAKA TRIBUNE
Feature
BDCyclist celebrates its 100th Bike Friday yesterday at the Ghater Char primary school. More than 800 members turned out for the milestone ride COURTESY
esterday, BDCyclists celebrated their 100th Bike Friday, two years after its inception. Over 1,000 cyclists took part. Starting out from Manik Mia Avenue at 7:30am, they biked for 15km, and arrived at the Ghater Char primary school grounds near Bosilla Bridge, Keraniganj, where more activities took place. These included a solo race, a spoon race, a zigzag race, and a straight-line race - all on bikes. According to moderator Noor-A Nazia, the event was a huge success. We will cherish the memories and hope that we reach the 1000th milestone with everyones love & passion towards cycling, she said.
exciting option. For our ride on Tuesday night, a lot of people came over right after leaving the office, one of the moderators Fuad Ahsan Chowdhury said. We rode 10-15 kilometres to a village, hung out, ate pittha and came back by 10pm. BDCyclists have not only provided an adventure outlet, but has also created a sense of community. For jaded city dwellers with their dreary daily routines, cycling has essentially brought back a slice of their childhoods.
Girl power
BDCyclists journey began in May 2011, initiated by Mozammel Haque, when a handful of friends started the group, primarily as a hobby. They hoped to gradually promote cycling as an eco-friendly alternative to using motorised vehicles. It expanded rapidly as friends of friends of friends started to join, and a Facebook group was formed. They organised Bike Fridays, where they would meet at 6am to ride around the city. Today, BDCyclists are an almost 32,000 strong, rapidly growing community of aspiring and established cyclists who, blind to age, gender or occupation, are united by their drive to bike.
In a country where girls are leered at when they are simply walking down the street, its truly inspiring that BDCyclists have more than 100 active female members who take ownership of the streets with their male counterparts. Fahmina Khanam, one of its members, came second in the national womens bicycle race championship. Tanzin Chowdhury was the first female member of the group to ride 200km in one day. In spite of the rise in female cyclists, WSDs or Women Specific Design bikes, with frame sizes in the range of 13-15in, remain few and far between in Bangladesh. Yet the indomitable women of BDCyclists have not been held back.
Precision and speed: Bikers set the roads on fire at a qualifying race for BDCyclists 17th annual Grand Race COURTESY
BDCyclist Events
BDCyclists prioritises safety in all its events. Helmets are mandatory for all our rides and kids are not allowed on long treks, moderator Noor-A Nazia said. Bike Fridays: The first three Fridays of every month are Bike Fridays. The event is aimed at cyclists of beginner to moderate skill levels, and starts at 6am from Manik Mia Avenue. The distance covered is usually around 35km. Critical Mass: On the last Friday of the month, BDCyclists takes part in Critical Mass, an event that takes place in more than 300 cities around the world. Moderator Fuad Ahsan Chowdhury says they are promoting the idea: A bicycle will bring the whole city within your reach. It starts at 8am from Manik Mia Avenue, and more than a thousand people participated in the most recent Critical Mass event. Joshila Saturday: Taking place every Saturday, this event is aimed at expert riders and involves trekking challenging paths like mountainous and technical rides. Expect to see lots of lycra and high visibility gear) The adrenaline pumping starts at 6am from Manik Mia Avenue or Panthapath, and riders bike for a staggering 30 400km. BDC Nightriders One Tuesday every month between 8 11pm, the group organizes night rides, which provides an opportunity for those who cannot come on Fridays or Saturdays. The group starts from the city and bikes 20- 30km. Beginner lessons: BDCyclists also provides free lessons for newbies on Saturday at 7am at Abahani field, with priority given to kids and females,. Annual Grand Race: The group organises a grand annual sponsored race, held last year on 100km of Cox Bazars Marine Drive. The first round for this years BD Cyclist qualifying race season took place in Uttara with more than 150 participants and over 500 cheering observers.
What to expect at a BDCyclistss wedding: Noor-A Nazia didnt have to worry about her groom being delayed by traffic, for Ali Imran Imams entire party was arriving on bicycles. I hopped on a bike, in my bridal attire, recalls a grinning Nazia. Both are current moderators of BDCyclists, and she was the groups first female member COURTESY
For most city dwellers there are very few outlets for fun, except for playing video games, going to cinemas or eating out none of which are conducive to maintaining health and fitness. But BDCyclists regular events have now given people a healthier and more
The group has a strong philanthropic side, which is manifested in its events, such as 64 Good Acts and Share the Joy ride. The idea behind 64 Good Acts is to give back to the villages where the riders travel, throughout the 64 districts of Bangladesh. Their area of activity last year was Pabna, where they donated rickshaw vans to three poverty-ridden families, bicycles to youngsters and free medicine for 200 kids. The Share the Joy ride happens on Eid days. The riders go to slums and leave gifts for the residents, spreading happiness in the holiday spirit. l
To join: bdcyclists.com
n AK Rahim
an you imagine Bangali cuisine without roshmolai or chillies? Or the Bangla language without pao-ruti or janala? These words were not originally in the Bangla vocabulary. They are the centuries-old remnants of our complicated history with the Portuguese, which seeped into our language and food, and whose flavour still linger on the tips of our tongues. Most Bangladeshis associate Portugal with Cristiano Ronaldo, and I dont blame them he is a fine footballer. But how his Portuguese ancestors influenced Bengals history is equally fascinating as his footwork. The Portuguese traded the riches of Bengal with the rest of the world for over a hundred years: fine silks and muslin, timber, and of course our much sought-after spices. But it was what the Portuguese brought into these ports that changed Bengal.
brought essential ingredients such as potatoes, tomatoes and chillies to the region from their colonies in the Americas and Africa, along with cashews, papaya and guavas.
PORTUGUESE IN BANGLA
Lingua portugus
Household words such as janela, almari, verandah are also of Portuguese origin. Peculiarly, the Portuguese meddled with the most intimate of Bangali attire: the sari. Chittagonian women still refer to them as saya and kamis, Portuguese words meaning skirt and shirt respectively. The Portuguese also introduced non-Portuguese words from their other colonies, for example kerani (clerk) from Malay, and ananas (pineapple) from Guarani, an indigenous Brazilian language.
PO
BREAD
ANANS
ALMIRAH
PINEAPPLE
WARDROBE
JANELA
CADEIRA
VARANDA
The Portuguese brought potatoes, tomatoes and chillies to the region from their colonies in the Americas and Africa
WINDOW
CHAIR VERANDA
According to some accounts, it was the Portuguese who introduced the process of making ricotta cheese (chhana), which lead to the variety of mouthwatering Bangali sweets such as roshmolai and shondesh. Moreover, the Portuguese were already renowned confectioners and bakers. It is through them we have our pao-ruti (the Portuguese word for bread is po) and steamed egg tarts. It was the also Portuguese who
Idioma Bengalla
They helped to formalise the local Bangla. In the 18th century, missionary Manuel da Assumpo took on the monumental task of documenting Bangla grammar and vocabulary, a volume of work published as Vocabolario em idioma Bengalla e Portuguez, dividido em duas partes (Vocabulary and Idioms of Bangla and Portuguese,
divided into two parts). Prior to this, Bangla was an umbrella term for a variety of disparate dialects in the Bengal region. This structured compilation of grammar and vocabulary was the first step to standardising and printing in the Bangla language, which slowly helped break the hegemony of the Persian language.
The Portuguese first landed in southern India in 1499, and by the mid-16th century, missionaries and merchants had established a maritime presence all along the Indian Ocean. They came with two things in mind: spices and Christ. Their Christian faith promised heaven to those that spread the word of Christ, but equally entic-
ing as paradise were the fabled lands of cinnamon and cardamom in the Indies. Finding a way to bypass the Muslim Arabs traders became almost a religious duty. Bengal was a prized possession of the Mughals, and the Portuguese were eager to tap into its riches. With permission from the Muslim rulers of Bengal, the Portuguese established
themselves in Chittagong, which they called Porto Grande, or the Great Port. Soon after, a smaller port called Porto Piqueno was founded in Hooghly. To safeguard Bengalla, they built forts and other military establishments in Chittagong, emphasizing the importance of this region The Portuguese and their descendants in Bengal became known as Firingis, the term coming to us via Arabic and Persian farangi, meaning foreigners, echoing the Franks of the bygone Crusades. The Firingi Bazars of both Dhaka and Chittagong owe their nomenclature to the Portuguese. To this day, it is not uncommon to run into a Fernandes or a DCosta along the localities narrow lanes and medieval churches. The seafaring lashkars of Bengal and their pidgin Portuguese can also trace their history back to these forgotten Firingis. With the World Cup this year in Brazil, a nation that was once a Portuguese colony and still has strong cultural ties with Portugal, will be hosting the global sporting spectacle. Far away, millions of Bangladeshis will watch the matches from their living room cadeira or teahouse mes, and keen eyes will pick up on some passes while dipping paoruti in their tea. These three countries Brazil, Bangladesh, and Portugal are as distinct as they get, but at one point in history, Cristiano could have easily called Chittagong home! l
DHAKA TRIBUNE
Prescription
Postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) is an obstetrical emergency that can follow vaginal or cesarean delivery. It is the most common reason postpartum women are admitted to intensive care units, and arguably the most preventable cause of maternal mortality Delivery of the placenta by conn Tamanna Afroz trolled cord traction (CCT), fol
QUICK TIPS
lowed by uterine massage Uterotonic drug should be administered within 1 minute after birth of the newborn
Incidence
Postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) is responsible for around 25% of maternal mortality worldwide (WHO, 2007), reaching as high as 60% in some countries. PPH can also be a cause of longterm severe morbidity, and approximately 12% of all women who survive PPH will have severe anemia. Some 12,000 women die every year from birth-related complications in Bangladesh. Three-quarters of these maternal deaths occur during labour, childbirth, or in the postpartum period. Postpartum haemorrhage (PPH), accounting for 34%, is a major cause of these deaths.
The following are the most common symptoms of postpartum haemorrhage. However, each woman may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include: 1. Uncontrolled bleeding 2. Decreased blood pressure 3. Increased heart rate 4. Decrease in the red blood cell count (hematocrit) 5. Swelling and pain in tissues in the vaginal and perineal area
tract after the delivery of the baby and placenta (uterine atony) Tissue: Retained placenta and/or products of conception (POCs) Trauma: Ruptured uterus, uterine inversion, lacerations or tears of the cervix, vagina, or perineum and placental abruption Thrombin: Bleeding disorders
Management of PPH
to keep her bladder empty, not encouraging pushing before the birth passage is fully dilated, not applying pressure over the abdomen to assist the birth, performing selective episiotomy (cutting to widen the birth passage) for medical and obstetric reasons only, and assisting the woman in the controlled delivery of the babys head and shoulders to help prevent any tears.
Routinely inspect the vulva, vagina, perineum, and anus to identify genital lacerations, routinely inspect the placenta and membranes for completeness, evaluate if the uterus is well-contracted and massage the uterus at regular intervals after placental delivery to keep the uterus well-contracted and firm (at least every 15 minutes for the first two hours after birth). Particular paraphernalia are sometimes required in managing PPH. Use of a drug that stimulates uterine contractions; controlled cord traction, uterine massage and even emergency hysterectomy (removal of uterus) can be done for this purpose.
BIGSTOCK
More than a minor annoyance, snoring can be a sign of something more serious. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is one of them. OSA is a disorder, marked by breathing that is interrupted during sleep. Sleep apnea increases the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure. People who are overweight or obese are at a higher risk of developing sleep apnea, but slim people can have it too. If you snore and often wake up feeling tired or drowsy, talk to your doctor; there are easy ways to treat sleep apnea. l
Causes
The causes of PPH during childbirth can be classified into 4 categories, or 4 Ts: Tone: Failure of the uterus to con-
PPH management can be started from antenatal care by detecting and treating anemia. A few cautionary steps should be taken during labour, such as using a partograph to monitor and guide the management of labour in quickly detecting unsatisfactory progress, encouraging the woman
Active management of third stage of labour (AMTSL) includes 3 components: After delayed cord clamping (once the cord stops pulsating, or within 2-3 minutes)
Because two-thirds of all women who develop PPH have no known risk factors, providers should assume that all women are potentially at risk of PPH. One of the reasons all women should be offered AMTSL is because risk factors can predict so few PPH cases. Reliance on risk factors to classify women at increased risk has not decreased morbidity and mortality associated with PPH. Moreover, relying on risk assessment can lead to unnecessary over-management of women classified as high risk, which can be detrimental both to women and to health systems. l
BIGSTOCK
HEALTH NEWS
Being overweight is a major risk factor for heart disease, and 72% of men and 64% of women in the US are overweight or obese. Try to eat less, avoid oversize portions, and replace sugary drinks with water. Researchers also suggest cutting down on high-calorie carbohydrates (think refined pastas and breads) from daily meals and watching out for low-fat labelled ready-made food. These kind of simple steps can help you to manage overeating as well as avoid being overweight. l
BIGSTOCK
Pure olive oil which doesnt meet all of these standards may have originated from fruit that wasnt harvested properly. If the olives were picked from the ground instead of from the tree, for instance, the quality of the final oil is compromised. Taste is affected and sometimes rancidity means the oil isnt good enough to consume at all. Pure or refined olive oil is used when frying with lack of taste. Pure, light and those simply labeled as olive oil are those which have been refined. Refining is a complex process that involves the use of
acids, alkalis, steam and other deodorising agents. The refining process removes all of the aroma and flavour substances out of olives, including its natural antioxidants. Artificial antioxidants such as butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) and the related compound butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) need to be added back to give the refined olive oil a reasonable shelf life. Extra virgin olive oil deteriorates over time. The further away it has to travel and the more it has to be handled, the likelier it will be that the quality and freshness will be compromised. l
Lets be honest: Taking pills is a pain. There can be side effects, and its easy to forget taking your medication, especially if youre feeling well. High blood pressure is often called the silent killer because you never feel its bad effects. Feeling fine is not a justification to stop taking your medication for high blood pressure, however. In Bangladesh, almost all patients suffering from high blood pressure discontinue medication without ever consulting their doctor. To stop taking medicine for hypertension can invite serious health hazards like brain haemorrage. There are 30 types of medication for high blood pressure. If a certain type doesnt work, you can always try something else. l
BIGSTOCK
| Dr Mohammad Sayem
stroke by 57 per cent compared with those with 25 or more teeth. The researchers also took into account a range of other risk factors associated with stroke, including smoking habits, obesity and alcohol use. Some studies have suggested a link between periodontal disease and heart disease. Periodontal diseases range from gum inflammation to diseases that damage the tissue and bone that support the teeth. Gum disease is one of the main causes of tooth loss after the age of 40. The mouth is brimming with bacteria, which contributes to the sticky, colourless plaque that binds to
teeth. Brushing and flossing helps get rid of plaque. One theory is that periodontal disease may cause inflammation in the arteries and brain tissues, which can cause greater amounts of compounds involved in clotting. It is believed that oral bacteria can contribute to the furring up and narrowing of artery walls, which could result in a stroke. Oral bacteria could also attach to fatty deposits in the arteries, which can lead to a blood clot and result in a stroke. l The author is Assistant Professor, Maxillofacial Surgery at BSMMU, Dhaka
8
MIDDLE EAST
DHAKA TRIBUNE
International
Minister Omran Zoabi told Reuters. Brahimi, who met the government team for barely an hour, was due to talk to the opposition delegation separately later on Friday. The opposition says it has come to discuss a transition that will remove Assad from power. The government says it is there only to talk about fighting terrorism - the word it uses for its enemies - and that no one can force Assad to go. There are no Syrian-Syrian talks at the moment, said UN spokeswoman Alessandra Vellucci. I cannot tell you anything about what will happen in the next few days. Even before the announcement that the direct talks were cancelled, the outlook was dim. The objective is for the first round of talks to last until next Friday, but expectations are so low well see how things develop day by day, a Western diplomat said. Every day that they talk is a little step forward. Brahimi has indicated that his aim is to start by seeking practical steps, like local ceasefires, prisoner releases and access for international aid deliveries, before embarking on the tougher political negotiations. But even those narrow aims would fail if the delegations go home. l
Syria talks on verge of collapse before they begin UN calls for extra funds for Iran inspections
n Reuters, Vienna
The UN atomic agency asked member countries on Friday for more money to fund the increased inspections it will conduct in Iran as it verifies Tehrans compliance with a nuclear deal agreed with six world powers. The International Atomic Energy Agency will nearly double the number of people it has working on Iran as a result of the six-month accord, IAEA chief Yukiya told an extraordinary meeting of the bodys 35-nation governing board. Amano said the interim accord which took effect on Monday and under which Iran will get relief from some economic sanctions - was an important step forward towards achieving a comprehensive solution to the decade-old nuclear dispute. But, he added: there is still a long way to go. We will need to nearly double the staff resources devoted to verification in Iran, Amano said. We will need to significantly increase the frequency of the verification activities which we are currently conducting. In the deal with the United States, France, Germany, Britain, China and Russia, Iran agreed to suspend its most sensitive nuclear activity in exchange for a limited easing of sanctions that are battering its oil-dependent economy. In a confidential report to member states last week, the IAEA estimated the increased workload as a result of the deal would cost around 6m euros. Of that amount, extra budgetary voluntary contributions of about 5.5m euros are needed, the report said. Diplomats said they did not expect any difficulties in raising the money in view of the political importance of the issue. Amano told the board: I call upon countries which are in a position to do so to make the necessary funding available. The US envoy to the IAEA, Joseph Macmanus, told reporters the United States would provide a substantive contribution, without giving a figure, and said that other IAEA members at the meeting had also agreed to provide additional resources. l
n Reuters, Geneva
Syrias first peace talks were on the verge of collapsing on Friday before they began, with the opposition refusing to meet President Bashar al-Assads delegation and the government threatening to bring its team home. The opposition said it would not meet Assads delegation unless it first agreed to sign up to a protocol calling for a transitional administration. The government rejected the demand outright and said its negotiators would AFRICA
return home unless serious talks began within a day. If no serious work sessions are held by (Saturday), the official Syrian delegation will leave Geneva due to the other sides lack of seriousness or preparedness, Syrian state television quoted Foreign Minister Walid alMoualem as saying. Friday was meant to be the first time in three years of war that Assads government and foes would negotiate face to face. But plans were ditched at the last minute after the opposition said the
government delegation must first sign up to a 2012 protocol, known as Geneva 1, that calls for an interim government to oversee a transition to a new political order. We have explicitly demanded a written commitment from the regime delegation to accept Geneva 1. Otherwise there will be no direct negotiations, opposition delegate Haitham al-Maleh told Reuters. The government delegation met UN envoy Lakhdar Brahimi separately, and said it rejected the opposition demand: No, we will not accept it, Information
Central African Republics new interim president Catherine Samba Panza sits in the presence of members of the constitutional court during her swearing-in ceremony in Bangui AFP AMERICAS
Poland to look into new allegations about secret CIA jail n Reuters, Krakow
Polish prosecutors investigating allegations the CIA ran a secret jail in a Polish forest said on Friday they will look into a newspaper report that gave new accounts about the alleged black site. Human rights groups and lawyers have argued for years that Poland allowed the Central Intelligence Agency to use the site, an intelligence training academy in north-east Poland, to detain and interrogate men it suspected of being al Qaeda leaders. The Washington Post newspaper cited what it said were former CIA officers as saying that the agency paid $15m to Polish intelligence in 2003 for use of the site, handing over the cash in two cardboard boxes. Piotr Kosmaty, spokesman for prosecutors in the Polish city of Krakow who are pursuing a criminal investigation into allegations about the facility, said it was possible the newspaper report contained evidence about the case. In the course of the investigation that is underway, we will analyse this Washington Post article and will include it in our investigation, Kosmaty told Reuters. l
Ukraine protesters seize building, US man denies part in Goodfellas robbery put up more barricades
n Reuters, Kiev
Ukrainian protesters erected more street barricades and occupied a government ministry building on Friday, fuelling tension after the failure of crisis talks with President Viktor Yanukovich. In response to opposition calls, about 1,000 demonstrators moved away from Kievs Independence Square in the early hours of Friday and began to erect new barricades closer to presidential headquarters. Masked protesters, some carrying riot police shields seized as trophies, stood guard as others piled up sandbags packed with frozen snow to form new ramparts across the road leading down into the square. Opposition leader Vitaly Klitschko, after leaving a second round of talks with Yanukovich empty handed, late on Thursday voiced fears the impasse could now lead to further bloodshed. At least three protesters have been killed so far - two from gunshot wounds - after clashes between protesters led by a hard core of radicals and riot police. After speaking first to protesters manning the barricades, Klitschko then went to Independence Square where he declared: Hours of conversation were spent about nothing. There is no sense sitting at a negotiating table with someone who has already decided to deceive you. I earnestly wish that there will be no bloodshed and that people are not killed ... I will survive, but I am afraid there will be deaths, I am afraid of this, the boxer-turned-politician said. Three opposition politicians - Klitschko, former economy minister Arseny Yatsenyuk and far-right nationalist Oleh Tyahnibok - had tried to wring concessions from Yanukovich that would end two months of street protests against his rule. A group of protesters took control of the main agricultural ministry building in the centre. We need the place for our people to warm up, a local protest leader was quoted as saying by Interfax news agency. Meanwhile, radical protesters near Dynamo Kiev football stadium - the new flashpoint in the city cranked up their action, setting tires ablaze again and sending a pall of black smoke over the area. There were no signs that protesters were heeding an appeal from general prosecutor Viktor Pshonka who said early on Friday that those so far arrested would be treated leniently by the courts if protest action was halted. There are reports that protests are spreading to other provincial areas. Thousands stormed regional administration headquarters in Rivne in western Ukraine on Thursday, breaking down doors and demanding the release of people detained in the unrest there, UNIAN news agency reported. In the town of Cherkasy, 200 km (125 miles) south of Kiev, about 1,000 protesters took over the first two floors of the main administration building and lit fires outside the building. In Kiev, scores on both sides have been injured - many with eye injuries caused by flying projectiles and police rubber bullets. Hundreds of thousands took to the streets in the capital after Yanukovich backed away from signing a free trade deal with the European Union, which many people saw as the key to a European future, in favour of financial aid from Ukraines old Soviet master Russia. l
n Agencies
An alleged New York gangster has pleaded not guilty after being arrested over a 1978 cash and jewellery robbery from JFK airport immortalised in Martin Scorseses film Goodfellas. Vincent Asaro, 78, reputedly a senior member of the notorious Bonanno crime family, was among five suspects arrested by FBI agents in separate early morning raids on Thursday in New York. These goodfellas thought they had a licence to steal, a licence to kill, and a licence to do whatever they wanted, George Venizelos, FBI assistant director in charge, said. During a nine-minute appearance in a US federal court, Asaro pleaded not guilty to extortion, murder and violence charges that US prosecutors say spanned a 45-year career in crime. He was also charged with the 1969 murder of Paul Katz, a presumed informant who was strangled with a dog chain and whose body parts were discovered in a New York basement in June. Asaro, who had triple bypass surgery in March, faces life in prison if convicted.
He stood slightly stooped, his hair swept back and casually dressed in a sweater as he entered his not-guilty plea before the packed courtroom in Brooklyn. US magistrate Judge Marilyn Go ordered Asaro detained until further notice. Asaros lawyer pledged to apply for bail but US prosecutors call him a flight risk. Prosecutors say neither age nor time has diminished Vincent Asaros ruthless ways, Al Jazeeras Kristen Saloomey, reporting from New York, said. The [prosecutors] have assembled a long list of charges against him - from murder to extortion - some allegedly carried out in recent months. In the biggest robbery on US soil, armed gangsters stole $5m in cash and nearly $1m in jewels from a Lufthansa Airlines vault at New Yorks JFK airport on December 11, 1978. The value of the booty today is estimated at around $20m. The theft became legendary after its alleged mastermind James Burke also known as Jimmy the Gent - killed off members of the crew to avoid being shopped to the police. l
DHAKA TRIBUNE
International
A police official in Sadiq Abad neighbourhood of Rawalpindi, where Asghar was arrested, confirmed the death sentence. Pakistans tough blasphemy laws have attracted criticism from rights groups, who say they are frequently abused to settle personal scores. In 2012, Rimsha Masih, a young Christian girl, was arrested for alleged blasphemy in Islamabad. The case provoked international concern because of her age, estimated at 14, and because she was variously described as uneducated or suffering from Downs syndrome. The charges against here were eventually thrown out and last June she fled to Canada with her family. Even unproven allegations of blasphemy can provoke a violent public response. There have been several cases where mobs have attacked mentally ill people who have made supposedly blasphemous claims. l
SOUTH ASIA
File photo of Pakistani police at Adiala prison in Rawalpindi, where a court has sentenced a British man to death for blasphemy for claiming to be a prophet of Islam AFP
Workers of the Cooperative Auditing Department leave after anti-government protesters locked it and forced their evacuation
stop all hostile military acts, the biggest hurdle stoking distrust and confrontation, the letter from the National Defence Commission (NDC) said. Later in the day the North made a fresh proposal for the resumption of reunions for families separated since the Korean War, saying the programme could provide fresh momentum to improving cross-border ties. The North suggested that the South could choose a date for a family reunion event at its convenience after the the time of the Lunar New Year on January 31. The South immediately welcomed the new offer saying it would send its own proposal later for the date and other details on family reunions. But Seoul has reacted more cautiously to the other reconciliatory steps offered by Pyongyang. l
n Reuters, Beijing
Chinas airforce has dispatched another patrol to monitor its controversial air defence zone in the East China Sea and issue warnings to foreign military jets in the zone, it said on Friday. The United States, Europe and Japan have criticized Chinas air defence zone, saying its establishment last November was provocative and exacerbates tensions between Beijing and Tokyo. Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe this week said Japan and China should avoid repeating the past mistakes of Britain and Germany, which fought in World War One despite strong economic ties. Ties have been strained by a recent visit by Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to a controversial shrine for war dead, Chinas air defence zone and the long-running dispute over a string of East China Sea islets that both countries claim. l
10
www.dhakatribune.com
DHAKA TRIBUNE
Editorial
LETTER OF THE DAY
Letters to
the Editor
tate minister for power Nasrul Hamid, who is also president of REHAB (Real Estate and Housing Association of Bangladesh), has said the government is considering withdrawing the requirement to install solar panels for new electricity connections to households in urban areas. The use of solar energy has proved greatly beneficial in rural areas so the government should be cautious when changing or diluting rules that can provide similar benefits in urban areas. Current rules force consumers to install panels if their household use exceeds specified limits (presently 2kW.) It is debatable how efficient the present rules on relatively small-scale users in urban areas have been in delivering increased renewable energy capacity. A better way forward may be for the government to be more direct in its policy to stimulate the market and encourage long-term thinking. In Bangladesh, all fuels are subsidised, and that is where action needs to be taken, by withdrawing subsidies for them. If the governments goal is to increase investment in renewable energy, it should tax fossil fuels at a higher rate to discourage waste and use the money raised to incentivise private investments in renewable energy (like solar and biogas). Making power and fuel more expensive will in themselves motivate consumers and industry to conserve energy better and invest in renewable energy.
The government should be more direct in its policy to incentivise private investments in renewable energy
January 22 The report Female labour migration from BD marks rise in last 12 months has drawn my attention. In 2013, female labourers migrated to Jordan, Lebanon, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Oman and Qatar mainly to work as housekeepers. According to Bangladeshi Ovibashi Mohila Sramik Association (BOMSA), some 70% of the Bangladeshi female migrant workers are tortured by employers mostly for demanding their wages at the end of the month. Moreover, BOMSA receives about 100 complaints on an average each month from workers about being physically tortured, sexually abused at work, or being denied wages and food. Earlier, women used to be paid less than their male counterparts for doing the same job. The government should take appropriate measures for the wellbeing of our female labourers who work in foreign countries. On the other hand, they should prepare the women through proper courses and training, so that they can enjoy better facilities abroad as well as send back a handsome remittance, in order to excel development of our country. Elin Farhana
BNP to go slow
January 18
January 18 If the Daily Inquilab report based on this rumour is indeed flat-out false, then the governments apt response would be to summon the papers editors for a full explanation, perhaps even sue them for journalistic misconduct, but NOT instantly slam the paper offices shut, and the other disproportionately heavy-handed actions they have resorted to. This is pretty egregious flouting of freedom of the press. And another unfortunate manifestation of a government chronically intolerant of not just any kind of dissent, but anything that threatens its image and credibility. someone
January 19 Unless the parties realise that this blood thirsty rivalry is unacceptable, this eye for any eye behaviour will continue unabated. Akhtar Shah
Write to us at: Dhaka Tribune FR Tower, 8/C Panthapath Sukrabad, Dhaka-1207 Email us at: letters@dhakatribune.com Send us your Op-Ed articles: opinion@dhakatribune.com Visit our website: www.dhakatribune.com Come join our Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/DhakaTribune
Be Heard
I actually think this more patient, broader, peaceful, and thoughtfully conceived countrywide protest program of resistance to the new AL government is a good approach that BNP should implement immediately. The blockades/hartals have been largely counter-productive on many levels. Of course, the rapid release of all illegally detained BNP leaders on blatantly trumped-up charges is in order. Ditto the immediate removal of heavy-handed constraints on freedom of political assembly, movement, opening of BNP offices etc. Im optimistic that a sustained, peaceful, but determined resistance and pressure from BNP and allies will yield results. After a series of political blunders over the last few years, its time the BNP changed tack, and took some strategically sound decisions toward restoring the democratic rights of the people, and enhancing its own electoral prospects. Ronnie
Making public hospitals more attractive to patients and staff means building more capacity as well as making better use of existing resources
PEANUTS
CROSSWORD
ACROSS 1 Get on (4) 5 Mild explosions (4) 10 Bill of fare (4) 11 Insect (3) 12 Make suitable (5) 13 United (3) 14 Bird (5) 16 Short melodies (6) 18 Subjoin (6) 21 Lessen (5) 23 First woman (3) 24 Adhere closely (5) 26 Beverage (3) 27 To let stand! (4) 28 Enquires (4) 29 Prophet (4) DOWN 2 Astound (5) 3 Corded fabric (3) 4 Beseech (7) 6 Musical instrument (4) 7 Distinctive flag (6) 8 Bishops territory (3) 9 Abstain from food (4) 15 Ways of viewing (7) 17 Lifts with effort (6) 19 Select group (5) 20 Domestic animals (4) 22 Bill (4) 23 Greek letter (3) 25 Sheltered side (3)
CODE CRACKER
YESTERDAYS SOLUTIONS
Crossword
Sudoku
DHAKA TRIBUNE
Op-Ed
11
n Aziz Ahmed
Setting an example
n Swadesh Roy
very modern society and state has the duty to protect minorities, and ensure equal rights for them. If anywhere, minorities feel insecure, and are tortured or persecuted by the majority community or any group of the majority community, it is a shortcoming of that society and a failure of the state. Every modern state has the duty to provide equal rights to each citizen, but it should give extra attention to the minority community. In the ancient world, there has been rampant persecution of races, castes, and ethnic groups. The modern world has not come out of this chronic harm, but rather is carrying on in a different manner. Sometimes we are carrying it out in the name of politics, in the name of religion, and in the name of race. Most of the time, it is committed by some opportunist group. The 1946 communal conflict started in the name of religion. History says the British provoked it. Who provoked it is not the main concern. India, along with Bengal, had to pay too much of a price. We cut up our land geographically, killed our own brothers, and raped our own sisters. Anyway, the present situation is different. The communal conflicts are now a part of history. Persecution, tor-
ture, preplanned killings, and looting are the present condition. After starting the war crimes trial in Bangladesh, the Jamaat-e-Islami, backed by the BNP, has started attacking the minorities. They have killed minority people, and torched and looted their homes. They have broken temples and religious idols.
communal sentiment in Bangladesh. They tried repeatedly. In spite of their efforts, they failed. They wanted to ruin the election, but they failed in that endeavour. That failure made them so aggravated that they played that card again. They hoped that this time, any Indian communal party or group would react.
A suggestion: Please give at least one capital punishment to one criminal guilty of these attacks
It turned severe after the verdict of Sayedee, one of the main war criminals. It was havoc for the country. They attacked government property and the Awami League people, but their attack on the minorities was a planned game. From the beginning of the war crimes trials, Jamaat, along with the BNP, were attacking minorities with a speci ic goal. By attacking them, they wanted a reaction out of India. If any communal party or group acted in the same way, they would be able to create a
Now Sheikh Hasina is in power again, so she will try her best to give security to the minority people. The minority people of Bangladesh also believe that Sheikh Hasina can give them more protection, because she is not only the head of the government which claims to be secular, she is also the daughter of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. So now, the ball is in the court of the prime minister. She has to ensure the security of the minority people, and she has to make sure that the minorities are safe in Bangladesh
forever. We Bengalis and Bangladeshis have a certain pride. We were once a part of British India, but we declared our independence based on secularism. We are the first nation of this subcontinent to include secularism in our constitution. India has followed later. So, we are ahead in this particular region. That is why we have to work towards stopping this minority persecution for all times. This opportunity, or holy duty for humanity, now rests on the shoulders of our prime minister. The killing of a minority is not a normal killing. Arson, looting, and the rape of a minority person cannot be considered regular crimes. These are crimes against humanity. The PM has absolute majority in the parliament. She can easily make a law for the quick and correct punishment for criminals who attack, kill, rape and commit arson on minorities. This law will have to be tough. A suggestion: Please give at least one capital punishment to one criminal guilty of these attacks. This will set an example and will help to deter these crimes, and will also serve as a guideline for this subcontinent to end this minority persecution. l Swadesh Roy is Executive Editor, the Daily Janakantha.
any well-educated disabled persons are denied jobs, hindering their effort to live independently. Given the plight of qualified disabled persons, one can only imagine the barriers faced by the vast majority of persons with disabilities who are less educated or skilled. The employment of disabled people has been a challenging issue for a long time. Unemployment makes them a burden not only to their families, but also to society. Dependence on others causes discrimination and violence. Persons with disabilities (PWDs) have their confidence sapped and will power sapped, which makes them lose their dignity. The lack of employment opportunities is one of the barriers to disabled peoples empowerment, and that usually creates many problems for them at home and in society to live their lives in peace, happiness, and dignity. No one wants to remain jobless, but the environment and the status quo sometimes keep them so. Disabled peoples unemployment is entirely a social problem. Causes behind these problems are tied to attitudes, and the unwillingness to change. Society still believes that disabled people are not able to work. Their mindset regarding disabilities is that they should live on charity and the mercy of others. Structures are built which are not disability-friendly, or are inaccessible to disabled persons. That is discriminatory. Communications and transport facilities are also not favourable towards disabled people. Ask any disabled person about the main problems they face living in society. Invariably the answer is lack of employment opportunities and discrimination. Disability is not their main factor, and neither is the will to work. People at large still feel that those who are disabled should depend on charity alone. But charity does not remove the root cause of discrimination in society, bringing about only temporary changes. What challenges isolate PWDs from employment opportunities? The first is the lack of access to financial capital. Banks and microfinance institutions have no specific development agenda for disabled people. Loan procedures of the banking sector still favour the rich and discourage the poor and the marginalised. A representative of a disabled womens organisation said that at present, disabled women were producing handicrafts, but there was no scope for those to be marketed. Their technical skills did not match labour market requirements, especially in the corporate sector. Other causes were the scarcity of career counselling and employment services, the lack of labour market information, discrimination in employment and training, and lack of quality jobs. The Disability Welfare Act 2001 supported disabled peoples employment in Bangladesh at first. After two years, a government circular announced a 10% quota for orphans and disabled
people in third and fourth class government jobs, but the implementation of it was largely ignored. The prime minister first announced in the National Disability Convention organised by ADD on October 19, 2009, a 1% quota for disabled people in first class government jobs including civil service (BCS) jobs. The cabinet had approved that in 2012, but when it will be implemented remains a question.
Society still believes that disabled people are not able to work
BGMEA was issued a circular on October 20, 2011, ensuring employment opportunities for disabled people in the garment sector. It was mentioned that about 200 disabled women were working in 65 garment factories in Dhaka City Corporation. Disabled women have now proven that often they are more skilled and sincere about their work than many who are not disabled. The management of factories are quite happy with their performance. Rikta is physically disabled due to rheumatic fever. She had a passion for education. She completed her secondary education, and in 2012, made dramatic changes to her life when a field worker from ADD included her name as a beneficiary. After that, Rikta got trained in garments sewing machine operations, techniques of marking and styling, and safety standards. After her training, she got a job as quality checker with a salary of Tk4,000 in a garment factory at North Badda. Now her monthly salary is above Tk8,000. The garment factory at first refused her employment because of her disability, but through advocacy and a demonstration of her skills, they finally agreed. Rikta is now very happy because she has become an earner. With her income, she is not only managing her family but is continuing her studies. She is helping her sick mother seek treatment. She has proved that if anyone has the willingness, courage, and opportunity, they can turn their life around. Doors of garment industries are now open for PWDs. They just need to develop the skills. Above 200 organisations at different levels are actively working across the country, and thus it is easy to organise disabled persons. The initiatives of enlightened development workers are needed. Organisations that are solvent, and believe in social responsibility and human rights, could stand beside PWDs in this commendable work. The joint work in garments and NGOs will mitigate the job crisis for PWDs. We should do all we can to make the disabled our resources, and not our burdens. l Aziz Ahmed is a development worker at ADD International.
n SM Waliuzzaman
These treaties are influenced by the technical and engineering aspects of rivers, rather than aspects that go beyond the political boundaries of nations
Throughout the decades, Bangladesh has been known as a riparian country. The economy, society, culture, and psychology of the people of this country have been dominated and shaped by the thousands of rivers flown through this delta. The history of civilisations all over the world shows how rivers play a cru-
the state, and the territorialising of such natural entities have further amplified the decision making and control over rivers in more isolated way. Unlike air and light, water has not been realised as something beyond the political boundaries of states, and hence different states have their own interests in the same river (and in
from their locality. He said: We used to wait throughout the whole year for such festivals. These formed the very core of our rural tradition. Nowadays, the river has changed. But I still miss those days when my father used to take all our family members to enjoy the boat regatta. The examples of cultural decline that surfaced from the study conducted by ActionAid Bangladesh are similar in the communities of all districts subjected to human intervention on the rivers of Bangladesh, under the guise of so-called development. There are several examples of such psychological and cultural rights violations across this lower ripari-
an country. But there is not enough representation of these issues when lateral treaties are being formulated and discussed. As long as the perception on rivers is dominated by the state-owned or territorialising concept, cultural, psychological, and social aspects of it will continue to remain ignored, and government will focus more on the sharing of water rather than the well-being derived from it. So, it is time for the governments of South Asian countries to recognise rivers as natural entities, and that rights to them belong to all. l SM Waliuzzaman is Program Officer, Land Rights, ActionAid Bangladesh.
hundred years of cultural heritage of the vast community of Rajshahi, which was predominantly dependent on the river Padma, is on the verge of disappearance due to the change in the flow of the mighty river over the last two decades. The Farakka barrage has caused a catastrophe for many in Rajshahi and other districts the Padma flows through. A recent study on the Padma River in Charghat upazila of Rajshahi conducted by ActionAid Bangladesh shows how the cultural rights of people are being undermined under the territorialisation concept.
cial role as the lifeline of human civilisation. In South Asia, to some, rivers used to be known as god (and still are in some places) and the life-giver. Rivers dont carry just freshwater, but also play a vital role in the maintenance of groundwater table and temperature balance. In the context of Bangladesh, a certain river flow is important to resist salinity infiltration in the coastal areas, and maintaining the ecological balance of the mangrove forest. Unfortunately, the perception of water and rivers has shifted from a humanistic point of view to a more commercial point of view, especially in South Asia. Rivers, despite being parts of nature, have become a property of
the same god). Instead of sharing the blessings of the river, the issue of water-sharing has become prominent in the bilateral treaties and discussions. Moreover, these treaties are heavily influenced by the technical and engineering aspects of rivers rather than the social, economic, cultural, and psychological aspects that go beyond the political boundaries of nations. Sapura Begum is a resident of Godagari upazila who is affected by the erratic water flow of Padma. She says she has been observing such unpredictable behaviour of the river over the last 15 years. In her words: This river has become so unpredictable. Sometimes there is too much water, causing erosion and flooding. We have shifted our house eight times so far. From my childhood, I had a dream to decorate my house my own way. But I couldnt, because I had no permanent home. I am here today, but I dont know where I will be tomorrow! The most heart-wrenching experience was shared by Nunibala, who takes care of her family. In recent times, she has been unable to practice her religious rites due to the lack of water. She said: I am deprived of the chance to say goodbye to my goddess, just because of this dry river. Like Nunibala, Tota Mia, who used to be a farmer, witnessed how cultural practices like boat regattas and pitha festivals (lack of water hampered molasses cultivation which is essential for the pitha festival) have disappeared
12
DHAKA TRIBUNE
Entertainment
n Shadma Malik
A exhibition entitled Gravity-Free World by the painter A Rahman, is being held at the Bengal Gallery of Fine Arts. It will continue until January 31. An expat living in Rome, Rahman is displaying 62 of his paintings and pencil-sketches for the show a treat for art lovers in Bangladesh. The exhibition is the part of a series by curator and art critic Mustafa Zaman. Rahmans canvases often bear a hole. Interpreting the symbol, the artist says, Since 2000, I have been drawing this hole in my canvases. I would say it has become a landmark in my artwork. I use it as a sign to depict the life cycle of a human being. His series of artworks Psychedelic Noise Notes containing elements of Psychedelic art, makes Rahman a unique artist with a distinct style. About his work in the genre, the artist says: It is my artistic effort to depict the inner world of my consciousness. Psychedelic art gained popularity in rock concert posters and music album covers in the 1960s. In this digital age, Rahman works with digital prints that add 2D and 3D Psychedelic effects to his canvases. His artwork titled On Unidentified Pla-
n Entertainment Desk
Rock Strata, one of the pioneering bands of Bangladeshs metal scene, is back after 22 long years with a brand new album titled Notun Shad-er Khojey. The album is scheduled to be released on February 7. The lineup of the band is : Mushfiq Ahmed on vocals, Imran Hussain on guitar, Mainul Islam on guitar, Arshad Amin on bass and Mahbubur Rashid on drums. There will also be guest appearances by the legendary guitarist Kamal.
Credited with a number of hit singles like Artonad, Nuclear Shadhinota, Rokte Bheja Mati and more, the band made a huge contribution toward popularising metal music here in the Bangladesh. In the 90s, the band used to rule the music scene. However the members of the band were dispersed over the globe, and their activity came to an end near the end of the 90s. But they have reunited again for a common cause to give us one last moment of Rock Strata; to recreate history once again. l
ON TV
MOVIE
9:30pm Star Movies
Jurassic Park Argo
MISC
10:30am AXN
Guinness World Records
DRAMA
4:30pm Star Plus
Yeh Hain Mohabbatein
COMEDY
10:30am Comedy Central
MASH
11:34pm HBO
8:30pm Travel XP
Divine Destinations
8:30pm FX
The Simpsons
Star studded drama series Colour will begin airing on SATV on January 27. Written and directed by Rayhan Khan, the drama series features supermodels Ruma, Peya and Emi
Rachel Priyanka Perris performed at an evening of Gaudiya dance, organised by Nrityanchal at Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy. A packed audience enjoyed the show
SADIA MARIUM
TODAY IN DHAKA
Film
The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug Thor: The Dark World Pacific Rim in 3D Time: 10am 10pm Star Cineplex, Bashundhara City
Kalbela By Palaker Time: 6:30pm Experimental Theatre Hall Bangladesh Shilpakala Academy
Theatre
pearance at the Saifai Mahotsav in Uttar Pradesh, organised by the Samajwadi Party. The actor earned a lot of flak for neglecting the riot victims at Muzaffarnagar, which he tried to clear up in his media
Exhibition
Ways of Seeing Time: 12pm 8pm Bengal Art Lounge, 60 Gulshan Avenue Gulshan 1
Sport
ICC and which if approved, may impact the playing opportunities, finances and positions of full member countries including Bangladesh. The BCB wishes to state that such sentiment is purely speculative and is not consistent with the actual facts. The directors of the Board have been apprised of the contents of the proposal. After a careful review of the draft the Board has found positive elements in certain sections of it which could be beneficial to the future of Bangladesh cricket. On the other hand, the Board has also expressed strict reservations about some portions of the proposal, especially those with legal and constitutional implications and those which may be interpreted as contrary to the rights of a full member. In respect to the sensitivity and confidentiality of the matter, the BCB has not made any public disclosure of the outcomes from the discussion related to the draft proposal. l
DHAKA TRIBUNE
13
0 5 0
DAYS TO GO
14 Barca president
15 Nadal routs
MUMIT M
(BCB) in a press release said that there would be no press briefing or media opportunity at the airport or the team hotel due to security reasons. In addition, there will be extra security for the cricketers at the team hotel and restrictions for the cricketers in moving around alone without security. The bus which will take the cricketers from the hotel to the ground will take the cantonment route, where various security agencies will escort the team bus at all times. Furthermore, the BCB has appointed a vigilance team to monitor security measures as well as the crowd during matches. l
Dhaka Wonderers, Sonali Bank share spoils n Shishir Hoque n Shishir Hoque
Dhaka Wonderers Club came from behind to earn their first point in the Green Delta Insurance Premier Division Hockey league after a 1-1 draw against Sonali Bank at the Maulana Bhashani National Hockey Stadium yesterday. After the goalless first half, Nishat put Sonali Bank ahead in the 57th minute from a penalty corner. Shohag Gazi restored the parity just one minute before the final whistle with a field goal. After two consecutive defeats, it was Wonderers first point in the league, while Sonali Bank have two points from three matches. Abahani Limited will take on Ajax SC in todays only match at 3pm. l
Uttar Baridhara Club Emdadul Haque Monu marked his return to the Bangladesh Premier League with a sensational brace as the promoted side registered their first league victory 3-2 over Brothers Union at the Bangabandhu National Stadium yesterday. The attacking right-back, who was sidelined with injury for the first four matches, made his debut for Uttar Baridhara yesterday. It was also the first time he had played in the premier league after being on the bench for Team BJMC in the last two seasons. Monu could not have written a better script for his return as he scored two goals against a side considered to be superior.
Bangladesh cricket team batsmen Imrul Kayes (3L) and Shamsur Rahman (2R) share a moment during a practice session at the Mirpur Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium yesterday DHAKA TRIBUNE
14
Fiorentina set up Udinese semi tie after Siena win
n AFP, Milan
Fiorentina defender Marvin Compper headed home in the 75th minute to help grind out a 2-1 win over second division Siena and book La Violas place in the Italian Cup semi-finals on Thursday. Fiorentina will now meet Udinese, 2-1 winners over AC Milan, in the last four of the competition with Roma, who ousted Juventus 1-0, meeting either Napoli or holders Lazio following their tie on January 29. Heavy rain hampered proceedings at the Artemio Franchi stadium but Vincenzo Montellas men were given an early boost when Josip Ilicic beat Simone Farelli with a low drive to give the hosts a 20th minute lead. Siena, however, had romped to a 4-1 win away to Catania in the last 16 and were proving tough to subdue. Mario Berettas side were finally rewarded when Guillermo Giacomazzi beat Fiorentina keeper Neto with a superb glancing header from Francesco Valianis cross on the right to level in the 59th minute. Fiorentina, whose sixth and last Cup triumph came in 2001, upped the tempo in the final third of the game but it was from an Ilicic corner that the hosts found the breakthrough with German Compper heading past Farelli. Ilicic then left the pitch on a stretcher after suffering a knock to his shoulder to be replaced by Ryder Matos. l
DHAKA TRIBUNE
Sport
Atletico Madrid's Argentinian coach Diego Simeone (R) watches Atletico Madrid's Uruguayan midfielder Cristian Rodriguez (C) vie with Athletic Bilbao's defender Andoni Iraola during their Spanish league match at the Vicente Calderon stadium in Madrid on Thursday AFP
cling to scudetto City bid to keep quadruple alive Napoli hopes as Lazio host Juve
n AFP, London
Manchester City face second tier Watford in the fourth round of the FA Cup on Saturday with an unprecedented quadruple of trophies still in their sights. No team in English football history has won the Premier League, FA Cup, League Cup and European Champions League in the same season, although Manchester United came close in 1999 with a treble that excluded the League Cup. But City, who this week clinched a place in the League Cup final with a 9-0 aggregate thumping of top-flight rivals West Ham, are just a point behind Premier League leaders Arsenal and through to the last 16 of the Champions League, albeit they face Spanish giants Barcelona in the knockout stages. Theyve already scored more than 100 goals in all competitions this season but if they have frequently produced stunning displays on the field, another hallmark of the current campaign has been the calming influence of manager Manuel Pellegrini off it.
FIXTURES
Birmingham Man City Bolton Bournemouth Huddersfield Port Vale Rochdale Southampton Stevenage Sunderland Wigan v v v v v v v v v v v Swansea Watford Cardiff Liverpool Charlton Brighton Sheffield Wed Yeovil Everton Kidderminster Crystal Palace
Whereas the Chileans predecessor, Roberto Mancini, seemed to relish the spotlight and was frequently involved in controversy, Pellegrini has been more than happy for his players to hog the headlines.
But while understandably pleased with the season thus far, Pellegrini is determined no one at City, who lost last terms FA Cup final to Wigan, will get carried away by the clubs scintillating form. Im very proud of the team that we are still in four competitions, he said. We are not thinking about that (winning all four competitions). We are thinking just to win every match. Now weve finished with the Capital One (League) Cup until March. Its very important to continue in the FA Cup, so we must win against Watford on Saturday. Well continue with the same winning and ambitious mentality. We have a lot of work to do. In the FA Cup we are just in the fourth round. In the Champions League we have a tough game against Barcelona. The Premier Leagues very close and it will still be close till the end between four or five teams. At the moment we are happy (with)
the way we are doing things. We must continue in the future the same way. Watford manager Beppe Sannino may be Italian but he knows all about the magic of the Cup that is associated with English footballs premier knockout tournament. Liverpool travel to Championship side Bournemouth while Chelsea face Stoke in all-Premier League clash at Stamford Bridge on Sunday. FA Cup holders Wigan, themselves now in the second tier after relegation last season, are at home to top-flight strugglers Crystal Palace on Saturday. Third division Stevenage will look to cause a shock when Everton travel south on Saturday, when renowned giant-killers Yeovil bid to add to their illustrious Cup history at Southampton. Sunderland, fresh from their against the odds League Cup semi-final penalty shoot-out win over Manchester United in midweek, will find roles reversed when non-league Kidderminster arrive at the Stadium of Light. l
n AFP, Milan
Napoli host Chievo at the San Paolo on Saturday in the belief the Serie A title is still up for grabs despite leaders Juventus sitting on a comfortable cushion at the top in Italy. Juventus hold an eight-point lead on second-placed Roma and a 12-point lead on Napoli, and will look to take their lead on the Giallorossi, who face Verona early Sunday, to 11 points. The Bianconeri have won their last four away games at Lazio and, after 20 games of the season, look to be well on their way to a third consecutive scudetto. Napoli defender Christian Maggio, however, is not giving up hope of Antonio Contes men slipping up over the course of their 18 remaining matches. Gonzalo Higuain has plenty of incentive away to the Flying Donkeys. The Argentinian striker, who has 10
league goals, can equal the same total (11) after 21 league games as Diego Maradona did on his debut season with Napoli in 1984/85 when the Partenopei claimed a historic league title. Juventus head to the Olympic Stadium hoping to eclipse what has been an eventful week on and off the park with what would be their ninth consecutive victory away to the Biancocelesti.
FIXTURES
Napoli v Chievo Lazio v Juventus
Since Tuesdays defeat, both Juve and Inter have been busy explaining their respective sides of the story and in the end both players stayed put and Guarin returned to training on Thursday. Conte, meanwhile, has indicated he would not be holding his customary press conference on Friday, reportedly to protest at the way some of his comments prior to a league game against Sampdoria. l
J Lo, Pitbull, Claudia Leitte to sing official WC anthem n AFP, Rio De Janeiro
US pop music stars Jennifer Lopez and Pitbull will join Brazilian singer Claudia Leitte on the official World Cup anthem We Are One, Fifa announced in Rio on Thursday. Only music and football can attract 80,000 people to a stadium, but a concert has just one artist, while football has 22, said Fifa Secretary General Jerome Valcke at Brazils Maracana Stadium. We are here to break down barriers and show that through sports and music we are one, said Pitbull. Leitte said the song would show off her countrys love affair with musical and sporting rhythm. l
FIFA Secretary General Jerome Valcke (C), US singer Pitbull (L) and Brazilian singer Claudia Leitte, offer a press conference at the Mario Filho "Maracana" stadium in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on Thursday AFP
Fan dials 999 for Fergie after United lose again n AFP, London n AFP, London
Police have revealed a drunk Manchester United fan was so upset by the clubs latest setback he dialled Britains national emergency number and demanded to speak to former manager Alex Ferguson. Greater Manchester Police said they received the 999 call from a man in Crumpsall, north Manchester, at 10.30pm (2230GMT) on Wednesday, shortly after United had sensationally lost a League Cup semi-final to visitors Sunderland on penalties at Old Trafford. Clearly, it was all too much for one fan, although a GMP statement Thursday suggested hed be better off calling Old Trafford if he wanted to speak to Ferguson. l
FIXTURES
Guingamp Ajaccio Valenciennes Toulouse Montpellier Nantes Sunday v v v v v v PSG Sochaux Lorient Bastia Nice Reims
DHAKA TRIBUNE
Sport
15
QUICK BYTES
Bangladesh were placed in group B along with Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand and Afghanistan in the Asian Games hockey qualifiers which will be being in Dhaka from March 13. Meanwhile, Oman, Sri Lanka, Chinese Taipei, Qatar and Iran placed were placed in group A. Six teams from the preliminary tournament will go through to the next stage. The Bangladesh national hockey teams last assignment was in Malaysia in the Asia Cup, where the team finished seventh out of eighth. In light of that poor performance, the Bangladesh Hockey Federation (BHF) general secretary said that they will sack Pakistani coach Naveed Alam if Bangladesh fail to qualify for the Asian Games. SH
Nadal
3 1 65 174kph 144kph 77 4/14 3/10
MATCH STATS
7 6(7 4), 6 3, 6 3
Federer
8
Aces Double faults First serve % Average 1st serve Average 2nd serve Returns in % Break points won Net points won
Rafael Nadal is the king of social media at the Australian Open. The World No. 1s run through the Melbourne draw has generated more than 775,000 tweets through the first 11 days of the tournament, outdistancing the competition on the Australian Open Social Leaderboard. Roger Federer is second on the list of player generating buzz, with 447,000 tweets, followed by Novak Djokovic (318,000), Stanislas Wawrinka (253,000) and Juan Martin del Potro (215,000). Djokovic is the only player whose hashtag is not just his surname. Tweets about the Serb have been tagged #NowleFam a combination of his nickname and a reference to his extended family of fans. While Nadal has been the most popular subject, Federer and Wawrinka lead the Sentiment leaderboard, which tracks which players are generating the most positive tweets. Tweets for both Swiss men contained 87 per cent positive sentiment, followed by Nadal and Ana Ivanovic at 80 per cent, Djokovic at 79 and Tomas Berdych at 75. Agencies
Spain's Rafael Nadal celebrates after victory in his men's singles semi-final match against Switzerland's Roger Federer in the 2014 Australian Open in Melbourne yesterday AFP
DAYS WATCH
Sony Six 06:27 AM New Zealand v India 3rd ODI Star Sports 2 2:10PM Big Bash T20 Sydney Thunder v Sydney Sixers Star Sports 4 2:00PM Australian Open 6:45PM FA Cup 2013/14 Bournemouth v Liverpool 11:30PM Stevenage Borough v Everton 9:00PM La Liga Real Madrid v Granada 1:45AM Italian Serie A Lazio v Juventus Ten Golf 03:00 PM European Tour 2014 Qatar Masters, Day 4 Star Sports HD1 8:30PM Hockey India League Punjab v Delhi 11:00PM Italian Serie A Napoli v Chievo Verona La Liga 1:00AM Valencia v Espanyol 3:00AM Sevilla v Levante Ten Action French Ligue 1 2013/140 10:00PM EA de Guingamp v Paris SaintGermain 1:00AM FC Nantes v Stade de Reims
SCORECARD
England A Cook b Maxwell 44 I Bell c Faulkner b Christian 55 B Stokes c Wade b Faulkner 70 G Ballance c Smith b Pattinson 18 E Morgan c Christian b Faulkner 33 R Bopara c sub (Doherty) b Coulter-Nile 3 J Buttler c Johnson b Faulkner 71 T Bresnan c Johnson b Faulkner 2 S Broad not out 4 C Jordan not out 0 Extras (16w) 16 Total (for eight wickets, 50 overs) 316 Bowling Johnson 10 0 72 0, Pattinson 8 063 1, Faulkner 10 0 67 4, Coulter-Nile 10 0 62 1, Maxwell 9 0 37 1, Christian 3 0 15 1 Australia S Marsh c Bell b Bresnan 15 A Finch c Broad b Bresnan 108 M Wade c Cook b Bopara 23 G Bailey c Buttler b Stokes 11 S Smith c Buttler b Broad 19 G Maxwell c Buttler b Stokes 26 D Christian c Ballance b Broad 23 J Faulkner c Buttler b Stokes 2 M Johnson b Stokes 6 N Coulter-Nile not out 8 J Pattinson c Buttler b Bresnan 4 Extras (lb5, w9) 14 Total (all out, 47.4 overs) 259 Bowling Jordan 9 0 57 0, Broad 10 0 56 2, Bresnan 8.4 0 45 3, Tredwell 5 0 260, Bopara 6 1 32 1, Stokes 9 1 38 4 England won by 57 runs Australia lead five-match series 3 1
England's bowler Ben Stokes (C) celebrates with teammates after dismissing Australian batsman Glenn Maxwell during their fourth ODI in Perth yesterday AFP
India's Sania Mirza (R) celebrates with partner Romania's Horia Tecau during their mixed doubles semi-final against Australia's Jarmila Gajdosova and Mathew Ebden on day twelve of the 2014 Australian Open in Melbourne yesterday. Sania and Tecau defeated Gajdosova and Ebden 2 6, 6 3, 10 2 AFP
16
DHAKA TRIBUNE
Back Page
Workers of a water purification plant at Rajshahis Shyampur, Katakhali pass idle time. The plant was established on the bank of the Padma by district Wasa in 2011 to supply healthy water to households but it has gone out of order because of illegal dumping of sand by local influentials. The pump cannot also get enough water as the water level has fallen during winter. The plant is now gathering rust while the city is experiencing a shortage in water supply. The photo was taken yesterday DHAKA TRIBUNE
SP Amena Begum: The abduction took place many years back. The DNA sample is being collected because if any dead body is found, its DNA will be matched against that of Kalpanas brother
DNA test since I do not know what a DNA test was. Moreover, neither my lawyer was informed about the development nor has there been any court order. Kalindis lawyer Jewel Dewan said he had come to know about the update when he approached a court source. As the lawyer of the case, I should have been informed about such developments right away. Neither SP Amena nor the court officials informed me about
Scores of devotees pray together during Juma yesterday at the banks of Tongi River on the first day of Biswas Ijtema. Some of the devotees, unable to find space on the grounds, stand on the top of anchored boats to say their prayers MAHMUD HOSSAIN OPU
Editor: Zafar Sobhan, Published and Printed by Kazi Anis Ahmed on behalf of 2A Media Limited at Dainik Shakaler Khabar Publications Limited, 153/7, Tejgaon Industrial Area, Dhaka-1208. Editorial, News & Commercial Office: FR Tower, 8/C Panthapath, Shukrabad, Dhaka 1207. Phone: 9132093 94, Advertising: 9132155, Circulation: 9132282, Fax: News-9132192, e-mail: news@dhakatribune.com, info@dhakatribune.com, Website: www.dhakatribune.com