The article discusses the political climate in Bangladesh ahead of the parliamentary elections scheduled for January 7. It highlights concerns from opposition parties, rights activists, and analysts about the lack of conditions for a free and fair election due to the government's crackdown on opposition members. Human Rights Watch has documented serious human rights abuses, including enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings. The opposition Bangladesh National Party (BNP) has faced mass arrests of its leaders and activists, with many being sentenced by courts. The U.S. has imposed visa restrictions on individuals undermining the democratic process in Bangladesh. Critics argue that the judiciary and law enforcement are being used to facilitate a 'sham' election, and the unilateral announcement of the election schedule by the Election Commission is seen as biased. The article suggests that the upcoming election could be one-sided and not 'genuine,' potentially leading Bangladesh towards a de facto one-party state.

Kota, a city in Rajasthan, India, has become the epicenter for students preparing for competitive exams in medicine and engineering, with a rigorous schedule that often leads to high stress levels. The city's coaching industry is booming, with institutes like the Allen Career Institute offering intensive courses. However, the pressure to succeed has a dark side, with a record number of student suicides reported this year. The Rajasthan state government has introduced guidelines to address this issue, including removing ceiling fans from rooms. The pressure from families desiring a doctor or engineer in the family is immense, and students often link their self-worth to academic success. The article also touches on the sacrifices families from various economic backgrounds make to send their children to Kota for coaching, highlighting the societal value placed on educational achievement in India.

In Bangladesh, human rights activists Adilur Rahman Khan and Nasiruddin Elan of the organization Odhikar were sentenced to two years in prison for a report on extrajudicial killings by government forces. Their trial has been criticized as politically motivated by international rights groups, including Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights and Amnesty International. The Odhikar report contradicted the government's death toll in a 2013 protest, leading to criminal charges against Khan and Elan. Despite the prosecution's failure to prove charges, according to the defense, the activists were convicted and plan to appeal. The verdict comes amid a crackdown on opposition and political tensions ahead of the general election. Global rights organizations have condemned the ruling and called for the activists' release, highlighting the case as part of a broader pattern of repression in Bangladesh.

Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh are resisting repatriation to Myanmar, citing unmet demands for citizenship rights and safety concerns. Myanmar's government plans to repatriate 7,000 Rohingya and build 20 villages for resettlement, but past efforts have failed due to the Rohingya's refusal to return without citizenship rights, which were revoked in 1982. The latest repatriation initiative is backed by China, but Rohingya community leaders and Human Rights Watch argue that without full rights and assurances, refugees will not agree to return. The Myanmar authorities have been slow in verifying refugees for repatriation and have been inconsistent in their stance on allowing the Rohingya to return to their original homes. Bangladesh asserts it is doing its best for a successful repatriation, but the Rohingya remain firm on their demands.

Rohingya women who spoke out about rape and murder by Myanmar security forces are being pursued by officials, forcing them to flee to Bangladesh. Despite international outcry and investigations by figures like Kofi Annan and Yanghee Lee, the Myanmar government denies the allegations and continues to intimidate those who speak out. The UN and local charities are involved, but the women remain unsupported due to their illegal entry into Bangladesh.

The article details harrowing accounts of violence and atrocities committed by the Burmese military against the Rohingya community in Rakhine State, Myanmar. Noor Ayesha, a Rohingya refugee, recounts the brutal killing of her family and the destruction of her village. The UN and Human Rights Watch have expressed concern over the situation, with satellite images showing widespread destruction. Despite government denials, reports of mass killings, rapes, and village clearings continue to emerge. The article highlights the ongoing humanitarian crisis and the international community's response.

In West Bengal's 'arsenic belt', the Sulabh Safe Drinking Water Project (SSDWP) has provided significant relief by offering clean and affordable drinking water to villagers. The project, managed by a local cooperative and supported by NGOs, uses modern filtration technology to treat pond water, effectively mitigating arsenic contamination. The initiative has led to notable health improvements among residents, reducing the incidence of arsenicosis-related ailments. Experts and local leaders praise the project's success and plan to expand similar initiatives across the region.

The verdict sentencing two students to death and six others to prison for the murder of atheist blogger Rajib Haider in Bangladesh has been largely rejected by his relatives and the blogger community. The court sentenced Faisal bin Nayeem and Rezwanul Azad Rana to death, while others received varying prison terms. The cleric Jasimuddin Rahmani, who inspired the killers, received a five-year sentence, which has been criticized as too lenient. The blogger community and Haider's family plan to appeal the verdict, seeking stricter punishments. The case has highlighted concerns about the legal system and the government's commitment to punishing those responsible for attacks on freethinkers.

In India, only 40% of the population has access to modern medicine, largely due to affordability issues. One individual, referred to as 'Medicine Baba', is on a mission to deliver affordable medical care to the country's most impoverished citizens by distributing surplus medications.

A suspected suicide bomber detonated explosives during Friday prayers at an Ahmadiyya mosque in Bagmara, Bangladesh, killing himself and injuring about a dozen people. No group claimed responsibility, but the incident adds to concerns about rising Islamist violence against non-Sunni sects and non-Muslims in Bangladesh. Recent attacks have been claimed by the Islamic State and the local militant group Jama'atul Mujahideen Bangladesh, despite government denials of IS presence. Security forces have arrested several JMB militants and recovered a suicide vest and grenades from a JMB hideout. Security has been increased for religious minority groups, and Ahmadiyya leaders plan to extend security to all their mosques in response to the violence.

Bangladesh's police are collaborating with Islamic scholars and clerics to combat rising Islamist militancy. A fatwa condemning the activities of the Islamic State and local militant groups as un-Islamic is being drafted and will be signed by 100,000 scholars. The Bangladesh Jamiatul Ulama is leading this initiative, training mosque leaders to spread the message through sermons. The strategy has received approval from the police and support from various community leaders, including Christian organizations. The government attributes the surge in militancy to domestic Islamist groups backed by opposition parties, while the fatwa aims to educate the public on the true teachings of Islam to counteract radicalization.

Churches in Bangladesh, including those in Dinajpur, skipped traditional Christmas midnight mass services due to threats from Muslim extremists. The decision followed death threats to several church leaders and an attack on an Italian priest. The Bangladeshi Christian community, which constitutes less than one percent of the population, has been living in fear after receiving threats from groups claiming to be Islamic State and Jama'atul Mujahideen Bangladesh. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal assured increased security for churches. Despite these measures, the festive spirit was notably absent among Christians, who celebrated Christmas with panic and fear.

Muslim clerics in Bangladesh, led by Maulana Fariduddin Masoud of the Bangladesh Jamiatul Ulama, condemned extremist attacks on Shi'ites and Christian leaders, labeling such actions as un-Islamic. The Bangladesh Christian Association welcomed the clerics' stance, hoping it would curb future violence. Extremist groups like Islamic State and Jama'atul Mujahideen Bangladesh have been blamed for recent threats and attacks, with political motivations linked to the weakening of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami. The article highlights the ongoing threats faced by religious minorities and the broader implications for societal harmony in Bangladesh.

Muslims across India are holding rallies condemning the Islamic State (IS) as un-Islamic and pledging support to the government against the terror group. Despite IS's threats to expand into India, the response from Indian Muslims has been overwhelmingly negative, with community leaders and clerics condemning the group. The Indian government, led by the Bharatiya Janata Party, is taking the threat seriously, issuing advisories and emphasizing the patriotism of Indian Muslims. Security analysts believe IS does not pose a significant threat to India, though vigilance is necessary.

More than two dozen priests and aid workers in Bangladesh have received death threats from groups claiming to be Jama'atul Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB) and Islamic State (IS). The threats, delivered via text messages, phone calls, and letters, have led to increased security measures at churches. Recent attacks include an attempt on Father Dominic Rozario's life and the shooting of Italian priest Piero Parolari. The violence marks a shift from previous peaceful relations between Muslims and Christians in Bangladesh. Authorities are investigating the threats and providing security to the targeted individuals.

The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for an attack on a Shi'ite mosque in Bangladesh's Bogra district, resulting in one death and three injuries. Gunmen opened fire during prayers, and the muezzin, Moazzem Hossain, was among the victims. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina condemned the attack, stating it does not align with Islamic values. The incident raises concerns about rising militancy in Bangladesh, where secular bloggers and foreigners have also been targeted. Authorities attribute the violence to local Islamist groups, including Ansarullah Bangla Team and Jamayetul Mujahideen Bangladesh, rather than the Islamic State. The attacks have sparked fears of sectarian division in the region.

The Islamic State has claimed responsibility for a recent attack on an Italian missionary in Bangladesh, part of a series of attacks targeting foreigners and secularists. The Bangladeshi government denies the presence of international terrorist groups, attributing the violence to local Islamist groups and political opposition. A hit list naming 34 secular individuals has been released by Ansar al Islam, causing fear and prompting some to flee the country. Critics argue that a culture of impunity is developing due to the lack of arrests and effective action against the militants.

Unidentified gunmen attacked a Shi’ite mosque in Bogra, Bangladesh, killing the muezzin and injuring three others. The Islamic State claimed responsibility, though Bangladeshi authorities blamed local Islamist groups and opposition parties. The attack is part of a series of violent incidents targeting religious minorities and foreigners, raising concerns about rising militancy in the country. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina condemned the attackers, emphasizing that true Muslims do not engage in terrorism. The incident has heightened fears of sectarian violence in the region.

The executions of two opposition leaders in Bangladesh for war crimes during the 1971 war of independence have elicited mixed reactions domestically and internationally. The International Crime Tribunal convicted Ali Ahsan Mohammad Mujahid and Salauddin Quader Chowdhury of severe crimes, leading to their executions. The ruling Awami League celebrated the verdicts, while opposition parties and human rights groups criticized the trials as politically motivated and flawed. Pakistan condemned the executions, leading to diplomatic tensions. Various international organizations and legal experts highlighted significant concerns about the fairness and speed of the judicial process.

Bangladesh executed two opposition leaders, Ali Ahsan Mohammad Mujahid and Salauddin Quader Chowdhury, for war crimes committed during the 1971 independence war. The executions, carried out after their appeals and requests for presidential clemency were denied, have sparked controversy and criticism from international human rights organizations. The International Crime Tribunal, responsible for the convictions, has faced scrutiny for not adhering to international standards. The ruling Awami League's supporters celebrated the executions, while opposition parties and human rights groups condemned them as politically motivated and unjust.

Bangladesh has requested Amnesty International to retract its criticism of the country's war crimes tribunal, which has sentenced opposition politicians Ali Ahsan Mohammad Mujahid and Salauddin Quader Chowdhury to death. The tribunal, established by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's government, has faced accusations of failing to meet international standards and bias. Amnesty International and other critics argue that the trials are flawed and politically motivated. The Bangladesh government and its supporters defend the tribunal's procedures, while Amnesty and other human rights advocates call for fair trials and due process.

Bangladesh's main opposition party, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), denies accusations from the government that it orchestrated the killing of an Italian aid worker and a Japanese farming expert. The government claims to have evidence implicating BNP leaders in the crimes, while the BNP argues that these accusations are part of a conspiracy to suppress the opposition. The Islamic State claimed responsibility for the killings, but Bangladeshi officials attribute them to local militants. The political rivalry between the ruling Awami League and the BNP is highlighted, with concerns about the fairness of the investigations and the potential exploitation of the situation by fringe groups.

Bangladesh's inclusion in the 2015 Global Impunity Index by the Committee to Protect Journalists reflects a growing culture of impunity, particularly after the hacking deaths of four secular bloggers. The index ranks nations with unsolved journalist killings, with Bangladesh at 12th. The government's failure to protect bloggers and bring their killers to justice, coupled with political interests overshadowing the rule of law, has drawn criticism from various human rights organizations. The lack of government action and the police chief's controversial statements have exacerbated concerns, leading to a climate of fear and impunity among bloggers.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi called for unity following the killing of a Muslim man over beef consumption, amid rising religious tensions in India. The incident, involving a Hindu mob attacking Mohammad Akhlaq, has intensified criticism of Modi's Hindu nationalist BJP party, accused of marginalizing Muslims. Modi's delayed response has drawn criticism, while President Pranab Mukherjee emphasized tolerance as a core Indian value. The controversy highlights ongoing religious and political divisions, particularly in regions like Kashmir, where tensions over beef consumption persist.

The recent killings of an Italian and a Japanese citizen in Bangladesh have raised international concern and debate over the involvement of the Islamic State or local radical groups. While the Islamic State claimed responsibility, Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina accused the opposition parties BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami of orchestrating the attacks to undermine the country's achievements. Security analysts and authorities remain skeptical of IS's involvement, suggesting local lone wolf radicals might be responsible. The incidents have prompted increased security measures for foreigners and raised concerns about potential negative impacts on Bangladesh's economy, particularly its garment industry and tourism sector.

Bangladesh's home minister, Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, stated there was no evidence linking Islamic State (IS) to the assassination of Italian aid worker Cesare Tavella in Dhaka. Tavella, a project manager for Innovative Change Collaborative, was shot by unidentified gunmen. The SITE Intelligence Group reported an IS claim of responsibility, which Bangladesh officials are investigating. The attack did not appear to be a robbery, and concerns over security in Bangladesh have been rising, with recent warnings from Western nations and the postponement of Australia's cricket team's trip to Bangladesh.

The Indian government has barred its citizens from traveling to Iraq to support Baghdad in its fight against Islamic State militants, citing risks of radicalization and potential extremist activities upon their return. The decision, supported by security analysts and Muslim community leaders, aims to prevent sectarian conflict within India. Despite the ruling, some groups continue to advocate for humanitarian missions to Iraq. The Ministry of Home Affairs emphasized that allowing citizens to participate in foreign conflicts could lead to allegations of promoting terrorism and increased tensions at home.

India's economic growth may surpass China's, but the job market remains challenging. In Uttar Pradesh, 2.3 million applicants, including highly educated individuals, applied for 368 low-ranking government jobs. The overwhelming response highlights the scarcity of quality jobs and the high value placed on government employment for its stability. Experts attribute the unemployment crisis to structural issues in the Indian economy and a lack of skilled workers. They suggest the establishment of skill development schools to better prepare graduates for the job market.

Secular bloggers in Bangladesh are expressing fear of persecution from the state following Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's warning against hurting religious sentiments. Bloggers, facing death threats from Islamists and now potential targeting by the government, are considering leaving the country. The use of Section 57 of the ICT Act to detain bloggers for up to 14 years is a particular concern, with activists fearing its misuse. International criticism has emerged, with Human Rights Watch and the Center for Inquiry calling for the protection of bloggers' rights to freedom of expression, criticizing the government's failure to safeguard human rights and secular values.

Four secular bloggers have been murdered in Bangladesh this year, prompting many others to flee the country due to safety concerns. Despite police claims of progress in investigations and providing security, bloggers and activists express frustration with the slow pace and perceived inaction. The situation has led to a shrinking secular space in Bangladesh, with bloggers receiving death threats and feeling unsafe even in their homes. The Center for Inquiry highlights the grim free speech situation, while the government faces criticism for not adequately addressing the threats against bloggers.

Three activists from the right-wing Hindu militant group Bajrang Dal have been detained in connection with the killing of Indian rationalist Malleshappa Madivalappa Kalburgi, who was known for his criticism of idol worship. The killing has drawn comparisons to the murders of other rationalists in India and secular bloggers in Bangladesh. Hindu groups deny involvement, but the incident has raised concerns about increasing threats against rationalists by Hindu extremists. Authorities are investigating potential links between this and other similar killings.

India's plan to deter Muslim youth from joining the Islamic State through de-radicalization programs faces criticism from Muslim leaders who argue that the militant group holds little appeal in India. The Ministry of Home Affairs is developing strategies involving counseling and community outreach, focusing on twelve at-risk states. Critics, including Islamic clerics and academics, argue that the plan could lead to communal polarization and unnecessary fear among Muslims, as the threat from IS is perceived as negligible. Proponents cite success in Telangana, where community involvement helped dissuade youth from joining IS. The debate highlights concerns over profiling and the potential for increased Islamophobia.

In Bangladesh, secular blogger Niloy Chakrabarti was murdered at his home by a group of men with machetes, marking the fourth such killing this year. Chakrabarti, known for his atheist views, had previously expressed fear for his life. The attack was claimed by a group purporting to be al-Qaida's Bangladesh wing. The government's failure to investigate previous blogger murders has been criticized by activists and organizations, with the Center for Inquiry condemning the government's inaction in protecting its citizens.

Suspected militants armed with machetes killed secular blogger Niloy Chakrabarti in Dhaka, marking the fourth such attack this year. Ansar-al-Islam, claiming to be the Bangladesh wing of al-Qaida, took responsibility. The U.S. State Department and United Nations condemned the act, calling for accountability. Activists criticized the Bangladeshi government for failing to protect bloggers, with some bloggers being advised to leave the country. Previous attacks on bloggers have raised concerns about increasing boldness of extremists and inadequate government response.

Indian authorities are reconsidering a recent ban on over 800 online pornography websites, initially blocked for promoting offensive and illegal content. The government plans to unban sites that do not promote child pornography, while still banning those with hardcore content. This move has sparked a debate on censorship and personal liberty, with critics arguing it defies a Supreme Court statement protecting personal liberty. The ban has received mixed reactions, with some supporting it for protecting societal morality and others condemning it as an infringement on personal freedoms.

A new census in Bangladesh's Sundarbans forest reveals only about 100 tigers remain, significantly fewer than previously believed. The Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site, spans parts of India and Bangladesh. The previous 2004 census, which estimated 440 tigers, is now considered an overcount due to reliance on paw print studies. The latest census used infrared cameras for a more accurate count.

Colorful bindis, traditionally worn by women in South Asia, are now being used to deliver essential iodine to combat deficiency in India. The 'Jeevan Bindi' project, led by Neelvasant Medical Foundation and Research Center and funded by Grey Group Singapore, targets women in Maharashtra's tribal areas. While the initiative has been praised for its innovative approach, critics argue that it may hinder the adoption of dietary iodine. Experts like Dr. Chandrakant Pandav and Dr. Sujoy Majumdar call for more research to validate the effectiveness of iodine absorption through the skin.

Malaysia plans to recruit 500,000 low-skilled migrant workers from Bangladesh through a Business-to-Business mechanism, aiming to streamline the recruitment process and reduce reliance on illegal human trafficking. The agreement, expected to be formalized soon, comes as Gulf labor markets shrink, offering new opportunities for Bangladeshi workers. The initiative is seen as a potential solution to the slow Government-to-Government recruitment process, which has driven many to seek illegal routes. Stakeholders express optimism that the new deal will facilitate quicker and safer migration, potentially reducing the human smuggling market.

The Indian army's operation inside Myanmar, initially claimed to have inflicted significant casualties on Naga rebels, failed to achieve its objectives according to recent intelligence. Despite initial reports of success, subsequent investigations revealed no casualties among the targeted insurgents. The operation, driven by political pressures, was criticized for its lack of efficacy. However, it served as a warning to the rebels about India's resolve. The operation's impact on Myanmar's sovereignty and the broader implications for regional security were also highlighted.

The Indian Army's claim of a successful cross-border raid into Myanmar, following a deadly ambush in Manipur, is under scrutiny. Human rights activists and local villagers report no evidence of significant rebel casualties, contradicting the Indian government's statements. The Myanmar government has called for respect for sovereignty, and various rebel groups have dismissed the Indian Army's account as false. The situation has stirred regional tensions, particularly with Pakistan, and raised questions about the accuracy of the reported military success.

A 47-year-old nun in Raipur, India, was sexually assaulted, with police calling it an 'attempt to rape.' Christian leaders believe it was part of an anti-Christian hate campaign. The incident follows a similar attack on a 71-year-old nun in West Bengal. Activists accuse Hindu right-wing groups of targeting Christians, while Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government is criticized for not curbing hate speeches and attacks against religious minorities.

A series of mysterious targeted killings in Indian-controlled Kashmir, particularly in the town of Sopore, has created fear and panic among locals, especially those involved in mobile phone-related businesses and anti-India activists. The killings, which began in late May, have been attributed to a splinter group of Hizbul Mujahideen called Lashkar-e-Islam, although no group has claimed responsibility for the most recent attacks. Indian authorities deny involvement and blame the killings on militant infighting. The situation has led to significant disruptions, with many residents fleeing and businesses shutting down.

Indian special forces commandos attacked two insurgent camps along the India-Myanmar border, inflicting significant casualties. This action was in response to an ambush in Manipur by rebels that killed 18 soldiers. The operation was publicly detailed by Minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, which some experts criticized. Myanmar officials and the NSCN-K rebel group denied that the operation occurred on Myanmar soil or that any rebels were killed.

In Bangladesh, the police are facing criticism for their slow progress in investigating the murders of three bloggers, Ananta Bijoy Das, Washiqur Rahman, and Avijit Roy, who were outspoken against religious fundamentalism. Human rights groups and activists express concern that the government's inaction may lead to further attacks. Despite arrests in some cases, the masterminds behind the killings remain at large, and there is skepticism about the police's willingness to act. The government's muted response to these targeted killings contrasts with its actions against opposition workers and leaders, raising questions about its commitment to protecting free speech.

Bangladesh police have charged 41 individuals, including Rana Plaza owner Sohel Rana, with murder following the 2013 building collapse in Dhaka that killed over 1,100 people. The charges were upgraded from culpable homicide to murder after an investigation revealed negligence in addressing structural cracks. The illegal extension of the building contributed to the disaster. Transparency International Bangladesh emphasizes the importance of accountability to prevent future tragedies. Some accused individuals remain missing, and police are seeking warrants for their arrest.

Thousands of Bangladeshi men are risking their lives on dangerous sea journeys to find work in Malaysia, driven by poverty and dwindling legal migration options. The number of migrants has surged in recent years, with many falling victim to human traffickers. Despite the high risks, including death from starvation, dehydration, and abuse, many continue to attempt the perilous journey, hoping to secure better livelihoods for their families.

Two years after the Rana Plaza building collapse in Dhaka, which killed over 1,100 garment workers, millions of dollars have been disbursed to victims, but the process is mired in controversy. The Bangladesh government and global clothing companies set up two funds, but transparency issues and slow disbursement have caused frustration. Transparency International Bangladesh reported that only a fraction of the funds has been disbursed. The Rana Plaza Donors' Trust Fund is short of its $30 million target. Human Rights Watch criticized international brands and the Bangladesh garment industry for not meeting donation expectations. The Centre for Policy Dialogue noted improvements in working conditions but highlighted the slow compensation process.

A series of police shootings in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, India, has led to calls for independent investigations by human rights groups and community leaders. The incidents, involving the deaths of five Muslim prisoners and 20 suspected smugglers, have raised concerns about extrajudicial killings and police accountability. Amnesty International and India's National Human Rights Commission are among the organizations demanding inquiries. Critics argue that the police acted as judge, jury, and executioner, and there are calls for international bodies to intervene if justice is not served domestically.

The murder of atheist Bangladeshi blogger Washiqur Rahman Babu in Dhaka, following the killing of Bangladeshi-American author Avijit Roy, underscores the escalating danger to those opposing religious fundamentalism in Bangladesh. Babu was attacked by three men with meat cleavers, and despite two assailants being apprehended by the public, his death was confirmed at Dhaka Medical College Hospital. The suspects, identified as students from religious schools, admitted to targeting Babu due to his anti-Islam writings, as instructed by their religious teacher. Babu's involvement in Facebook groups critical of religious extremism and his tributes to Roy, who was similarly murdered, may have contributed to his targeting. The attacks on secular bloggers are seen as part of a broader effort by militants to intimidate and silence critics amidst a backdrop of political unrest and violence in Bangladesh. Calls for justice from entities like Amnesty International highlight the government's failure to protect at-risk individuals and to prosecute those responsible for such attacks.

The gang rape of an elderly Catholic nun in West Bengal has sparked national outrage and protests, with debates on whether the attack was a hate crime against religious minorities. Police have arrested two suspects, but the investigation continues. The incident has highlighted religious tensions in India, with Hindu nationalist groups accused of inciting violence against Christians. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed concern but faced criticism for not taking stronger action against hate speech and religious intolerance.

The gang rape of an elderly Roman Catholic nun in West Bengal has sparked national outrage and protests, with Christians arguing the attack was sectarian. Police arrested two suspects, both Bangladeshi nationals, but the investigation continues. The incident has heightened religious tensions in India, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressing concern but facing criticism for inaction. The Bharatiya Janata Party framed the attack as a criminal case, while Christian and minority rights advocates believe it was part of a broader campaign of religious intolerance by Hindu radicals.

Police in Bangladesh are intensifying efforts to apprehend religious extremists linked to the murder of atheist blogger Avijit Roy, who was killed in Dhaka. Roy's father, Ajoy Roy, remains hopeful that the involvement of the FBI will expedite justice. Roy's wife, Rafida Ahmed, who was injured in the attack, criticized the police for inaction. The murder has drawn attention to the threats faced by secular writers in Bangladesh, with Islamist groups like Hefazat-e-Islam and Jamaat-e-Islami accused of inciting violence. The article highlights the broader issue of violent attacks against atheist bloggers in the country.

In eastern India, a violent attack on the Convent of Jesus and Mary School, involving the rape of a 71-year-old nun and vandalism, is believed to be part of an anti-Christian hate campaign. Christian organizations allege the attack was religiously motivated, with suspicions of involvement by Hindu right-wing groups. The incident has sparked nationwide protests and raised concerns about ongoing violence against religious minorities. Despite police detaining suspects, no arrests have been made. The attack coincides with heightened awareness of sexual violence against women in India, following the controversial ban of a documentary on the 2012 Delhi gang rape.

India is facing a severe swine flu outbreak with over 1,500 deaths and 26,000 infections since mid-December. The Indian Health Ministry is working with state governments to combat the H1N1 virus, which thrives in current unseasonal weather conditions. Health experts criticize poor infection prevention and delayed diagnoses as key factors in the outbreak's severity. The western states of Gujarat and Maharashtra are the most affected, with new cases emerging in northeastern states. The World Health Organization notes an unusually high number of cases, while experts call for increased public awareness and hygiene practices to curb the spread.

Bangladesh is experiencing a severe political stalemate marked by violence and blockades led by the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) demanding Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's resignation and new elections. The government, led by Hasina, refuses to hold elections before 2019 and labels the opposition as terrorists. The conflict has resulted in over 100 deaths and significant economic disruption. Both sides are accused of contributing to the violence, and there is little hope for dialogue or resolution in the near future.

The article investigates claims of mass religious conversions to Hinduism in the village of Kharmadanga, West Bengal, which were reported by Hindu nationalist groups but found to be false. The conversions were allegedly used as propaganda to promote Hindu nationalism. The article highlights the silence of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the issue and includes perspectives from various stakeholders, including religious leaders and NGOs, who refute the claims and criticize the actions of the Hindu nationalist groups.

The article investigates claims of mass religious conversions to Hinduism in the village of Kharmadanga, West Bengal, which were reported by Hindu nationalist groups but found to be false. It highlights the political and social implications of these claims, particularly in the context of India's religious diversity and the ruling BJP's stance on religious conversions. The article features perspectives from various stakeholders, including local villagers, religious leaders, and political figures, and criticizes the use of false conversion claims as propaganda to promote Hindu nationalism.

In Kharmadanga, India, claims of mass conversions to Hinduism by tribal people following a Hindu temple feast were reported nationally, but investigations revealed these were false. The conversions were purportedly part of a 'ghar wapsi' initiative by Hindu fundamentalist groups associated with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Sangh Parivar, aiming for a fully Hindu India. Despite the reports, the villagers, including Mangal Murmu, maintained their animist beliefs and denied converting. The incident, following President Obama's visit and comments on religious freedom, sparked controversy and highlighted tensions over religious identity in India.

Hard-line Hindu extremist groups in India have sparked controversy with conversion drives targeting Christians, challenging Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government. Religious minorities, including Muslims and Christians, report increasing repression and hope President Barack Obama will address these issues during his visit. Activists have petitioned Obama to urge Modi to protect religious freedoms. Reports of mass conversion ceremonies and violence against Christian communities have heightened tensions. Critics accuse Modi of not taking a firm stand against these groups, potentially exacerbating communal tensions and stalling legislative progress.

In India, some Muslims are adopting Hindu identities to secure employment due to religious discrimination in the job market. This practice is prevalent in menial jobs within the unorganized sector, where identity documents are not typically required. Placement agencies are complicit in this trend, introducing Muslim candidates as Hindus to meet employer preferences. The Sachar Commission's findings highlight the socio-economic disadvantages faced by Muslims, comparable to the Dalits. The situation has worsened with increased hostility from Hindu nationalist organizations, leading to social divisiveness and ghettoization of Muslims in urban areas. Despite the moral conflict, many Muslims feel compelled to continue this guise to improve their livelihoods.