A working session during the intensive four-day in-person Media Xcelerate Hackathon, focusing on investigative workflows and fact-checking methodologies.
Four Days of Intensive Training Equips South Asian Journalists with Critical Digital Investigation Skills
Colombo, Sri Lanka – January 2025
A working session during the intensive four-day in-person Media Xcelerate Hackathon, focusing on investigative workflows and fact-checking methodologies.
I recently had the privilege of participating in the Internews Regional Hackathon “Media Xcelerate” under the Indo-Pacific Media Advancement Program (IPMAP), held from January 7-10, 2025, in Colombo, Sri Lanka. This intensive four-day in-person training brought together journalists from across South Asia to build critical skills in countering influence operations and strengthening information integrity in our region.
Building a Regional Network of Truth-Seekers
The hackathon convened approximately 50-65 journalists from Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Maldives, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and Bhutan—all dedicated to investigating and reporting on public interest issues. What made this experience truly remarkable was the opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals who share a commitment to accountability journalism and combating disinformation in an increasingly complex digital landscape.
As one participant noted on social media, attending the “#Internews Regional #Hackathon for #SouthAsia Journalists on ‘#Media #Xcelerate’ under Indo-Pacific Media Advancement Program (#IPMAP)” represented a significant milestone in professional development for investigative reporters across the region.
Mastering Advanced Digital Investigation Techniques
The program, conducted by Internews’ expert partners—the Centre for Information Resilience (CIR) and Doublethink Lab (DTL)—provided comprehensive training in cutting-edge investigative techniques. Over four immersive days, we developed proficiency in:
Video and Image Verification
Geolocation and Chronolocation
Mapping Information Operations
Counter-Disinformation Tools
High-Level Support and Recognition
The significance of this initiative was underscored by the presence of U.S. Ambassador to Sri Lanka Julie Chung, who delivered remarks at the Media Xcelerate Hackathon. Her participation highlighted the international community’s commitment to supporting independent journalism and information integrity in the Indo-Pacific region. Ambassador Chung’s address emphasised the vital role journalists play in democratic societies and the importance of equipping media professionals with tools to combat misinformation.
A Catalyst for Regional Collaboration
Beyond the technical skills, Media Xcelerate fostered invaluable networking opportunities. The hackathon connected organisations and journalists across South Asia whose work focuses on increasing accountability and transparency. These relationships form the foundation of a regional network capable of collaborating on cross-border investigations and sharing best practices in combating disinformation.
Strengthening Information Integrity
As disinformation campaigns become increasingly sophisticated, programs like Media Xcelerate are essential for equipping journalists with the tools and knowledge needed to serve as guardians of truth.
Media Xcelerate represents more than just a training program; it’s a transformative experience that enhances our ability to investigate, verify, and report with greater accuracy and impact.
This initiative is part of the Indo-Pacific Media Advancement Program (IPMAP), implemented by Internews to strengthen the capacity of media outlets and journalists across the Indo-Pacific region in developing business strategies, enhancing independent journalism, and contributing to information integrity.
Weaponizing misinformation: How women become targets in times of conflict
The rapid dissemination of false claims targeting Hindu women reveals the dangerous intersection of how gender and religion are used during political instability
The resignation of Sheikh Hasina on August 5 and the subsequent collapse of the Awami League government caused a sudden power vacuum which provided a fertile ground for political tensions, as attacks took place on homes and establishments belonging to people of different religions.
Hindu communities have also been targeted in some cases. Subsequently, several Indian media outlets have circulated accounts of widespread attacks against the Hindu community in Bangladesh, raising serious concerns about the ulterior motives behind these reports.
Portraying violence specifically against Hindu women, the spread of false claims played a significant role in fueling communal tensions during the quota reform movement and after the downfall of the Awami government.
Was that the deliberate targeting of women in misinformation campaigns an intended move to incite communal violence? How do women become prime targets of disinformation disguised as victims of attacks during times of conflict and unrest?
However, Fact-Watch, an independent fact-checking organization, reviewed false claims about violence against minority women and how they were exploited as symbolic victims in these narratives to incite further division and unrest.
Weaponizing misinformation: How women become targets in times of conflict
This review involved analyzing over 25 fact-check reports from various institutions and print media in Bangladesh and India, from July 1 to August 31, with a focus on identifying patterns of misinformation related to communal violence and violence against women.
More than 50 accounts on X, 72% of which were based in India, played a key role in spreading misinformation by circulating images, videos, and content about recent events in Bangladesh, often framing them in a communal context that stoked fear and division among different religious communities.
In 80% of the reports, inaccurate allegations and misinformation about violence against women were found.
The fact-checked reports highlighted several recurring patterns of violence against women and the spread of misinformation. Old videos and images from past incidents have been repurposed to create false claims of violence against women, with political violence often portrayed as religious or ethnic attacks. Likewise, false claims of celebrity assaults and attacks on homes have been spread to incite communal tensions, while harassment of female teachers has been misrepresented as evidence of religious persecution.
On the other hand, 55% of the disinformation content portrayed Hindu women as victims of violence, including murder, rape, and abduction. In comparison, 45% depicted Muslim women as victims under the guise of being Hindu.
Equally, protests during the student quota movement were misleadingly framed as attacks on Hindu women in 40% of the content. However, 30% used old, unrelated videos to falsely claim communal violence, with no actual evidence of attacks on minority women.
Less obvious is the fact that only 15% of the content actually involved incidents with Hindu women, and these events were unrelated to gender-based violence or communalism. Compared to other cases, political violence was also manipulated, with 25% of the reports falsely claiming that female members of the Awami League’s student wing were attacked as Hindu women.
Furthermore, 20% of the content falsely claimed that Hindu female teachers were forced to resign under pressure. Despite this, videos of Muslim teachers being harassed were misrepresented as Hindu incidents, fueling further disinformation.
Misinformation is the frequently used tool to fuel communal tensions; however, findings show that the victimhood of Hindu women is being portrayed as the root cause of communal violence. The use of false videos and images has been circulated to create the perception that the Hindu community is under constant threat.
It makes women more vulnerable while also marginalizing religious minorities, creating a lasting obstacle to social harmony and stability
False claims regarding the rape of a Dalit Hindu woman and the misuse of old videos depicting sexual assault are sensitive examples of how disinformation is weaponized. Incidents involving Hindu women, such as false reports of forced resignations of teachers and abductions, are exaggerated or fabricated to stir communal tensions.
Similarly, prominent figures have been falsely implicated, portraying Hindu women as the main victims of communal violence. These narratives have diverted attention from the actual political events, such as attacks on female leaders during anti-government protests, which were spun as communal violence against Hindu women.
The rapid dissemination of false claims about women during political instability shows how gendered disinformation is used to gain public sympathy and provoke communal tensions.
False claims of sexual violence involving old videos being linked to recent incidents were identified as a tactic used to create sensationalized content both for social media platforms and media outlets. These false claims unequivocally fuel communal division by consistently portraying the Muslim community as aggressors against Hindus.
The spread of misinformation targeting Hindu women reveals the dangerous intersection of gender and religion in these contexts. It makes women more vulnerable while also marginalizing religious minorities, creating a lasting obstacle to social harmony and stability.
Religious misinformation frequently weaponizes gender-based violence to justify attacks; however, the spread of false narratives targeting Hindu women, which exposes their safety and rights, was strategically employed to incite communal violence, ultimately contributing to prolonged societal unrest.
This highlights the urgency of addressing the nature and impact of this misinformation to protect vulnerable groups from being used as pawns in political and religious conflicts.
This review demonstrates that gendered misinformation not only disregards women’s status but also curtails their political participation. On the whole, the use of gendered misinformation as a tool to promote communalism is alarming, requiring ongoing vigilance to combat these harmful narratives.
Most importantly, the portrayal of violence against Hindu women has reframed communal violence as a regional issue, creating a complex set of dual barriers in society.
On the one hand, this narrative further marginalizes women by exploiting their victimhood for political purposes.
On the other hand, it deepens communal divides, positioning religious minorities as targets and fueling inter-religious tensions.
By strategically exploiting the vulnerabilities of women in the context of communalism, it is essential to critically examine and challenge these false narratives to promote societal stability and gender equality.
Zulker Naeen is a Research Coordinator at the Centre for Critical and Qualitative Studies, at the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh. He is reachable at naeenzulker@gmail.com. This report is drawn from research findings on “Violence Against Women and Misinformation: A Fact-Check Analysis of Recent Communal Attacks in Bangladesh” by the author, as part of a working paper published by Fact-Watch.
The political landscape in Bangladesh has experienced a seismic shift following the resignation of the longest-serving Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina, from her post, and her fled to India due to anti-quota protests by students. The ousting of Hasina, who had held power for nearly 16 years, was the fruit of a nationwide protest movement spearheaded by the youth— the students of Gen-Z of Bangladesh.
This movement, which has been hailed as a “Gen-Z Revolution,” was not only aimed at toppling an authoritarian regime but also at laying the groundwork for a new and reformed Bangladesh. Now, textbooks are being rewritten to conceal the tumultuous history of the nation’s darker periods of anarchy and authoritarianism.
Courtesy: Eurasia Review
Following the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government, attacks have taken place on Awami League offices, leaders’ homes, and businesses in various districts. Hindu communities have also been targeted in some cases, raising concerns over a broader pattern of communal violence.
Indeed, there have been concerning reports of violence against minority communities. Bangladesh Hindu Buddhist Christian Oikya Parishad reported 205 incidents of persecution of members of minority communities across 52 districts.
Many Bangladeshi student protesters, including members of the Gen-Z cohort, have taken proactive steps to protect Hindu temples and households from vandalism. Social media platforms like Instagram are filled with images of young students guarding these sites, aiming to dispel fears of religious violence and show solidarity with the Hindu community.
This complex situation has not only heightened tensions within Bangladesh but has also led to a ripple effect in neighboring India, where the issue has become a flashpoint on social media. Numerous posts have gone viral, purporting to show scenes of Hindus being attacked or persecuted in Bangladesh, fueling a surge of anti-Hindu and anti-India sentiment across the region.
In the past two weeks, numerous posts claiming to depict scenes from the protests have rapidly spread across platforms like Facebook, WhatsApp, and X in India, many of which have taken on a distinctly communal framework where numerous verified accounts have spread rumors and unverified claims as factual news.
The unchecked spread of rumors and fake news on platforms like X, combined with sensationalist coverage in mainstream Indian media, is creating a narrative that paints India as an antagonist rather than an ally.
For instance, Republic Bangla broadcast a report alleging that the Navagraha Temple had been attacked, a claim that has since been debunked as disinformation. At the same time, Sudarshan News broadcast the Lakshmipur shop fire video as part of their coverage of supposed attacks on Hindus. These reports have been widely shared and viewed, contributing to a growing perception in India that Hindus in Bangladesh are under siege.
In a statement posted on its official Facebook page, the West Bengal Police stated that some local TV channels are violating the Press Council of India norms by reporting on the current situation in Bangladesh in such a communally inflammatory manner. They request people not to fall into the trap of one-sided, hateful, and misleading propaganda.
Many of these posts have been debunked by fact-checkers; it reveals a concerning trend of misinformation.
Independent fact-checking organizations like FactWatch and international news agencies such as BBC Bangla have published reports debunking several of these claims, confirming that the incident was falsely reported when Al Jazeera’s coverage highlighted the exaggeration of attack numbers by certain Indian media outlets.
Reports from Indian government-affiliated news agencies like ANI suggest a coordinated effort to depict the unrest in Bangladesh as a religiously charged crisis. A student leader from India told ANI that the student-led movement in Bangladesh was orchestrated by the nation’s adversaries—a narrative that BJP leaders have echoed; it has attributed the destabilization efforts to Jamaat-e-Islami.
Reports from Bangladesh, including those from Al Jazeera and other international media, have provided a starkly different perspective against these narratives. According to these sources, the attacks on the Hindu community were not primarily religiously motivated but were instead politically driven. Many of the targeted individuals were affiliated with the Awami League, suggesting that the violence was rooted in political retribution rather than communal hatred. Additionally, Hindu community leaders in Bangladesh have refuted the claims made by Indian media, stating that the attacks were politically motivated rather than communal.
Right-wing political groups in India have a vested interest in portraying the violence in Bangladesh as part of an anti-Hindu narrative. There is, therefore, a correlation between an increase in misinformation on Indian platforms and a rise in criminal activities and vandalism in Bangladesh, leading some within the country to suspect that pro-Awami League forces in India are intentionally promoting a narrative of communal unrest to destabilize the country.
While the attack against Hindus is true, the framing of these incidents as part of a broader anti-Hindu agenda is not universally accepted. The spread of misinformation, therefore, serves multiple purposes: it fuels communal tensions, undermines the government’s credibility, and provides a pretext for further crackdowns on opposition groups.
Recent exaggerated reports by certain Indian media outlets of violence against the Hindu community in Bangladesh have already intensified anti-India sentiments among the country’s Gen-Z population. Even this generation, already critical of what they see as India’s meddling in Bangladeshi politics, is increasingly viewing India not as a democratic but as a nation driven by religious bias.
The portrayal of Bangladesh’s crisis through a religious lens by some Indian outlets suggests that the ongoing turmoil is primarily about religious tensions rather than a broader struggle for democratic rights. Yet, the focus on religious violence, often exaggerated or misreported, is intensifying anti-India sentiments among these young people, who feel their aspirations for a better Bangladesh are being overshadowed by an external agenda.
This generation, which has successfully mobilized against what they see as autocratic rule, is acutely aware of the power of information and the dangers of disinformation. They are keeping an eye on India—whether through government channels or social media influencers—as an attempt to undermine their movement.
Overall involvement of India in our political crisis and narratives, often portraying the unrest in Bangladesh as a precursor to religious extremism, is having a profound impact on how the youth in Bangladesh view India—not as a democratic ally but as a meddling neighbor with ulterior motives.
As these young people move into leadership roles, their current perceptions will likely influence how they engage with India globally. The growing anti-India sentiment among the new generation is not just a short-term issue—in the future, this could lead to a more strained diplomatic relationship.
If this distrust continues to grow, it could lead to a more strained and adversarial relationship, undermining decades of cooperation and mutual support. The potential for long-term diplomatic fallout is real, and both countries must recognize the dangers of allowing misinformation to shape public opinion.
The Indian media’s portrayal of Bangladesh turmoil as religiously motivated has fueled misinformation and has strained Bangladesh-India relations, posing a threat to regional stability
The youth-led uprisings in Bangladesh culminated in the historic resignation of Sheikh Hasina, marking the end of an era and plunging the nation into a period of unprecedented uncertainty. Immediately after her resignation, there was a nationwide interruption of law and order.
Courtesy: Dhaka Tribune
Police forces were noticeably absent from their posts, leaving the streets unguarded and the public in heightened anxiety. This sudden power vacuum created a volatile and messy situation, and the country grappled with the aftermath of a revolution, destabilizing the nation.
Attacks have taken place on Awami League offices, leaders’ homes, and businesses in various districts. Hindu communities have also been targeted in some cases, raising concerns over rising communal violence.
Subsequently, several Indian media outlets have circulated accounts of widespread attacks against the Hindu community in Bangladesh, raising serious concerns about the ulterior motives behind these reports.
If one is going to repetitively point to Hindu victimhood, overlooking the wider political context, then one is sure to create a one-way inflammatory discourse that does little to promote understanding or peace. Indian media has largely portrayed these motivated attacks as a broader crisis — one religiously charged, broadly against the Hindu community.
They have circulated false claims with doctored images exaggerating the scale and nature of violence against the Hindu community in Bangladesh. Such manipulative media narratives with striking visual content only exacerbates the prevalence of misinformation and disinformation.
Independent fact-checking organizations like Fact-Watch, along with national and international media outlets, have played a crucial role in debunking these false claims. Their analysis has revealed a systematic effort to distort the truth, with many of the viral posts being either outright fabrications or gross exaggerations of actual events.
It was true that Fact-Watch’s fact-checking of the video concerning the temple attack did prove that it took place in a separate, unrelated incident years earlier—the footage of which was being repackaged with the intent to inspire fear in its audience.
For example, Republic Bangla aired a report claiming there was an attack at the Nabagraha Temple when Sudarshan News broadcast the Lakshmipur shop fire video as part of their coverage of supposed attacks on Hindus. Those reports have been widely shared and viewed, contributing to a growing perception in India that Hindus in Bangladesh are under siege.
However, Fact-Watch debunked this claim, revealing that the fire had occurred at the south district Awami League office near the temple, not the temple itself. Another instance of misinformation involved a video showing a woman being abducted in Senbagh, Noakhali, claiming that it depicted a communal attack against Hindus. However, further investigation revealed that the incident was a domestic dispute unrelated to any communal violence.
Similarly, a video showing a shop on fire in Lakshmipur was falsely presented as evidence of recent anti-Hindu violence, even though the incident occurred weeks before the political unrest and was not related to any religious conflict.
The conflation of these genuine incidents with exaggerated or false reports has made it difficult to discern the true extent of the threat facing Hindus in Bangladesh.
The Times Group-owned Mirror Now, for instance, released a video titled “Attack on Hindus in Bangladesh? Genocide, Murder by an Enraged Mob,” which depicted scenes of violence and burning. However, investigations by Al Jazeera and other independent fact-checking organizations have shown that the claims were grossly exaggerated and those two houses were actually Muslim-owned.
The conflation of these genuine incidents with exaggerated or false reports has made it difficult to discern the true extent of the threat facing Hindus in Bangladesh
Many of the targeted individuals were affiliated with the Awami League, suggesting that the violence was rooted in political retribution rather than communal hatred. In districts like Narsingdi and Jessore, where attacks were reported, residents have confirmed that the violence was directed at individuals based only on their political affiliations.
Gobinda Chandra Pramanik, a prominent leader of the Hindu community in Bangladesh, has asserted the same.
But by framing the unrest in Bangladesh as a religious conflict, these outlets and social media accounts are arguably attempting to rally Hindu nationalist sentiment within India. Such a portrayal of Bangladesh as a hostile, anti-Hindu neighbour fits neatly into the agenda of right-wing political groups in India, who have long sought to portray Hindus as under siege in the region.
The fear-generated narratives have not only fueled communal tensions but have also been used to justify calls for a more aggressive stance towards Bangladesh.
Meanwhile, many in Bangladesh, including members of the Gen-Z cohort, have taken proactive steps to protect Hindu temples and households from vandalism — a fact that is rarely highlighted in Indian coverage.
Foreign Affairs adviser Md Touhid Hossain has criticized the Indian media for broadcasting the recent events in Bangladesh in a “highly exaggerated” manner. He argued that this kind of reporting not only distorts the truth but also harms the diplomatic relationship between the two countries.
Similarly, while talking with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi over the telephone, Professor Muhammad Yunus made bold remarks about the exaggerated reports of attacks on minorities, going so far as to invite Indian journalists to visit Bangladesh and report from the ground. Yunus’s call for transparency and accuracy in reporting is a direct challenge to the current media narrative, urging a more truthful representation of events.
The framing of these incidents undermines the sovereignty of Bangladesh, painting it as a nation incapable of protecting its minority communities without external intervention. This is not favourable to upholding healthy diplomatic relations and could have long-term consequences for the region’s stability.
The growing distrust stems from a perception that India has not acted in the best interests of Bangladesh, particularly in the wake of the recent political reforms and the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government. Accordingly, Bangladesh believes India has overstepped its bounds, interfering in their internal affairs and failing to respect its sovereignty.
If the current trajectory continues, the relationship between these two historically linked nations could be strained, with repercussions for the broader South Asian region.
Zulker Naeen is a Research Coordinator at the Centre for Critical and Qualitative Studies, at the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh. He is reachable at naeenzulker@gmail.com
The recent upsurge in student activism across South Asia is a reflection of deeper geopolitical shifts and the evolving landscape of South Asian diplomacy. It is noteworthy to mention that the ousting of Sheikh Hasina by student-led protests in Bangladesh has reverberated across South Asia. Subsequently, the triumph in Bangladesh has inspired youth activism beyond its borders and exposed the shared vulnerabilities and aspirations of the younger generation.
To get its way, South Asia appears as a region of overlapping unrest, with protests sweeping through its diverse demographics with threads of social justice, political discontent, and regional tensions. In reality, especially in South Asia, the protests in one country often inspire and amplify movements in neighbouring nations, creating a dynamic interplay of influence and response.
Right now, the brutal rape and murder of a postgraduate trainee doctor in Kolkata has further intensified the unrest. It has sparked massive demonstrations demanding better protection for women and accountability for the perpetrators. The protests have led to a wider critique of governance, charging the administration of Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee with incompetence. Recent political instability seen in Bangladesh has only intensified these fears, with opposition parties exploiting the situation to rally against the ruling government.
Published Version of this Op-Ed
Shortly thereafter, the Bharat Bandh on August 21, 2024, exemplified how domestic discontent can escalate into widespread unrest in India. The Supreme Court’s decision to permit sub categorization within SC/ST reservations is the reason behind the call for this strike. The ruling is perceived to be an erosion of the protection given to backward classes, in effect welding together a large coalition of Dalit and Adivasi outfits. The protests have highlighted the volatility surrounding social justice issues in India.
Similarly, in Pakistan, the influence of Bangladesh’s student-led revolution is palpable. The Pakistan Student Federation (PSF), aligned with Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), has issued an ultimatum demanding Khan’s release by August 30. The increasing mobilization of students in Pakistan highlights the spillover effects of Bangladesh’s unrest, creating a ripple of activism that demands accountability and democratic reforms.
In Baluchistan, protests against military operations and enforced disappearances have reaped attention, while in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, local dissent against military actions reveals how much malaise is directed at the government’s approach to conflict and governance.
Likewise, the student movements in India and Pakistan have drawn strength from the shared histories of struggle against colonialism, authoritarianism, and social injustice. The success of Bangladesh’s revolution has revived memories of past student movements in these countries, recapping the youth of their potential power to effect change.
The spillover of the student uprising is apparent in India and Pakistan, as the youth in these countries face high unemployment rates, underemployment, and a lack of opportunities, leading to widespread disillusionment with their respective governments.
In India, this discontent has fueled protests against the government’s economic policies, while in Pakistan, students have rallied against corruption and the lack of educational and job opportunities. The lack of governance as well as the social and political struggles in these countries mirror those that initiated the uprising in Bangladesh, hence the revolution that inspires and guides to action.
Geographically, the proximity of these nations and their shared borders facilitates the exchange of ideas and the rapid spread of social movements.
Demographically, nearly half its population is under the age of 24, and over one million young people enter the labour force every month until 2030, a substantial base of young people who are disappointed with the status quo and eager for change.
Socially, issues such as corruption, a lack of educational opportunities, and political repression resonate across borders, creating fertile ground for the spread of student-led protests.
The protests in Bangladesh have highlighted domestic issues and served as a catalyst for political activism in neighbouring countries, showing how regional dynamics can shape and reshape political landscapes.
With consecutive protests in the streets of India and Pakistan, the regional turmoil highlights the broader geopolitical shifts occurring in South Asia. Most importantly, the junction of student activism across India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan reflects a growing regional awareness among youth and a shared frustration with entrenched political systems.
Today, however, the 2024 uprisings have the strength to pulverize several states and bring the powers of South Asian leaders tumbling down. Moreover, the success of these movements could inspire similar uprisings in other parts of the Indo-Pacific, challenging authoritarian regimes and prompting a re-evaluation of strategic partnerships.
Overwhelmingly, the student-led revolution in Bangladesh has set South Asia on a new trajectory. Similarly, the student movements in India and Pakistan are a testament to the power of youth activism and the shared challenges faced by the younger generation.
No one can with certainty speculate what is happening to the fate of South Asian streets; whether these nations embrace the potential for positive change or attempt to suppress it will determine the stability and prosperity of the region in the years to come.
The writer is a research coordinator at both FactWatch and the Center for Critical and Qualitative Studies at the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh
This article was published by The New Age on August 21, 2024
Bangladesh experienced a political earthquake when Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina resigned following a nationwide protest in August led by the youth, particularly the Gen-Z generation.
The ‘Gen-Z Revolution’ shares striking similarities with the Arab Spring, underscoring the powerful impact of youth-driven movements in bringing about significant radical change in Bangladesh. Like their Arab counterparts a decade earlier, these uprisings were a consequence of widespread dissatisfaction with corrupt governance. The youth of Bangladesh were driven by frustration with autocratic governance, economic inequality, and a desire for greater political freedom.
This revolution in Bangladesh — from a demand seeking reforms in the quota system for public services to a call for Hasina’s resignation — marks a pivotal moment in the country’s political landscape, driven by a generation of young people disillusioned with the status quo. This movement emerged from deep-seated frustrations over economic inequality, job scarcity, and a political system that many viewed as corrupt and unresponsive to their needs.
Sheikh Hasina’s leadership since 2009 has brought significant economic advancement but has also been characterised by an authoritative governance style. The July Revolution, driven by the increasing dissatisfaction of the unstoppable youth, abruptly terminated her 15-year rule over Bangladesh. Textbooks are being rewritten to downplay the darker periods of the Hasina regime, and there is a concerted effort to build a new national identity that reflects the aspirations of a younger generation.
The ‘Bangla Spring’ symbolises a youth-driven movement aimed at challenging the existing political order, advocating for more democratic governance, and rejecting the autocratic practices of the ruling regime. It reflects a broader trend of youth engagement in political activism, with students at the forefront of pushing for systemic change.
This metaphor of rebirth and renewal traces its origins back to the Arab Spring in the early 2010s, where the collective voice of the youth reshaped the future of entire nations. As we witness the recent youth-led revolution in Bangladesh, the question arises: Is this another ‘spring’? And why does the metaphor continue to resonate so powerfully?
Back to history, the Arab Spring began in December 2010, when Mohamed Bouazizi, a Tunisian street vendor, set himself on fire in protest against police corruption and ill-treatment. The suicide in public ignited a wave of protests that spread throughout Tunisia to other Arab countries, including Egypt, Libya, Yemen, Syria, and Bahrain.
Similarly, in South Asia, widespread ‘Gota Go Gama’ protests in Sri Lanka in 2022 exemplify the immense power of youth in driving political change, much like the recent uprisings in Bangladesh. As Sri Lanka’s economic crisis deepened in 2022, it was the nation’s youth — primarily university students — who became the backbone of a sustained, months-long movement that ultimately toppled the government.
Recently, on August 9, the ‘Reclaim the Night’ marches across West Bengal, sparked by the horrific rape and murder of a young doctor, have resonated deeply with the spirit of the student-led revolution in Bangladesh.
Now that the movement has spread to other Indian cities like Delhi, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and Pune, it goes beyond just a demand for safety; it represents a broader political awakening, a sort of ‘spring.’ The echoes of Bangladesh’s revolution have crossed borders, fuelling a fire in West Bengal that challenges not only the status quo but the very fabric of a system that has long failed its people.
Recently, the Pakistan Student Federation issued a stern condition to the government, demanding the release of former prime minister Imran Khan by August 30. This demand follows closely on the heels of the successful student-led revolution in Bangladesh, which has sparked similar sentiments among the youth in Pakistan. This student marches from Islamabad’s D Chowk to bring true freedom, signalling a potential escalation in the already tense political landscape of Pakistan.
Undoubtedly, the echos of the Bangla Spring are influencing and inspiring youth movements in neighbouring countries and their political discourse. Perhaps a growing sense of solidarity and shared response among South Asian youths makes them increasingly willing to challenge established political orders in pursuit of justice and freedom.
It was clear when the Kolkata students marched and organised sit-in demonstrations with banners expressing solidarity with Bangladeshi students who were laying chests in front of the gun while protesting against the government in July.
Undeniably, this solidarity shown by Kolkata’s youth was a powerful testament to the boundless spirit of youth who stand united against oppression and injustice. It has illustrated that the voice of students knows no borders when it comes to demanding rights and challenging any discriminatory systems.
After this dramatic fall of the Hasina regime, the ‘Bangla Spring’ represents more than just a moment in Bangladesh’s history; it has become a beacon of inspiration for young populations in neighbouring countries like India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.
The Bangla Spring may very well be the catalyst for a new wave of uprisings across South Asia, as the seeds of revolution are already being sown in fertile soils with discontent. Students and young activists in India have taken to the streets to protest policies they believe undermine democracy and secularism.
A growing youth demographic in Pakistan is increasingly demanding systemic change, challenging the status quo with unprecedented vigour because of economic stagnation and political instability. Similarly, in Sri Lanka, young people have been at the forefront of protests against economic mismanagement and political corruption, echoing the spirit of the Bangla Spring in their demands for a new political order.
As young people across the region unite in their demands for a more just and equitable future, they are collectively reshaping the narrative of their nations, signalling that the spirit of the Bangla Spring is alive and spreading, poised to redefine the future of South Asia.
Now, it is a clear picture of the streets where the humid air will reverberate with the powerful chants of ‘We want justice,’ a cry that transcends mere slogans to become the very anthem of the march. The streets will be alive once again with the march of students, their faces aglow with the light of mobile phones, candles, and flaming torches.
Carrying the national flag with pride, they will stand united, hand in hand, and their voices will be amplified by the auspicious sound of conch shells, a call for justice that echoed through the daylight and night.
Under the cover of umbrellas or soaked by the rain, they will continue their march — a symbol of unwavering determination. Despite the gridlock late at night, the streets won’t contain the tide of marchers. Such a sea of humanity is not an ordinary protest — it is a collective awakening, a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of a people united in their pursuit of justice and change.
Similarly, the Bangla Spring, the new dawn of revolution, marks a pivotal chapter in South Asian history, where the youth of Bangladesh became the torchbearers of a revolution — marching to the streets, armed with nothing but their convictions and a desire for change with the spirit of spring — a season of hope, resilience, and transformation.
As we watch the events unfold in Bangladesh, it is clear that this movement has the potential to reshape not only its own country’s political landscape but also inspire similar movements across South Asia.
Whether this is a new ‘spring’ or just a revolution, one thing is certain: the youth of Bangladesh have made history, and their actions will reverberate far beyond their nation’s borders.
Zulker Naeen is a research coordinator at the Centre for Critical and Qualitative Studies, University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh.
This article has been published by The Business Standard on May 8, 2024
Tackling misinformation to safeguard the integrity of Bangladesh’s cricket discourse
In Bangladesh, cricket is more than just a sport; it’s a passion that unites millions of fans.
However, amidst the excitement of matches and tournaments, a darker trend is emerging: the proliferation of rumours and baseless speculation – in the form of misinformation that threatens the integrity of the cricket landscape.
Especially in social media, the circulation of rumours and baseless speculation are widespread, whether news about player transfers, team selection controversies, or behind-the-scenes drama, can distort the narrative of surrounding cricket events and sow seeds of doubt among fans.
Instead of writing genuine news and analysis, many click-hungry outletsengage in sensationalised reportingthat not only adds fuel to the fire, attracts more clicks and shares, but ultimately spreads false information.
However, this newfound reach has also given rise to a culture of sensationalism, where virality often takes precedence over accuracy and integrity, undermining the integrity of cricket discourse.
The recent debut of Shathira Jakir Jesy as the first female on-field umpire in the Dhaka Premier League (DPL) was supposed to be a moment of progress and celebration for cricket in Bangladesh.
However, the match soon became embroiled in controversy surrounding the dismissal of Prime Bank’s Mushfiqur Rahim, with doubts about whether the fielder’s foot had touched the boundary ropes while completing the catch.
Rather than addressing the real issues, certain media outlets sensationalised the event, and opted for clickbait headlines, stirring up unnecessary controversy and diverting attention from matters of actual significance.
“Mushfiqur, Mahmudullah’s teams refuse to play under a female umpire.” Such headlines not only misrepresented the situation but also led to a divisive online discourse, with netizens quick to take sides based on false premises rather than factual analysis.
So why did the media choose to muddy the waters of this storyline?
The answer lies in the race for attention, where truth often takes a backseat to sensationalism, with every word, phrase, and image carefully crafted to maximize engagement rather than accuracy.
In March, a recent marketing campaign by a mobile financial service provider, featuring cricket stars Tamim Iqbal and Mehidy Hasan Miraz, ignited a firestorm of controversy.
Moreover, the involvement of a prominent sports bulletin has added a layer of complexity to the discourse, highlighting the perils of misinformation in society.
That cleverly orchestrated advertisement not only fueled speculation but also eroded trust in the media and marketing practices.
The aftermath of this controversy should serve as a wake-up call for both media outlets and marketing agencies.
A few days ago, another rumour took hold: reports suggesting that the head coach of the Bangladesh cricket team, Chandika Hathurusinghe, would not return to Bangladesh.
A media outlet claimed to have published screenshots of Hathurusinghe’s speech, which fueled the speculation.
However, the idea that BCB would sack Hathurusinghe just a month and a half before the T20 World Cup is irrational.
Furthermore, In Bangladesh, the influence of content creators and self-proclaimed cricket pundits exacerbates the spread of misinformation in cricket discourse.
In recent years, the rise of video content in sports journalism has brought a concerning trend: the spread of false narratives, rumours, and sensationalist reporting that threatens the integrity of the sport.
Competition between sports journalists in making video content and rush to report breaking news has resulted in the circulation of unverified information, leading to confusion and misinformation among fans.
Such practices not only mislead fans but also undermine the trustworthiness of sports journalism.
At the centre of these swirling rumours is the comeback of Tamim Iqbal to international cricket.
However, amidst the anticipation of his return, some sports reporters regularly feature videos discussing the Tamim issue on his YouTube channel, portraying a dramatic relationship between Tamim and BCB.
This constant stream of news about Tamim’s comeback has led to confusion and scepticism among fans and observers, with many questioning the authenticity of the reports.
Without a commitment to accuracy and responsible reporting, the very essence of the sport is at risk of being tarnished by sensationalized stories and false information.
How can we tackle the scourge of misinformation and safeguard the integrity of Bangladesh’s cricket discourse?
Ultimately, the fight against misinformation and sensationalism requires a collective effort from all stakeholders, from journalists and media outlets to cricketing authorities and fans.
Sports journalists must resist the temptation to prioritise clicks and views at the expense of truth, striving instead to provide accurate, balanced, and responsible coverage of sporting events.
Additionally, the Bangladesh Cricket Board and other governing bodies should address the spread of misinformation within cricket, implement strict regulations for those who spread rumours, and ensure that cricket remains untarnished by falsehoods and inaccuracies.
Fact-checking and verification should be standard practices to encounter and seek out credible sources of news and analysis.
Ultimately, together brands, celebrities, media outlets, and fans can uphold the integrity of the sport and preserve its credibility and reputation for the next generations by collectively challenging and debunking the cricket rumor mill.
This article was published in the Dhaka Tribune on May 4, 2024
How a contentious marketing move featuring cricket stars reveals the perils of misinformation
In the digital age, the interplay between brands, celebrities, and the media has become increasingly intricate, often blurring lines and raising questions about transparency and ethics. A recent marketing campaign by a digital financial service, featuring cricket stars Tamim Iqbal and Mehedi Hasan Miraj, has ignited a firestorm of controversy. Moreover, the involvement of a prominent sports bulletin has added another layer of complexity to the discourse, highlighting the perils of misinformation in the cricketing landscape.
The campaign, featuring popular cricketers Tamim Iqbal and Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Mushfiqur Rahim, and Mahmudullah Riyad, leveraged the cricketers’ fame and influence to launch an Eid marketing campaign for that particular digital financial service across various platforms.
At the beginning of Ramadan, a prominent sports bulletin shook the cricketing world with a supposed leaked private conversation between Tamim Iqbal and Mehidy Hasan Miraj — in the conversation, Tamim appeared to have threatened Mushfiqur Rahim and Mehidy Hasan Miraz.
Meanwhile, a private television channel broadcast that issue as news, but how the record was obtained/leaked was not disclosed. Netizens took the matter seriously after seeing a television news bite about this conversation.
Later on, Tamim Iqbal personally divulged the mystery of that phone conversation by appearing on Facebook Live. It was revealed that the leaked conversation was not a private exchange but a cleverly orchestrated advertisement for a mobile phone-based digital financial service.
FactWatch, an independent fact-checker, identified this audio content as missing context and rated that viral conversation as “misleading content.”
That phone call was promoted as exclusive news, but nowhere was it mentioned that it was part of a marketing campaign. The absence of an official statement in this story has intensified the mystery surrounding that private conversation.
While some fans expressed relief upon learning the true nature of the leaked conversation, others voiced concerns about the ethics of using tactics for commercial purposes. While sports bulletins traditionally serve as sources of news and analysis within the sporting community, their role in this marketing campaign raises questions about journalistic integrity and ethical standards.
In the age of digital marketing, brands constantly seek innovative ways to capture consumers’ attention. However, such a marketing move has sparked controversy and raised concerns about the spread of misinformation in society. The incident sparked a broader conversation about privacy in the digital age and the responsibilities of brands as well.
However, the controversy underscores broader issues surrounding the responsibility of brands, celebrities, and media outlets in shaping public discourse.
Ultimately, such a marketing strategy using cleverly orchestrated “leaked conversations” between cricketers serves as a cautionary tale about the hazards of misinformation in today’s digital landscape.
This type of implicit endorsement questions the integrity of celebrities, as it can mislead the general public into making uninformed decisions based on false information.
As society grapples with the complexities of navigating an information-saturated world, brands, celebrities, media outlets, and consumers must work together to uphold transparency, integrity, and truthfulness in all forms of communication.
Celebrity cricketers, especially those with huge followers and influence, have a responsibility to ensure that their endorsements align with their values and beliefs and that they do not inadvertently mislead or deceive their fans.
Similarly, cricketers must exercise due diligence when lending their names and likenesses to promotional campaigns, ensuring that they do not inadvertently contribute to the spread of misinformation or compromise their credibility in the eyes of their fans.
Only then can we mitigate the perils of misinformation and protect the integrity of the sport of cricket.
Zulker Naeen is a Research Coordinator at the Center for Critical and Qualitative Studies, at the University of Liberal Arts Bangladesh. He is reachable at zulker.naeen@ulab.edu.bd
শহুরে মানুষের কাছেও বালাচাও বেশ পরিচিত। অধিকাংশ মানুষ অসম্ভব ভালো লাগা থেকেই বালাচাও খেয়ে থাকেন।
তবেবালাচাওএরঅথেনটিকস্বাদঅনেকেরইঅজানা।
বালাচাও এর স্বাদ নিয়ে বিভিন্ন মতামত রয়েছে। রয়েছে প্রচলিত কিছু অভিযোগ। যেমন বালাচাও এ চিংড়ি নেই বললেই চলে। পেঁয়াজের বেরেস্তাই বেশি। অল্প সময়ে বালাচাও ক্রিসপিনেস কমে গেছে। কখনও বালাচাও এ বালির উপস্থিতি পাওয়া যায়। নিন্ম মানের চিংড়ি শুঁটকি ব্যবহারের কারনেই এমন হয়।
সেক্ষেত্রে বালাচাওমেকার ভিন্ন।
হোম-প্রসেসড স্পাইসের অসাধারণ কম্বিনেশনে প্রস্তুত হয় আমাদের বালাচাও। রোস্টেড শ্রিম্প, গোল্ডেন গার্লিক এন্ড অনিওন চিপস্ নিশ্চিত করে প্রিমিয়াম বালাচাও এর স্বাদ। প্রস্তুত হয় অথেনটিক বালাচাও।
এছাড়াও আমাদের রয়েছে স্ট্যান্ডার্ড, স্পাইসি, এক্সট্রা শ্রিম্প, থাই ওরিয়েন্টাল, কাশ্মীরি ক্যাটাগরি। এছাড়া আপনার পছন্দসই কাস্টমাইজড বালাচাও প্রস্তুত সম্ভব আমদের সাথেই।
The use of renewable has been seen as viable alternatives to meet the existing demand for power supply for both Nepal and Bangladesh. Despite huge potentials, both countries have yet to exploit solar energy to meet the energy needs.
This article is a joint publication by Sudeep Ghimire and Zulker Naeen Date of Publish: Oct 06, 2017
In 2015, Nepal and the World Bank signed an agreement to invest USD 130 million to develop a 25 MW solar project that is likely to be connected to the national grid.
It is one of the largest renewable energy plant planned in Nepal, is one of the least developed countries, with more than 80% of its population residing in rural areas.
It has no oil, gas, or coal reserves, and its energy sector depends on traditional energy sources like firewood, crop residues, and animal dung for domestic use.
The majority of rural populations meet their energy needs by burning biomass in traditional stoves, and mostly fossil-derived fuels are imported. Also, the continuous increase of petroleum imports harms its fragile economy.
The sources of renewable energy are mini and micro hydropower, solar energy, various forms of biomass energy, biogas and wind energy etc. But still, around 85% of the total final energy consumption in Nepal is met by traditional biomass energy. 28% of households in Nepal do not have access to electricity.
Nepal aims to achieve universal access to clean, reliable and affordable renewable energy solutions by 2030. It is expected to reduce dependence on traditional and imported energy by increasing access to renewable energy.
The use of solar energy is more reliable than traditional electricity in Nepal. Private installations of solar panels are more frequent in urban areas used as a backup during power outages.
On average, Nepal has 6.8 sunshine hours per day with the intensity of solar radiation ranging from 3.9 to 5.1 kWh per meter square, with a commercial potential of solar power for grid connection estimated to be 2,100 MW.
In 2015, Nepal and the World Bank signed an agreement to invest USD 130 million to develop a 25 MW solar project, will eventually be connected to the national grid. It is the largest renewable energy plant planned in the country. The wind potential is available in the mountainous region. Solar and Wind Energy Resource Assessment project has attempted to map the wind resource potential in Nepal, shown a prospect of wind energy with the prediction of about 3,000 MW of wind energy.
Despite its hydro-dominant policies, Nepal has established a semi-autonomous agency called the Alternative Energy Promotion Centre in 1996. It claims that more than 1.5 million families got access to electricity using renewable energy sources, especially in off-grid areas.
Meanwhile, rapid urbanization fueled by stable economic growth has already created a huge energy demand in Bangladesh, where electricity is the widely used form of energy.
At present, about 72% of the total population have access to electricity. Bangladesh is starving for energy for the last few decades since its power generation mostly depends on imported fossil fuel and natural gas. The present government has increased electricity generation, yet the grid electricity to the remote areas is difficult because of the lack of longstanding distribution facilities.
Bangladesh is hosting the fastest growing Solar Home System program in the world. Over 50,000 Solar Home System unit installed per month in the recent past. As of 2017, Bangladesh has the world’s biggest Solar Home System programme with about 5 million.
Over 30 million people are dependent on solar energy creating employment for over 100,000 people. It’s an off-grid success and over 12 per cent of the population outside the grid network is getting access to electricity through the installation of more than 4.5 million solar-home systems.
Bangladesh enjoys average solar radiation between 4 and 6.5 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per square meter per day and blessed with year-round sunshine. In terms of rural renewable energy development, the country has made significant progress by installing Solar Home Systems in off-grid areas.
Back in 1996, it became popular among the rural people for its affordable monthly instalment facility at the price of kerosene. It became a successful financial model for rural development.
A strong network of supply chain and branches also help Solar Home System become popular and acceptable.
A community-based solar approach such as solar irrigation pumps, solar mini-grid, arsenic water treatment plants, and solar street lights have the potential of solar energy. These are engaging the community people by ensuring food security, arsenic-free pure water, and improved socio-economic conditions in off-grid areas of Bangladesh.
However, Bangladesh solar mission is designed to achieve SDGs by 2030.
To facilitate thousands of rural villages through the next decade, moving towards renewable energy can bring a smile to the rural population by developing agricultural output, offering food security, providing modern facilities, creating new businesses and jobs for both men and women.
Bangladesh’s solar mission may gradually guide the nation towards renewable energy and become the first solar nation by 2041.
The go-for renewables for both countries depend on continuous government and donor support and public-private partnerships. The extension of natural resources based on electricity is always perilous for the environment than renewable energy.
The use of renewables has been seen as viable alternatives to meet the existing demand for power supply for both countries. Despite huge potentials, both countries have yet to exploit solar energy to meet the energy needs.
