DHAKA, Feb 24, 2026 (BSS) - European Union Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) human rights analyst Anne Marlborough today met with National Human Rights Commission Chairperson Justice Mainul Islam Chowdhury at his office here. During the meeting, Anne Marlborough briefed the Commission on the European Union's activities in observing the recently held 13th national parliamentary elections and presented the initial post-election statement to the commission Chairperson. The discussion focused on election-related violence, human rights violations, and potential threats to democracy in developing countries like Bangladesh. In addition to ensuring the transparency, security, and fairness of the election process, the issue of protecting the voting rights of women, transgender people, and ethnic minorities also discussed in the meeting, said a press release. The Chairperson of the commission highlighted the expansion of the commission's jurisdiction and scope of work in the National Human Rights Commission Ordinance, 2025.  He mentioned that under this new legal framework, the Commissioner and officers and employees have an opportunity to play a more robust and courageous role in the protection and promotion of human rights. He expressed strong optimism that the government would turn this new ordinance into law and commented that it would further consolidate the field of human rights protection.  He said that the commission will work to ensure the protection of human rights and justice for all citizens of the country through the proper exercise of legal responsibilities and authority. During the meeting, both sides pledged to work together to advance human rights in Bangladesh by strengthening mutual cooperation and partnership. Senior officials of the commission and the EU Election Observation Mission were present at the meeting.

LALMONIRHAT, Feb 24, 2026 (BSS) - Temporary iftar markets have sprung up across the district town during the holy month of Ramadan, bringing a festive atmosphere and increased commercial activity to the area. From Tuesday noon, makeshift stalls selling a variety of traditional iftar items were seen lining major roads, sidewalks and intersections, including Mission More, Gosala Bazar, Senamoitri Hawkers Market, Zilla Parishad Market, College Bazar, Banbhasa More, Haribhanga, BDR Gate, Nayarhat, Batamore, Judge Court area, Chandni Bazar and the Bus Station Rail Gate.  The crowd of buyers begins to swell significantly after 3 pm, creating a lively pre-iftar rush across the town. As the afternoon progresses, the city's regular hustle and bustle blends with the spiritual and festive mood of Ramadan. Vendors say the holy month provides them with additional income opportunities, and many prepare throughout the year for this seasonal business. Some are selling homemade fried rice and snacks, while others are cooking hot iftar items on-site. A vendor at Mission More said that customer pressure rises sharply after 3 pm and continues without pause until iftar. A visit to several markets revealed a wide range of items on sale. Chickpeas and bundiya are being sold at Taka 200 per kilogram, chana pulao at Taka 350, juri at Taka 200, and chira bhaja at Taka 120. Coriander chops are priced between Taka 5 and 10 per piece, vegetable chops at Taka 20, and tehari at Taka 120 per plate. Chicken chap and quarter grill are available at Taka 130. Traditional sweets are also in high demand. Shahi jilapi is being sold at Taka 200 per kilogram, reshmi jilapi at Taka 300, and Shahi halim at Taka 200 per kilogram. Other popular items include onion, pumpkin and potato chops at Taka 5 to 10, egg chops at Taka 10 to 20, jali kebab at Taka 30, bati kebab at Taka 60, chicken lollipop at Taka 30 and chicken saslik at Taka 80. Prices vary slightly depending on location. One of the town's popular establishments, Sagaibari Restaurant and Sweets, is witnessing a substantial influx of customers each day. Manager Mohammad Mamun said that the restaurant is preparing and selling iftar items in a hygienic environment, maintaining both quality and affordability. Salesperson Rafiqul Islam added that a fixed iftar plate is being offered at Taka 60, attracting a comparatively high number of customers. Many residents prefer buying iftar from outside due to time constraints. Aminur Rahman, a college teacher in the Mission More area, said that with a small family, purchasing ready-made Iftar is more convenient and often more economical than preparing it at home. Rickshaw puller Salimullah also said that his busy work schedule makes daily preparation difficult. However, reactions among buyers regarding prices are mixed. While some consider the rates slightly high, many acknowledge that the convenience and availability outweigh the cost. Concerns have also been raised about food safety and hygiene, as many stalls operate in open environments. Observations at several locations showed uncovered food items, lack of glove use and limited access to clean water. Health-conscious buyers have urged authorities to ensure food safety alongside taste and convenience. Authorities and concerned groups said that monitoring activities are ongoing to maintain order on sidewalks, control traffic congestion and ensure food quality. Mobile court operations may be conducted if necessary. The iftar markets are not only boosting the livelihoods of many small traders but also adding a vibrant and festive spirit to Lalmonirhat from afternoon until evening.