Overview
- After taking office, Tarique Rahman delivered a televised address pledging strict rule of law and protection for Muslims, Hindus, Buddhists and Christians, responding to documented mob attacks during the interim period.
- He launched a 180-day priority program focused on restoring public security, curbing price-gouging and criminal syndicates, ensuring steady electricity and gas supplies, and improving public transport.
- New Delhi moved quickly to engage: Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent a congratulatory letter via Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, who attended the oath, and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri met opposition leader and Jamaat chief Shafiqur Rahman.
- The new cabinet blends veterans and newer faces; Rahman retained the defence portfolio, named Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury to finance and appointed diplomat Khalilur Rahman as foreign minister.
- Indian security officials say they are monitoring alleged ISI-backed efforts to link Rohingya and other militant groups and radicalisation camps near the border, an area where India and Bangladesh are coordinating.