US–Bangladesh Trade Pact Raises Competitive Concerns for Indian Apparel Exporters
A new trade agreement between the United States and Bangladesh has sparked concern among Indian textile and apparel exporters, who fear it could weaken India’s position in one of its most important overseas markets. Industry representatives say the pact grants Bangladeshi garment makers preferential access to the US, potentially shifting global sourcing patterns.
Under the arrangement, certain Bangladeshi apparel exports — especially those using US-origin raw materials — may qualify for reduced or zero import duties. Indian exporters warn that this cost advantage could enable Bangladeshi suppliers to offer more competitive prices, particularly in the price-sensitive ready-made garments segment where both countries compete directly. Indian apparel shipments to the US continue to face import duties, creating a relative disadvantage.Concerns also extend to raw material trade. Bangladesh is a major buyer of cotton and yarn from India, but exporters worry the deal may encourage greater use of American cotton, reducing Indian supplies to Bangladeshi manufacturers.
Textile stocks have shown pressure amid these worries. While some analysts say India’s diversified textile base may cushion the long-term impact, industry bodies are urging government-level engagement to protect export competitiveness.
Unidentified Bodies, Disappearances Renew Human Rights Concerns in Balochistan
The recovery of unidentified bodies and continuing reports of enforced disappearances have renewed serious human rights concerns in Pakistan’s Balochistan province. The latest incident, involving the discovery of three bodies in a remote area, has intensified anxiety among residents and drawn attention from rights observers and civil society groups.
Authorities reported that two of the recovered bodies have been identified as local residents, while one remains unidentified. According to community sources, the remains showed signs of severe injury, prompting suspicions of violent abuse prior to death. Police have sent the bodies for post-mortem examination and said investigations are underway to establish the cause and circumstances of the deaths.
The incident adds to longstanding allegations of enforced disappearances in the conflict-affected province. Families of missing persons and local advocacy groups have repeatedly claimed that civilians are picked up without formal charges and held incommunicado, with many cases remaining unresolved for years. Officials have generally denied systematic wrongdoing, stating that detentions occur under legal security operations and that inquiries are conducted where complaints arise.
Human rights organisations say the recurring pattern of disappearances and unclaimed bodies points to deeper accountability and transparency gaps. Activists argue that delayed investigations, limited public information, and weak forensic systems often prevent closure for families.
Community leaders are calling for independent probes, better documentation, and stronger legal safeguards. They say credible investigations and institutional transparency are essential to restore public trust and protect civilian rights in the region.
French Ex-Teacher Charged in Multi-Country Child Abuse Case Covering Nine Nations
French authorities have charged a 79-year-old former teacher, Jacques Leveugle, with aggravated rape and sexual assault involving at least 89 minors across nine countries, including India, in a case spanning more than five decades. Investigators say the alleged offences occurred between 1967 and 2022, during which he reportedly used roles as a tutor and outdoor instructor to access teenage boys aged 13 to 17. The case emerged after digital storage devices containing detailed personal records of alleged encounters were discovered by a relative. Prosecutors say the material helped identify numerous potential victims, though many remain untraced. Leveugle has been under formal investigation since 2024 and in pre-trial detention since 2025. Around 150 people have been questioned so far. Authorities have publicly named the suspect to encourage victims and witnesses to come forward, while also opening a separate probe into additional serious allegations.
Thailand in Mourning After Former Police Officer Carries Out Deadly Mass Shooting
Thailand is in shock after a former police officer carried out the country’s deadliest mass shooting, killing at least 34 people, including 22 children, in Nong Bua Lam Phu province. The attacker reportedly stormed a childcare centre during working hours and opened fire on staff and children, triggering panic and heavy casualties. Several adults were also killed as teachers and caregivers tried to shield the children.
Authorities said the gunman later moved through nearby areas, leading to a large-scale security and rescue operation. Hospitals were put on alert as the injured were rushed for treatment. Investigators are examining the suspect’s background, prior dismissal from service, and access to weapons, with personal grievances suspected as a possible motive. National leaders expressed deep sorrow and announced support for victims’ families. The tragedy has renewed debate over gun control and security at schools and childcare facilities.
“Both Israel and Iran Want a Deal”: Trump’s Big Statement Amid Middle East Diplomacy
U.S. President Donald Trump has signalled cautious optimism about renewed nuclear talks with Iran, stating he believes Tehran “wants to make a deal” and that any agreement must ensure Iran has no nuclear weapons or missiles. Trump’s comments came as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visited Washington to press for broader negotiation terms that would also curb Iran’s ballistic missile programme and regional proxy support, reflecting concerns in Jerusalem about purely nuclear-focused diplomacy.
Iran, meanwhile, has warned the United States not to allow Israeli influence to derail the negotiations, describing such pressure as potentially “destructive” to the diplomatic process. This comes against the backdrop of indirect talks recently held in Oman and escalating regional tensions following past military actions involving U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear sites.
Trump’s emphasis on finding a deal — even as he maintains tough conditions and military pressure options — highlights the complex balancing act between seeking a diplomatic solution and addressing the strategic priorities of U.S. allies like Israel.
