INTERNATIONAL: Bangladesh Unrest After Anti-India Leader’s Killing
Sharif Osman Hadi, a 32-year-old key figure in Bangladesh’s 2024 student uprising, succumbed to injuries in a Singapore hospital.
He was shot in the head by masked gunmen on December 12 while campaigning in Dhaka as an independent candidate.
Hadi, spokesperson for Inqilab Mancha, gained prominence for his outspoken criticism of former leaders and regional influences.
Widespread Outrage and Violence
Bangladesh Unrest After Anti-India Leader’s Killing**
News of his death late Thursday triggered massive protests across the country.
Thousands gathered in Dhaka’s Shahbagh, demanding justice and swift arrests.
Anger escalated into arson, with crowds setting fire to offices of major newspapers Prothom Alo and The Daily Star, trapping staff inside.
Anti-India Sentiments Flare Up
Protests spread to Chittagong, where demonstrators gathered outside the Indian Assistant High Commission.
They chanted slogans against India and the Awami League, with some throwing stones.
Similar gatherings occurred elsewhere, linking the attack to broader geopolitical tensions since Sheikh Hasina’s exile in India.
Targets Linked to Former Regime
In Rajshahi, protesters torched an Awami League office and properties associated with the ousted government.
Highways were blocked, and clashes were reported in multiple cities.
Authorities fear further instability ahead of national elections.
Government Response and Mourning
Interim leader Muhammad Yunus addressed the nation, calling Hadi’s death an irreparable loss to democracy.
He promised a transparent probe and severe punishment for culprits and urged calm to protect the electoral process.
Saturday was declared a day of national mourning, with flags at half-mast.
Upcoming Elections in Focus
The violence comes weeks before general elections scheduled for February 12, 2026.
Hadi had been contesting as an independent.
Yunus warned that unrest could derail the democratic transition following last year’s upheaval.