Dhaka, Bangladesh – Violence erupted across Bangladesh early Friday after the death of Sharif Osman Hadi, triggering widespread protests, attacks on media offices, and street clashes that have left the nation on edge. The Bangladesh violence highlights a deepening political crisis as protesters demand justice for the slain student leader who played a pivotal role in the 2024 uprising that led to regime change in the country.
Osman Hadi’s Death Sparks National Crisis
The Bangladesh violence highlights began unfolding after Hadi, a senior leader of the student protest group Inquilab Mancha from the 2024 uprising, succumbed to gunshot injuries sustained during his campaign for upcoming national elections. Hadi was shot on December 12 during his electoral campaign in Dhaka and remained in critical condition before the interim government arranged his airlift to Singapore for better treatment. However, the ministry of foreign affairs in Singapore announced on Thursday that the leader had died from his injuries.
Hadi’s body arrived in Dhaka from Singapore on Friday evening, with his funeral prayer scheduled for Saturday at the South Plaza of the Parliament Building at approximately 2:00 pm local time. The interim government announced that Hadi would be buried next to national poet Kazi Nazrul Islam, recognizing his significant contribution to the nation’s political transformation.
UN Rights Chief Calls for Impartial Investigation
The Bangladesh violence highlights prompted international concern, with the UN human rights chief urging an impartial probe into Osman Hadi’s death. The call for an independent investigation underscores the gravity of the situation and the need for transparency in determining who was responsible for the assassination of the prominent student leader.
Sharif Osman Hadi’s family has demanded that a memorial be constructed in his honor at Shahbagh, where he initiated the movement that led to the regime change in Bangladesh in 2024. This demand reflects the family’s desire to permanently commemorate his role in the country’s political transformation.
Yunus Vows Justice, Declares State Mourning
Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus addressed the nation to confirm Hadi’s death, stating: “Today, I came before you with very heartbreaking news. Sharif Osman Hadi, the fearless frontline fighter of the July Uprising and spokesperson of the Inqilab Mancha, is no more among us.” The Bangladesh violence highlights show Yunus declaring a one-day state mourning and vowing to apprehend the suspects in the shooting.
“I sincerely call upon all citizens – keep your patience and restraint,” Yunus appealed as public outrage grew over the assassination. The interim government condemned the unrest and appealed for calm in Hadi’s name, with officials stating the government “stands by” the affected parties. A five million taka reward was announced for information leading to the arrest of the gunmen responsible for Hadi’s death.
Media Offices Targeted in Widespread Violence
The Bangladesh violence highlights include devastating attacks on press freedom, with protesters setting fire to and vandalizing the offices of Daily Prothom Alo and Daily Star, two of Dhaka’s leading newspapers. At least 25 journalists were rescued after the Daily Star office was set ablaze, with trapped reporters taking to social media to share their ordeal. One journalist described feeling like they “can’t breathe anymore” while trapped inside the burning building.
The editor of Prothom Alo newspaper condemned the vandalization as an “attack on freedom of speech,” highlighting the assault on democratic institutions amid the chaos. Both newspapers issued notices to readers and suspended publication on Friday due to the attacks. The New Age editor was also attacked while attempting to calm protesters, demonstrating the dangers faced by media personnel during the unrest.
Attacks on Indian Diplomatic Missions
The Bangladesh violence highlights show protesters hurling stones at the Indian mission in Chattogram amid escalating tensions. Fresh protests erupted near the Indian mission in Rajshahi, while the home of the Indian deputy ambassador to Dhaka was also targeted by demonstrators. Security was subsequently tightened at the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi as a precautionary measure.
India shut visa centers amid the protests, and Indian officials in Dhaka were confirmed “safe” despite tensions outside the Indian mission. Protesters called on India to return former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who fled to India following the 2024 uprising. A former Indian envoy flagged concerns about attacks on minorities and diplomatic missions during the crisis.
Historical Sites and Properties Vandalized
The Bangladesh violence highlights include attacks on historically significant locations, with protesters vandalizing Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s house and burning posters of Sheikh Hasina. The partially demolished house of Sheikh Mujibur, the founding father of Bangladesh, was vandalized, marking the second attack on the property. Protesters also vandalized the Chhayanaut office and burned Sheikh Hasina posters during demonstrations.
Hindu Minority Community Faces Violence
The Bangladesh violence highlights reveal disturbing incidents targeting the Hindu minority community, with the interim government condemning the lynching of a Hindu man in Mymensingh. A minority group condemned the killing of the Hindu youth, raising concerns about religious violence amid the political turmoil. The interim government addressed the incident, acknowledging the need to protect minority communities during this volatile period.
Road Blockades and Widespread Protests
The Bangladesh violence highlights show protesters blocking Shahbagh Square in Dhaka while demanding justice for Hadi’s death. Highway blockades were reported across multiple locations, with demonstrators gathering at Dhaka University to mourn Osman Hadi’s death. The Bangladesh Election Commission also mourned the student leader’s death, reflecting the widespread impact of his assassination.
Political Leaders Express Condolences
The Bangladesh violence highlights prompted responses from political leaders across the spectrum. The BNP acting chief mourned Hadi’s death, characterizing the killing as a “political conspiracy.” The Bangladesh Chief Justice expressed condolences, stating the nation had “lost a courageous voice.” Political parties urged restraint, with Inquilab Mancha calling on citizens to “consider who truly benefits if unrest is created.”
