Protests, arson erupt across Bangladesh following radical leader’s killing

Protests engulf Bangladesh following political killing

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PGurus Newsdesk
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Unrest spreads to Chittagong and Rajshahi
Unrest spreads to Chittagong and Rajshahi

Protests, arson erupt across Bangladesh following radical leader’s killing

Violent protests erupted across Bangladesh overnight following the death of radical political leader Sharif Osman Hadi, a polarising figure known for his strident anti-India rhetoric and rising influence since the 2024 student uprising.

Hadi, 32, a spokesperson of the Inquilab Mancha platform and a candidate in the upcoming general elections, was shot in the head by masked assailants last Friday while launching his election campaign in Dhaka. He later succumbed to his injuries during treatment at a hospital in Singapore.

As news of his death spread, thousands of supporters poured onto the streets of Dhaka and several other cities, demanding the immediate arrest of those responsible. The protests quickly turned violent, with multiple buildings set ablaze in the capital.

Media houses attacked in Dhaka

Authorities said buildings housing two of Bangladesh’s leading media organisations—The Daily Star and Prothom Alo—were torched during the unrest, trapping staff members inside. Fire services later said the blaze at The Daily Star office was brought under control, while police confirmed additional security forces were deployed to restore order.

Protesters chanted emotionally charged slogans invoking Hadi’s name, vowing to continue demonstrations until justice was delivered.

Violence spreads beyond the capital

Unrest was also reported in other parts of the country. In the port city of Chittagong, protesters gathered outside the Indian Assistant High Commission, raising anti-India slogans amid heightened security.

In Rajshahi, demonstrators set fire to Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s residence and an Awami League office, causing extensive damage, officials said.

Several areas remained tense late into the night, with police and paramilitary units deployed to prevent further escalation. Authorities have yet to announce any arrests in connection with the shooting.

Yunus appeals for calm, declares state mourning

In a televised address, interim chief Muhammad Yunus described Hadi’s death as “an irreplaceable loss to the nation’s political and democratic sphere” and urged citizens to remain calm.

Yunus assured the public that a transparent investigation was underway and that all those responsible would be brought to justice. He warned that continued violence could derail the country’s path toward a credible national election.

The interim administration has declared Saturday a day of state mourning in Hadi’s honour. National flags will be flown at half-mast, and special prayers are planned across Bangladesh.

India issues travel advisory

Following the unrest, the Indian High Commission in Dhaka issued an advisory urging Indian nationals in Bangladesh to avoid local travel and minimise movement outside their residences. Indians have been asked to contact the High Commission or nearby Assistant High Commissions in case of emergency.

Bangladesh has been under an interim administration led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus since August 2024, after former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina fled to India amid a student-led uprising. The country’s national election is scheduled for February 12.

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PGurus Newsdesk
PGurus Newsdesk
PGurus Newsdesk
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