Bangladesh is witnessing a surge of unrest following the tragic killing of Sharif Osman Hadi, a prominent youth leader and convenor of Inqilab Moncho. The incident has ignited widespread protests across major cities like Dhaka and Chattogram, raising alarm both nationally and internationally. Hadi, who was attacked while campaigning at Bijoynagar on 12 December 2025, was shot in the head by an assailant riding a motorcycle. His death has become a catalyst for political turmoil, anti-India demonstrations, and violent attacks on media institutions.

Protests erupt across Bangladesh

In the aftermath of Hadi’s killing, large groups of protesters assembled outside the Indian Assistant High Commission in Khulshi, Chattogram, around 11 pm on Thursday. The demonstrators shouted anti-India slogans, expressing outrage over what they described as foreign interference in Bangladesh’s political affairs. Police were quick to intervene, pushing back protesters and maintaining order. Another group simultaneously staged a sit-in at Gate No. 2, showing the scale and coordination of the protests.

The unrest is not limited to Chattogram. In Dhaka, protesters attempted to march towards the Indian High Commission, raising security concerns. In response, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) summoned the Bangladesh envoy to New Delhi to convey concern over extremist elements attempting to create unsafe conditions near the Indian mission.

Sharif Osman Hadi: A youth leader in focus

Sharif Osman Hadi rose to prominence during the July Uprising, campaigning against the Awami League. He announced his intention to contest the February 2026 parliamentary elections from the Dhaka-8 constituency as an independent candidate. His death has been described by Inqilab Moncho as a martyrdom in the struggle against Indian influence, highlighting the political tensions surrounding the current unrest.

The killing of Hadi has intensified political sentiments in the country, with protesters accusing external forces of meddling in Bangladesh’s sovereignty. Many demonstrations have demanded the extradition of ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, who has taken refuge in India, linking her political alignment to perceived foreign interference.

Media offices attacked amid chaos

Violence during the protests escalated as demonstrators targeted media institutions. The offices of Prothom Alo and Daily Star, two major newspapers, were attacked in Dhaka’s Karwanbazar area. Protests involved vandalism, breaking windows, setting fires, and trapping employees inside the buildings. Videos circulating on social media showed fire on the streets and people using sticks to damage property.

Firefighters reported bringing the blaze at the Daily Star building under control by 1:40 am (2040 GMT), although 27 employees remained inside. Zyma Islam, a reporter for the Daily Star, described her harrowing experience trapped inside, emphasizing the life-threatening conditions during the attacks. Similarly, the Prothom Alo office suffered significant damage, reflecting the protesters’ anger against media institutions they perceive as aligned with India.

Security measures and police intervention

Authorities responded swiftly to the unrest. Khulshi Police Chief Shahin Alam confirmed that police personnel were stationed around sensitive locations to maintain order and remove demonstrators. Tear gas was used near the residence of India’s deputy ambassador in Bangladesh to disperse crowds attempting sit-ins. Earlier interventions on 17 December prevented a large group of protesters from reaching the Indian High Commission in Dhaka.

The Bangladesh police worked to secure vulnerable sites, including foreign missions, media offices, and government buildings, while managing the broader public safety concerns arising from the protests. Security forces remained vigilant to prevent escalation and further violence.

Political undertones of the unrest

The protests following Hadi’s death reflect deep political divisions in Bangladesh. Hadi, who had become a key figure opposing the Awami League, symbolizes broader dissent against the government and its ties with India. Demonstrators accused both media houses of supporting Hasina and India, which prompted attacks on newspapers and the residence of the ousted Prime Minister.

Statements from protesters, such as “We are not frightened, and we will not attack the Indian High Commission… But if anyone tries to maintain hegemonic control over Bangladesh, they will not be spared,” underline the intensity of nationalist sentiments driving the demonstrations. The events also showcase a mix of anti-government and anti-foreign influence rhetoric.

Impact on media and employees

The attacks on Prothom Alo and Daily Star highlight risks faced by media personnel in politically volatile situations. Employees were trapped inside buildings amid fires, smoke, and physical threats. Reports indicate ongoing fear and trauma among staff, raising questions about the safety protocols in place for journalists and media houses during political unrest.

Social media played a critical role in documenting the events, with live videos showing the scale of vandalism and the chaos in the streets. The coverage also drew international attention, raising concerns about press freedom and the security environment in Bangladesh.

International reaction and concern

The incidents have triggered diplomatic concerns. India, in particular, expressed strong apprehensions regarding the security of its diplomatic missions. The MEA’s engagement with the Bangladesh envoy signals the seriousness with which New Delhi views the threat to its personnel and properties in the country.

The international community has been closely monitoring the situation, given the implications for regional stability and the potential escalation of violence. Protests targeting foreign missions and media institutions highlight the delicate balance between political expression and law enforcement responsibilities.

The role of Inqilab Moncho and political mobilization

Inqilab Moncho has emerged as a central platform for mobilizing public sentiment against perceived foreign domination and government policies. The group’s statements framing Hadi as a martyr have amplified the intensity of demonstrations, bringing together supporters across age groups and urban centers.

The group’s political strategy, including contesting elections and organizing protests, shows a sophisticated understanding of grassroots mobilization and the influence of symbolism in political movements.

Safety advisories and public caution

Authorities have advised residents and protesters to avoid clashes, remain indoors when possible, and follow official updates. Police and fire services continue to monitor affected areas, ensuring that emergency responses are ready for any escalation. Residents near high-risk zones, such as media offices and diplomatic missions, are urged to exercise caution.

Looking ahead: Uncertainty in Bangladesh

As the situation evolves, the focus remains on stabilizing cities, protecting lives and property, and addressing the political grievances fueling unrest. With parliamentary elections approaching in February 2026, political tensions are likely to remain high. The protests following Osman Hadi’s killing serve as a critical indicator of the fragile political climate in Bangladesh.

Conclusion

The death of Sharif Osman Hadi has triggered widespread political unrest, anti-India demonstrations, and violent attacks on media institutions in Bangladesh. The response from law enforcement, combined with diplomatic engagement from India, highlights the complex interplay between domestic politics, public sentiment, and international relations. With ongoing protests, security concerns, and potential political ramifications, Bangladesh remains at a critical juncture, where the actions of authorities, protest groups, and media institutions will shape the nation’s stability in the coming months.

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