Bangladesh sees violent protests after shooting death of controversial leader Hadi

    19-Dec-2025
Total Views |

Sharif Osman Hadi
 
Bangladesh witnessed widespread violence and unrest after the death of Sharif Osman Hadi, a controversial youth leader and a spokesperson of the Inquilab Manch. He was shot last week and his death triggered angry protests across Dhaka and other parts of the country.
 
 
Who was Sharif Osman Hadi?
 
 
Hadi (32) was a radical student leader who rose to prominence during July-August 2024 protests in Bangladesh. He was known for his strong anti-India views. As per reports, he circulated maps of so-called Greater Bangladesh that had several Indian territories.
 
 
Hadi openly opposed close India-Bangladesh relations and frequently used harsh language against New Delhi in speeches and on social media. Because of this, he was seen as a polarising figure; admired by extremist youth groups and criticised by moderates.
 
 
What led to his death?
 
 
Hadi was also a candidate in the upcoming general elections scheduled for February 12. He was shot in the head by masked gunmen last week while he was beginning his election campaign in the Bijoynagar area of central Dhaka. He passed away late Thursday.
 
 
The incident took place amid rising political tensions. He was seriously injured and later shifted to Singapore on Monday for treatment by the interim government of Muhammad Yunus. After several days in critical condition, Hadi died, sparking outrage among his supporters.
 
 
Violence after his death
 
 
Soon after the news of his death broke on Thursday, mass protests turned violent. Angry mobs came out on the streets, blocking roads and attacking public and private property. Violent protests broke out across several areas. Offices of major newspapers were vandalised and set on fire by angry mobs.
 
 
Government buildings and offices of the ruling party were also attacked. Protesters clashed with security forces at many places, leading to chaos on the streets. Several journalists and civilians were injured during the violence.
 
 
Protesters blamed the government and accused it of silencing voices critical of India and the establishment. Security has been tightened across major cities, and extra police forces were deployed to control the situation.
 
 
Interim leader Muhammad Yunus, who is heading Bangladesh until the February 12 elections, announced that the national flag would be flown at half-mast as a mark of mourning for Hadi’s death. The order applies to all government and semi-government offices, private buildings, and Bangladesh missions abroad.'
 
 
 
Bangladesh Anti-India Muhammad Yunus