Bangladesh Erupts in Protests Following Death of Youth Leader Sharif Osman Hadi

DHAKA: Violent protests have erupted across multiple cities in Bangladesh following the death of prominent youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi, who succumbed to injuries sustained in an assassination attempt last week. Hadi, 32, passed away at Singapore General Hospital on Thursday, where he had been receiving treatment for gunshot wounds inflicted in Dhaka on December 12.

Hadi was a well-known figure in Bangladesh’s 2024 student-led uprising and served as a spokesperson for Inquilab Mancha, or “Platform for Revolution.” He was planning to run for parliament in the Dhaka-8 constituency in the upcoming February 2026 elections. Known for his outspoken criticism of India and its influence on Bangladesh’s politics, Hadi became a symbol of anti-establishment sentiment among young voters.

The assassination occurred when two gunmen on a motorcycle opened fire on Hadi while he was traveling in a battery-powered auto-rickshaw. He suffered severe brain stem injuries and was initially treated at Dhaka Medical College Hospital before being transferred to Singapore for specialized care. Despite medical efforts, Hadi succumbed to his injuries.

Authorities in Bangladesh have launched a nationwide manhunt for the attackers. The Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) and local police have released CCTV footage of two key suspects and offered a reward of five million taka for information leading to their arrest. So far, at least 20 people have been detained in connection with the incident.

Hadi’s death has sparked widespread outrage, with protesters demanding the resignation of the heads of the Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of Law, citing a failure to protect the youth leader. Demonstrations have targeted media outlets perceived as pro-India, including Prothom Alo and The Daily Star, resulting in the temporary trapping of journalists and property damage. Protesters have also thrown stones at the Indian Assistant High Commission in Chittagong, citing alleged Indian interference in Bangladesh’s politics.

Interim government head Muhammad Yunus called Hadi’s death “an irreparable loss for the nation” and announced special prayers and a half-day of mourning. Political parties, including the Bangladesh National Party (BNP) and the National Citizen Party (NCP), have expressed condolences and called for justice.

Hadi’s assassination and the resulting unrest underscore lingering tensions following the 2024 student protests against Bangladesh’s job quota system, which had resulted in a brutal crackdown under former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Hasina was later convicted in absentia of crimes against humanity and sentenced to death by the country’s International Crimes Tribunal but remains in exile in India.

The protests highlight rising anti-India sentiment in Bangladesh, as demonstrators allege that the assailants have fled across the border and accuse New Delhi of political meddling in the country. Activists have vowed to continue demonstrations until accountability is achieved and those responsible, including those allegedly shielded abroad, are brought to justice.