Violence Erupts in Bangladesh Amid Political Tensions

In Bangladesh, escalating political tensions have led to violence, resulting in one death and the destruction of multiple vehicles. As former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina prepares for a potential return next month, protests and clashes have erupted across the country. The situation has drawn international attention, particularly regarding India's role in Hasina's extradition. This article delves into the recent incidents and the broader implications for Bangladesh's political landscape.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 10, 2026, 18:00 IST

Escalating Violence in Bangladesh

A bus was set ablaze beneath Dhaka's Farmgate Metro Station. (Photo:@nidhisj2001/X)

Dhaka, Nov 10: A surge in violence has resulted in one fatality and the destruction of at least eight vehicles across Bangladesh as tensions rise over the anticipated return of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina next month.

In various locations, unidentified individuals ignited vehicles, including multiple buses, and detonated crude bombs. Tragically, a bus driver succumbed to smoke inhalation after a parked bus was set on fire in Faridpur while he was resting inside, according to police reports.

On Tuesday, police reported that numerous activists from the Awami League and its associated groups held a protest at the southern toll plaza of the Padma Bridge in Shariatpur district.

During the demonstration, crude bombs were detonated, and several vehicles were vandalized, causing temporary traffic disruptions on the bridge.

Railway officials indicated that a coach of the intercity Haor Express was set ablaze at Mohanganj railway station in the northern Netrokona district early Tuesday morning.

Although four seats in the coach were damaged, railway personnel and firefighters managed to extinguish the fire without disrupting train services.

In clashes between law enforcement and activists from the banned Bangladesh Chhatra League and other Awami League factions in Tungipara, Hasina's hometown, a police vehicle was also set on fire on Tuesday morning, officials reported.

Sheikh Hasina, aged 79, has been residing in India since fleeing Bangladesh on August 5, 2024, following a student-led uprising that resulted in her government being overthrown and her party's 15-year rule coming to an end.

Following her departure, an interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus assumed control.

In November 2025, Bangladesh's International Crimes Tribunal found Hasina guilty of crimes against humanity related to the crackdown on protesters during the July-August 2024 uprising.

India has confirmed receipt of Bangladesh's extradition requests for Hasina but has yet to make a decision regarding her return.

The Ministry of External Affairs stated in April that the request is under review according to established procedures.

During a virtual press conference held in New Delhi on August 5, Hasina expressed her intention to return to Bangladesh in December, despite the risks of imprisonment or assassination.

This statement provoked a strong response from Dhaka, with its foreign ministry expressing outrage that Hasina was permitted to engage with the media in New Delhi, despite prior concerns communicated to the Indian government.

India distanced itself from the event, clarifying that it was organized by a private media entity and that the government had no involvement.

Later that month, Dhaka indicated that for Prime Minister Rahman's potential visit to India, a favorable environment would necessitate New Delhi's expedited handling of Hasina's extradition and the return of other fugitives sought by Bangladesh.