Protests Erupt in Bangladesh Following Death of Political Leader

Tensions in Bangladesh have surged following the death of Sharif Osman Hadi, a key figure in the July Uprising. Protests erupted across the country, leading to violence and vandalism, including attacks on government properties and cultural institutions. Hadi, who was shot while campaigning, was a candidate in the upcoming elections. Demonstrators have called for the closure of the Indian High Commission, alleging that his assailants fled to India. The situation remains volatile as authorities respond to the unrest.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 20, 2025, 10:01 IST

Tensions Rise After Hadi's Death

Dhaka, Dec 20: Bangladesh experienced heightened tensions on Friday as the passing of prominent July Uprising leader Sharif Osman Hadi sparked widespread protests, violence, and vandalism across the nation.

Although the morning remained calm, protesters targeted the already destroyed site of 32 Dhanmandi, the residence of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founder of Bangladesh.

Thursday night saw various incidents of violence, including stone-throwing at the residence of the Assistant Indian High Commissioner in Chattogram, following a televised announcement by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus confirming Hadi's death.

The Inquilab Mancha group was the first to report Hadi's death, with plans for his body to be returned home later that day.

Hadi, who was a candidate for the upcoming general elections on February 12, succumbed to injuries sustained from a gunshot wound to the head while campaigning in Bijoynagar, central Dhaka.

Following the announcement, demonstrators took to the streets, vandalizing offices of major newspapers and attacking 32 Dhanmandi with hammers.

In Rajshahi city, protesters also destroyed an office belonging to the disbanded Awami League party, previously led by ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

32 Dhanmandi, a significant site in Bangladesh's struggle for autonomy, was largely demolished earlier this year and set ablaze after the fall of the Awami League government in August 2024.

Protesters attempted to damage the residence of the Assistant Indian High Commissioner in Chattogram around 1:30 am but were unsuccessful.

Police intervened with tear gas and batons, dispersing the crowd and arresting 12 individuals, with some injuries reported.

Authorities assured the Assistant High Commissioner of increased security measures.

The National Citizen Party (NCP), a major faction of Students against Discrimination (SAD), which led last year's July Uprising protests, participated in a mourning procession at Dhaka University.

NCP supporters voiced anti-India sentiments, claiming that Hadi's attackers fled to India after the incident, demanding the interim government close the Indian High Commission until the suspects are returned.

"The interim government will keep the Indian High Commission in Bangladesh closed until the assassins of Hadi Bhai are handed over. This is a fight for our rights!" declared Sarjis Alm, a prominent NCP leader.

Hasina, who left Bangladesh following her ousting in August, is currently in India.

In Dhaka, protesters also targeted the office of the cultural organization Chhayanaut, removing furniture and setting it ablaze.

Reports of sporadic violence emerged from various regions overnight.