Violence Erupts in Bangladesh Following Activist's Death

Following the tragic death of activist Sharif Osman Hadi, significant unrest has erupted in Bangladesh. Hadi, a prominent figure in the 2024 student protests that led to the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, was shot and later died in Singapore. His supporters have taken to the streets demanding justice, resulting in violent protests and vandalism of media offices. The interim government has condemned the violence and announced a day of mourning. As the nation prepares for upcoming elections, the situation remains tense, with calls for peace amidst the chaos.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 19, 2025, 20:16 IST

Protests Ignite After Activist's Passing

Significant unrest unfolded in Bangladesh on Thursday after the passing of activist Sharif Osman Hadi, a key figure in the 2024 student protests that led to the removal of the former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's administration.

Hadi was shot on December 12 while exiting a mosque in Dhaka and succumbed to his injuries on Thursday at a hospital in Singapore, where he had been transported for medical care. Authorities have implicated a man named Faisal Karim Masud in the shooting, with Alamgir Sheikh identified as his accomplice.

Following the announcement of Hadi's death, his supporters flooded the streets of Dhaka, demanding justice for his murder.

Key Updates on the Situation:

Protesters vandalized the offices of two local newspapers, leading to the suspension of their print editions on Friday, and their online platforms were temporarily taken offline.
The military was deployed to secure the newspaper offices, and several staff members were rescued by firefighters.
The interim government, led by Muhammad Yunus, who assumed the role of chief adviser after Hasina's resignation, expressed condolences to the editors of the affected newspapers, condemning the violence against media institutions.
In a televised statement, Yunus referred to Hadi's death as a significant loss for the nation and called for peaceful protests, announcing a day of mourning and special prayers at mosques.
Demonstrators also targeted the Awami League's regional office in Rajshahi, as reported by local media.
Hadi was a prominent leader of the student organization Inqilab Mancha, which distanced itself from the violence, claiming that opportunists were attempting to undermine the protests.

Hadi's shooting occurred shortly after the announcement of the upcoming national elections scheduled for February 12, marking the first election since Hasina's departure after 16 years in power.

Yunus has committed to resign once a new government is elected. The Chief Election Commissioner also revealed plans for a national referendum on the “July Declaration,” which aims to recognize the 2024 student protests fully.

In August, Yunus emphasized the importance of this declaration to prevent future governments from adopting authoritarian measures.