Bangladesh Prepares for Funeral of Youth Leader Amid Rising Tensions
Funeral Arrangements for Sharif Osman Hadi
Dhaka/New Delhi: Bangladesh is gearing up for the funeral of notable youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi on Saturday, with heightened security measures in place following unrest sparked by his passing.
The funeral service is scheduled for 2 PM at the South Plaza of the National Parliament Building, as announced by the interim government’s press office.
In honor of Hadi, who played a significant role in last year's student-led protests that resulted in the removal of the previous government led by Sheikh Hasina, the nation is observing a day of mourning. Hadi was also a candidate for the upcoming general elections on February 12.
Hadi, who served as the spokesperson for Inqilab Mancha, was tragically shot in the head on December 12 by unidentified assailants while he was campaigning in Bijoynagar, central Dhaka. He succumbed to his injuries while receiving treatment in Singapore.
His death announcement late Thursday led to violent protests across various regions of the country.
In a statement on social media, Inqilab Mancha revealed that, per the family's wishes, Hadi will be laid to rest next to the grave of national poet Kazi Nazrul Islam, with the funeral prayer taking place after Zuhr at Manik Mia Avenue.
The party also requested that there be no public viewing of the body, urging attendees to pray for Hadi while maintaining decorum.
A significant presence of law enforcement has been deployed around the Parliament area, establishing a strict security perimeter, according to reports from local media.
Additionally, a ban on drone flights has been enforced in the vicinity, and attendees have been advised against bringing bags or heavy items.
Traffic will be halted from Khejur Bagan Crossing to Manik Mia Avenue due to the anticipated large turnout, as reported by a local news portal.
Mourners from various regions gathered at Shahbagh on Friday, with more attendees expected to arrive at Manik Mia Avenue starting Saturday morning.
As part of the state mourning, national flags are being flown at half-mast at government buildings, including the Secretariat in the capital, according to state-run news agencies.
Following Hadi's death, several areas experienced violence and vandalism, including attacks on the residence of the Assistant Indian High Commissioner in Chattogram and damage to offices of major newspapers and the Bangabandhu Memorial Museum.
The interim government has called on citizens to reject violence from 'fringe elements' as Hadi's body was transported back from Singapore amidst ongoing unrest in the capital.
Hadi's remains arrived at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport around 6 PM local time on a Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight, under heavy security.
Upon arrival, videos circulated on social media showing Hadi's supporters lining the streets from the airport to Shahbagh to pay their respects, before his coffin, draped in the national flag, was taken to the Dhaka University Central Mosque for a public gathering.
The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), led by former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, has claimed that the unrest is part of a larger conspiracy aimed at destabilizing the nation.