Bangladesh was gripped by fresh unrest after violent protests erupted across Dhaka following the death of Sharif Osman Hadi, a prominent youth leader associated with recent uprisings. As news of his passing spread late Thursday night, anger spilled onto the streets, triggering clashes, vandalism, and heightened security across key areas of the capital.
Hadi’s death marked a turning point in an already tense political climate, reigniting unresolved grievances from earlier protests and amplifying public outrage. Supporters poured out in large numbers, demanding accountability and justice, while the situation quickly escalated into one of the most volatile nights Dhaka has witnessed in recent months.
The developments underscored deep political fault lines in Bangladesh, with the fallout from Hadi’s killing raising urgent questions about law and order, press safety, and the state’s ability to contain rapidly spreading unrest.
Protesters Gather Outside Attacked Newspaper Office
Large crowds assembled outside the damaged office of Bangla daily Prothom Alo in Dhaka after the building was targeted during the protests. Sections of the premises were left charred, with broken windows and scorched walls reflecting the intensity of the anger unleashed following Hadi’s death.
The gathering became symbolic of the broader unrest, as demonstrators accused institutions of silence and demanded greater transparency. Security forces were seen cordoning off the area as tensions remained high late into the night.
The attack on a major media house intensified concerns over press freedom and safety, prompting widespread condemnation and calls for restraint.
Protests Sparked by Death of Sharif Osman Hadi
The protests erupted soon after confirmation emerged that Sharif Osman Hadi had succumbed to his injuries while undergoing treatment abroad. Supporters described his death as a devastating blow to the youth-led political movement that had gained momentum over the past year.
Demonstrators raised slogans and marched through several neighbourhoods, accusing the authorities of failing to protect political activists. What began as spontaneous gatherings soon turned into coordinated protests across parts of the capital.
The scale and speed of mobilisation highlighted Hadi’s influence among young supporters and the emotional charge surrounding his death.
Details of the Shooting Incident in Dhaka
Hadi was shot last week during unrest in central Dhaka when unidentified assailants on a motorbike opened fire. According to police accounts, three attackers targeted him as he was launching his election campaign in the Bijoynagar area.
The shooting sent shockwaves through political circles, with initial reports indicating that Hadi sustained critical injuries. The incident occurred amid heightened political tension, adding to fears of escalating violence.
Authorities launched an investigation into the attack, though the absence of immediate arrests fuelled public anger and suspicion.
Critical Condition and Hospitalisation in Dhaka
Following the shooting, Hadi was rushed to Dhaka Medical College and Hospital, where doctors placed him on life support due to the severity of his injuries. His condition remained critical, prompting constant updates and anxious vigils by supporters.
The hospital became a focal point for gatherings, as activists and well-wishers waited for signs of recovery. Medical teams worked round the clock to stabilise him during the initial days after the attack.
Despite these efforts, his condition failed to show significant improvement, leading to the decision to seek advanced treatment abroad.
Transfer to Singapore for Advanced Treatment
In a bid to save his life, Hadi was airlifted to Singapore for specialised medical care. The move raised hopes among supporters, who viewed it as a last chance for recovery.
Throughout his treatment overseas, updates on his health were closely followed back home, with social media flooded with messages of support and prayers.
However, despite intensive care, his condition remained fragile, underscoring the seriousness of the injuries he had sustained.
Six Days of Hospitalisation and Mounting Anxiety
Hadi remained hospitalised for six days as doctors continued aggressive treatment. Each day brought renewed anxiety among his supporters, who organised vigils and prayer meetings across Dhaka.
The prolonged hospital stay became a rallying point for political discourse, with leaders invoking his condition to highlight what they described as a deteriorating security environment.
The uncertainty surrounding his recovery only intensified emotions, setting the stage for the unrest that followed his death.
Confirmation of Death Triggers Outrage
Reports confirming that Sharif Osman Hadi had died while undergoing treatment in Singapore spread rapidly across Bangladesh. The news acted as a spark, triggering immediate protests in several parts of Dhaka.
Supporters poured onto the streets, expressing grief and fury, while accusing unknown forces of silencing a rising political voice.
The emotional outpouring quickly escalated, overwhelming local law enforcement and leading to multiple flashpoints across the city.
Violence and Vandalism During Protests
As protests intensified, violence broke out in several areas, with demonstrators torching vehicles and damaging property. The attack on the Prothom Alo office emerged as one of the most significant incidents of the night.
Authorities struggled to contain the unrest as crowds moved swiftly from one location to another, keeping security forces on high alert.
The violence raised alarms about the potential for further escalation if grievances remain unaddressed.
Public Gatherings After the Attack
In the aftermath of the attack on the newspaper office, people continued to gather outside the premises, expressing solidarity and condemning the violence.
The scene reflected a mix of anger and concern, with many fearing that the unrest could spiral further if tensions persist.
Community leaders and civil society voices urged calm while calling for accountability and justice.
Heightened Security and Ongoing Investigation
Security presence was significantly increased across Dhaka following the protests, with additional forces deployed to sensitive areas. Authorities announced intensified patrols and checkpoints to prevent further violence.
Investigations into both the shooting of Sharif Osman Hadi and the subsequent attacks continued, with officials pledging swift action against those responsible.
As Bangladesh grapples with the aftermath of Hadi’s death, the situation remains tense, with the incident threatening to reshape the country’s political and social landscape in the days ahead.
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About the Author:
Harshit Raj
