Bangladesh Erupts in Violence After Death of Student Leader Sharif Osman Hadi

The death of radical student leader Sharif Osman Hadi, a prominent figure in Bangladeshs 2024 uprising, has plunged the nation into fresh turmoil. Hadi, who was shot earlier this month and receiving treatment in Singapore, passed away, an announcement made by Bangladeshs interim government chief Muhammad Yunus.

Yunus appealed for peace and declared a national day of mourning for the Inqilab Mancha spokesperson. Following Hadis death, widespread demonstrations erupted in Dhaka and other cities. Protesters chanted slogans and displayed anti-India and anti-Sheikh Hasina placards.

The unrest quickly escalated into violence, seeing the offices of prominent dailies, Prothom Alo and The Daily Star, vandalised and torched. The Awami Leagues office in Rajshahi also reportedly suffered arson.

Disturbingly, the Indian Assistant High Commission in Chattogram was subjected to stone-pelting, highlighting the widespread nature of the violence and its potential diplomatic ramifications. Authorities have mobilised heavy security to manage the escalating tensions.