Violence erupted in Bangladesh due to the death of Sharif Usman Hadi: Demonstrations on the streets everywhere, mourning in the country.

Dhaka: Sharif Osman Hadi, one of the prominent faces of Bangladesh’s prominent protest leaders, died during treatment in Singapore. As soon as the news of his death spread, anger erupted across the country. Thousands of people took to the streets in many cities including the capital Dhaka, leading to violent clashes and incidents of arson at many places.

Who was Sharif Osman Hadi?

Hadi, 32, was the hero of Bangladesh’s July uprising. He united the students and launched a big movement against the government of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, due to which Hasina had to leave power and flee the country. Hadi was the spokesperson and senior leader of a student organization called ‘Inquilab Manch’. This organization was considered the backbone of the anti-Hasina protests. Hadi was also a staunch critic of India and often made sharp attacks on the policies of the neighboring country.

He was campaigning as an independent candidate from Dhaka-8 seat for the general elections to be held in February 2026.

The deadly attack took place on 12 December

On 12 December, masked assailants shot at Hadi while leaving a mosque in Dhaka or while campaigning. His condition became critical after being shot in the head. First he was admitted to Dhaka Medical College Hospital, then shifted to a private hospital for better treatment. As his condition worsened, he was taken by air ambulance to the Neurosurgical ICU of Singapore General Hospital on 15 December. Despite all the efforts of the doctors, he could not survive and died on 18 December.

Violence erupted after death

If media reports are to be believed, as soon as Hadi’s death was confirmed, thousands of protesters gathered at Shahbagh intersection in Dhaka. Angry people attacked, vandalized and set on fire the offices of leading newspapers ‘Daily Star’ and ‘Prothom Alo’. At many places, properties belonging to Awami League were targeted. In some reports, anti-India slogans were also raised and stones were pelted at the Indian Assistant High Commission in Chittagong.

Head of the interim government, Muhammad Yunus, described Hadi’s death as an irreparable loss to the nation and declared a day of state mourning. He appealed to the people to maintain peace and promised to arrest the attackers soon. Police have released photographs of two suspects and announced a reward.

The incident signals new turmoil in Bangladeshi politics, especially ahead of elections. Hadi’s death has sparked deep anger among students and youth.