Bangladesh Unrest News: Is democracy in danger in Bangladesh? Dhaka erupted in violence after the death of youth leader Sharif Usman Hadi. Media houses burnt down, journalists were trapped inside and a reporter’s scream – “You are killing me” shocked the whole world.
Bangladesh Violence Update: Violence spread across the streets of the capital Dhaka in Bangladesh early Friday, when the house of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and major media houses were attacked. This turmoil began after the assassination of 32-year-old youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi. Hadi, who was the main spokesperson of the Inquilab Manch platform, was shot in the head and injured by masked assailants during election campaigning. He died after being on life support for six days.
Why was the media attacked?
Violent protests began after Hadi’s death. The protesters accused the media of being involved in collusion with India. Many journalists got trapped inside the buildings during this attack. Daily Star reporter Zaima Islam sent a live message on Facebook, writing, “Now I can’t breathe. There’s too much smoke. I’m inside. You’re killing me.” This message shows how dangerous and dire the situation was.
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fire and trapped workers
Fire officials said the fire at the Daily Star building was brought under control at around 1.40 am. However, at that time 27 employees were trapped inside the building. Employees took shelter in the rear of the building and were listening to the slogans of the protesters outside.
Who was Sharif Osman Hadi?
Hadi, 32, was the spokesperson for the Inquilab Manch platform and a candidate for Bangladesh’s upcoming national elections. On 12 December, he was shot in the head by masked assailants during election campaigning. He was first sent to a local hospital and then to Singapore for better treatment. Hadi died after being on life support for six days.
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Protest spread across the country
Following Hadi’s death, protests spread to Dhaka, Chittagong, Rajshahi and other cities. The protesters blocked roads and also attacked private houses. The protests chanted Hadi’s name and protesters demanded accountability.
Yunus government’s response
The unrest occurred amid increased political instability following Sheikh Hasina’s visit to India in August 2024. Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus took over the leadership of the interim administration. After Hadi’s death, Yunus described it as an “irreparable loss for the nation”. The government announced special prayers and declared Saturday a day of mourning.
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search for attackers
Authorities have released photographs to help identify and arrest Hadi’s attackers. Police and paramilitary forces have been deployed across Dhaka. However, tension remained in many areas of the capital till late night. Will political violence continue to increase in Bangladesh? How will media security be ensured? And who is responsible behind Hadi’s murder? All these questions are still unresolved.