Following the murder of student leader Sharif Osman Hadi in Bangladesh, violence has escalated. The live burning of a seven-year-old girl in Lakshmipur has sparked widespread outrage across the country, with growing demands for the government to restore security.
Violence in Bangladesh: The situation in Bangladesh is rapidly deteriorating following the murder of student leader Sharif Osman Hadi. Incidents of violence, arson, and property damage are occurring in various parts of the country. Amidst this, a deeply heartbreaking incident has shaken the entire nation. News has emerged of a seven-year-old innocent girl being burned alive in Lakshmipur Sadar Upazila. This incident has become a matter of serious concern not only for Bangladesh but for the entire region.
Heartbreaking Incident in Lakshmipur
According to local media reports, on Saturday, a BNP leader’s house in Lakshmipur Sadar Upazila was locked from the outside and set on fire. In this arson, a seven-year-old girl became a victim of the flames and died on the spot. Three other people were seriously injured in the incident. The news of the girl’s death by being burned alive spread across the country, sparking outrage. People are calling it a complete failure of law and order.
This incident occurred at a time when Bangladesh is already grappling with political tension and violent protests. The violence that erupted following Hadi’s murder has raised serious questions about the safety of ordinary citizens.
Fire Ignited by the Murder of Sharif Osman Hadi
On December 12th, student leader Sharif Osman Hadi was shot in the head by masked gunmen during an election campaign in the Bijoynagar area of Dhaka. He was rushed to Singapore for treatment in critical condition, where he died on Thursday. The news of 32-year-old Hadi’s death sparked intense anger and outrage throughout Bangladesh.
Hadi was buried on Saturday near the Dhaka University mosque, next to the mausoleum of national poet Kazi Nazrul Islam, under tight security. A large number of supporters and ordinary citizens were present during the funeral. During this time, the tone of protest and warning began to escalate.
Inquilab Manch Issues 24-Hour Ultimatum to Government
Hadi’s party, Inquilab Manch, issued a 24-hour ultimatum to the interim government, demanding the arrest of those responsible for his murder. The ultimatum was issued after thousands of people gathered at Shahbagh Square in Dhaka on Saturday afternoon.
A spokesperson for Inquilab Manch, and one of the key leaders of the July जन আন্দোলন (Jan Andolan - People's Movement), clearly warned after Hadi’s funeral that if the perpetrators were not arrested within the given time, the movement would be intensified. Shahbagh Square once again became a center of protest and slogans, where anti-government sentiment was openly displayed.
Attacks and Vandalism Across the Country
Following Hadi’s death, violent incidents have occurred in many parts of Bangladesh. Reports of attacks, arson, and property damage continue to emerge. The incident of stone-pelting at the residence of the Assistant High Commissioner of India in Chattogram on Thursday is also part of this series.
Hadi Was Preparing to Contest Independently
Sharif Osman Hadi was a prominent figure in the July 2024 uprising. He was considered a staunch critic of India and was also a spokesperson for Inquilab Manch. Hadi had recently announced that he would contest the 13th parliamentary election as an independent candidate from the Dhaka-8 constituency.
Family Demands Memorial in Shahbagh
Hadi’s family has demanded the construction of a memorial in Shahbagh in his memory. The family says that this is the same place from which the movement for regime change in Bangladesh began. This demand is also being supported by supporters.
The Yunus government has declared a one-day state of mourning following Hadi’s death. Security has also been tightened in Dhaka to prevent any untoward incident.
Increased Security for Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi
The ongoing violence in Bangladesh is also having an impact on India. Security has been increased for the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi. Delhi Police has deployed additional forces around the High Commission and its vicinity.
According to Delhi Police, security was increased from Thursday night. On Friday, barricades were erected around the area and vehicles were thoroughly checked. This step is being taken as a precaution to avoid any kind of unrest.
