Bangladesh Burns: Ex-Minister Accuses Yunus Govt of Fuelling Chaos to Provoke India

Bangladesh has been gripped by widespread violence following the killing of Inquilab Mancha leader Sharif Osman Hadi, whose death has triggered protests and attacks across multiple cities, raising serious concerns over law and order and the country’s democratic transition.

Hadi, a vocal critic of India and the ousted Sheikh Hasina-led Awami League government, succumbed to gunshot wounds at a hospital in Singapore. News of his death sparked immediate unrest nationwide.

Attacks on Political and Diplomatic Targets

Violent mobs targeted several high-profile locations. The residence of former Education Minister Mohibul Hasan Chowdhury in Chattogram was set ablaze, while Awami League offices in Rajshahi and other regions were vandalised.

Protesters also attacked the Assistant Indian High Commission in Chattogram, escalating diplomatic tensions and prompting heightened security around foreign missions.

Former Minister Blames Interim Government

Mohibul Hasan Chowdhury, a close ally of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, accused the interim government led by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus of deliberately allowing violence to spiral out of control.

He alleged that the unrest was being orchestrated to delay the upcoming February elections and to strain Bangladesh’s relations with India.
“They want to create turmoil in Bangladesh and deliberately damage ties with India,” Chowdhury said, claiming the attacks on foreign missions indicated a broader conspiracy.

Yunus Announces National Mourning, Appeals for Calm

In a televised address, Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus announced that December 20 would be observed as a day of national mourning for Sharif Osman Hadi. He appealed to citizens to maintain peace and assured that those responsible for the killing would be brought to justice.

Despite the appeal, violence continued unabated in several parts of the country.

Media Houses Attacked, Minority Targeted

Among the most alarming developments was the attack on media institutions, with the offices of Prothom Alo and The Daily Star sustaining damage.

In a disturbing incident highlighting rising communal tensions, a Hindu man was beaten to death in Mymensingh, drawing sharp criticism from rights groups and minority organisations.

Government Response and Criticism

The interim government condemned the violence and pledged strict action against those involved in rioting and vandalism. However, critics argue that the administration has failed to restore order effectively, allowing the situation to deteriorate.

Regional Concerns and India’s Watchful Eye

The escalating unrest poses a serious threat to Bangladesh’s democratic transition and regional stability. India is closely monitoring developments, particularly in light of attacks on its diplomatic mission and the broader implications for bilateral relations.

As tensions persist, the coming days are expected to be crucial for Bangladesh’s political stability and electoral roadmap.