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.

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The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) has delivered a landmark verdict sentencing former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to death. She has been convicted on multiple charges of crimes against humanity linked to the violent crackdown on protestors during the 2024 student movement.

Background: From Student Protests to Nationwide Uprising

In July 2024, students across Bangladesh launched a peaceful movement demanding reforms in the government job quota system. What began as a campus-led protest soon transformed into a massive nationwide uprising, with a growing demand for Sheikh Hasina’s resignation.

The government responded with increasingly forceful measures to suppress the unrest. According to UN investigators, nearly 1,400 civilians were killed during the violence that engulfed the country.

On 5 August 2024, amid escalating turmoil, Sheikh Hasina resigned from the prime minister’s post and fled to India, citing threats to her life.

Formation of Interim Government and Tribunal

After her departure, an interim government led by Nobel Laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus was formed. Soon after taking charge, the interim administration initiated several cases against Sheikh Hasina, accusing her of severe human rights violations.

A newly constituted International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) brought multiple charges against her, including mass killings, torture, and destruction of evidence.

Charges Against Sheikh Hasina

The ICT examined 84 pieces of evidence and extensive witness testimonies before delivering its verdict. The main allegations considered by the court included:

1. Ordering Killings Instead of Stopping Protests

She allegedly directed forces to open fire on peaceful demonstrators.

2. Use of Lethal Weapons and Drones

The prosecution claimed that security forces used deadly weapons, including drones, to suppress and kill protestors.

3. Aerial Attacks From Helicopters

Hasina was accused of ordering bombs to be dropped from helicopters onto student protestors.

4. Abductions and Burning of Bodies

Several protestors were allegedly abducted, and their bodies were burnt to destroy evidence.

5. Interference in Investigations

The court found evidence suggesting that investigative agencies were pressured to cover up atrocities.

The tribunal also ruled that former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan was guilty and handed him the death penalty. Another senior official, who turned government witness, received a five-year prison sentence.

Trial in Absentia and Allegations of Bias

Since Sheikh Hasina has been living in India, the trial was conducted in absentia. A state-appointed lawyer represented her, although there was no direct communication between Hasina and the legal counsel.

Her legal team has condemned the trial as politically motivated and lacking due process. They have filed appeals with the United Nations, arguing that the proceedings were biased and unfair.

Hasina herself issued a statement calling the verdict “politically driven and discriminatory,” alleging that she was denied the chance to be heard.

Unrest Erupts in Bangladesh After Verdict

Following the ICT’s ruling, fresh unrest has erupted across Bangladesh. Supporters of the Awami League clashed with police, resulting in at least two deaths. Protestors have blocked major roads in Dhaka, leading to widespread disruptions.

Police have responded with tear gas, batons, and stun grenades to control crowds. Viral videos circulating on social media show officers beating demonstrators and large groups marching toward important locations, including Dhanmondi, the area of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s residence.

The Awami League, which was banned in 2024 by the interim government, has called for a two-day nationwide shutdown, alleging that the verdict is politically engineered.

India Closely Monitoring the Situation

India is monitoring developments in Bangladesh with “close attention,” especially since Sheikh Hasina is currently under India’s protection. The Ministry of External Affairs stated that as a neighbouring country, India is carefully observing every development in Bangladesh and remains committed to the welfare of Bangladeshi citizens.

Hasina’s Escape to India

During the height of the 2024 unrest, Sheikh Hasina reportedly fled Bangladesh late at night and entered India, taking temporary shelter before being moved to Delhi with support from the Indian government. Reports at the time suggested credible threats to her life.

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