Violence and protests erupted across Bangladesh's capital, Dhaka, on Thursday night following the death of youth activist and protest leader Sharif Osman Hadi. The unrest unfolded as news of his passing spread, leading to clashes and an attack on a prominent newspaper office.
Who Was Sharif Osman Hadi?
Sharif Osman Hadi was the leader of the radical group Inquilab Mancha and a prominent figure linked to the July 2024 protests in Bangladesh. His journey to this tragic end began on December 12, 2025, when he was shot by unidentified assailants in Dhaka during a period of unrest. The attack left him with critical injuries.
In a bid to save his life, Hadi was later flown to Singapore for advanced medical treatment. He remained hospitalised there for six days as doctors continued their efforts. However, according to reports, he succumbed to his injuries while undergoing treatment at a hospital in Singapore on December 19, 2025.
Protests and Attack on Media
The announcement of Hadi's death triggered immediate and angry reactions from his supporters. Protests broke out in various parts of Dhaka, with demonstrators taking to the streets to voice their outrage.
During the escalating tensions, the office of the widely-read Bangla daily Prothom Alo came under attack. Sections of the building were left charred in the assault. Following the incident, a crowd gathered outside the damaged newspaper premises, highlighting the volatile atmosphere in the city.
Security Response and Ongoing Tensions
In response to the violence and to prevent further disorder, authorities significantly increased security presence in the affected areas. Investigations are currently ongoing into both the original shooting of Sharif Osman Hadi and the subsequent attack on the Prothom Alo office.
This incident underscores the deep-seated political and social tensions within Bangladesh. The death of a symbolic protest figure has acted as a catalyst, bringing existing grievances to the surface and challenging law and order in the capital. The situation remains fluid as authorities work to restore calm.
