Bangladesh's capital was plunged into chaos and violence on December 19, 2025, following a political assassination. The death of a prominent figure ignited massive protests, with demonstrators targeting major media houses in Dhaka, setting them ablaze and trapping journalists inside.
Dark Night in Dhaka: Fire and Fury
The trigger for the violent unrest was the killing of Sharif Osman Hadi, who succumbed to gunshot injuries. His death acted as a catalyst, unleashing a wave of fury that many are calling the country's darkest period since the 2024 uprising. Protesters flooded the streets of Dhaka, directing their anger at media institutions. Several newspaper offices and media houses were vandalized before being set on fire.
Disturbing accounts and videos from the scene depict a harrowing situation for media professionals. As flames engulfed buildings, journalists were trapped inside, with thick smoke choking newsrooms. One trapped journalist's desperate cry, "Can't breathe, you are killing me," captured the terror of the moment and has since circulated widely, shocking the region and the world.
Rescue Operations and Immediate Fallout
Emergency services scrambled to respond to the crisis. Fire brigade teams managed to rescue over two dozen journalists from the burning buildings. To restore order and secure the area, army units were deployed in the affected parts of the city. The brazen attacks on the press have immediately sparked international concern, with watchdogs highlighting the severe backsliding in democratic norms and press safety in Bangladesh.
The interim government, facing a severe crisis, has called for calm and promised accountability. However, the streets of Dhaka remain tense. The political temperature is further heightened by the proximity of upcoming elections, placing Bangladesh's fragile political transition under its most dangerous test in recent years.
A Regional Crisis with Wider Implications
The fallout from the violence extends beyond Bangladesh's borders. Protesters have reportedly accused India of playing a role in the ongoing political turmoil, adding a complex diplomatic dimension to the crisis. The international community is closely watching as the nation navigates this volatile period, with the safety of a free press hanging in the balance.
This attack on media houses is not just an assault on buildings but a direct strike at the heart of democratic discourse. As Bangladesh grapples with the aftermath, the world waits to see if calm can be restored and those responsible for endangering lives and silencing voices will be held to account.
