Post by : Maya Rahman

In Bangladesh, the atmosphere is charged as the nation braces for the funeral of Sharif Osman Hadi, a controversial anti-India figure whose demise has sparked significant chaos and disturbance. Hadi passed away in a Singapore hospital, a week after sustaining gunshot wounds inflicted by masked attackers in Dhaka. His death has incited protests, arson, and aggression in various regions, prompting the interim government to reinforce security in major urban areas while calling for calm.

A prominent spokesperson for Inqilab Mancha, Hadi played a crucial role during the July uprising that ousted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. His fervent anti-India sentiments were known widely, and he previously disseminated contentious maps depicting a so-called “Greater Bangladesh” encompassing parts of India. The attack on him occurred on December 12 as he left Friday prayers in an auto-rickshaw, resulting in a fatal head injury. Following initial treatment in Dhaka, he was referred to Singapore, where he ultimately died.

In the wake of his passing, violent demonstrations erupted across Dhaka and beyond. Radical factions targeted multiple media outlets, and various cultural institutions, such as Udichi Shilpigoshthi and Chhayanat, suffered attacks where valuable artworks and documents were destroyed. This surge in violence has raised pivotal concerns regarding public safety and the rule of law.

With the funeral taking place near the National Parliament Building in Dhaka, the government has implemented heightened security measures. Drone usage has been prohibited in the vicinity, public viewings are restricted, and participants have been warned against carrying bags or large items. At the family’s request, Hadi will be buried alongside the grave of national poet Kazi Nazrul Islam. Armed forces are also being deployed throughout the city to avert further disturbances.

Authorities have released images of two suspects associated with the homicide, offering a reward of approximately $42,000 for valuable information. Interim Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus has vowed to take strong action against the perpetrators and has called for peace from the citizens. Nevertheless, clashes have persisted, including acts of vandalism at the Bangabandhu Memorial Museum and attacks on properties linked to the former ruling party, along with stone-throwing incidents at the residence of the Indian High Commission official in Chattogram. As unrest escalates, the government has proclaimed a one-day state of mourning while striving to restore order in Bangladesh.

#Global News