Post by : Saif Rahman

In Bangladesh, unrest has surged in the wake of the tragic murder of acclaimed student activist Sharif Osman Hadi. The transitional government, headed by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, has appealed to the public to avoid violence as police and paramilitary units were deployed throughout Dhaka and various cities. Hadi's death raises alarm over potential instability leading up to the national elections planned for February 12.

Although some tranquility was observed on Friday morning, demonstrators remained at Shahbagh in central Dhaka, waving national flags and brandishing signs advocating for justice for Hadi. Many individuals pledged to maintain their presence until accountability is achieved. Locals expressed fears that tensions could escalate later in the day.

Hadi, 32, served as the spokesperson for the Inquilab Mancha, a platform advocating for revolution, and played a significant role in protests that led to the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. He was tragically shot in the head by masked attackers while commencing his election campaign last Friday. After initial treatment in a local hospital, Hadi was airlifted to Singapore for specialized care but succumbed to his injuries six days after being placed on life support.

In the aftermath of his assassination, mobs targeted media establishments and political offices within Dhaka. Videos shared on social media captured the assaults on prominent newspapers such as Prothom Alo and the Daily Star. Firefighters and security personnel quickly intervened to extinguish the fires and rescue journalists caught in the chaos.

The government has attributed the violence to “a few fringe elements” and has urged the populace to remain steadfast, stressing that these groups should not endanger the nation's democratic journey. In a public statement, the administration remarked, “This is a crucial juncture in our nation’s narrative. We must not allow disorder to disrupt our peace.” Additionally, they apologized to journalists affected and promised to pursue justice for the attacks on media outlets.

Furthermore, authorities condemned the attack and subsequent lynching of a Hindu individual in Mymensingh district, who suffered fatal injuries over alleged blasphemy in a separate event, pledging accountability for those responsible.

Yunus has proclaimed Saturday as a day of mourning in tribute to Hadi. Reports of violence have also emerged from other cities, including Chittagong, where demonstrators turned against the Indian Assistant High Commission. This wave of unrest follows anti-India protests earlier in the week, in light of deteriorating relations between the two nations since Hasina’s retreat to Delhi. Hundreds marched towards the Indian High Commission, chanting anti-India slogans while demanding Hasina’s return.

As the country stands at a pivotal moment, authorities strive to navigate political tensions, ensure public safety, and gear up for the upcoming elections. The incident involving Sharif Osman Hadi underscores the volatility present in a nation grappling with a complicated political landscape.

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