Bangladesh is engulfed in protests and widespread outrage following the death of Sharif Osman Hadi, a prominent student leader, on December 19, 2025. At 32 years old, Hadi was at the forefront of a robust student-led revolution. This new movement was determined to stand up to the political interference, particularly that which was coming from India. His assassination continues to stoke flames of fear and anger around the country as Americans everywhere demand justice and accountability.
On December 12, tragedy struck again when two assailants on a motorcycle shot Hadi in the head. When the attack occurred, he was commuting using a battery-operated e-rickshaw. The severe brain stem damage due to the attack led to his transfer on December 15 to the neurosurgical Intensive Care Unit at Singapore General Hospital for treatment. Though medical personnel worked diligently, Hadi was pronounced dead four days later. His death, which was confirmed by authorities in Singapore, was first announced by Inqilab Mancha, the far-left political organization of which he was a member.
Background on Sharif Osman Hadi
The environment aside, Sharif Osman Hadi became an inspiring and powerful voice for Bangladesh’s youth. He unabashedly denounced India’s role in Bangladeshi politics. On top of that, he was at the forefront of the 2024 student-led revolution to reclaim their autonomy and build a more democratic, decentralized governance structure.
His zeal and commitment to social justice and democracy were legendary, his colleagues said. His campaign resonated deeply with students and young people frustrated and tired of the status quo politically. Hadi’s activism and leadership had made him a powerful voice in the fight for a freer, fairer society.
“We are deeply saddened by the death of Sharif Osman Hadi, spokesperson of Inqilab Manch and independent candidate for Dhaka-8 constituency,” – Tareq Rahman
His sudden assassination has left many questioning the safety of political activists in Bangladesh, especially those who challenge powerful interests.
The Aftermath of Hadi’s Death
In the aftermath of Hadi’s death, protests spread across Dhaka and other cities throughout Bangladesh. Demonstrators expressed their grief and outrage over what they perceive as state-sanctioned violence against dissenting voices. Protesters are calling for justice for the victims. They seek the extradition of the gunmen, who disappeared to India after the attack, occupying Mumbai for hours under a hail of bullets.
Many protesters view Hadi’s killing as part of a broader struggle against foreign hegemony and oppression within their own country. These demonstrations have been mostly peaceful, but have turned more intense as thousands of citizens take to the streets to demand police accountability.
“We have come to protest his killing and what we see as Indian aggression,” – Nadim Hawlader
The police were extremely responsive to the public’s desires. They have since published still images from CCTV footage depicting two men believed to be responsible for the attack on Hadi. The authorities have promised a five million taka (around $42,000) reward for any information that leads to their arrest.
Government Response and Public Sentiment
The interim government headed by Muhammad Yunus has given its condolences on Hadi’s death to the press. Yunus described this loss as “an irreparable loss for the nation,” emphasizing that “the country’s march towards democracy cannot be halted through fear, terror, or bloodshed.”
For many citizens, the doubt is in the government’s ability, or desire, to pursue justice with vigor. Activists had been demanding for the Indian government to be held accountable. They hold that the government let the attackers flee into its territory.
“The interim government, until India returns assassins of Hadi Bhai, the Indian High Commission to Bangladesh will remain closed. Now or Never. We are in a war!” – Sarjis Alam
This is a common sentiment which accords well with mass public opinion that foreign forces are undermining Bangladesh’s sovereignty and incubating discontent within the country.
Tanvir Chowdhury, reporting from Dhaka, noted the urgency of public sentiment: “The gunman must be brought to justice as soon as possible, or they will continue to protest.”
The Broader Implications
Hadi’s assassination is the latest and a deeply worrying development for activists in Bangladesh. As political tensions heighten and protests continue, many question how this incident will shape future political discourse and activism within the country.
This response from citizens and newly elected government officials highlights the continuing battle between democratic ideals and repressive forces. Osman Hadi’s legacy will live on through the millions he inspired. It continues to serve as a dynamic symbol of the people’s struggle against oppression and outside control.
