Violence and tension have gripped Bangladesh following the death of Sharif Osman Hadi, a prominent student leader and spokesperson for the Inqilab Manch. Protests, arson, and vandalism have been reported in several cities, including Dhaka.
Osman Hadi Death Triggers Nationwide Unrest in Bangladesh
Dhaka: Bangladesh is once again witnessing political and social unrest. Student leader Sharif Osman Hadi, who played a key role in the prominent student uprising of 2024, passed away on Thursday, December 18, 2025. News of his death sparked widespread grief and anger across the country, which escalated into violent protests in several locations.
According to the Singaporean government, Sharif Osman Hadi was brought to Singapore in critical condition on December 15. He was admitted to the neurosurgical ICU at Singapore General Hospital, where a team of specialist doctors from the National Neuroscience Institute was treating him. Despite all efforts, he could not be saved due to severe injuries sustained from a gunshot wound to the head.
Bangladesh erupts after death of Osman Hadi; Violence spreads across Dhaka
Sharif Osman Hadi was a prominent figure and spokesperson for the Inqilab Manch, an organization opposed to Sheikh Hasina's government. He was campaigning as an independent candidate for the Dhaka-8 constituency in the upcoming February elections. The Inqilab Manch rose to national prominence during the July 2024 student uprising, which shook the foundations of the then-government. Osman Hadi was considered the ideological face of the uprising.
Osman Hadi was born in the Jhalakathi district of Bangladesh. His family led a religious and simple life. His father was a madrasa teacher, from whom he learned discipline and moral values. He received his early education at Neserabad Kamil Madrasa and later became active in student politics.
The Inqilab Manch has been a constant source of controversy in Bangladeshi politics. The interim government formed after the student movement dissolved the organization and banned it from participating in elections. Several political parties accused the platform of being associated with extremist ideologies, although its supporters maintained that it represented the voice of a popular movement.
Political turmoil in Bangladesh after death of Sharif Osman Hadi; Details inside
On December 12, 2025, Osman Hadi was attacked in broad daylight in the Paltan area of Dhaka. He was traveling in an auto-rickshaw on Culver Road when unknown assailants opened fire on him. The bullet struck him directly in the head. He was admitted in critical condition, first to Dhaka Medical College Hospital and then to a private hospital.
Following the news of Hadi's death, violent protests erupted in Dhaka, Chittagong, and other cities. Incidents of arson, road blockades, and damage to government and private property were reported in several places. Security forces have been placed on high alert in view of the situation.
