Violence, arson hit Bangladesh as death of youth leader Hadi sparks protests; Indian Mission set on fire

Bangladesh has been gripped by a wave of violent protests following the death of youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi, who succumbed to his injuries in a Singapore hospital on Thursday. Hadi, a key figure in the 2024 pro-democracy uprising known for his anti-India rhetoric, had been airlifted for treatment after being shot by masked gunmen in Dhaka. As news of his passing spread, thousands of supporters flooded the streets, turning their grief into a nationwide rampage against institutional and diplomatic targets.

In the capital city of Dhaka, the situation turned dire as angry mobs targeted the offices of the country’s two leading newspapers. Protestors accused the publications of being pro-India, setting fire to the buildings while staff members remained trapped inside. At least three major arson cases were confirmed by the Fire Brigade early Friday, signaling a breakdown in law and order as protestors also set fire to the historic residence of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.

The violence spilled over into the port city of Chittagong, where the Assistant High Commission of India and nearby residences of diplomatic officials were pelted with stones. Arson was reported in the vicinity, with thick smoke billowing over the region. Protesters also vandalized the home of a former minister and blocked major highways, effectively cutting off Dhaka from the rest of the country. The targeting of Indian diplomatic missions reflects the intense geopolitical friction surrounding Hadi’s political stance.