Bangladesh Protests: Why Anti-India Slogans Are Being Raised in Dhaka
Bangladesh is experiencing significant unrest following the tragic death of Sharif Osman Hadi, a prominent youth leader involved in the 2024 pro-democracy uprising. Here’s an overview of the situation:
Key Events Surrounding the Protests
– Death of Sharif Osman Hadi:
– Hadi died in a Singapore hospital after being shot last week.
– His passing has triggered widespread protests across Dhaka and other cities, with demonstrators demanding justice.
– Protests Erupt Across Bangladesh:
– Thousands of protesters took to the streets late Thursday and early Friday.
– Demonstrators blocked roads, raised slogans, and attempted to march toward Indian diplomatic missions.
– Law enforcement responded with tear gas to disperse crowds near the Indian deputy high commission.
– Raising Anti-India Slogans:
– Members of the National Citizen Party (NCP), an offshoot of Students Against Discrimination (SAD), participated actively in the protests.
– Protesters accused Hadi’s assailants of fleeing to India and intensified their rhetoric, with slogans like We are in war.
Violence and Vandalism
– Targeting Media and Political Properties:
– Several buildings, including the offices of leading newspapers like Prothom Alo and The Daily Star, were vandalized.
– At least three incidents of arson were reported, raising concerns about press freedom.
– Attacks on Awami League Properties:
– Protesters set fire to an Awami League office in Rajshahi, and properties linked to former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina were also vandalized.
– Demonstrators blocked a vital highway connecting Dhaka with Mymensingh.
Who Was Sharif Osman Hadi?
– Profile:
– Sharif Osman Hadi, 32, was a senior leader of the student-led platform Inqilab Mancha and an outspoken critic of the previous administration.
– Hadi was shot by masked assailants on December 12 while leaving a mosque in Dhaka and later succumbed to his injuries.
Government Response and State Mourning
– Yunus Announces Day of Mourning:
– Interim leader Muhammad Yunus expressed that Hadi’s death is an irreparable loss for the nation.
– He declared a day of mourning and special prayers across Bangladesh, ensuring the national flag flies at half-mast.
– Manhunt for Attackers:
– Police have launched a nationwide search for Hadi’s attackers, offering a reward of five million taka for information leading to their capture.
Impact on Relations with India
– India’s Visa Operations:
– Despite initial security concerns, India resumed operations at its visa application center in Dhaka.
– Parliamentary Concerns:
– A parliamentary committee on external affairs highlighted the complex and evolving situation in Bangladesh, raising alarms about stability and upcoming elections.
Conclusion
The recent protests in Bangladesh, fueled by the death of Sharif Osman Hadi, reveal deep-seated grievances and a turbulent political landscape. The anti-India sentiment expressed during these demonstrations reflects the broader tensions in the region. As the situation unfolds, many are left questioning the future of democracy and stability in Bangladesh.