Bangladesh Unrest Deepens After Deadly Shooting Sparks Nationwide Violence

The Bangladesh unrest grew fast on Thursday night after the death of political activist Sharif Osman Hadi. He died in Singapore after being shot last week in Dhaka. Protests spread from Shahbagh to many major cities. Crowds demanded justice and blamed the authorities for failure to stop the attack.

The violence hit media offices, roads, and homes of political figures. It marked one of the most tense nights the country has seen in years. According to Reuters, the scale of the protests shocked officials and raised fears of deeper instability.

Bangladesh Unrest Leaves Media Houses Burned and Streets Blocked

Crowds reached the Prothom Alo office late Thursday. They broke into the building and set large piles of documents and furniture on fire. By early Friday, the full structure was destroyed.

The Daily Star office also came under attack soon after. Glass panels were broken, and items were burned outside the building. Fire crews rescued trapped staff at around 2:30 a.m.

Both papers halted print and online operations. Staff groups urged the interim government to protect media workers. Many journalists said the attacks were planned to silence critical reporting.

Protests also hit cultural sites and political offices. Roads in Dhaka, Chattogram, and other regions were blocked. The Bangladesh Army was deployed to restore order. Indian diplomatic property in Chattogram was also attacked as crowds blamed India for political interference.

Impact on Elections and Rising Political Tension

The unrest now puts the February national elections at risk. Analysts told major outlets that multiple groups were active in the protests. Some mourned Hadi. Some used the chaos to push for political gains. Others aimed to delay the polls.

Roads, offices, and homes of political leaders were targeted across the country. Fires broke out in Bandarban, Rajshahi, Sylhet, and Barishal. The situation changed by the hour and forced emergency meetings within the government.

The interim chief adviser called for calm and unity. Special prayers will be held nationwide. But many fear the unrest could continue as Hadi’s body returns to Bangladesh on Friday.

The Bangladesh unrest now raises serious concerns for stability. Many residents fear more violence. Officials are under pressure to restore calm fast.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What caused the Bangladesh unrest?

The unrest followed the death of activist Sharif Osman Hadi. He died days after being shot during election campaigning. Protests broke out soon after news of his death.

Q2: Which areas were most affected?

Dhaka saw the largest crowds, especially at Shahbagh and Farmgate. Major cities like Chattogram, Rajshahi, and Sylhet also saw fires and roadblocks.

Q3: Were media offices attacked?

Yes. Prothom Alo and The Daily Star offices were damaged by fires and vandalism. Staff were rescued after being trapped on upper floors.

Q4: How will the unrest affect elections?

Analysts warn that the violence may delay the February 12 election. They say multiple groups want to question the fairness of the polls.

Q5: What steps has the government taken?

The interim government deployed the army and called for calm. Special prayers will be held, and security forces remain on alert.

Trusted Sources: Reuters, AP News, BBC News