Bangladesh Unrest Deepens as Indian Mission in Chittagong Comes Under Attack

Violence spread across Bangladesh after the death of activist Sharif Usman Hadi. The attack on the Indian Assistant High Commission in Chittagong became the most serious episode. The incident took place on Thursday as mobs targeted several sites. Security forces struggled to control crowds in key cities.

Authorities said tensions rose soon after news of Hadi’s death. His group had been active in recent protests. Several neighbourhoods saw fires, road blocks, and attacks on offices linked to the ruling Awami League.

Violence Engulfs Chittagong as Crowds Target Key Buildings

Mobs reached the Indian Assistant High Commission on the same day. Stones were thrown at officers on duty. The compound walls were hit, and police moved in to disperse the group. According to Reuters, no Indian staff were hurt.

Unrest also spread to media houses. Several offices faced vandalism. Crowds accused reporters of biased coverage. Police said they were stretched thin and could not respond fast to all calls.

Public buses stayed off the streets in many districts. Local shops closed early. Residents said the fear of more attacks kept people indoors. The rising tension came less than two months before national elections.

Hospitals in Chittagong and Dhaka reported several injuries. Many came from clashes between protesters and police. Doctors said most wounds were from stones and blunt objects. No major fatalities were reported after the first wave.

Election Climate Under Strain as Security Forces Face Pressure

The unrest raises new worries for the February polls. Analysts told AP News that violence may shake voter confidence. Election observers fear more disruptions if security forces cannot restore calm fast.

Businesses also face losses. Shopkeepers said footfall dropped suddenly. Many fear long-term impact if clashes continue. Exporters warned that port delays in Chittagong could slow shipments.

India expressed concern through diplomatic channels. Officials requested stronger security for their staff. Bangladesh authorities said more forces have now been deployed around foreign missions.

Political groups traded blame over the violence. Government leaders said opposition groups were fuelling unrest. Opposition figures accused the state of suppressing dissent after Hadi’s death. The standoff may shape the campaign period ahead.

Regional Impact and Rising Concern Among Neighbouring Countries

The attack on the Indian mission drew attention across South Asia. Governments in the region are watching for further unrest. Many worry that instability may spill into trade routes or cross-border travel.

Air travel saw some delays as crowds gathered near transport hubs. Road links between key districts slowed due to blockades. Transport officials warned of more problems if protests continue.

Neighbourhoods around the High Commission in Chittagong now see heavy patrols. Residents said the presence offers some comfort. But many fear tensions could rise again if new protests break out.

The situation in Bangladesh remains tense, and the attack on the Indian mission highlights the depth of the crisis. Authorities say calm is the top priority as they work to stop more violence and secure key sites before the elections. The Bangladesh unrest is likely to stay in focus in the coming weeks.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Why did violence break out in Bangladesh?

Violence began after the death of activist Sharif Usman Hadi. His supporters blamed authorities and took to the streets. Clashes spread quickly across major cities.

Q2: Was the Indian mission in Chittagong damaged?

The compound was hit by stones during the attack. No major structural damage was reported. No Indian staff were injured.

Q3: How are security forces responding?

Police and paramilitary teams have increased patrols. They are guarding foreign missions and political offices. Reports say forces are stretched but active.

Q4: Will the unrest impact the upcoming election?

Analysts say it could affect voter turnout. The unstable climate may influence campaign events. Officials hope to restore order soon.

Q5: Are businesses affected?

Shops closed early due to safety fears. Transport delays also hit trade routes. Business groups warn of losses if violence continues.

Trusted Sources: Reuters, AP News, BBC News, India Today