Anti-India Protests in Bangladesh: violence erupts after Hadi’s death, attacks on Awami League offices, situation turns out of control

Dhaka (The Uttam Hindu): Bangladesh is once again witnessing intense political and social unrest. Following the death of Sharif Usman Hadi, known as an anti-India hardline leader, violent protests have erupted across the country. The unrest has not only challenged law and order but has also pushed India–Bangladesh relations into a new phase of tension. The interim Yunus government, which allegedly allowed anti-India protests earlier, is now struggling to contain the growing violence. With national elections approaching, fears are rising that the situation could spiral completely out of control.

Sharif Usman Hadi was shot in the head on December 12 during an election campaign. He was airlifted to Singapore in critical condition, where he died a week later during treatment. As soon as news of his death spread, violent demonstrations broke out in several Bangladeshi cities.

In Chattogram, protesters pelted stones at the residence of India’s Deputy High Commissioner, while in Rajshahi, police stopped a march towards the Indian diplomatic office. Videos circulating on social media clearly show stone-pelting near the Indian Assistant High Commission.

The violence did not remain limited to anti-India protests. Demonstrators also attacked offices of the Awami League and demanded that former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, currently living in India, be handed over to Bangladesh. Hadi was considered a key face of the 2024 movement against the Sheikh Hasina government, and his death has given fresh momentum to anti-government and extremist groups.

On Wednesday, hundreds of protesters attempted to gather outside Indian diplomatic premises in Dhaka, particularly near the Deputy High Commissioner’s residence. As tensions escalated, police resorted to tear gas to disperse the crowd. Activists of the National Citizen Party (NCP), a political force that emerged from last year’s student movement, were also seen participating in the protests.

Protesters alleged that Hadi’s attackers had fled to India and used this claim to raise anti-India slogans. Some leaders even demanded the closure of the Indian High Commission, while attacks on Awami League offices continued.

For several days, anti-India protests have been held under the banner of “July Unity.” Demonstrators are demanding the return of individuals they describe as fugitives, including Sheikh Hasina. Due to the deteriorating security situation, Indian Visa Application Centres (IVAC) in Rajshahi and Khulna have been temporarily shut down.

India has taken a firm stance on the worsening security situation in Bangladesh. The Ministry of External Affairs summoned Bangladesh’s High Commissioner Riaz Hamidullah and conveyed serious concerns. The MEA clearly stated that it rejects false narratives being spread by extremist elements regarding the recent events. It also noted that the interim government has neither conducted a fair investigation nor shared any concrete evidence with India.