Bangladesh Erupts in Protests After Activist’s Death
Widespread unrest has gripped Bangladesh following the tragic death of Sharif Osman Hadi, a prominent leader of the Inquilab Manch. Hadi succumbed to gunshot wounds sustained during an assassination attempt last week. Initially treated at Dhaka Medical College Hospital, he was later transferred to Evercare Hospital and ultimately flown to Singapore for advanced care, where he passed away on December 15.
Protests Intensify Across Dhaka
The news of Hadi’s death has sparked a surge of protests in Dhaka, with demonstrators gathering at Shahbagh Square on Friday to demand justice. Activists chanted anti-India slogans, and videos shared on social media depicted clashes as protesters threw stones near the Indian diplomatic mission. The demonstrators are calling for the interim government to step aside in favor of a “revolutionary government.” In response to the escalating tensions, Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) forces have been deployed at key locations throughout the city to maintain order.
As protests continue, the atmosphere in Dhaka remains charged. Activists are not only seeking accountability for Hadi’s death but are also expressing broader discontent with the current political climate. The protests reflect a growing frustration among the populace, particularly as the nation approaches elections scheduled for February. The situation is further complicated by rising anti-India sentiments, which have become a focal point for many demonstrators.
Maritime Tensions Rise Amid Political Unrest
As protests unfold on land, tensions are also escalating at sea. In recent months, Indian authorities have reported an uptick in Bangladeshi fishing boats encroaching on its maritime boundaries in the Bay of Bengal. The situation escalated dramatically on December 15 when a Bangladeshi naval patrol vessel collided with an Indian fishing boat, resulting in the capsizing of the vessel and the loss of fishermen’s lives. This incident has heightened concerns over the safety of Indian fishermen operating near the international maritime border.
Reports indicate that the Bangladeshi vessel’s lights were off at the time of the collision, complicating visibility for the Indian trawler. Following the incident, the Indian Coast Guard successfully rescued 11 fishermen, but five remain missing, and one fisherman was reportedly killed. The Sundarban Marine Fishermen’s Workers Union has filed a complaint, prompting police investigations into the matter. However, the Indian Coast Guard has yet to confirm whether the fishing boat crossed into Bangladeshi waters or if the naval vessel entered Indian territory. Meanwhile, Bangladesh has dismissed these claims, asserting that its patrol vessel was operating well within its maritime limits.
The ongoing unrest and maritime incidents underscore the fragile state of relations between Bangladesh and India, particularly as both nations navigate a complex political landscape ahead of upcoming elections.
