A new report by the Global Center for Democratic Governance (GCDG) details 24 hours of widespread violence and anarchy in Bangladesh following the death of political figure Sharif Osman Hadi on December 18 last year.
The document, published on January 17, raises serious questions about the interim government’s role, suggesting the turmoil may have been a calculated provocation rather than an administrative failure. It documents attacks on media outlets, cultural institutions, diplomatic missions, and properties linked to opposition leaders, amid allegations of extremist militant involvement.
Osman Goni alias Sharif Osman Hadi, a former Qawmi madrasa student who later studied at Dhaka University and spokesperson for the Inqilab Moncho, rose to prominence after the 2024 Anti-Discrimination Student Movement. He was shot on December 12, 2025, in Dhaka’s Bijoynagar area and died while receiving treatment in Singapore. Hadi was buried with state honours on December 20, 2025.
The report portrays Hadi as a controversial figure involved in post-movement activities, including inciting arson, extortion under the guise of flood relief and election campaigns, and demands to ban the Awami League. It notes his use of provocative, anti-India rhetoric and links to banned militant groups. Videos cited in the report show Hadi publicly demanding money for vandalising sculptures and receiving funds from individuals.
Election 2026: Is Dr. Yunus turning Bangladesh into a radical jihadi state?
Hadi Murder Suspects In India: Claims unfounded and misleading, says India
News of Hadi’s death sparked gatherings in Shahbag, Dhaka, where protesters created an unstable atmosphere. The report highlights the presence of members from internationally banned militant groups, such as Ansarullah Bangla Team, who were released from jail after August 5, 2024. Leaders like Mufti Jasim Uddin Rahmani and Ataur Rahman Bikrampuri were seen leading prayers and activities.
No violence occurred before Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus addressed the nation around 11:15 PM on December 18, declaring a national mourning day. Attacks began immediately afterwards, leading to speculation of government patronage.
The report details arson and vandalism at major media houses. Prothom Alo’s office was attacked and set ablaze in the presence of the army and police, with district offices also targeted. The Daily Star faced similar destruction, trapping 28 journalists, including two women, inside. The army negotiated with the attackers for 20 minutes to rescue them, but harassment continued post-rescue.
New Age editor Nurul Kabir was assaulted, and female journalists from The Daily Star reported mistreatment. The report attributes these to the outlets’ anti-militant stance, with Daily Star editor Mahfuz Anam later alleging government support for the attacks.
Cultural institutions like Bangabandhu Bhaban, Chhayanaut, and Udichi were vandalised and set on fire. Bangabandhu Bhaban, tied to Bangladesh’s independence, was demolished using bulldozers. Chhayanaut’s building was torched, destroying musical instruments. Udichi lost 57 years of documents despite prior threats, with no government action to prevent it.
Anti-India Sentiment
Extremists attacked the Indian Assistant High Commissioner’s residence in Chittagong, throwing bricks in police presence. Attempts occurred in Khulna and Rajshahi, with marches to the Indian border in Jessore, chanting anti-India slogans. The report notes 12 arrests in Chittagong, but militants like Mufti Harun Izhar intervened for their release.
Hadi Murder Probe: Home adviser knows no whereabouts of suspected killer
Arafat slams Yunus regime for fueling anti-India hysteria in Hadi murder probe
Yunusโ Mobocracy: Extremists exploit Hadiโs death to stir anti-India sentiment
Homes and offices of Awami League leaders were vandalised nationwide. Notable incidents include arson at former ministers’ residences, such as Mohibul Hasan Chowdhury Nowfel, Khalid Mahmud Chowdhury, Bir Bahadur Ushwe Sing, and others. Party offices in Rajshahi, Habiganj, and Gaibandha were demolished or burned, often with no intervention from authorities.
Role of Law Enforcement and Militants
The report criticises law enforcement for inaction, citing examples where the army and police stood by during attacks. It links violence to released militants, noting increased activity post-Hadi’s death, including bomb explosions near militant leaders. BNP leaders accused the government of fostering mob rule.
Investigation into Hadi’s Murder
The murder probe is described as farcical. Initial arrests targeted innocents, including the family of suspect Faisal Karim Masud, who claimed innocence from abroad and accused Hadi of extortion. A charge sheet was filed against 17 people on January 6, 2026, but Inqilab Mancha rejected it, alleging state involvement. Masud had prior bail in an arms case, granted by the courts.
The GCDG report, backed by references and videos, calls for accountability, portraying the events as potentially orchestrated to suppress opposition and media. It urges scrutiny of the interim government’s handling amid rising militant influence.
English 
Bengali