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Tens of thousands of people in Dhaka gathered Saturday for the funeral of youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi, following two days of intense protests over his death. Large crowds lined the procession as Hadi, a prominent figure in last year’s pro-democracy movement, was laid to rest in the heart of Dhaka. Police, equipped with body cameras, stood guard outside the parliament where the funeral prayers took place.
Hadi’s body, transported to Dhaka the previous day, was laid to rest at the main mosque of Dhaka University. Interim leader Muhammad Yunus delivered an emotional speech, stating, “We are not here just to say goodbye. You are always in our hearts, and you’re going to stay there as long as Bangladesh exists.”
The 32-year-old was a vocal critic of India and was expected to compete in upcoming general elections. Iqbal Hossain Saikot, a government worker who traveled from afar for the funeral, said Hadi’s opposition to India was the reason for his killing. Saikot emphasized, “He will live on among the millions of Bangladeshis who cherish their land and sovereignty,” he told AFP.
Hadi’s death sparked widespread unrest, with protesters demanding justice and accountability. Late Thursday, rioters set fire to multiple buildings in Dhaka, including major newspapers Prothom Alo and The Daily Star. Critics argue these outlets favor neighboring India, where former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has taken refuge since fleeing Bangladesh after the 2024 protests.
Amnesty International called on Bangladesh’s interim government to conduct swift, thorough, and independent investigations into Hadi’s killing and the subsequent violence. The organization also expressed concern over the lynching of Hindu garment worker Dipu Chandra Das, who was attacked over allegations of blasphemy.
Yunus confirmed that seven suspects had been detained in connection with Das’s murder in Mymensingh on Thursday.
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