Police said demonstrators demanding justice in the killing of Osman Hadi broke through multiple barricades in central Dhaka and advanced toward Jamuna, the chief adviser’s residence, via the Hotel InterContinental crossing. After breaching the final security cordon, protesters staged a sit-in outside the main gates for about 15 minutes before security forces dispersed the crowd. Local media reported several dozen injuries during baton charges and a subsequent stampede.
Authorities deployed additional police units and called in Border Guard Bangladesh to reinforce security around key installations, including Kakrail Mosque and major road junctions near Jamuna. Officials said at least six platoons of border guards were placed on standby to prevent further attempts to reach the residence.
The protests were triggered by anger over the killing of Osman Hadi, who was shot in Dhaka’s Paltan area on December 12, 2025. He was later airlifted to Singapore for treatment and died on December 18. His death sparked waves of protests across the country, some of which turned violent and targeted media offices, cultural centres and diplomatic missions. Inquilab Morcha leaders have accused the authorities of delaying justice and failing to hold those responsible to account.
Friday’s unrest unfolded amid heightened political tension ahead of the February 12 polls, the first national election since former prime minister Sheikh Hasina was ousted in 2024. With the Awami League barred from contesting, opposition groups and civil society organisations have raised concerns about the credibility of the electoral process. The International Crisis Group has warned of the risk of violence and instability during the transition.
Adding to the pressure on the interim administration, government employees staged a separate protest near Jamuna on Friday, demanding immediate implementation of the ninth national pay scale. Protesters cited rising living costs and accused the Yunus-led administration of delaying the final gazette notification.
Security agencies said they remain on high alert in Dhaka as election day approaches, while the government has appealed for calm and pledged to ensure law and order during the polls.
