Bangladesh Unrest Deepens as NCP Leader Motaleb Sikder Shot After Osman Hadi Killing
Bangladesh is witnessing a renewed surge of political tension and insecurity following the shooting of Motaleb Sikder, a senior leader of the National Citizen Party (NCP), in the southwestern city of Khulna. The attack comes just days after the killing of prominent activist Sharif Osman Hadi, an incident that has already triggered widespread protests and unrest across the country.
The Shooting Incident in Khulna
The attack on Motaleb Sikder took place around midday in Khulna’s Sonadanga area. According to police and party officials, unidentified gunmen shot Sikder at close range, critically injuring him. He was immediately rushed to Khulna Medical College Hospital, where doctors initially described his condition as life-threatening.
Later medical updates offered cautious relief, stating that the bullet grazed his head without penetrating vital areas. Sikder, who serves as the Khulna divisional convener and a central organiser of the NCP-affiliated labour wing Jatiya Sramik Shakti, is now reported to be stable and out of immediate danger.
Police have deployed additional forces in the area and launched a manhunt for the attackers. While the motive remains unclear, investigators are examining whether the shooting was politically motivated or linked to local disputes.
Background: Killing of Sharif Osman Hadi
The shooting of Sikder follows closely on the heels of the assassination of Sharif Osman Hadi, a well-known youth activist and leader associated with the Inqilab Mancha. Hadi was shot at close range on December 12 in Dhaka and later succumbed to his injuries on December 18 after being airlifted to Singapore for treatment.
Hadi’s death sparked violent protests across Dhaka and other cities, with demonstrators demanding justice and accountability. The unrest included clashes with police, vandalism of public and media properties, and heightened political rhetoric, reflecting deep public anger and mistrust.
Rising Tensions Ahead of Elections
The National Citizen Party, which emerged from the student-led uprising of 2024, has positioned itself as a major force in Bangladesh’s evolving political landscape. The back-to-back attacks on figures linked to protest movements have intensified fears of targeted violence as the country prepares for national elections scheduled for 2026.
Political analysts warn that continued violence could destabilise the fragile political environment and undermine confidence in the democratic process. The interim administration faces mounting pressure to restore law and order, ensure impartial investigations, and prevent further escalation.
As Bangladesh grapples with these developments, civil society groups and international observers are calling for restraint, transparent investigations, and dialogue to prevent the situation from spiralling further out of control.
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