Bangladesh is grappling with escalating internal unrest and growing diplomatic tensions following the assassination of student leader Sharif Osman Hadi earlier this month. The crisis has intensified pressure on the interim government while straining relations with neighbouring India.
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On the diplomatic front, Bangladesh has suspended all consular and visa services at its High Commission in New Delhi, citing unavoidable circumstances. The move followed a small protest outside the mission, after which officials said the Bangladeshi high commissioner received death threats.
“We are deeply concerned about developments in Bangladesh. Calls to cut off India’s Chicken’s Neck are delusional and impossible. The drive to identify and expel Bangladeshi infiltrators from Assam will continue without pause.”
— CM @himantabiswa 🇮🇳#NationalSecurity pic.twitter.com/rJGomo7a86
— The Alternate Media (@AlternateMediaX) December 23, 2025
India responded by temporarily suspending operations at its Visa Application Centre in Chattogram, citing security concerns. High commissioners of both countries have since been summoned, signalling a sharp deterioration in bilateral ties.
Domestically, Hadi’s killing has triggered widespread protests, with mobs setting fire to buildings in Dhaka, including offices of leading newspapers The Daily Star and Prothom Alo. The unrest has fuelled fears of “mobocracy” and raised alarms about press freedom and public safety.
Student group Inqilab Moncho has threatened to launch a movement to topple the interim government, holding it responsible for failing to protect Hadi. The group demanded the resignations of senior advisers and warned that no elections should take place until justice is delivered.
🇧🇩 What’s really happening in Bangladesh? A deep dive 👇
Bangladesh’s unrest isn’t sudden chaos—it’s the outcome of years of political, economic & social pressure boiling over ⚠️
🗳️ Politics
Power has remained concentrated under Sheikh Hasina for years.
Opposition alleges:
•… pic.twitter.com/fpfFRHExYa— Mohit Khatri (@MohitKhatriJSM) December 22, 2025
In response, Law Adviser Asif Nazrul announced that the murder case would be sent to a speedy trial tribunal, with a verdict expected within 90 days. Police said 17 people have been arrested in connection with the attacks on media houses.
Journalists across Dhaka staged protests, condemning arson attacks and death threats against media workers. Editors warned that threats have moved beyond criticism to direct calls for violence against journalists and their families.
Political leaders from across the spectrum have expressed concern over the spiralling violence as Bangladesh prepares for elections scheduled for February. Observers warn that unless tensions are eased, the overlapping political turmoil and diplomatic crisis could further destabilise the country.