In a bizarre and confrontational turn of events, Sharif Osman Hadi, the spokesperson for the prominent activist group Inquilab Manch, was repeatedly targeted with dirty water while campaigning in the capital. The incident occurred in the AGB Colony area of Motijheel, a key hub within the Dhaka-8 constituency where Hadi is currently canvassing for support as an independent candidate.
Table of Contents
Details of the Incident
The confrontation came to light via a video circulated across social media platforms on Saturday, 15 November. The footage captures a visibly damp but defiant Hadi addressing those responsible for the harassment. According to his account in the video, he was doused with “dirty water” on three separate occasions during his tour of the residential colony.
Rather than retreating, Hadi appeared to use the moment to demonstrate his resolve. In the viral clip, he is heard calmly challenging his detractors:
“Brother, if you are throwing dirty water, you may throw more. No problem, go ahead. They have thrown dirty water three times already.”
The “dirty water”—often a euphemism in local contexts for sewage or waste-contaminated water—was reportedly thrown from the upper floors of the residential blocks as Hadi and his supporters passed through the narrow lanes of the AGB Colony.
The Race for Dhaka-8
Sharif Osman Hadi is contesting the upcoming national parliamentary election as an independent candidate. His bid for a seat in the Jatiya Sangsad focuses on Dhaka-8, one of the most politically significant and diverse constituencies in the city. The area is a mix of high-stakes commercial zones and dense residential neighbourhoods.
The incident highlights the intensifying friction on the campaign trail as independent candidates and grassroots organisers attempt to challenge established political structures. Despite the hostile reception in Motijheel, Hadi’s supporters have indicated that his campaign schedule remains unchanged.
Constituency Profile: Dhaka-8
| Feature | Details |
| Candidate | Sharif Osman Hadi (Independent) |
| Affiliation | Spokesperson, Inquilab Manch |
| Key Areas | Shahbagh, Motijheel, Ramna, Paltan, Shahjahanpur |
| Incident Location | AGB Colony, Motijheel |
| Nature of Incident | Harassment (Repeated dousing with waste water) |
| Candidate Status | Continuing campaign activities |
Political Implications
The targeting of Hadi has sparked a debate on social media regarding the safety and decorum of electioneering in the capital. While some view the act as a spontaneous expression of local disapproval, others see it as a coordinated attempt to intimidate an independent voice.
As the election draws closer, the Dhaka-8 race is expected to be closely watched, particularly given the involvement of figures from the Inquilab Manch, a platform that has gained significant traction following recent political shifts in Bangladesh. For now, Hadi appears to be leveraging the incident to bolster his image as a resilient outsider, unfazed by the “dirty” tactics of his opponents.