The physical condition of Sharif Osman Hadi, who sustained a gunshot wound to the head, remains extremely critical, with little room for optimism at present. This was confirmed on Friday night, 12 December, by Dr Sayedur Rahman, Special Assistant to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, following an inspection of Hadi’s condition at Evercare Hospital in Dhaka at 9:30 PM.
Dr Rahman emphasised that the next 72 hours will be crucial, describing them as a highly vulnerable period for the patient. “The bullet entered just above the left ear and exited through the right side, causing severe damage to critical areas of the brain, including the brainstem, which controls vital life-sustaining functions,” he explained. Medical specialists classify this as a case of “massive brain injury,” reflecting the extent and gravity of the trauma.
At present, Hadi cannot undergo any further surgical intervention. He is being sustained on life support, with artificial respiration keeping him alive. While doctors cannot yet provide any assurances of recovery, signs of life are still being observed. Remarkably, during surgery, Hadi made slight efforts to breathe independently, signalling a faint yet persistent response.
Dr Rahman recounted the perilous journey leading up to the current state: Hadi had once gone into shock even before the operation commenced. During transfer via ambulance, he suffered profuse bleeding through the nose and throat, which has since been stabilised.
Professor Zahid Raihan, Head of the Neurosurgery Department at Dhaka Medical College, confirmed that Hadi experienced two cardiac arrests and significant blood loss following the incident. “He remains in the most critical state imaginable, yet is still alive. The outcome now rests in the hands of God,” he stated.
On the investigative front, Mohammad Harun Or Rashid, Deputy Commissioner of Motijheel, Dhaka Metropolitan Police, reported that authorities are thoroughly examining the scene, reviewing nearby CCTV footage, and attempting to identify those involved in the attack.
Concluding, Dr Rahman underscored the severity of the situation: “At this moment, there is no story of hope to share. We are closely monitoring his condition and will determine further steps based on developments.”
The unfolding medical drama underscores the fragile line between life and death as Hadi remains under constant critical care, with the next 72 hours proving decisive for his survival.