Laxmipur witnessed significant public unrest today as demonstrators called for justice in the killing of Shahid Sharif Osman Bin Hadi. Organised by the Inquilab Platform, the protest and subsequent road blockade took place at Jumur Bijoy Chottor in the heart of the district town around 1:00 pm.
The demonstration caused substantial disruption to vehicular traffic in and around the area, with commuters facing delays for several hours. Law enforcement personnel arrived on the scene and eventually restored order. Protesters carried banners, placards, and hand-written signs bearing slogans such as “March for Insaaf”, “We Demand Justice for Hadi”, and “No Protection for Murderers, Justice Now”.
Participants voiced frustration over the slow progress in the investigation of Hadi’s murder, which occurred several weeks ago. Many expressed concerns over the apparent inaction of law enforcement agencies in apprehending the perpetrators. Protesters warned that failure to deliver swift justice could escalate public unrest and lead to wider social instability. “If justice is not served, another ‘July incident’ could occur,” warned some of the demonstrators, alluding to past political unrest.
Among the participants were university students, including Saiful Islam, who remarked, “Had the administration acted with sincerity from the outset, we would not have needed to take to the streets today. We seek justice, not assurances.” Another student, Firoz Alam, added, “A person was murdered in broad daylight, yet there has been no tangible progress. This silence undermines our sense of security.”
Shahid Osman Bin Hadi, the Inquilab Platform’s convenor, had intended to contest the upcoming election as an independent candidate from Dhaka–8. He had been actively engaging in grassroots campaigning when, shortly after Friday prayers on 12 December, assailants on a motorcycle opened fire on him at Kalbert Road, Old Paltan, Dhaka, while he was travelling in a rickshaw. He was initially treated at Dhaka Medical College Hospital and Evercare Hospital before being transferred to Singapore for advanced medical care, where he succumbed to his injuries on 18 December.
The killing triggered widespread national outrage, prompting condemnation across political and social circles. The government pledged a thorough investigation and fair trial, while the Inquilab Platform has maintained ongoing campaigns to ensure justice is delivered.
Summary of Shahid Hadi’s Murder Case
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Shahid Sharif Osman Bin Hadi |
| Electoral Constituency | Dhaka–8 |
| Date of Attack | 12 December |
| Location | Kalbert Road, Old Paltan, Dhaka |
| Initial Hospitals | Dhaka Medical College, Evercare Hospital |
| Date of Death | 18 December, Singapore |
| Assailants | Unknown, motorcycle-borne attackers |
| Nature of Demonstration | Road blockade, banners, placards, public protest |
| Key Demands | Swift legal action, apprehension of murderers, security assurances |
The demonstration in Laxmipur underscores the continuing demand for accountability and transparency in the investigation of Hadi’s murder. Observers note that the pace and efficacy of the judicial response will be closely watched nationwide, as public confidence in law enforcement and the justice system remains under scrutiny.