Dhaka: Bangladesh, which has maintained cordial relations with India for decades, is witnessing renewed political tension and violence amid allegations of a conspiracy to create rifts between the two neighbours. Following the death of student leader Sharif Osman Hadi, unrest has once again erupted in parts of the country, raising concerns over internal stability and regional relations.
Protesters have alleged that the killing was part of a larger conspiracy and claimed that the accused fled to India. Demonstrators attempted to march towards Indian diplomatic establishments, leading to tense moments near the Indian Deputy High Commission in Chittagong. Observers note that the developments come as Bangladesh prepares for general elections scheduled in February 2026, with political parties accused of mobilising public sentiment for electoral gains.
Political Rivalry Intensifies
Bangladesh is currently witnessing sharp political competition between traditional parties such as the Bangladesh Nationalist Party and Jamaat-e-Islami, and emerging student-led political forces, including the National Citizen Party. Analysts say the instability that followed the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government has created space for fringe elements to target institutions identified with Bengali culture.
An attack on the historic cultural organisation Chhayanaut in Dhaka has triggered widespread concern among intellectuals and civil society, who view it as an assault on the country’s cultural identity.
Major Political Forces
The political landscape underwent a major shift after the student uprising in August 2024, which led to the collapse of the Sheikh Hasina government.
The Bangladesh Nationalist Party, led by former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, is widely seen as the strongest contender in the upcoming elections. The Bangladesh Awami League, which ruled for nearly 15 years under Sheikh Hasina, has seen its leadership weakened, with several leaders either arrested or leaving the country, casting uncertainty over its electoral prospects. Jamaat-e-Islami, previously banned, has regained ground under the interim administration, particularly among youth and rural voters.
Student-Led Political Platforms
The National Citizen Party was formed in February 2025 by student leaders emerging from the movement that toppled the Hasina government. Projecting itself as a reform-oriented alternative to traditional parties, the group has gained traction among young voters. Inquilab Mancha, a political platform linked to student activism, came into focus following the killing of Sharif Osman Hadi, a key member, which triggered fresh unrest.
Alleged External Influence
Political analysts have pointed to a possible role of Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence in fomenting unrest. It is alleged that extremist religious forces are being encouraged to undermine Bangladesh’s Bengali language and cultural heritage. Some observers have drawn parallels with the events of 1971, when Bengali intellectuals and artists were targeted, suggesting similar patterns may be re-emerging.
Concerns Over Secular Identity
There is growing concern that the violence is aimed at weakening India-Bangladesh relations, with attacks reported on media organisations perceived as sympathetic to India. Intellectuals warn that continued assaults on cultural institutions could erode Bangladesh’s secular character and push the country towards religious extremism.
The international community has also expressed concern, cautioning that failure by the interim government to contain the unrest could lead to serious political and social consequences. Analysts argue that sustained religious violence could destabilise Bangladesh and adversely impact regional security.