Hundreds of thousands of people gathered to attend the funeral of Sharif Osman Hadi, a leading Bangladeshi activist who died from gunshot wounds sustained in an attack in Dhaka earlier this month. His death has sent shockwaves across the nation and reignited deep emotions at a critical moment in Bangladesh’s political journey.

Sharif Osman Hadi was not an ordinary man. At just 32 years of age, he emerged as a powerful symbol of change, a young revolutionary who awakened a nation. He inspired people with courage, hope, and an unshakable belief that transformation is possible when citizens stand together and raise their voices as one. To many, Hadi represented the idea that real change begins when fear is replaced by collective resolve.

Hadi played an active role in last year’s political uprising that brought an end to former prime minister Sheikh Hasina’s 15-year rule. His activism and outspoken stance made him a prominent figure among the youth and civil society, and a strong advocate for democratic reform.

Police said they had identified suspects and that the shooter had most probably fled to India, where Hasina has been in exile. The development sparked a new diplomatic squabble with India and prompted New Delhi this week to summon Bangladesh’s envoy. Bangladesh also summoned the Indian envoy to Dhaka. Security was tight in Dhaka on Saturday as the funeral prayers were held outside the nation’s parliament complex.

Hadi served as a spokesperson for the Inqilab Moncho cultural group and was known for his outspoken criticism of both Hasina and India. He was planning to contest the February elections as an independent candidate in a major Dhaka constituency. "You are in our hearts, and you will remain in the heart of all Bangladeshis as long as the country exists," interim leader Muhammad Yunus said in an emotional speech in front of the parliament building, where funeral prayers were held.

He was laid to rest on the Dhaka University campus, beside the grave of Bangladesh’s national poet, Kazi Nazrul Islam.

Mourners waved national flags and chanted slogans pledging to continue Hadi’s struggle. However, Hadi's death has triggered unrest, with protesters across the South Asian nation demanding the arrest of those responsible. people set fire to several buildings in Dhaka including the offices of leading newspapers Prothom Alo and the Daily Star, accused by critics of favouring India. Bangladeshi police said they had launched a manhunt for his killers but have yet to report progress.

Sharif Osman Hadi’s life may have been brief, but his impact was profound and enduring. His courage ignited hope in a generation that dares to believe in change through unity and resistance. As Bangladesh moves forward, his sacrifice stands as a powerful reminder that the struggle for justice does not end with one voice it multiplies through many.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)