Allegations of India’s ‘Targeted Killings’ Resurface After Sharif Osman Hadi Murder

Following the fatal shooting of Inquilab Manch spokesperson Sharif Osman Hadi, allegations surrounding India’s alleged “targeted killings” and cross-border terrorism have once again stirred debate in international and South Asian political circles.

The controversy has intensified amid the circulation of an analytical video by Indian journalist Palki Sharma and remarks by Canada-based Sikh leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, both of which have fueled renewed discussion over India’s alleged involvement in extraterritorial killings. The developments come while international scrutiny over the killing of Sikh leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada remains ongoing.

Observers note that Indian media often present news from a nationalist perspective. However, in a recent video analysis, Palki Sharma raised direct questions regarding the controversial activities of India’s foreign intelligence agency, the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW). Her report examined allegations linking India to the killing of Osman Hadi in Bangladesh, placing the incident within the broader international debate over alleged cross-border operations. The video has sparked widespread discussion on social media, with many praising her for addressing a sensitive issue.

From Canada to Bangladesh: Allegations of a Cross-Border Pattern

In her analysis, Sharma referenced India’s previous accusation in the killing of Sikh leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada, noting that Canadian authorities had claimed to possess credible evidence suggesting Indian involvement.

She suggested that the killing of Osman Hadi in Bangladesh could be viewed within a similar framework of alleged cross-border targeted operations. Sharma argued that repeated accusations of covert actions beyond national borders raise serious questions about a country’s international reputation and democratic credentials, stating that such actions are incompatible with democratic norms.

Online commentators have described Sharma’s approach as unusually bold within the regional media landscape, with some calling it a rare example of investigative courage on sensitive state-related issues in South Asia.

Sikh Leader’s Statement on Bangladesh Situation

Meanwhile, Sikh separatist leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannun released a video message expressing concern over the situation in Bangladesh. Referring to Osman Hadi as a “martyr,” Pannun alleged that Indian intelligence agencies were responsible for the killing due to Hadi’s stance on Bangladesh’s sovereignty. He called on Bangladeshis to oppose what he described as Indian interference and urged international attention to the issue. His comments have drawn mixed reactions across the region.

Regional and International Implications

Analysts warn that the growing number of allegations against India could pose challenges to regional stability in South Asia. They note that increased international attention, combined with critical media analysis, indicates that issues such as alleged targeted killings and cross-border operations are no longer confined to domestic debates but have become matters of global concern.

The killing of Sharif Osman Hadi has also triggered strong public reactions in Bangladesh, with sections of the population expressing anger over what they perceive as continued interference by India in Bangladesh’s internal affairs. While no conclusive findings have been made public, the allegations surrounding the incident have added strain to Bangladesh–India relations and raised concerns within diplomatic circles.