HRDB Appeals to Bangladesh Government for Justice in Killing of Sharif Osman Bin Hadi

Human Rights and Development for Bangladesh - HRDB has strongly condemned the killing of Sharif Osman Bin Hadi, a prominent leader of the July Movement and spokesperson of the Inqilab Manch, calling it a direct attack on democracy and the people’s struggle for justice in Bangladesh.

In a formal appeal addressed to Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus, conveyed through Bangladesh’s Ambassador to the United States, Tareq Md. Ariful Islam, HRDB expressed profound grief and outrage over what it described as a brutal and premeditated assassination.

According to HRDB, Osman Bin Hadi was shot in broad daylight shortly after Jumu’ah prayers on Friday, December 12, 2025, while participating in an election campaign. He was later flown to Singapore in critical condition, where he died during treatment.

HRDB stated that the killing was not merely an attack on an individual but an assault on Bangladesh’s sovereignty, democratic values, and the ongoing movement for justice and fundamental rights. The organization strongly condemned the incident and called for accountability at the highest level.

The human rights group further expressed grave concern that the identified perpetrators reportedly fled to neighboring India immediately after the attack. HRDB urged the Government of Bangladesh to take urgent diplomatic and legal steps to ensure their return and to bring them to justice under Bangladeshi law.

In its appeal, HRDB also called on the government to strengthen law and order nationwide and to ensure the safety of all activists associated with the July Movement. The organization warned that the frequent release on bail of individuals arrested with illegal weapons has created a climate of impunity, emboldening violent actors to commit further crimes.

HRDB demanded the swift arrest and prosecution of all those involved in the killing, including accomplices, and called for trials under a special tribunal if necessary. The organization also urged authorities to identify what it described as “cultural fascist forces” and media outlets allegedly spreading narratives against the July Movement, and to take appropriate legal action.

Emphasizing the national significance of Osman Bin Hadi’s sacrifice, HRDB said his death should serve as a source of inspiration for future generations. The organization called for formal state recognition of Sharif Osman Bin Hadi as a Shaheed, the establishment of a memorial and institution in his name, and the swift delivery of justice for his murder.

HRDB concluded its appeal by urging the Government of Bangladesh to treat these demands with the highest priority and to take immediate and decisive action to uphold justice, democracy, and human rights.

Akbar Uddin
MUNA East Zone
Cultural Media & Communication Department