By The South Asia Times

DHAKA – Thousands of mourners gathered in Dhaka on Saturday  to attend the funeral prayers of Sharif Osman Hadi, a 32-year-old youth leader and political activist who died days after being shot in the head by unidentified assailants, in a killing that has sparked political tension and widespread speculation.

Hadi, a spokesperson for the Inquilab Mancha (Platform for Revolution) and a prominent figure in protests that led to the ouster of former prime minister Sheikh Hasina, was attacked by masked gunmen in Dhaka last Friday while launching his campaign ahead of upcoming elections.

He was initially rushed to a local hospital before being airlifted to Singapore for advanced medical treatment. After spending six days on life support, Hadi succumbed to his injuries, according to family members and party officials.

Funeral prayers were held after afternoon prayers around 2 p.m. in front of the National Parliament building on Manik Mia Avenue.

Political Context and Allegations

Hadi was known as a vocal critic of India’s role in Bangladesh’s internal politics, particularly after former prime minister Sheikh Hasina fled the country following mass protests. Hasina is currently residing in India, and New Delhi has not complied with Dhaka’s requests for her extradition, despite court orders and verdicts issued in Bangladesh against the former leader.

Some political analysts and activists have alleged possible foreign involvement including Indian intelligence agency in Hadi’s killing, citing his outspoken criticism of India and expectations that he would win his parliamentary seat in the upcoming elections. These analysts argue that his rising popularity made him a political threat.

However, no official evidence has been presented linking any foreign government or intelligence agency to the attack, and Bangladeshi authorities have not named any suspects.

Regional and International Claims

The killing has also revived broader regional debates following previous allegations against India. Canada has accused Indian agents of involvement in the killing of a Sikh activist on its soil, while U.S. authorities have previously accused Indian intelligence operatives of plotting an attack against an American citizen.

Separately, Australian authorities are reportedly investigating aspects of a recent attack near Bondi Beach, after photos circulated on social media purportedly showing the attacker seated with another individual in Manila, Philippines. Social media users have claimed the other person was an Indian defence attaché, but there is no confirmation from Australian, Philippine, Indian or any other official sources that the attacker met any Indian official.

Calls for Investigation

Hadi’s supporters have demanded a transparent and independent investigation into his killing, warning that political violence could undermine Bangladesh’s fragile transition period.

Authorities in Dhaka have said investigations are ongoing.

As of now, all allegations of foreign involvement remain unproven, and officials have urged the public to avoid speculation while the probe continues.