Diplomatic face-off with India, angry protests spill to Kolkata: 10 points on Bangladesh unrest

By Admin

23 Dec, 2025

Bangladesh is witnessing one of its most volatile phases in recent years, with internal unrest now triggering diplomatic tensions with India and protests spilling onto Indian streets. From mob violence and attacks on minorities to threats against the interim government, the situation has escalated rapidly. Here is a clear breakdown of the 10 key developments shaping the unfolding crisis.

1. Visa Services Suspended Amid Security Concerns
Bangladesh has suspended visa services indefinitely at its High Commission in New Delhi and missions in Tripura and Siliguri, citing security threats after protests near diplomatic premises. In response, India summoned Bangladesh’s envoy and lodged strong objections over attacks on minorities and threats to diplomatic missions.

2. Protests Erupt Outside Bangladesh High Commission in Kolkata
Public anger in India has spilled onto the streets of Kolkata, where large demonstrations broke out outside the Bangladesh High Commission. Protesters condemned the lynching of a Hindu man in Bangladesh and warned of intensified agitation, including potential border blockades.

3. Lynching of Dipu Chandra Das Shocks the Region
The brutal killing of Dipu Chandra Das, a Hindu garment worker in Mymensingh, has become a symbol of law-and-order collapse. He was reportedly dragged from his factory, beaten, hung, and set on fire by a mob. Authorities say the killing unfolded over several hours and was not spontaneous.

4. Blasphemy Allegation Found Baseless
Investigations have found no evidence that Dipu Chandra Das made blasphemous remarks or social media posts. Officials now believe the allegation was vague and unverified, possibly used as a pretext, with a workplace dispute emerging as the likely trigger.

5. Factory Officials Among Those Arrested
At least 12 people have been arrested so far, including factory supervisors and co-workers. Investigators revealed that Dipu was forced to resign and pushed out of the factory instead of being handed over to the police, a delay authorities say proved fatal.

6. Murder of Osman Hadi Sparks Nationwide Unrest
The assassination of Osman Hadi, a prominent youth leader who emerged from last year’s July uprising against Sheikh Hasina, has ignited protests across Bangladesh. Shot in Dhaka and later airlifted to Singapore, Hadi’s death has turned him into a rallying point for radical mobilisation.

7. Inquilab Mancho Issues Ultimatum to Interim Government
The protest platform Inquilab Mancho, led by Hadi’s associates, has threatened the interim government with a mass movement if justice is not delivered. The group has demanded a speedy trial tribunal and even foreign investigative assistance, warning of efforts to topple the government.

8. Media Houses Attacked, Journalists Trapped
Violence has extended to the press, with mobs vandalising and torching the offices of The Daily Star and Prothom Alo. Journalists were trapped inside burning buildings for hours. Editors say the attacks were meant to silence independent media rather than protest coverage.

9. Minorities Take to Streets Amid Growing Fear
Hindu and other minority communities have staged protests across Dhaka and other regions, accusing the interim government of failing to prevent targeted violence. Rights groups warn that minorities feel increasingly unsafe since the fall of Sheikh Hasina’s government.

10. Yunus Reiterates Election Promise Despite Instability
Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus has reaffirmed that general elections will be held on February 12, stating that the government is prepared to manage the challenges. However, critics question whether free and peaceful polls are feasible amid assassinations, mob violence, and deepening political instability.

As unrest deepens and diplomatic tensions rise, Bangladesh stands at a critical crossroads. With violence crossing borders and public trust eroding, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether stability can be restored or the crisis will further escalate.