Yunus says ‘Osman Hadi will live in our hearts,’ 10 arrested in Dipu Chandra Das killing | Top updates

Osman Hadi will live in our hearts: Yunus vows to follow anti-India leader's ideals

Bangladesh witnessed massive public mobilisation on Saturday as hundreds of thousands gathered in Dhaka to attend the funeral of activist Osman Hadi, whose killing has deepened political unrest ahead of the February parliamentary elections.

The emotionally charged farewell unfolded under heavy security near the Parliament complex, reflecting escalating tensions nationwide.

Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus led tributes at the funeral, vowing to carry forward Hadi’s ideals and reform the country’s political culture. The developments come amid diplomatic strain with India and renewed concerns over internal stability and minority safety.

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Huge turnout in Dhaka: From early morning, mourners flooded Manik Mia Avenue, many wrapped in the national flag and raising slogans demanding accountability for Hadi’s killing.

Chief Adviser Yunus pays tribute: Muhammad Yunus said, “Dear Osman Hadi, we have not come here to say goodbye. You live within our hearts. As long as Bangladesh exists, you will remain an inseparable part of this nation.”

Yunus on Hadi’s political style: He said Hadi showed how to engage people with humility and dignity, adding, “We want to elevate our political culture to a level where Hadi’s example remains vividly alive.”

Heavy security deployment: Police with body cameras, Border Guard Bangladesh personnel, and additional forces were stationed across key locations as the national flag was lowered to half-staff.

Burial under restrictions: Janaza prayers were led by Hadi’s elder brother, Abu Bakar. Burial at Dhaka University was restricted to select attendees, though tens of thousands joined the prayers.

Political slogans raised: Chants such as "Delhi or Dhaka - Dhaka, Dhaka" and "brother Hadi's blood will not be allowed to go in vain" echoed during the procession.

Who was Osman Hadi: A spokesperson of Inqilab Moncho, Hadi rose to prominence during last year’s uprising that ended Sheikh Hasina’s 15-year rule.

Timeline of killing: Hadi was shot on December 12 in Dhaka, flown to Singapore for treatment, and died on Thursday. His body was returned late Friday.

India link allegation: Police claim that some suspects may have fled to India, triggering diplomatic exchanges as envoys from both New Delhi and Dhaka are summoned.

24-hour ultimatum issued: Abdullah Al Jaber of Inquilab Mancha demanded the government disclose steps taken to arrest Hadi’s killers within 24 hours.

Election backdrop: The funeral comes weeks ahead of the February 12 parliamentary elections, with political tensions already running high.

Separate murder arrests: Ten people were arrested for the killing of Dipu Chandra Das, a 27-year-old Hindu youth, in Mymensingh.

Protests in West Bengal: In Siliguri, the Bangiya Hindu Manch held a torchlight march and burned an effigy of Muhammad Yunus over alleged attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh.

Minority safety concerns raised: Protesters accused the Bangladeshi administration of failing to protect Hindus and called for international intervention.

A seven-year-old girl was burnt to death and three others, including a BNP leader, were critically injured after their house was allegedly locked from outside and set on fire in Lakshmipur Sadar, Bangladesh, amid rising unrest.

Police said the attack targeted the home of BNP leader Belal Hossain, with petrol reportedly used to torch the house in the early hours of Saturday. Two teenage girls suffered severe burns and were shifted to Dhaka for treatment, while investigations are underway to identify the attackers and motive.