Bangladesh is facing heightened political tension following violence and the death of Sharif Osman bin Hadi, convener of Inquilab Moncho, as the country moves toward general elections. Amid the unrest, BNP leader Tarique Rahman, son of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, is planning to return to Bangladesh on December 25 after years in exile in London, according to Prothom Alo.
Meanwhile, Foreign Secretary Asad Alam Siam briefed foreign diplomats, including India’s envoy, on security arrangements for the elections, assuring them that the government has strengthened protection for diplomatic missions and is committed to holding peaceful polls.
Protesters also torched again 32 Dhanmandi, the home of Bangladesh’s founding father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. Protesters also hurled bricks and stones at the residence the Assistant Indian High Commissioner in Chattogram, at 1:30 am, but failed to cause any damage. Police responded with tear gas and baton charges, dispersing the crowd and detaining 12 protesters. Senior officials assured the assistant high commissioner of security.