Sylhet News Desk:
Dhaka, 06 February 2026: Protests started in front of State Guest Building Jamuna on the banners of Inkilab stage from late afternoon of 5 February 21 to demand trial for murdering Shahid Sharif Osman Hadi. Law enforcement did not use any force against protesters at first, even though demonstrations were banned in and around Jamuna.
On Friday, February 6, 2026, law enforcement forces used sound grenades and water cannons to control the situation as protesters tried to break through the barricade and move towards Jamuna. The government is clear that law and order forces did not fire any shots at this time.
In order to protect public order and ensure the safety of Hon’ble Chief Adviser, any type of meeting, procession, mass gathering and demonstration is prohibited in State Guest Building Jamuna and adjoining areas. In this context, the police completely systematically and legally dispersed the protesters. The Dhaka Metropolitan Police has confirmed that no lethal weapon was used at this time.
A total of 23 people, including Inkilab stage member Secretary Abdullah Al Jaber, were treated for injuries in the incident, according to information received from doctors on duty at Dhaka Medical College Hospital’s Emergency Department. However, none of them had gunshot wounds, the doctors on duty confirmed.
The government is unequivocally reaffirming that it is determined to prosecute the murder of Shahid Sharif Osman Hadi. The government is thoroughly reviewing the legal aspect of conducting an investigation under the UN and formal letters will be sent to relevant UN agencies on Sunday, February 8, 2026.
The allegations of excessive force used on protesters in various media outlets are not accurate.
The Government is calling on everyone to exercise patience, restraint and responsibility at this sensitive political time ahead of the forthcoming elections. Around 180 million people in the country are eagerly awaiting these elections. At the same time, the eyes of the international community are currently focused on Bangladesh. Many foreign journalists and observers have already arrived in Bangladesh.
The government is calling for the utmost responsibility and cooperation towards all citizens of the country with a view to ensuring festive, peaceful and participatory elections. The upcoming election is a historic milestone in the state’s democratic march. This electoral opportunity, won by long struggle, self-sacrifice and bloodshed, is of great significance for the nation.
This election must be held in a fair, beautiful, free and impartial manner to ensure the overall progress, stability and future development of the country. No deviation from this goal is acceptable. The Government believes that an acceptable, dignified and democratic election can be successfully implemented only through the collective responsible conduct and cooperation of all citizens in the country.