The political turmoil in Bangladesh escalated following the murder of Motaleb Shikder, a notable student leader instrumental in the 2004 uprising. His assassination occurred in Khulna just days after Sharif Osman Hadi, associated with the 2024 movement that ousted Sheikh Hasina’s government, was also killed.
Mahmuda Mitu, the joint principal coordinator of the National Citizen Party (NCP), confirmed the shooting via a Facebook update, revealing that Shikder was targeted in southwestern Khulna city and transported to Khulna Medical College Hospital in critical condition, where he underwent emergency care.
“The Khulna Division head of NCP and central coordinator of the party’s workers front, Motaleb Shikder, was shot moments ago,” Mitu stated.
Shikder, who sustained a gunshot wound to the left side of his head and lost significant blood, was taken to City Imaging Centre, as reported by PTI. Police have initiated an “immediate manhunt” for the assailants.
This second incident of violence was reported amidst widespread outrage over the murder of Hadi, who was poised to compete in the upcoming general elections on February 12. He was fatally shot in the head on December 12 in the Bijoynagar area of central Dhaka.
Thousands reportedly attended Hadi’s funeral prayers, with many shouting anti-India slogans like “Delhi or Dhaka – Dhaka, Dhaka” and proclaiming, “brother Hadi’s blood will not be allowed to go in vain”.
There are claims that Hadi’s assassins escaped to India, prompting calls for the government to hold India accountable for alleged interference in Bangladesh.
Indian visa services at the Indian Visa Application Centre (IVAC) in Chattogram were also suspended on Sunday (December 21) due to security concerns.
First Published: Dec 22, 2025 4:31 PM IST
