After the death of prominent youth leader Sharif Usman Hadi in Bangladesh, the atmosphere of the country has become very tense. Supporters associated with Inquilab Manch took to the streets and staged violent demonstrations in many cities. Incidents of arson and vandalism were reported at various places, due to which normal life came to a standstill.
During this violence, a Hindu youth was beaten to death by the mob, while many buildings and vehicles were damaged. The situation worsened so much that security forces had to make additional deployment in many areas. The most worrying aspect of the violence was that the offices of the country’s two largest media organizations, Pratham Aalo and Daily Star, were also targeted by the mob in Dhaka. The protesters vandalized these offices and set them on fire. These incidents have raised serious questions on press freedom and democratic values in Bangladesh. There is an atmosphere of fear among journalists and media personnel.
What is Mohammad Yunus doing to stop such incidents?
Tharoor said in a post, ‘This is an unbearable tragic incident amid violence in Bangladesh. While condoling the death of this poor Hindu man at the hands of these ruthless criminals, I appreciate the condemnation issued by the Government of Bangladesh, but would like to ask what they are doing to punish the killers and what steps they are taking to prevent the recurrence of such incidents?
An unbearably tragic incident amid the mob rule that is raging across Bangladesh. While mourning the loss of this poor Hindu man at the hands of unspeakable criminals, I appreciate the condemnation issued by the Government of Bangladesh, but must ask them what they are doing to…
— Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) December 20, 2025
Tharoor also spoke about attacks on media outlets
Congress leader Shashi Tharoor has given a sharp reaction to the violence taking place in Bangladesh. He said that the news coming from there is very disturbing. Attacks on media institutions do not just damage buildings, but are a direct attack on the freedom of the press and the foundation of a pluralistic society. He also expressed serious concern about the safety of all journalists including Daily Star editor Mahfooz Anam and said that in any democracy, journalists cannot be forced to work under the shadow of fear.
Indian visa services affected
In view of the increasing security risk, India has temporarily suspended visa services at its subsidiary High Commissions in Khulna and Rajshahi. Shashi Tharoor said that this will have a direct impact on students, patients coming to India for treatment and families who were expecting normal cross-border movement.
Concern over violence before elections
National elections are to be held in Bangladesh in February 2026. At such a time, the increase in violence, intolerance and mobocracy is a dangerous sign for the democratic process. Shashi Tharoor warned that if the situation is not controlled, it may affect the fairness and credibility of the elections.
Appeal for peace from the interim government
Shashi Tharoor appealed to the interim government of Bangladesh that the safety of journalists, diplomatic missions and ordinary citizens should be the top priority. He said that mob rule weakens democracy and concrete steps have to be taken to stop it. Urging interim President Mohammad Yunus to take personal initiative, he said that only dialogue, law and order and restoration of trust can take the country towards stability.
Also read: 7 arrests in the case of mob lynching of Hindu youth in Bangladesh, Mohammad Yunus finally bowed down after all-round criticism
