Bangladesh is going through a deep crisis today, a crisis that is not only political, but also social and moral. Violence, panic, rumors and uncertainty have created such instability in public life, where reason and restraint are often giving way to emotions. In this context, the biggest challenge before the state and society is how to remain calm in the midst of grief, anger and despair, how to ensure responsible behavior in moments of tension. History has repeatedly reminded us that wrong decisions in times of crisis not only damage the present, but also the future.
At the center of this turbulent time is the brutal murder of Sharif Osman Hadi, the spokesperson of the Inqilab Manch and a frontline fighter in the 24th mass uprising. His death at the Singapore General Hospital after seven days of battling for life after being shot by an assassin is a cause of deep grief not only for a family but for the entire nation. He was the voice that dreamed of a new political settlement in the post-coup period; that awakened hope, courage and a language of protest among the youth. That voice is silent today and this silence has cast a deep question mark on the security, justice and democratic journey of the state.
The loss of a citizen’s life can never be a ‘normal event’. Especially when that citizen becomes a symbol of a larger political and social movement. Hadi’s murder is a difficult test for the state. It is the state’s minimum duty to ensure a prompt, impartial and transparent investigation into this murder and exemplary punishment of the guilty. The speech to the nation by Dr. Muhammad Yunus, the chief advisor to the interim government, the declaration of state mourning and the decision to take responsibility for the family send a message of this responsibility. However, beyond the declaration and assurance, the most important thing is the practical implementation of the rule of law. If the culture of impunity cannot be broken, there will be a risk of such murders recurring in the future.
But when expressions of grief and anger turn violent, they defeat their own purpose. The vandalism and arson attacks on the offices of Prothom Alo and the Daily Star and a cultural institution in protest of Hadi’s murder are unacceptable. Media and cultural institutions are not just buildings made of bricks and stones; they are symbols of freedom of expression, coexistence of dissent, and the intellectual space of society. Attacks on these institutions are a blow to democracy. Violence is never justified, regardless of disagreement, anger, or political stance.
In particular, the incident of New Age editor Nurul Kabir being branded as ‘Awami Dosar’ further warns us. His vocal role against misrule during the Awami League regime is recorded in history. This tendency to make someone an enemy due to differences of opinion divides society, kills reason and ultimately paves the way for violence. If we choose labeling over reason today, then no one will be safe tomorrow.
Rumors and inflammatory statements are playing a major role behind this unrest. Unverified information, emotional posts and deliberate propaganda on social media are spreading anger among the public in an instant. Responsible citizenship in the digital age does not only mean voting; it also means verifying information, using moderate language and refraining from inflammatory content. Each false post is a spark of fire that can burn the entire society.
The role of state institutions is very important at this moment. Just as strictness is necessary to maintain law and order, gaining the trust of the people is equally important. Transparency, regular provision of information, and fair action can calm the situation. If police activity is unilateral or questionable, it will increase tension instead of reducing it. Therefore, along with the use of force, dialogue, explanation, and the politics of trust are essential.
At the same time, political parties, social organizations and influential citizens must also play a responsible role. Dialogue, not provocation; tolerance, not revenge, must be the guiding principles. The country is on the verge of elections. At this time, the patience of every party is being tested. If the leaders do not behave responsibly and do not restrain their workers, the situation will deteriorate further. Even the much-awaited elections may face uncertainty.
Elections are not just a process of changing power; they are a symbol of democratic continuity. Instability breaks that continuity. Sharif Osman Hadi’s dream was a just, democratic Bangladesh where human rights would be guaranteed and freedom of expression would be intact. To truly honor his memory, we must strengthen the democratic process, not violence.
The role of the youth in particular is very important here. The youth who were inspired by Hadi’s voice, today they have the most responsibility. We must remember that the future of the country is in their hands. Not destruction, but construction; not hatred, but reason, this philosophy can save the country from instability. A wrong decision taken under the influence of emotions can destroy the dreams of a generation.
Bangladesh stands today at a crossroads of crisis, opportunity and struggle. On one side there is grief, anger and uncertainty; on the other side there is the possibility of a democratic transition. Which path will be chosen depends on our collective wisdom and restraint. Remaining calm is not a weakness, but being able to remain calm in times of crisis is the greatest strength. That strength is what is needed the most today. If we can contain this strength, Hadi’s blood will not be in vain; rather, it will become the inspiration for a difficult but hopeful struggle on the path to a just, tolerant and democratic Bangladesh.
