Student Leader Shot in Bangladesh Amid Unrest Over Osman Haidi’s Killing

Amid ongoing unrest in Bangladesh following the killing of student leader Osman Haidi, another student leader, Muhammad Motaleb Shikder of the National Citizen Party (NCP), was shot in the head in Khulna by unidentified gunmen. The incident occurred around 11:45 AM, and Shikder is currently receiving treatment at a hospital. According to Animesh Mondol, officer-in-charge (investigation), Shikder is out of danger as a bullet pierced through one side of his ear. He is undergoing a CT scan at a diagnostic center, and investigations are ongoing.
The attack on Shikder adds to the recent violence in Bangladesh, following the death of Sharif Osman Haidi, a radical student leader known for his anti-India stance. Haidi, who was shot dead last week in Dhaka, played a significant role in the student uprising that led to the removal of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. His death sparked violent protests in the country, leading to further unrest and attacks on minorities by Islamist groups.
The incident involving Shikder is particularly concerning as it comes ahead of the upcoming Bangladesh elections scheduled for February 2026. The targeting of the NCP student leader is likely to fuel tensions and violence, especially as the party, formed by students last year, aims to challenge the dominance of traditional political parties like Awami League and BNP.