Bangladesh witnessed an unprecedented public gathering on Saturday as millions attended the funeral of Sharif Osman Hadi, spokesperson of the Inquilab Manch and a key figure in the July movement. The funeral prayer took place at the South Plaza of the National Parliament, followed by burial beside poet Kazi Nazrul Islam’s grave at Dhaka University. The event drew people from across the country, turning central Dhaka into a sea of mourners. Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus, political leaders, and diplomats joined the ceremony, expressing grief and pledging to continue Hadi’s struggle for justice and sovereignty.

Hadi, 32, died in a Singapore hospital after being shot in Dhaka on December 12. His death has sparked widespread outrage, with his supporters demanding the arrest of those responsible. Dr. Yunus called Hadi a symbol of national pride, while Hadi’s brother urged exemplary punishment for the killers. Following the funeral, protesters at Shahbagh issued a 24-hour ultimatum for the Home Adviser’s resignation, warning of intensified demonstrations if demands remain unmet.

The massive turnout underscored Hadi’s influence among youth and the growing frustration over political violence and impunity in Bangladesh.