Dhaka: Political unrest in Bangladesh has escalated sharply, with yet another high-profile killing reported amid tensions surrounding upcoming elections.
On Monday, Motaleb Sikdar, 42, the National Citizen Party (NCP) city president from Khulna, was shot dead near his residence in Khulna’s Sonadanga area by unidentified gunmen, according to party leader Mahmudah Mitu’s Facebook post.
Sikdar was reportedly preparing for a regional workers’ rally when the assailants shot him in the left side of his head. He was immediately taken to Khulna Medical College Hospital and later transferred to a city diagnostic center for further examination.
Local police confirmed that the investigation is ongoing. “We do not yet know who carried out the killing. The perpetrators were cruel, and a manhunt is underway to apprehend them,” a senior police officer told foreign media.
This killing follows the death of Sharif Usman Hadi, a young political leader who was shot on December 12 during a rally related to elections and succumbed to his injuries on December 18. Both Hadi and Sikdar were known for their anti-India stance and opposition to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government.
In recent days, incidents of violence have intensified. Reports indicate that a Hindu individual, Deepu Chandradas, was killed by a mob setting him on fire, highlighting a broader trend of targeted attacks. Analysts say these acts of violence have heightened tension in the lead-up to Bangladesh’s February 2026 elections.
Meanwhile, interim government chief Mohammad Yunus has reportedly been fostering closer ties with Pakistan and issuing signals to distance Bangladesh from India. NCP leader Hasnat Abdullah recently delivered provocative statements during a rally, suggesting assistance in separating northeastern Indian states from India, though these claims lack substantiated evidence.
India has expressed concern over the escalating violence. The Ministry of External Affairs stated, “We expect the Bangladesh interim government to take all necessary measures to maintain law and order internally and to ensure free and peaceful elections.”
The spate of targeted killings and unrest underscores the fragility of Bangladesh’s political environment, raising regional security concerns and placing additional pressure on authorities to prevent further bloodshed in the critical months leading up to the national elections.
With both political leaders and civilians falling victim, international observers continue to monitor the situation closely, urging swift action to restore stability and safeguard democratic processes in the country.
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