Bangladesh is preparing for the burial of Sharif Osman Hadi beside the grave of national poet Kazi Nazrul Islam, a move that carries deep symbolic significance and sparks fresh debate in a politically charged nation. Authorities and supporters say the decision reflects Hadi’s prominence in the July 2024 Uprising movement and his role as a leading activist.
Hadi’s body returned to Dhaka from Singapore under tight security on Friday evening. Funeral arrangements are underway, with burial prayers scheduled after Zuhr on Saturday near the Dhaka University Central Mosque. The decision to bury him near the revered poet has drawn wide attention, both in support and in discussion across communities.
Who Was Osman Hadi & Why the Burial Next to Kazi Nazrul Islam?
Sharif Osman Hadi was a prominent student leader and convenor of Inqilab Mancha, a key group behind the July 2024 mass uprising that led to a significant regime change in Bangladesh. His strong influence among students and youth activists placed him at the centre of national politics.
His family requested that he be laid to rest beside the grave of Kazi Nazrul Islam — Bangladesh’s national poet and a figure synonymous with cultural pride and resistance. By granting this, authorities are acknowledging Hadi’s role in political activism.
Return to Dhaka and Funeral Plans
A Biman Bangladesh Airlines flight carrying Hadi’s body landed at Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport on Friday evening. Security forces maintained vigilance at the airport and along the route to the mortuary due to heightened tensions across the capital.
According to Inqilab Mancha, the procession now heads to the Dhaka University Central Mosque, where public homage will be paid before burial. Funeral prayers, or namaz‑e‑janaza, are scheduled for Saturday afternoon after Zuhr at Manik Mia Avenue.
Supporters have been urged to remain peaceful and maintain discipline during gatherings. The announcement also stated that there will be no direct public viewing of the body, in line with family wishes.
National Mourning and Government Response
The government declared a state of national mourning on Saturday, with flags to fly at half‑mast across public and private institutions, including overseas missions. Special prayers are being held in mosques and other places of worship to seek blessings for Hadi’s soul.
Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus vowed strict action against those responsible for Hadi’s killing and pledged to support his family, including his wife and child. He described Hadi as a symbol of protest and patriotism.
Protests and Public Reaction Across Bangladesh
Hadi’s death has triggered protests and unrest across Bangladesh. In Jhalokathi, his hometown, mourners blocked highways demanding justice. Demonstrations have continued in Dhaka, reflecting deep public grief and political tension.
Political parties, including the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), have paid homage, with senior leaders laying wreaths at the airport. Parties across the spectrum have called for calm and restraint during the mourning period.