BNP condemns attack on Hadi, calls it part of a 'broader plot'

The BNP has strongly condemned the shooting of Sharif Osman Hadi, the aspiring candidate for Dhaka-8 in the upcoming national election and spokesperson of Inqilab Mancha, and demanded immediate arrest and exemplary punishment of those involved in the attack.

"This attack is part of a far-reaching and sinister plan. It is clearly a blueprint to sabotage the electoral environment by unleashing terrorism," the party said in a statement today (12 December).

"A vested quarter is trying to fish in troubled waters by staging such violent acts. They are deliberately spreading fear and panic in society to secure political gains," reads the statement.

The BNP also claimed that violent extremists remain active to serve narrow political interests.

The party further added that a conspiratorial group has been trying to push the country into chaos to obstruct what it described as the people's victory for democracy during the July Uprising.

The BNP said the shooting of Osman Hadi reflects that destructive agenda.

It warned citizens to remain alert against subversive activities, saying such attacks aim to halt the democratic process and disrupt the upcoming national polls.

The party said there is no alternative to taking firm action against those responsible. It urged people of all backgrounds to remain united to protect democracy, safeguard voting rights and ensure public security.

"Otherwise, the terrorists lying in wait will resurface and endanger the country's very existence," it said.

Armed assailants shot Osman Hadi in his head in the capital's Paltan area this afternoon, leaving him critically injured. He is undergoing treatment at Dhaka Medical College Hospital.