Life stories 17/01/2026 15:56

Targeted Violence in Khulna: A Growing Crisis for Law and Order ⚠️🇧🇩

The region of Khulna, Bangladesh, has been shaken by a series of disturbing incidents that highlight the fragility of law and order. Following the killing of Osman Hadi by an unknown gunman, reports now claim that Motaleb Sikdar, the Khulna chief of the National Citizens Party, was shot in the head by unidentified assailants. The attack has triggered fresh waves of fear and uncertainty among local residents, intensifying concerns about political safety and community security.

A Pattern of Targeted Violence

These back‑to‑back attacks are not seen as isolated events. Observers describe them as part of a troubling pattern of targeted violence that risks destabilizing the region. Communities are increasingly anxious, questioning whether adequate protection exists not only for political workers but also for ordinary civilians. According to The Daily Star and Dhaka Tribune, Khulna has witnessed a rise in politically motivated attacks in recent years, raising alarm about the erosion of public trust in democratic processes.

Impact on Communities

For residents, the fear is palpable. The fact that such attacks occur in public spaces underscores the vulnerability of everyday life. Families worry about safety, businesses fear disruption, and political workers feel exposed. Analysts warn that if such incidents are not addressed firmly, they risk normalising violence as a way to settle disputes, weakening democratic institutions and eroding confidence in governance.

Calls for Accountability

Across the region, voices are demanding:

  • Swift and transparent investigations into both killings.

  • Strict accountability for perpetrators and any networks behind them.

  • Stronger security measures to protect political figures and civilians alike.

Civil society groups argue that restoring stability will require decisive action grounded in justice and the rule of law. Without visible accountability, the cycle of violence could continue unchecked.

Broader Implications

The attacks in Khulna reflect a broader challenge facing Bangladesh: balancing political competition with democratic stability. As BBC News and Reuters have noted in their coverage of South Asian politics, unchecked violence undermines not only local governance but also international confidence in a country’s democratic resilience.

A Clear Message

With tensions still high, the message remains clear: violence, regardless of motive, only fuels chaos and suffering — and never provides a lasting solution. The killings of Osman Hadi and Motaleb Sikdar serve as stark reminders that without justice, accountability, and stronger protections, communities remain vulnerable to fear and instability.

References (plain text):

  • The Daily Star – Coverage of political violence in Khulna and its impact on communities (2025)

  • Dhaka Tribune – Reports on rising attacks against political workers in Bangladesh (2025)

  • BBC News – Analysis of South Asian political stability and democratic challenges (2025)

  • Reuters – International perspective on targeted violence and governance in Bangladesh (2025)

👏 The path forward lies not in fear, but in justice — ensuring that democracy is defended against violence.

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