Digital Team
Fresh shooting in Khulna deepens political instability, raises regional security concerns
India is on increased alert as unrest in Bangladesh continues to escalate after a second high-profile shooting within days, with concerns of political violence, extremist mobilisation and the safety of minority groups ahead of the country’s February 2026 elections leading the way to more such events. The latest attack on a leader associated with the opposition in Khulna represents worsening instability also raising the specter of cross-border risks.
Fresh Shooting Alarms Dhaka and New Delhi
Bangladesh suffers a fresh bout of turmoil on Monday after Muhammad Motaleb Sikdar, Khulna divisional leader of the National Citizen Party, is shot in the head in broad daylight. Sikdar is taken to Khulna Medical College Hospital for treatment, where his condition remains critical. The attack follows a spate of killings, including a young leader by the name of Sharif Osman Bin Hadi, that began amid widespread unrest across Dhaka and other big cities. The attacks have fueled fears of a coordinated campaign of political violence.
Bangladesh Unrest Ahead of 2026 Elections
With nationwide elections scheduled for February 2026, street protests in Bangladesh are also growing, with targets of violence, together with political confrontations. Election cycles in the country tend to see an increase in the kind of turmoil that has happened since election cycles, but now such cycles are particularly severe, security analysts say. Government buildings, transport hubs and commercial areas in parts of Dhaka and Khulna have seen sporadic clashes, forcing authorities to send troops.
India Closely Monitoring Developments
India is watching the unrest in Bangladesh carefully, particularly since the violence is so near its eastern border. Official accounts suggest New Delhi has expressed to Dhaka that it has been concerned about growing volatility, attacks on minorities and spreading anti-India narratives on social media. “The state of affairs has regional dimensions and cannot be regarded as either domestic legal or civil issue by itself,” a senior official in close knowledge of the matter told The Times.
Minority Safety Under Scrutiny
Rights groups and local observers have flagged renewed attacks on Hindu minorities in some parts of Bangladesh as the unrest breaks out. Though the Bangladeshi government has said it is working toward returning a semblance of order, community leaders have insisted its protection measures need to be tougher and it needs to have serious consequences. International human rights organisations are tracking developments, calling for transparent investigations into political killings and communal violence.
Political Fallout and Struggle for Power
The deaths of Hadi and the shooting of Sikdar have further frayed the political strata, including parties backed by the BNP, Islamist groups and independent youth platforms. Analysts say internal power struggles, funding disputes and candidate selections before elections might also be involved. Security experts caution against making premature conclusions, pointing to the fact that investigations are ongoing.
What All this Means for Regional Stability
India’s strategic community perceives continued instability in Bangladesh as a threat to border security, the flow of refugees and regional trade. With memories of prior cross-border spillovers running high, policymakers focus on political dialogue and institutional stability in Dhaka.
What Comes Next
The Bangladesh unrest that’s unfolding means a bumpy road for the 2026 elections. Amid intensifying political violence and minority dissent, Dhaka and New Delhi alike have grave decisions to make. Reinstating law and order, having transparent investigations, and protecting democratic procedures will be crucial in preventing further upheaval in the area.
Also Read:
FAQs
Q: Why is Bangladesh facing unrest right now?
A: Political killings, election-related tensions, and street mobilisation ahead of the 2026 polls have triggered instability.
Q: Who is Muhammad Motaleb Sikdar?
A: He is the Khulna divisional leader of the National Citizen Party, critically injured in a shooting on Monday.
Q: How is India responding to the Bangladesh unrest?
A: India is monitoring developments closely and has raised concerns over security and regional stability.
Q: Are minorities being targeted during the unrest?
A: Rights groups report renewed concerns over attacks on Hindu minorities in certain areas.
Q: When are Bangladesh elections scheduled?
A: National elections are expected in February 2026.
References:
