Motaleb Sikder, a senior student leader of Bangladesh’s National Citizen Party (NCP), was shot in the head by unidentified attackers in the southwestern city of Khulna on Monday, according to local media reports. Authorities confirmed that Sikder is now out of danger and receiving medical care.
The incident comes just days after the killing of Sharif Osman Hadi, another prominent student leader, raising concerns about growing violence targeting youth political figures in the country.
According to The Daily Star, Sikder was attacked near Gazi Medical College Hospital around 11:45 am. He was immediately taken to Khulna Medical College Hospital, where doctors began emergency treatment. Hospital sources later confirmed that his condition had stabilised.
Police officials said the bullet entered through one side of Sikder’s ear and exited without causing life-threatening damage. An investigation is underway, and no arrests have been announced so far.
Who Is Motaleb Sikder?
Motaleb Sikder, 42, is a senior leader of the National Citizen Party (NCP). He serves as the Khulna Division head of the party and is also the central coordinator of its workers’ front, according to an official statement released by the NCP following the attack.
The party confirmed the incident in a Facebook post, stating that Sikder was shot but survived and is currently safe.
Sikder is reported to have played a significant role in Bangladesh’s student-led political movements in the past. He is a resident of Sheikhpara Palli in Khulna’s Sonadanga area.
Attack Follows Osman Hadi’s Killing
The shooting of Sikder occurred shortly after the death of Sharif Osman Hadi, a prominent student leader and spokesperson for Inqilab Mancha. Hadi was shot by masked gunmen during an election campaign event in Dhaka’s Bijoynagar area on December 12. He later died while undergoing treatment in Singapore.
Hadi, 32, was a candidate in the upcoming general elections scheduled for February 12.
Rising Concerns
These back-to-back attacks have sparked renewed concern over the safety of student leaders and political activists in Bangladesh. Law enforcement agencies have said they are investigating both cases to identify those responsible.
