New York, USA — A peaceful human rights gathering took place in New York City, organized jointly by “We Are The Peoples” and “Patriots of Bangladesh,” drawing attention to concerns over regional stability in South Asia, alleged external dominance—particularly from India—over Bangladesh, and demands for justice in the high-profile killing of activist Sharif Osman Bin Hadi, widely referred to as Shaheed Osman Hadi.
The event brought together a diverse group of participants, including chief coordinators Jacob Milton Bolen and Neera from We Are The Peoples, along with key figures from Patriots of Bangladesh such as Abdul Kader Mohammad Alim, Jabed Uddin, Md. Azmat Ullah, Anwar Hossain, Gazi Dipon, prominent blogger Ruhul Khan, Bulbul Ahmed, Kamrul Khan, Dinaj Chowdhury, Patwari Ahmed, Tanvir, Hasib Uddin, Jewel Zakir, Atik Hossain, Mahasan Chowdhury, and other community leaders.
Also in attendance were international human rights lawyers, American human rights attorneys, New York borough lawyers, activists, army veterans, community representatives, and members of various social organizations.
The assembly highlighted ongoing worries about human rights conditions in South Asia, the protection of minority communities, and broader issues of political repression, violence, arson, and sexual assault.
Key Remarks from Organizers and Speakers
Jacob Milton Bolen, chief coordinator of We Are The Peoples, expressed profound concern over reports of violence against minorities, human rights violations, and political injustices across the region. He emphasized the need for serious attention to such allegations, stating:
“Any allegation of violence against minority communities, human rights abuses, or political injustice must be taken with the utmost seriousness. Wherever such incidents occur, they are a matter of grave concern for the international community. A transparent, impartial, and internationally credible investigation into the killing of Shaheed Osman Hadi is essential. Ensuring justice is not only a national responsibility—it reflects our collective commitment to global human rights.”
Abdul Kader Mohammad Alim, a coordinator from Patriots of Bangladesh, echoed these sentiments and called for swift action:
“Justice is not the responsibility of one nation alone; it represents our shared commitment to protecting human rights worldwide. An immediate, transparent, impartial, and internationally credible investigation must begin—because justice delayed is justice denied. Osman Hadi’s blood must not be in vain. A truly independent international inquiry is now imperative to identify the real perpetrators and bring them to justice. No influence, no compromise—we demand a neutral international investigation now.”
He further voiced alarm over reported instances of minority violence, arson, sexual assault, and political persecution in South Asia.
Statements from International Human Rights Lawyers
International human rights lawyers at the event described the killing of Shaheed Osman bin Hadi as deeply troubling, particularly amid allegations of conspiracy, premeditation, and possible cross-border elements. They urged an investigation in line with international standards:
“If allegations suggest international conspiracy or shelter in another country, the matter should be investigated under international law.”
They stressed that claims of violence, intimidation, discrimination, or politically motivated attacks against minorities transcend national boundaries and impact the global human rights landscape.
Calls from Community Leaders and Activists
Community representatives, social organization members, and human rights activists reinforced the demand for accountability. They noted that credible evidence of foreign involvement would warrant urgent attention from the United Nations and the broader international community, potentially leading to an independent probe.
“Comprehensive investigations and accountability are essential for recurring allegations of violence and persecution against minority communities. Any human rights violation—wherever it occurs—must fall under international law and justice,” they stated, reiterating calls for an immediate, transparent, and uninfluenced international investigation.
Background on Shaheed Osman Hadi
Sharif Osman Bin Hadi (also known as Osman Hadi), a 32-year-old prominent student activist and spokesperson for Inqilab Moncho, emerged as a key figure in Bangladesh’s 2024 July Uprising that contributed to the ousting of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. He was shot by masked assailants in Dhaka on December 12, 2025, during an apparent assassination attempt while campaigning or in public. Airlifted to Singapore for treatment, he succumbed to his injuries on December 18, 2025. His death sparked widespread protests, unrest, and demands for justice in Bangladesh, with the interim government seeking UN assistance for a fair probe amid allegations of political motivations and possible external links.
The New York gathering reflects growing diaspora activism calling for regional peace, an end to perceived dominance in South Asian affairs, and unwavering pursuit of justice for high-profile cases like that of Shaheed Osman Hadi. Organizers vowed to continue advocacy until transparent accountability is achieved.
