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Who is Motaleb Sikder?: The development comes as protests erupted across Bangladesh after the killing of Hadi, who was a key figure in student-led protests in the country last year which ousted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina from power.

The Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi said on Monday that all consular and visa services have been temporarily suspended until further notice.

Bangladesh's move came after a demonstration, which has also triggered a strong statement by Dhaka, even as it struggles to tackle protests against Indian missions on its soil.

Tarique Rahman's return comes at a politically significant moment, just months ahead of national elections scheduled in Bangladesh for February 2026.

Motaleb Sikder was shot in the head in southwestern Khulna city on Monday, according to Bangladesh news portal The Daily Star.

Another Bangladesh student leader, Motaleb Shikder, was shot in Khulna, just days after the killing of Sharif Osman Hadi.

An Awami League leader, whose father was a freedom fighter, broke down talking to India Today TV recounting the ordeal: "Almost a year and two months ago, our house was attacked, and he was attacked as well, despite having sacrificed everything for the country. They are doing mob justice in the name of Allah."

Foreign Affairs expert Robinder Sachdev on Monday expressed serious concern over the current public sentiment and statements emerging from leaders in Bangladesh against India and the seven sister states, describing them as "threats" targeting Northeast India and warning that these elements in the neighbouring country are actively seeking ways to "hurt" the nation.

Bangladesh Police said the agencies are actively trying to locate Faisal Karim Masud, identified as the gunman in the shooting.