India, Dec. 20 -- The killing of Sharif Osman Hadi, a controversial Islamist figure known for his strident anti-India views, has triggered widespread street protests across Bangladesh, with demonstrators openly targeting India and its diplomatic presence. Security analysts and former diplomats have pointed to a possible Pakistan-backed Jamaat-e-Islami role in amplifying the unrest ahead of Bangladesh's crucial elections.

Within hours of news of Hadi's death emerging late Thursday, large crowds gathered in Dhaka, Chittagong and Rajshahi, raising slogans against India while demanding justice for the slain leader. Attempts were made to march towards the Indian High Commission in the capital, while protesters in Chittagong and Rajshahi surro...