At least 15 people were injured in clashes between Jamaat-e-Islami and BNP activists in the Charshahir Bottola area of Chandraganj in Lakshmipur on Thursday evening, as tensions escalated in the locality.
According to police and eyewitnesses, supporters of both parties engaged in attacks and counter-attacks following an altercation reportedly during a campaign programme.
The injured were taken to Lakshmipur Sadar Hospital for treatment.
Tension continued in the area after the incident, prompting the deployment of additional police forces. Supporters of both sides were also seen gathering outside the hospital later in the evening.
The incident reportedly began when Fatema Akhter Happy, wife of Jamaat-nominated Lakshmipur-3 (Sadar) candidate Rezaul Karim, was campaigning in the area.
During the campaign, voters were allegedly asked to show their national identity cards, which drew objections from supporters of BNP candidate Shahid Uddin Chowdhury Annie.
The situation quickly escalated into a verbal altercation and later turned violent.
Although local leaders from both parties initially attempted to defuse the situation, clashes resumed later, leading to further violence.
Several Jamaat and BNP activists were injured in the confrontation, including Abdur Rahman, Maulana Hizbullah Sohel, Sakib Hossain, Emran Hossain, Shahadat Hossain Khokon, and Jubo Dal leaders Borhan Miaji and Dulal Hossain.
District Jamaat Assistant Secretary Advocate Mohsin Kabir Murad alleged that BNP supporters launched an unprovoked attack on Jamaat activists after the candidate’s wife had left the area.
He claimed that at least five of the injured were in critical condition and questioned the possibility of holding a fair election under such circumstances. He demanded the immediate arrest of those responsible.
Meanwhile, Lakshmipur district BNP Joint Convener Advocate Hasibur Rahman denied the allegation and accused Jamaat-Shibir activists of attacking BNP and Chhatra Dal leaders. He also claimed that some BNP activists were stabbed during the clashes.
Additional Superintendent of Police Hosain Mohammad Rahayn Kazimi said police rushed to the scene upon receiving reports of violence.
“At least 15 people from both sides were injured. The situation is now under control, and legal action will be taken following an investigation,” he said.
