Several people were injured on Thursday as rival factions of the BNP clashed on the first day of election campaigning in Tongibari, Munshiganj.
The identities of those injured have not yet been confirmed, and authorities are investigating the incident. Local residents reported that tensions between the factions escalated quickly, leading to the outbreak of violence.
According to local sources, the first altercation occurred around 11:45am when a BNP procession under the party symbol “Dhanner Sheesh” (Sheaf of Paddy) moved from Dighirpar Bazar toward Kamar Khada market.
An altercation between local BNP leader Oliullah Khan and district BNP leader Shamim Molla’s faction escalated into a physical scuffle.
Tensions resurfaced around 1:15pm in Dighirpar Bazar, triggering a second clash.
Witnesses reported chase and counter-chase, clash, and the display of local weapons, causing panic among shoppers and forcing shops to close temporarily.
District BNP member Shamim Molla alleged that their group was attacked without provocation while campaigning peacefully. The other faction has not issued a statement.
Tongibari Officer-in-Charge Mohammad Monirul Haque Dablu said the police are investigating the cause of the clashes.
He added that officers reached the scene promptly, no serious injuries were reported, and the situation is now under control.
