Clashes Over BNP Nomination Injure at Least Ten in Gazipur

In a significant escalation of internal conflict within the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), clashes erupted on Sunday evening in Kaliakair Upazila, resulting in injuries to at least ten individuals. The violence was sparked by disagreements over party nominations for the Gazipur-1 constituency. Supporters of the BNP nominee, Mujibur Rahman, clashed with backers of Ishraq Siddiqui, who was denied nomination despite being the son of former BNP standing committee member Chowdhury Tanvir Ahmed Siddiqui.

The unrest began when supporters of Ishraq Siddiqui organized a protest rally in the Rakhaliachala area, voicing their discontent over what they termed an “unfair nomination process.” As tensions rose, a group of approximately 20 to 25 men affiliated with Mujibur Rahman arrived on motorcycles and initiated an attack, leading to injuries among the protestors. The injured were subsequently transported to Shaheed Tajuddin Ahmad Medical College Hospital for treatment.

According to the Gazipur Additional Superintendent of Police (crime), there were confirmed reports of attacks and arson involving the two factions. The official stated, “Efforts are underway to maintain peace following discussions with both sides.” Local media reports indicate that the violence resulted in extensive damage, including the vandalism and arson of several election campaign offices and vehicles.

Ishraq Siddiqui expressed his belief that the attack was a calculated effort to suppress dissent among grassroots leaders frustrated by the nomination decision. He stated, “There is widespread frustration over how this seat was handled. We were holding a peaceful protest, yet Mujibur Rahman’s followers attacked us. Some were even detained without cause.” Siddiqui further noted that fear has gripped the area following the incident.

This incident is part of a broader trend of increasing violence within the BNP. Last month, over 100 individuals were injured during a series of clashes between rival factions in Saltha Upazila of Faridpur district, as factions within the party vie for influence. Analysts have suggested that the BNP, under the leadership of Khaleda Zia, may have colluded with the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus to unseat the democratically elected Awami League government last year.

The ongoing internal strife raises questions about the party’s unity and ability to present a cohesive front as elections approach. As the situation develops, party leaders and local authorities are being urged to address the underlying tensions to prevent further violence.