BNP-Jamaat clash in Lalmonirhat leaves 20 injured

At least 20 people were injured in a clash between BNP and Jamaat supporters over election campaigning in Hatibandha upazila.

Authorities brought the situation under control shortly after being alerted, according to police.

The incident took place on Sunday afternoon (January 25) in Kasaitari area of Tongbhanga Union’s Ward No. 2, where Jamaat activists were conducting a public outreach. BNP supporters allegedly attempted to block the event, sparking a confrontation. Several motorcycles were reportedly damaged, and the injured were admitted to Hatibandha Upazila Health Complex.

In the Lalmonirhat-1 constituency, BNP candidate Hasan Rajib Prodhan, a member of the party’s central executive committee, is contesting under the “Dhanshis” symbol, while Jamaat candidate Anwarul Islam Raju, vice president of the party’s commerce wing, is contesting under the “Daripalla” symbol.

Tongbhanga Union BNP member secretary Ashraf Ali said he visited the site to mediate but was attacked, leaving 8–10 BNP activists injured.

A Jamaat female supporter claimed at least 12 of their members were hurt during the clash, adding that BNP supporters attempted to obstruct their outreach after seeing women wearing burqas. Several vehicles were also damaged.

Commenting on the incident, Jamaat candidate Raju expressed concern over the attack on his female supporters and said legal action would be taken.

Lalmonirhat Superintendent of Police Md. Asaduzzaman confirmed police intervened and said legal action would follow.

District Commissioner and Returning Officer HM Rokib Haider described the clash as a minor incident, emphasising that it was not related to ensuring a level playing field in the election.