Clash between Shibir and BNP activists in Noakhali leaves 20 injured

A clash broke out between activists of Islami Chhatra Shibir and the BNP in Noakhali Sadar upazila on Sunday, October 19, leaving at least 20 people injured. The incident occurred in the Kashimbazar area of Nawazpur Union in the afternoon.

According to reports, the previous day, during a Qur’an education session at Kashimbazar Mosque, a Jubo Dal leader allegedly attacked Shibir activists and forced students out of the mosque. On Sunday noon, a general diary was filed at Sudharam Model Police Station. Later in the afternoon, Shibir announced a Qur’an recitation programme at the same mosque in protest.

Eyewitnesses said the clash erupted after Asr prayers when BNP activists began chanting slogans in support of Ziaur Rahman outside the mosque, leading to violent confrontations. At least 20 people were injured. Shibir activists are currently staying inside the mosque, while BNP activists are demonstrating outside. Only a small number of law enforcement members were seen at the scene.

Habibur Rahman Arman, a member of Shibir’s Central Executive Council and President of its Noakhali City unit, told Dhaka Post, “BNP attacked our peaceful Qur’an class. Our brothers are lying injured inside the mosque, and the law enforcers remain silent. They are in no condition to be moved to hospital. Repeated attacks on mosques are unacceptable.”

Former President of Nawazpur Union BNP Kamal Uddin Babul said, “The attack came from inside the mosque after prayers. Several leaders and activists, including two brothers of former Jubo Dal President Faruk, have been injured. Attacks are repeatedly being launched from within the mosque.”

Officer-in-Charge (OC) of Sudharam Model Police Station, Kamrul Islam, said, “We are at the scene. It took some time for police to arrive, but the army is now deployed to ensure order.”