Clash over chairman's reinstatement injures 50 including OC in Habiganj

Clash over chairman's reinstatement injures 50 including OC in Habiganj

A clash between supporters of a union chairman and his acting replacement in Baniachong upazila, Habiganj, has left at least 50 people injured, including the local police station's officer-in-charge.

The incident occurred on Monday morning, June 8, at the Boroiuri union parishad office.

According to police and locals, union chairman and Awami League union president Farid Mia was in jail on charges related to the July uprising. In his absence, panel chairman and local Jubo Dal leader Kofil Uddin, who is also a member of Ward 5, had been serving as acting chairman.

Farid was recently released from jail and reinstated by a High Court order. However, Kofil Uddin delayed handing over charge.

On Monday morning, when Chairman Farid began distributing VGF rice at the union parishad office, Kofil Uddin obstructed him, leading to a clash between supporters of both sides.

The clash lasted from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm, with both sides using local weapons. Around 50 people were injured, with several receiving treatment at Habiganj Sadar Modern Hospital.

Police from Baniachong Police Station arrived at the scene to bring the situation under control, during which Officer-in-Charge Sheikh Nazmul Haque and three other officers were injured.

Police used baton charges, five sound grenades and three rounds of tear gas to disperse the clashing groups. The situation is currently under control.