Clash between two factions of BNP in Rangpur, 20 injured including journalist

At least 20 injured including a journalist in a clash between two BNP factions over dominance in Badarganj, Rangpur.

The incident occurred in front of the Shaheed Minar in the town at around 11:30 AM on Saturday (April 5). The situation in the area is currently tense.

Eyewitnesses reported that the clash took place between two groups: one led by Mohammad Ali Sorkar, a member of Badarganj Upazila BNP and former MP, and the other by Shahidul Haque Manik, former joint secretary of the Upazila BNP and chairman of 13 No. Kalupura Union. The clash began over a dispute between a shop owner and a tenant. The conflict escalated into a one-hour-long chase and counter-chase between the two factions. At least 20 people, including journalist, were injured. The police arrived at the scene later and brought the situation under control. The injured were rescued and admitted to the hospital.

Badarganj Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Atikur Rahman told that the situation is currently under the control of the police. Several people were injured in the clash and have been admitted to the hospital.

Meanwhile, following the clash, Rangpur District BNP's Convener Saiful Islam and Member Secretary Anisur Rahman Laku have issued show-cause notices to the two BNP leaders involved, along with Badarganj Upazila BNP's Senior Joint Convener Humayun Kabir Manik. The notice was issued on charges of territorial dominance, deterioration of law and order, and violation of party discipline. They have been asked to appear in person and provide a written explanation within 72 hours.