Clashes Between Two BNP Factions Turn Faridpur into Battlefield, 50 Injured

A violent clash broke out between two factions of the BNP in Boalmari, Faridpur, during programs marking the historic November 7 Revolution and Solidarity Day. The WAPDA Mor area of the municipal market turned into a battlefield, leaving 40 to 50 people injured, including three police officers.

During the clash, one faction’s office of the BNP, located in Harun Shopping Complex, was attacked, vandalized, and set on fire. Twelve motorcycles were torched, and nearby shops were also damaged.

According to party sources, the local BNP has long been divided into two groups—one led by central Krishak Dal vice president Khandaker Nasirul Islam and the other by former upazila BNP joint secretary Shamsuddin Mia (VP Jhunu). Both are seeking nomination for the Faridpur-1 constituency.

In the afternoon, supporters of both groups brought out processions and faced off at WAPDA Mor, where brick-throwing ensued. Although police and administrative officials were present, they failed to control the situation. Later, the mob set fire to motorcycles and shops. The army eventually brought the situation under control in the evening.

VP Jhunu alleged, “Nasirul’s supporters, along with Awami League activists, attacked us.” On the other hand, Khandaker Nasirul Islam said, “Our supporters were also attacked, which angered the public and led to a reaction.”

Boalmari Police Station OC Mahmudul Hasan said, “There were incidents of vandalism and arson during the clash between the two factions. Three police officers were injured. The situation is now under control.”

BNP–Gono Odhikar Clash in Galachipa:
Meanwhile, a clash between BNP and Gono Odhikar Parishad activists took place at Kopalbera Bazar in Char Kajol Union under Galachipa upazila of Patuakhali on Thursday night. At least 16 activists from both sides were injured and admitted to the Galachipa Upazila Health Complex.

Police and local sources reported that there had been a previous dispute between the Rarhi and Khalifa families of Kopalbera village. Upazila Jubo Dal convener Mashiur Rahman Shaheen Khandaker claimed that BNP activists were returning after a procession at Kopalbera Bazar when Gono Odhikar Parishad members attacked them.

BNP activists Ilias Rarhi (33), Sabuj Rarhi (35), Nur Nabi Rarhi (28), Hasan Rarhi (45), Kuddus Bepari (24), Yakub Rarhi (22), Omar Rarhi (19), Rahan Rarhi (18), and Soleman Rarhi (21) were injured. On the other side, Gono Odhikar Parishad activists Azmir Khalifa (19), Md. Sohel Khalifa (35), Shahabul Khalifa (45), Amena Begum (35), Nayeem Khalifa (25), and Nabin Khalifa (16) were also injured.

Galachipa Police Station OC Md. Asaduzzaman said that a clash occurred between the two sides at Kopalbera Bazar and that police intervened to restore calm.

Khaborwala/TSN