In a dramatic escalation of political tensions, the district office of the Awami League on Shibbari Road in Mymensingh was vandalised and set on fire by activists of the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement on Monday, 23 February. The assailants reportedly ignited tyres in front of the office and caused extensive damage to both the exterior and interior of the building.
Background of the Incident
The district Awami League office had been closed since 5 August last year. However, following the national parliamentary elections on 12 February, the office was reportedly being cleaned and prepared for reopening. On 21 February, a group of Awami League leaders, led by Kazi Azad Jahan Shamim, hoisted the party flag and laid floral wreaths outside the office. Activists from the Anti-Discrimination Student Movement have cited this act of political mobilisation as the immediate trigger for the attack.
Al-Noor Ayas, central coordinator of the student movement, stated:
“The Awami League is a banned organisation. They are implicated in the killings of Shahid Sagor and thousands of other students and citizens. Their trials are ongoing. Recently, they have attempted to resume organisational activities by reopening this office. We will not allow their operations on the blood of Shahid Sagor. If necessary, we will convert this office into a public toilet.”
Controversial Land and Construction Issues
Sources indicate that the district Awami League office was constructed on land allegedly seized from other owners. Legal cases had been filed regarding the land, but the property remained under the party’s control, reportedly due to political influence.
Police Response
Md. Najmus Sakib, Officer-in-Charge of Kotwali Model Police Station, confirmed that police arrived at the scene upon receiving reports and extinguished the fire, restoring calm. Initial efforts successfully prevented the violence from spreading to nearby areas.
Incident Summary
| Date & Time | Location | Nature of Incident | Officer-in-Charge | Damage Report |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 23 February, Afternoon | Shibbari Road, Mymensingh | Vandalism and Arson | OC Md. Najmus Sakib | Interior walls damaged; tyres set on fire outside |
Context and Significance
Political clashes of this nature are not unprecedented in Mymensingh. The attack reflects both local political volatility and the assertiveness of student-led movements. Although the situation has since stabilised, authorities remain on high alert to prevent further escalation. The incident underscores the fragile security environment surrounding politically sensitive sites and highlights the ongoing tension between political parties and civil society activists in the region.
