BNP Factions Clash in Kaliganj

A coordination meeting convened to resolve internal disputes within the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) descended into violence in Kaliganj upazila of Jhenaidah District on Friday, leaving at least 12 people injured, including four police officers. Authorities have deployed additional security personnel as tensions continue to simmer in the area.

The incident occurred at the office of Rashid Khan, BNP candidate for the Jhenaidah-4 parliamentary constituency. According to local sources, the meeting had been arranged in an attempt to reconcile long-standing factional rivalries within the party at the grassroots level.

Roots of the Dispute

The conflict reportedly stemmed from a prolonged power struggle between supporters of Maharajpur Union Chairman Khurshid Alam and those aligned with Ramnagar College principal and BNP leader Moklechur Rahman (widely known as Pintu Mia), along with associate leader Mati Mia. The rivalry, centred on organisational influence and local dominance, had been escalating for some time.

Friday’s coordination meeting was intended to ease tensions and forge unity ahead of future political activities. However, during discussions, members of the opposing factions became embroiled in heated arguments. Eyewitnesses say verbal exchanges quickly spiralled into physical confrontation.

Party activists allegedly vandalised the Kaliganj Upazila BNP office amid the chaos, smashing furniture and damaging property.

Violence Spills into Police Compound

As the clashes intensified, members of one faction reportedly sought refuge inside the local police station compound. However, allegations have emerged that rival activists pursued them into the premises and assaulted them with sticks and blunt objects.

Police intervened to disperse the crowd and restore order. In the process, officers were struck by bricks and became involved in scuffles with agitators. Four police personnel—Bipul Hossain, Pannu Hossain, Tuhin and Fazlur Rahman—were injured. They were later treated at a local health complex.

The identities of several other injured party activists could not be immediately confirmed, though officials estimate that at least 12 individuals sustained injuries overall.

Security Reinforced, Investigation Underway

In the aftermath of the violence, additional police forces were deployed around Kaliganj পৌর town and in front of the BNP party office to prevent further unrest. The atmosphere in the area remains tense but under control, according to authorities.

Rashid Khan, the organiser of the meeting, expressed regret over the incident. He stated that the gathering had been convened solely to resolve internal disagreements and strengthen party unity. Describing the outbreak of violence as “unfortunate and unexpected”, he urged party workers to exercise restraint and maintain discipline.

Kaliganj Police Station officials confirmed that legal action is being initiated against those involved in trespassing into the station compound and obstructing government duties. Investigations are ongoing to identify individuals responsible for vandalism and assault.