BNP and Jamaat Election Campaign Clash in Ishwardi Leaves at Least 25 Injured

At least 25 people were injured in a violent clash between BNP and Jamaat supporters during an election campaign in Ishwardi, Pabna, on Thursday afternoon. The incident took place in the village of Chorgorgori in the Sahapur Union, drawing attention to escalating political tensions in the area. Seven of the injured were admitted to Ishwardi Upazila Health Complex, while the remainder received treatment at private clinics.

According to party sources, BNP’s campaign in the Pabna-4 (Ishwardi-Atghoria) constituency is being led by Habibur Rahman, an advisor to the party chairman and district BNP convener. Jamaat’s candidate in the constituency is Abu Taleb Mondal, the district Amir of Jamaat. Local residents report that tensions between supporters of the two parties had been rising over the past few days, with previous arguments and minor scuffles occurring two days prior.

Eyewitnesses said that in the afternoon, Mondal visited the village as part of his campaign. Upon reaching Alhaj Mor, he was reportedly blocked by BNP supporters, resulting in verbal disputes and minor physical confrontations. Mondal left the scene, but on his return through Mridhapara neighbourhood, a more serious clash erupted, including gunfire and damage to motorcycles and the candidate’s vehicle. Both sides suffered injuries.

Mondal claimed that around 150 motorcycles accompanied his campaign convoy and alleged that BNP supporters attacked them with gunfire, injuring at least 50 people, six of whom were shot and sent to Rajshahi Medical College for treatment. BNP’s candidate Habibur Rahman, however, accused Jamaat activists of offering “heavenly tickets” in exchange for votes and claimed that Jamaat personnel attacked his supporters, firing guns in retaliation. Several BNP leaders were injured, with one transferred to Dhaka for treatment.

Ishwardi police officer-in-charge A S M Abdun Nur confirmed that the police had intervened to restore order and that the area is currently under control. No formal complaints have been filed yet, but authorities said that legal action would follow if complaints are made. The incident highlights the intense political rivalry and volatile conditions surrounding the upcoming election.