BNP–Independent Clash Leaves One Dead

A supporter of an independent candidate has died following violent clashes between rival political activists in Kachua upazila of Bagerhat district, intensifying tensions in the aftermath of the recent parliamentary election.

The deceased, Osman Sardar, 29, succumbed to his injuries at Khulna Medical College Hospital at approximately 11:30 a.m. on Saturday. He had been undergoing treatment for severe head trauma sustained during a confrontation between supporters of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and a rebel independent candidate aligned with the same political camp.

Clash Triggered by Post-Election Tensions

According to police and local witnesses, the violence erupted on Friday evening in Chhitabari village under Dhopakhali Union in Kachua. The dispute reportedly began as a heated exchange over the election results and the presence of rival supporters in the area. Eyewitnesses said provocative remarks quickly escalated into physical altercations, with sticks and sharp weapons allegedly used.

At least ten people from both factions were injured during the confrontation. Osman Sardar, son of Shahjahan Sardar of Parnawapara village in Bagerhat Sadar, suffered critical head injuries. He was initially taken to Bagerhat Sadar Hospital before being referred to Khulna for advanced care. Despite continuous medical intervention, doctors were unable to save him.

His elder brother, Enamul Kabir Sardar, alleged that Osman was struck on the head with a sharp weapon by opposing supporters. Police have not yet confirmed the specific weapon used, stating that investigations remain ongoing.

Law Enforcement Response

The Officer-in-Charge of Bagerhat Model Police Station, Md Masum Khan, confirmed the fatality and said additional police personnel had been deployed to prevent further unrest. He stated that officers responded promptly to bring the situation under control and that efforts are underway to identify those responsible. Preparations are being made to file a formal case.

Authorities have increased patrols in the affected areas, citing concerns over retaliatory violence.

Electoral Context: Bagerhat-2 Constituency

The unrest is widely viewed as a spillover from tensions surrounding the Bagerhat-2 (Sadar–Kachua) parliamentary constituency. In that seat, BNP’s nominated candidate Sheikh Mohammad Zakir Hossain and rebel independent candidate M A H Selim—both prominent figures within local BNP circles—were defeated by Jamaat-e-Islami nominee Sheikh Monjurul Haque Rahad.

Below is a summary of the principal candidates and outcomes:

Political analysts suggest that factional rivalries within opposition ranks, compounded by dissatisfaction over the electoral outcome, contributed to the volatility. Local administrators have pledged firm action against any attempt to destabilise public order, underscoring the need for restraint among political activists in the post-election period.