At least five individuals were injured in a violent clash between members of Jamaat-e-Islami and the student wing of the Awami League, Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL), at a government primary school in Bauphal, Patuakhali. The injured have been admitted to the Bauphal Upazila Health Complex for treatment.
The incident occurred around 8:00 pm on Thursday, 8 January, at the 77 No. Charwadel Government Primary School, situated in the riverine Chandradweep Union of Bauphal Upazila. According to eyewitnesses, a Jamaat-e-Islami organisational programme was underway inside a classroom when a group of Chhatra League leaders suddenly entered the room.
Tensions quickly escalated after the Chhatra League members demanded an explanation for the holding of a political event in the school without prior permission. What began as a verbal argument soon turned into a physical altercation, with reports of scuffles and injuries on both sides.
The injured parties have been identified as follows:
| Name | Age | Affiliation | Role |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sujan Khan | 25 | Jamaat-e-Islami | Youth Leader |
| Rakib Hasan | — | Jamaat-e-Islami | Member |
| Abdul Barek Majhi | — | Jamaat-e-Islami | Member |
| Saidul Islam | 23 | Chhatra League | Leader |
| Zahirul Islam Sohag | 22 | Chhatra League | Leader |
Jamaat-e-Islami leaders alleged that approximately 20–25 Chhatra League members, armed with sticks, had launched a premeditated attack on their assembly. Conversely, Chhatra League representatives claimed that Jamaat-e-Islami’s unauthorised use of the school premises for a political event constituted a violation of the election code of conduct. They said their attempt to seek clarification was met with an unexpected assault, resulting in injuries to their two leaders.
Bauphal Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Atikul Islam commented on the incident, stating that the police had received reports of the clash from various sources. “No formal written complaint has yet been lodged by either party. Legal action will be taken once complaints are submitted,” he noted.
Local residents expressed concern over the use of educational institutions for political purposes, highlighting the potential risk to students and the broader community. The incident underscores the growing tensions between rival political factions in the area, raising questions about the enforcement of rules regarding political activities in schools.
