Clash Over Eid Prayer Leadership Claims Life

A violent altercation over who would lead the Eid prayers in Mohanpur, Rajshahi, has claimed the life of a local mosque official. Mohammad Alauddin, 65, the muezzin of the Alauddin Model Mosque, died following a confrontation between supporters of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Jamaat-e-Islami.

The incident occurred on Saturday evening, 7 March, around 7:30 pm, in front of the Upazila Model Mosque at Sankoya. Tensions escalated when a meeting of congregants was held to decide who would perform the Eid prayer leadership. During the discussions, a dispute erupted involving Alauddin’s sons and several BNP activists, including Omar Faruk, Md. Russel, Abdul Karim, and Abdul Quddus.

According to witnesses, Alauddin arrived at the scene intending to take his sons away from the confrontation. The situation escalated further when BNP activists allegedly restrained him, pressing him down, which led to his death on the spot. Preparations for a formal legal complaint are reportedly underway.

In the immediate aftermath, Jamaat-e-Islami activists briefly blocked the Rajshahi–Naogaon highway. A BNP supporter’s motorcycle was set ablaze, and the local BNP office suffered damage. Law enforcement intervened and restored order.

Local Jamaat leader Abdul Awal stated that Alauddin and his family had long-standing political ties with Jamaat-e-Islami, claiming Alauddin himself was affiliated with the party. However, police sources clarified that while Alauddin’s sons were involved in Jamaat politics, Alauddin was a BNP supporter. Police also suspect that Alauddin may have suffered a fatal stroke amid the confrontation.

District Police spokesperson and Additional Superintendent Sabina Yasmin said, “Preliminary reports indicate Alauddin supported BNP. While attempting to mediate the verbal dispute, he may have suffered a stroke, leading to his death.” She confirmed that if complaints arise, the body will be taken to Rajshahi Medical College for autopsy; currently, the family has taken the body home after initial treatment at the Upazila Health Complex.

Mohanpur Keshrhat Municipal BNP president Alauddin Alo visited the scene but reportedly faced threats from Jamaat activists. Attempts to reach him for comment were unsuccessful, as his mobile phone appears to be switched off.

Key Details of the Incident

The incident highlights the deep political and communal sensitivities surrounding religious events in the area, raising concerns about maintaining peace during major festivals.