Three Workers’ Party activists injured in clash during election campaign

During campaigning for the Dhaka-12 parliamentary seat, a violent altercation in the Hatirjheel area of the capital left three members of the Revolutionary Workers Party injured.

The incident occurred on Monday (2 February) around 5:30 pm in the Madhubagh–Mirbagh neighbourhood. The injured have been identified as Ahad Hossain (27), Abdur Rahman Sakin (27), and Mohammad Hossain (39). They were admitted to the emergency department of Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH) at approximately 8:30 pm for treatment.

Saiful Haque, General Secretary of the Revolutionary Workers Party and the party’s Dhaka-12 candidate contesting under the ‘Kodal’ (Pickaxe) symbol, alleged that supporters of independent candidate Saiful Alam Nirab, who was expelled from the BNP, were responsible for the attack.

According to Haque, a campaign procession in Ward 36 had commenced from Madhubagh Field and was heading towards Mirbagh when Nirab’s supporters launched a sudden attack with pipes, sticks, and rods. This assault resulted in injuries to three party workers, who were subsequently rushed to DMCH.

“Those responsible for this assault must be brought under the law and face exemplary punishment,” Haque stated. “The attackers must be arrested within 24 hours. We call upon the Election Commission to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure accountability. Ward 36 of Dhaka-12 remains a high-risk area where candidates and voters often face threats and intimidation.”

In contrast, Saiful Alam Nirab described the incident differently. He claimed that the conflict erupted after Haque’s supporters physically assaulted one of his aides, Bulbul, leading to a verbal argument that escalated into a scuffle.

Members of the BNP from Hatirjheel Thana also offered an alternative account. Party member Imran Khan alleged that around 150–200 individuals participating in the Kodal-marked procession initiated hostilities. He identified Masum Mia, Shyamoli Khan, Bappy Khan, Mamun Roni, and others from Nirab’s group as responsible for attacking the BNP supporters, causing several injuries among their ranks.

The police at Dhaka Medical College Hospital confirmed the incident. Officer-in-Charge Md. Faruk reported that the three injured individuals were brought to the emergency department at 8:30 pm and are currently undergoing treatment. Authorities have been notified, and the case has been referred to the relevant local police station.

Summary of Incident:

The altercation highlights the rising tensions in Dhaka-12 ahead of the parliamentary election, underscoring concerns about voter safety and the need for law enforcement oversight during political campaigns.