Two supporters of an independent candidate have been stabbed and injured

Election-related violence has erupted in the Faridpur-1 constituency, which encompasses the upazilas of Boalmari, Alfadanga, and Madhukhali. Supporters of independent candidate Abul Bashar Khan were reportedly attacked with knives by individuals backing BNP nominee Khondkar Nasirul Islam, resulting in injuries to two of Bashar’s supporters.

The incident occurred on Wednesday, 28 January, around 5:30 pm in Dosturdia village under Jahapur Union in Madhukhali Upazila. Local sources report that the altercation began when Bashar’s supporters, Robin and Alif, went to put up election banners. Jihad, a supporter of the BNP candidate, allegedly confronted them and prevented the banner installation. The confrontation escalated, culminating in Jihad reportedly stabbing Robin and Arif, after which the injured were rushed to Faridpur Medical College Hospital for treatment.

Abul Bashar Khan, the independent candidate, described the incident in detail: “My supporters were attempting to hang banners near the house of former Jahapur Union Parishad chairman Ishaq Mia on the Majkandi-Bhatiapara road. Jihad blocked them, claiming it was BNP territory and warning that no other candidate could campaign or put up banners there. Later, when they tried to hang two smaller football banners a short distance away, Jihad allegedly attacked Robin and Arif with a knife. How can a free, fair, and impartial election environment exist under such circumstances?”

Efforts to reach Jihad for comment were unsuccessful. Meanwhile, BNP nominee Khondkar Nasirul Islam denied any involvement, stating, “I am not aware of such an incident. My supporters do not engage in stabbing politics. Abul Bashar Khan has debts of around BDT 200 crore and numerous creditors; it is possible these creditors are behind such incidents.”

Madhukhali Police Station Officer-in-Charge, Md. Taijur Rahman, confirmed the police visited the scene after receiving reports. “We could not apprehend anyone as the suspects were not found. Later, I heard that the individual who stabbed the supporters is drug-addicted. I am unsure of the supporters’ political affiliations or whether the stabbing occurred while hanging the banners. However, it is true that the stabbing occurred. No formal complaint has been filed yet; action will be taken if one is submitted,” he said.

Key Details of the Incident

This episode underscores rising concerns about electoral violence in the constituency, highlighting the urgent need for authorities to ensure a safe and impartial environment for campaigning ahead of the upcoming elections.