Clash between BNP, Jamaat activists leaves 15 injured in Bagerhat

At least 15 leaders and activists of BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami were injured in a clash centering the national polls in Sarankhola upazila of Bagerhat today (12 February).

The incident occurred around 11am in Sonatola village under Ward No 1 of Southkhali union.

The injured were admitted to Sarankhola Upazila Health Complex, while several Jamaat activists were later referred to Khulna Medical College Hospital for further treatment.

Tension has been reported in the area following the incident, with law enforcement agencies deployed to maintain order and ensure peaceful voting.

Siddiqur Rahman, one of the injured admitted to hospital, alleged that Jamaat activists obstructed BNP supporters on their way to a polling centre, which led to an altercation and subsequent clash.

"They attacked our people. Around 10-12 of our people were also injured," he said.

Nazma Akhter, a Jamaat voter receiving treatment at the hospital, alleged that BNP activists interfered with voters at the centre, leading to an argument that later turned into a clash.

Superintendent of Police Hasan Chowdhury said law enforcement agencies were maintaining a zero-tolerance stance towards crime.

"If anyone attempts to commit any kind of offence, they will be brought under the law," he said.

According to local sources, 10 Jamaat-e-Islami activists, including Sabbir, Tarakul, Sobhan, Arif and Nazmul, and five BNP activists, including Rafiqul, Badal Jomaddar, Russel and Siddiqur, were injured in the clash.

Among them, four Jamaat activists were referred to Khulna Medical College Hospital.

Returning Officer and Bagerhat Deputy Commissioner Golam Md Baten said police were preparing to file a case.

He added that members of law enforcement agencies remained active to ensure peaceful voting.