Disrupting national anthem event at Shahbagh: 10 injured in confrontation during Udichi’s protest in Bogura
Police intervened and brought the situation under control
At least 10 people were reportedly injured during a confrontation between the Udichi Shilpigoshthi and the Anti-Fascist Mancha, during protests against the recent incident of disrupting national anthem event in Dhaka's Shahbagh.
The incident occurred around 5:30pm today (14 May) at Shahid Khokon Park in Bogura.
Seven members of Udichi and three from the Anti-Fascist Mancha were reportedly injured in the incident.
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According to sources, both groups had scheduled separate events at the city's Satmatha intersection. Udichi planned a mass singing of the national anthem in protest of the disruption of a similar event in Shahbagh. At the same time, the Anti-Fascist Mancha organised a rally demanding justice against fascism.
A clash broke out when Udichi members attempted to begin their programme and were reportedly obstructed by members of the Anti-Fascist Mancha.
The situation escalated when both groups moved to Shahid Khokon Park, where chanting slogans turned into a scuffle.
Bogura Sadar Police Station OC SM Moin Uddin said, "There was an attempt to incite unrest at Udichi's programme, but we intervened. Police are still stationed in front of Udichi's office to prevent further escalation."
No formal complaints or cases had been filed as of filing of this report.
Aminul Farid, general secretary of the Communist Party's Bogura unit, said, "Our event was scheduled at the open stage, but they occupied it. So, we moved to the Shahid Minar. While singing the national anthem there, we were attacked. Our leaders and student activists — Jinnah, Shaon, Saddam, Prant, and Jilan — were injured.
"They also snatched a mobile phone and later vandalised our party office. The police remained passive throughout."
On the other hand, Noor Mohammad Zobayer, a leader of the Anti-Fascist Mancha and joint secretary of the Students Against Discrimination in Bogura, said, "Udichi is a fascist group. Our protest was directed at them, not the national anthem. They are exploiting the anthem issue to gain media attention. They were the ones who attacked us, resulting in injuries to three or four of our members and the theft of some of our belongings."
Following the incident, the National Citizen Party (NCP) issued statement clarifying its position, distancing itself from the protest.
Ahmed Sabbir, the party's Bogura district coordinator, said, "The NCP had no official involvement in the rally. Some individuals may have attended in a personal capacity. We urge media outlets not to link the party to this event."
