BNP claims leaders, activists injured in attack by Jamaat men in Jashore

Several leaders and activists of the BNP were injured in attacks carried out allegedly by the Jamaat-e-Islami's men in the Bhatpara Bazar area under Abhaynagar upazila of Jashore yesterday morning (26 February).

According to an injured BNP leader, Jalal, he was sitting in a tailoring shop in the morning when several Jamaat supporters approached him, claiming they were owed money related to the purchase of a tree from a graveyard some 25 years ago involving his late father, Yusuf Majhi.

An argument ensued, after which Jalal was allegedly beaten. Local residents intervened after hearing his cries.

Sources said later in the afternoon, several hundred Jamaat leaders and activists reportedly gathered in the market area and held a procession.

BNP leaders alleged that provocative slogans had been chanted and that Jamaat activists had attacked several BNP and affiliated organisation leaders, leaving eight to 10 people injured.

Among the injured, Abhaynagar upazila Jubo Dal Joint Convener Iqbal Sheikh, 40, and Khalid Sheikh, 35, were admitted to Khulna Medical College Hospital in critical condition, while others received treatment at the local upazila health complex.

Following the skirmishes, army patrols were intensified in the neighbourhood.

Later, Abhaynagar Police Station Inspector (Investigation) Zahidul Islam said the situation was now under control and legal action was underway.

Meanwhile, Golam Rasul, Jashore Jamaat ameer and member of parliament for Jashore-4, said a Jamaat procession had been attacked by a group of youths, leading to a chase and counter-chase between the two sides.

He added that at least 20 Jamaat activists had been injured and called on police to take appropriate action.