Jubo Dal activist injured in 2 BNP faction’s clash over sand excavation tender in Rajshahi

A clash erupted between two BNP factions - Jubo Dal and Chhatra Dal - over the tendering process for excavating sand in Rajshahi tpday (18 March), leaving one Jubo Dal activist injured.

"The incident took place in front of the Rajshahi deputy commissioner's office around 1pm," Rajshahi Metropolitan Police Spokesperson and Additional Deputy Commissioner Sabina Yasmin told The Business Standard.

She said the injured Jubo Dal activist, identified as Raihan, 25, has been admitted to Rajshahi Medical College Hospital for treatment.

"The tender process for four sand excavating areas was ongoing at the DC office when tensions escalated between two BNP factions, leading to a minor scuffle. Police later intervened to bring the situation under control.

"A complaint has been filed with the police station regarding the incident," the officer added.

According to eyewitnesses, the deadline for submitting tenders was set for today. As the final moments approached, a group of 10-15 people, led by Rajshahi Metropolitan Jubo Dal's Joint Convener Nazir Hasan, arrived at the DC office to submit their tender documents.

However, leaders and activists of BNP and its affiliated organisations, led by Katakhali Municipality Chhatra Dal President Faisal Ahmed, objected, stating that the submission deadline had already passed.

This led to a heated argument, followed by a chase and counter-chase, resulting in a physical altercation. During the scuffle, Raihan sustained serious head injuries.

However, Faisal Ahmed, denied involvement, stating, "I was not present at the scene. I heard about the clash but do not know who was involved."

On the other hand, Nazir Hasan of Jubo Dal said, "I submitted my tender documents with police assistance and left the area. I did not witness any violence."