A protest organized by Jamaat-e-Islami against corruption and extortion in Bagha, Rajshahi, escalated into violence on Thursday. The demonstration, held in Bausa Union, was disrupted by BNP activists who opposed the event, leading to an altercation that left four Jamaat members injured.
The protest, arranged under the banner of the Bausa Union unit of Jamaat-e-Islami, aimed to address alleged irregularities in the distribution of government assistance, including TCB and VGD cards. The demonstration, led by Union Jamaat Ameer Maulana Mojibur Rahman and Secretary Shamsul Islam, saw participation from local leaders and supporters carrying banners and placards against corruption.
Tensions rose when Bausa Union BNP President Rezaul Karim urged Jamaat leaders to call off the protest, proposing discussions instead. However, the Jamaat activists proceeded with their demonstration, chanting slogans against corruption and extortion.
In response, BNP members, including General Secretary Nasir Uddin and Organizational Secretary Moazzem Hossain, staged a counter-protest in front of the Union Parishad, condemning Jamaat’s rally as a political conspiracy. They chanted slogans such as “We reject the conspiracy of Jamaat” and “No to election manipulation.”
As Jamaat leaders attempted to leave the area, BNP supporters followed them, and a scuffle ensued near Bausa Bazaar. BNP activists allegedly snatched banners and assaulted Jamaat members, injuring four—Abdur Rahman (22), Sourav Ali (20), Abu Taher (33), and Hossain (34). The injured received treatment at Bagha Upazila Health Complex.
Jamaat’s Union Ameer Maulana Mojibur Rahman accused BNP leaders of instigating violence. He claimed the protest was peaceful but was disrupted by provocation. He also stated that an official complaint was filed at the local police station.
BNP’s Union President Rezaul Karim denied allegations of incitement, arguing that the protest was unnecessary and meant to create political unrest. He announced plans to file a counter-complaint with the police.
Meanwhile, Bausa Union Parishad’s Acting Chairman Abdur Rahman dismissed allegations of corruption, stating that resource distribution is a collective process and not solely his responsibility.
Liberty News’ local correspondent states that Bagha Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) AFM Asaduzzaman confirmed that Jamaat leaders had consulted the police regarding the incident but had not yet lodged a formal complaint.
LND/BG
