Authorities have imposed Section 144 in Rajair upazila of Madaripur following days of violent clashes between two rival villages that left over 50 people injured, including police personnel and civilians.
The Rajair Upazila Administration issued the order on Monday (April 14), restricting public gatherings, processions, and the carrying of weapons from 1 PM to 1 AM. The decision was taken in response to escalating violence between residents of West Rajair and Badarpasha villages, rooted in a prolonged feud over local dominance.
According to the written order signed by Upazila Nirbahi Officer and Executive Magistrate Md. Mahfuzul Haque, the situation had spiraled out of control with frequent brawls, the use of homemade weapons, and public unrest over the past week. Section 144 was enforced to restore law and order and prevent further deterioration of the situation. Emergency services and law enforcement officers were exempt from the restrictions.
Tensions boiled over after a series of clashes that began on April 2, triggered by a dispute over firecrackers during Eid celebrations. The altercation escalated when a youth named Zubayer Khan was assaulted and his leg broken by a rival group. A case was filed, further inflaming hostilities between the villages.
On Sunday night (April 13), the fourth phase of violence erupted when supporters from West Rajair held a meeting at Rajair Bus Stand. Police attempted to disperse the crowd, leading to a stone-throwing attack on police vehicles. Two officers, Sub-Inspector Mostafa and driver Shahabuddin, sustained head injuries and were hospitalized.
The violence continued into the night with Badarpasha villagers allegedly detonating crude bombs, setting shops on fire, and vandalizing at least 12 stores. Joint forces from the police, army, and fire service were deployed to quell the unrest and extinguish the flames.
The clashes left over 50 injured, including Madaripur’s Additional Superintendent of Police Jahangir Alam, Rajair’s Officer-in-Charge, and several police officers. Severely injured individuals were rushed to Faridpur Medical College Hospital and Madaripur Sadar Hospital. ASP Jahangir underwent surgery on his leg, while others were treated at local facilities.
Liberty News’ local correspondent states that despite attempts at reconciliation by local leaders and BNP representatives, provocative remarks reignited violence before a scheduled arbitration meeting on Monday morning. Law enforcement remains on high alert in the affected areas to prevent further escalation.
LND/BG
