Tariq Litu, Dhaka: Tension flared in the Chakaria municipality area of Cox’s Bazar on Saturday afternoon over a pre-scheduled street rally organized by the National Citizens’ Party (NCP). Around 3:45 PM, activists of the BNP and its student wing, Chhatra Dal, allegedly vandalized the stage set up for the event. The stage, constructed on a truck, was attacked with sticks, banners were torn down, and the truck’s windshield was smashed. Security forces, including the army and police, quickly intervened and dispersed the attackers to restore order.
Eyewitnesses, including local shopkeepers, reported that NCP had been using loudspeakers since noon and decorating the truck stage for their scheduled rally. Central leaders, including the NCP’s convener Nahid Islam, were expected to speak at 5:00 PM. However, the situation turned volatile before the event could begin.
The root of the unrest appears to be a political remark made earlier in the day. During a rally in Cox’s Bazar town, NCP’s Chief Coordinator Nasiruddin Patwari referred to BNP Standing Committee Member Salahuddin Ahmed as a “godfather,” sparking outrage among BNP supporters. In response, BNP activists took to the streets in both Cox’s Bazar and Chakaria, chanting slogans in support of Salahuddin Ahmed.
According to Khairul Bashar, the NCP’s Chakaria Upazila organizer, the attack was a deliberate act carried out by BNP and Chhatra Dal activists. Chakaria Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Md. Shafiqul Islam stated that security forces were on high alert to prevent further clashes and that investigations into the vandalism were underway.
Meanwhile, NCP central leader Emon Syed said they were forced to cancel their Chakaria program and relocate to the Fasiakhali area due to safety concerns, though fear still looms among their party members there.
Though the situation initially stemmed from a political statement, it quickly escalated into violence—signaling deep-rooted tensions in the local political landscape. Political analysts have noted that while controversial remarks can provoke backlash, responding with violence undermines democratic principles. The incident highlights the urgent need for effective and impartial intervention by law enforcement to prevent such clashes in the future.
LND/SAE
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