At least three people were seriously injured in violent clashes between activists of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Jamaat-e-Islami in Nandigram upazila of Bogura, following allegations of cash distribution to influence voters. The incident occurred shortly after midnight on Monday, 9 February, in Parshun village, heightening tensions in the run-up to polling.
According to Belayet Hossain Ador, General Secretary of Nandigram Upazila BNP, party activists went to the house of one Abdul Aziz in Parshun village after noticing an unusual gathering late at night. He alleged that local Jubo League leader Belal, along with several Jamaat activists, was distributing money among voters. Two individuals, including Belal, were reportedly detained by BNP supporters and taken to the residence of Masud Rana, President of Burail Union BNP.
Mr Ador further claimed that approximately 200 Jamaat activists, armed with sticks and improvised weapons, later attacked Mr Rana’s home in the presence of police officers. During the confrontation, Mr Rana and his brother were severely beaten, and the two detained individuals were forcibly freed. BNP leaders alleged that three houses and a motorcycle were vandalised in the attack. Mr Rana was admitted to Shaheed Ziaur Rahman Medical College Hospital in Bogura with serious injuries.
At a press conference in Bogura, BNP representatives alleged that Mr Rana suffered critical injuries to his right eye, casting doubt on whether his vision could be restored. His younger brother, Rabiul Islam, reportedly sustained fractures to his right arm and leg and required 17 stitches to his head. BNP leaders claimed that as many as 21 people were injured in the incident and further alleged looting and destruction of property.
However, Jamaat-e-Islami’s nominated candidate for Bogura-4, Mostafa Faisal Parvez, categorically denied the allegations. He contended that the violence was initiated by BNP supporters who assaulted a Jamaat activist, Abdullah Al Galib (22), earlier that evening during a procession. According to Jamaat’s account, two of their activists, Faruk and Bellal, were subsequently abducted and assaulted at Mr Rana’s residence. Jamaat supporters allegedly gathered there to secure their release, leading to the clash. Jamaat sources claimed that four to five of their activists were injured.
Mosharraf Hossain, BNP’s candidate for Bogura-4, criticised the role of law enforcement, questioning how such violence could occur in the presence of police. He warned that unless firm action is taken, the situation could deteriorate further on polling day.
Officer-in-Charge of Nandigram Police Station, Mizanur Rahman, stated that police responded promptly to bring the situation under control. As of the time of reporting, no written complaint had been lodged by either party, though he assured that legal action would follow upon receipt of formal complaints.
A summary of the competing claims is presented below:
| Issue | BNP’s Account | Jamaat’s Account |
|---|---|---|
| Trigger of violence | Alleged cash distribution to voters | Assault on Jamaat activist during procession |
| Initial action | Two suspects detained by BNP | Two activists abducted and beaten by BNP |
| Number injured | 21 (including serious injuries) | 4–5 activists injured |
| Property damage | Three houses and one motorcycle vandalised | Not acknowledged |
The incident underscores the fragile political climate in Bogura-4 constituency ahead of the election. With rival parties trading serious accusations, concerns are mounting about the maintenance of law and order. Observers have urged swift, impartial investigations to ensure accountability and to safeguard a peaceful electoral environment.