A violent clash erupted in Sitakunda, Chattogram, between two factions of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), resulting in the death of one young man and injuries to several others. The deceased has been identified as Sajib, a 25-year-old resident of Khorma Wala village in Mirsharai Upazila’s Moghadiya Union and the son of Shah Alam. Sajib was employed at the garage of Muradpur Union Jubo Dal’s organisational secretary, Shahabuddin.
Origins of the Conflict
According to local sources, the incident began on the morning of 10 March, around 10 a.m., in front of Muradpur Union Parishad, when a dispute arose between youth leaders Shahabuddin and Alim. The disagreement quickly sowed tension among local residents. By the evening, Shahabuddin’s supporters attacked Alim, triggering a wider confrontation that escalated beyond immediate control.
Alim’s wife, Tahmina Akter, stated:
“Our community encouraged my husband to participate in the upcoming union parishad elections, but Shahabuddin could not accept his popularity. A dispute over rice distribution at the council led to the conflict, which escalated into an attack involving four CNG auto-rickshaws and two motorcycles, with homemade explosives used. The attack spread panic and seriously injured several residents.”
Shahabuddin, meanwhile, cited a previous mediation regarding a stolen rickshaw battery as the root cause. Alim had reportedly supported the alleged thief, and although a settlement of BDT 20,000 was agreed upon, Alim’s delayed payment of bail money reignited the dispute. The confrontation ultimately resulted in Sajib’s death following an Iftar gathering.
Police Response and Casualties
Sitakunda Model Police Station officer Mohinur Islam confirmed that 7–8 people were injured during the clashes. Sajib’s body was recovered and sent to Chattogram Medical College Hospital for post-mortem examination. A special police team has been assigned to investigate the incident.
| Name | Age | Location | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sajib | 25 | Khorma Wala village | Deceased | Killed in attack by Shahabuddin’s supporters |
| Unknown | – | – | Injured | Injured in clash with locals |
| Unknown | – | – | Injured | Injured while attempting to mediate |
| Unknown | – | – | Injured | Seriously wounded, admitted to hospital |
Societal Impact
The incident, occurring against the backdrop of the forthcoming Union Parishad elections, highlights escalating political tensions and factional rivalries within the BNP. Concerns have been raised over community safety and the stability of local governance. Authorities and police are actively attempting to restore order, with the immediate priority being the re-establishment of security and public confidence.
Political analysts stress that preventing similar future conflicts will require local leadership to foster dialogue and enforce stricter community safeguards.