Deadly Clash in Chitalmari Over Local Rivalry

A long-standing dispute over local dominance in Chitalmari upazila of Bagerhat escalated into a violent confrontation on Thursday night, leaving one person dead and several others injured. The incident has intensified tensions in the area, prompting a large-scale joint response by law enforcement agencies.

According to local sources, the clash erupted at approximately 9:00 pm on Thursday (26 March) in Chinggari village under Kolatala Union. The confrontation involved two influential local factions—identified as the Bishwas group and the Sheikh group—whose rivalry has reportedly persisted for years over land disputes, social influence, and regional control. Residents claim that the hostility between the two sides dates back to around 2012, with intermittent flare-ups over time.

Eyewitnesses reported that tensions escalated rapidly in the evening, eventually triggering a full-scale violent confrontation. Armed with traditional weapons, members of both groups attacked each other, resulting in chaotic scenes across the village. Several homes and properties were allegedly vandalised, while incidents of arson and looting were also reported during the unrest. The violence created panic among residents, many of whom were forced to remain indoors in fear for their safety.

Upon receiving information, personnel from the police, Rapid Action Battalion, and army units arrived at the scene and worked jointly to bring the situation under control. Security forces later conducted rescue operations and transported the injured to nearby medical facilities. Authorities confirmed that one person died in the incident, although the identity of the deceased was not immediately established.

The Superintendent of Police for Bagerhat confirmed the fatality and stated that the overall situation has now been brought under control. However, he added that additional police personnel have been deployed in the area to prevent any further escalation. Operations are ongoing to identify and apprehend those responsible for the violence.

Local administration officials have emphasised the need for restraint among the rival groups and have urged community leaders to assist in maintaining peace. They also indicated that surveillance in the area will be strengthened and that strict legal action will be taken against anyone found involved in the clashes.

The incident has left the local community deeply alarmed, with many residents expressing concern over the recurring nature of such conflicts. Authorities have assured that preventive measures will be reinforced to avoid similar outbreaks of violence in the future.

Incident Summary