Five Injured as NCP and Chhatra Dal Clash in Shariatpur

Tensions flared in Shariatpur on Monday evening when activists of the National Citizen Party (NCP) and the Chhatra Dal became embroiled in a violent confrontation, leaving at least five people injured and spreading fear across the surrounding area. The situation was further aggravated by the sound of crude explosive devices, commonly referred to as cocktails, which caused panic among residents and passers-by.

According to eyewitnesses and police sources, the clash erupted in the Chowrangi area of Shariatpur town during a protest march organised by the NCP. The procession had been called to demand justice for the killing of Shahid Sharif Osman Hadi, convener of the Inqilab Mancha, and to condemn the recent shooting of Motaleb Shikder, a central organiser of the Workers’ Power organisation in Khulna. NCP leaders and supporters were marching peacefully through the town when an unexpected incident triggered unrest.

Witnesses reported that a Chhatra Dal activist entered the procession on a motorcycle, leading to a heated verbal exchange. What began as an argument quickly escalated into physical confrontation between members of the two organisations. Amid the chaos, one or more cocktail explosions were heard, intensifying fear and confusion. At least five individuals sustained injuries, though the severity of their wounds was not immediately disclosed.

Both sides have traded accusations over responsibility for the violence. Sohail Talukder, member secretary of the district Chhatra Dal, alleged that one of their activists was stopped and harassed while travelling along the road. “When we arrived at the scene after being informed, NCP activists launched a sudden attack on us,” he claimed, calling for a fair and impartial investigation into the incident.

In contrast, former joint coordinator of the district NCP, Sabuj Talukder, offered a different account. He stated that the NCP march was proceeding peacefully when a Chhatra Dal supporter drove his motorcycle into the procession and assaulted an NCP activist. “When we restrained him, Chhatra Dal leaders, including their district member secretary, arrived with weapons and attacked us,” he said, also demanding justice.

Police responded promptly to the incident. Shah Alam, Officer-in-Charge of Palong Model Police Station, confirmed that the clash stemmed from a motorcycle entering the NCP procession. “We rushed to the spot as soon as we received information and brought the situation under control,” he said, adding that legal action would be taken following formal complaints.

The incident has raised renewed concerns about political intolerance and public safety during demonstrations. Local residents and civil society members have urged political groups to exercise restraint and ensure that protests remain peaceful.

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