Electoral violence has surfaced in Faridpur-1 constituency, comprising Boalmari, Alfadanga, and Madhukhali upazilas, as two supporters of independent candidate Abul Bashar Khan were allegedly injured in a knife attack. The incident reportedly involved supporters of the BNP-nominated candidate, Khondkar Nasirul Islam.
According to local sources, the attack occurred on Wednesday, 28 January, around 5:30 pm in Dasturdia village under Jahapur Union in Madhukhali Upazila. Eyewitnesses stated that Abul Bashar Khan’s supporters, Robin and Alif, were attempting to put up election banners when they were confronted by a BNP supporter named Jihad.
A confrontation reportedly ensued, during which Jihad allegedly attacked Robin and Alif with a knife, leaving them injured. Both victims were rushed to Faridpur Medical College Hospital for treatment by nearby residents.
Abul Bashar Khan commented on the incident, saying:
“My supporters went to hang banners in Jahapur Union. While doing so near the house of former Union Parishad chairman Ishak Mia, they were blocked by Jihad, who threatened them, saying, ‘This is BNP territory. No other candidate can campaign or hang banners here.’ Despite this, my supporters moved slightly further and hung two football banners. Witnessing this, Jihad allegedly attacked Robin and Arif with a knife. How can a free, fair, and impartial election environment exist under such conditions?”
Efforts to reach Jihad for comment were unsuccessful. Meanwhile, BNP’s Faridpur-1 candidate Khondkar Nasirul Islam denied any knowledge of the attack, stating that his supporters do not engage in violent politics. He suggested that Abul Bashar Khan’s personal creditors, linked to alleged debts of around 200 crore Taka, could be behind the incident.
Madhukhali Police Station’s Officer-in-Charge, Md. Taijur Rahman, confirmed police were informed of the event and had visited the scene, but no arrests were made as the individuals could not be located. He added that one of the alleged attackers is reportedly addicted to drugs. The OC noted that the specifics of the confrontation—whether it occurred while hanging banners—remain unclear. No formal complaint has yet been filed, but action will be taken if one is submitted.
Summary of Incident
| Date & Time | Location | Victims | Alleged Attacker | Action Taken |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 28 Jan, 5:30 pm | Dasturdia Village, Jahapur Union | Robin & Alif (supporters of Abul Bashar Khan) | Jihad (BNP supporter) | Victims admitted to Faridpur Medical College Hospital; police investigated but no arrests made |
This latest episode underscores growing concerns over electoral violence in the Faridpur-1 constituency as campaigning intensifies ahead of the upcoming elections. Local residents have urged authorities to ensure the safety of all candidates and their supporters to maintain a free and fair electoral process.