A recent violent attack on a businessman in Subidkhali Market, located in the Mirzaganj Upazila of Patuakhali, has provoked widespread concern among local residents. The incident, reportedly linked to longstanding political tensions in the area, has left the community feeling anxious and uncertain.
The victim, 50-year-old fruit trader Nirmal Das, is currently receiving medical treatment at the Upazila Health Complex. Due to the severity of his injuries, he was transferred on Monday afternoon to a specialised medical facility in Barishal for advanced care.
According to Nirmal Das, he has conducted his business honestly for many years in Subidkhali Market. However, over the past few months, he alleges that Suzan Sikdar, organisational secretary of the local BNP branch, along with his associates, repeatedly demanded a payment of five lakh taka.
Nirmal Das further claims that when he refused to comply, his college-aged son, Rittik Das, was allegedly implicated in a false drug-related case to intimidate the family. In addition, he asserts that misleading rumours were spread within the community to tarnish the family’s social reputation.
Describing the attack, Nirmal Das stated, “On Sunday evening, while I was walking from my home to the shop, Suzan Sikdar and his associates intercepted me. They demanded the extorted money. When I refused, I was physically assaulted and dragged along the road with a scarf tied around my neck.” Prompt intervention by local residents enabled him to be admitted to the Upazila Health Complex before his subsequent transfer to Barishal for further treatment. Nirmal Das has lodged a written complaint with the local police.
Suzan Sikdar has denied the allegations, claiming that he merely reported concerns about Rittik Das’s alleged drug use to the police and the Department of Narcotics Control. He added, “A misunderstanding during a conversation led to heightened tensions.”
Commenting on the matter, Sahabuddin Nannu, president of the Mirzaganj Upazila BNP, stated that the party cannot be held responsible for individual actions and expressed confidence that law enforcement agencies would take appropriate measures. Md. A. Salam, Officer-in-Charge of Mirzaganj Police Station, confirmed that written complaints from both sides have been received and that no formal case has yet been filed against Rittik Das. Investigations are ongoing.
Key Details of the Incident
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Victim | Nirmal Das, 50, fruit trader |
| Alleged Perpetrator | Suzan Sikdar, Organisational Secretary, Mirzaganj Upazila BNP |
| Location | Subidkhali Market, Mirzaganj, Patuakhali |
| Medical Transfer | Upazila Health Complex → Barishal Advanced Medical Centre |
| Alleged Extortion Amount | Five lakh taka |
| Nature of Allegations | Physical assault, threats, attempted defamation |
The case has raised broader concerns about political interference in local business and the safety of entrepreneurs. Authorities are expected to verify the claims from both parties and take necessary legal action promptly. The incident has also reignited community debates over security and political influence in commercial affairs.