A violent clash broke out in Baniachang upazila of Habiganj during a dispute over the transfer of responsibilities at a Union Parishad, leaving the officer-in-charge (OC) of the local police station among more than fifty people injured.
The incident occurred on Monday (8 June) at Boroiuri village, lasting from around 12:00 noon to 2:15 pm. The information was confirmed by Baniachang Police Station OC Sheikh Nazmul Haque.
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Background of the dispute
According to police and local sources, the chairman of No. 7 Boroiuri Union Parishad, Farid Uddin, is a local leader of the Awami League. Following a series of cases linked to incidents of violence during movements after 5 August 2024, he was arrested and subsequently sent to prison. He was later suspended from his position, and Union Parishad member Kofil Uddin was appointed as the acting chairman.
Recently, Farid Uddin was released on bail. Following his release, he filed a writ petition in the High Court, after which his position as chairman was reinstated through a court order.
Events leading to the clash
On Monday, Farid Uddin went to the Union Parishad office to assume charge of the chairman’s position. At that point, a verbal altercation broke out between supporters of Farid Uddin and Kofil Uddin.
The situation escalated as villagers aligned with both sides gathered and split into opposing groups. The confrontation intensified as individuals reportedly armed themselves with local weapons and took opposing positions, leading to a tense standoff in the area.
Timeline of the incident
| Time | Event |
|---|---|
| 12:00 pm | Verbal dispute escalates into confrontation |
| Around 12:00–2:15 pm | Armed clash between two groups |
| After 2:15 pm | Police regain control of the situation |
At approximately 12:00 pm, the situation escalated into a full-scale clash between the two groups. Law enforcement personnel arrived at the scene shortly after receiving reports and attempted to bring the situation under control. After nearly two hours of efforts, the situation was stabilised by around 2:15 pm.
During the operation, police used three rounds of tear gas shells and four rounds of sound grenades to disperse the opposing groups.
Casualties and response
More than fifty people were injured in the violence, including four police officers, among them OC Sheikh Nazmul Haque. The injured were taken to Baniachang and Habiganj hospitals for treatment.
Additional police personnel have since been deployed in the area to maintain order and prevent further unrest. Authorities confirmed that the situation is now under control.
OC Sheikh Nazmul Haque stated that legal action is underway to detain those involved in the clash, and security measures remain in place in Boroiuri village.