A violent clash in Khatial village of Doshar Upazila, Madaripur District, on Wednesday, 14 January, left at least five people injured and thirteen residential houses completely destroyed by fire. The confrontation, which erupted over a long-standing land dispute, lasted from the morning until around 4:30 pm. One of the injured, critically wounded, was transferred to Dhaka for specialised medical treatment.
Police and local sources have identified the central dispute as a protracted ownership conflict between Abbas Chowdhury and Anwar Jamaddar. Tensions escalated further on Tuesday, 13 January, when both parties reportedly entered each other’s homes and engaged in physical confrontations, during which locally made explosives were also deployed.
The violence reached its peak on Wednesday morning when a group led by Anwar Jamaddar launched an attack on Abbas Chowdhury’s residence. During the assault, Abbas sustained injuries from a sharp weapon and was initially admitted to the 250-Bed District Hospital in Madaripur before being transferred to Dhaka Medical College Hospital due to the severity of his condition.
Eyewitnesses report that both factions armed themselves with improvised weapons, further intensifying the hostilities. By midday, Jamaddar’s group set fire to at least thirteen houses, looting property in the process. Among the five injured were individuals who tried to intervene to stop the violence.
Law enforcement, military personnel, and fire service units swiftly responded, managing to bring the situation under control. Mohammad Jahangir Alam, Additional Superintendent of Police (Crime and Operations), confirmed: “This incident stems from a land and dominance dispute, which escalated to arson. Separate cases have been filed against both parties, and two individuals have already been arrested.”
Local resident Siraj Jamaddar, whose home was among those destroyed, said: “Thirteen houses, including mine, have been completely burned. This attack happened before any discussion or resolution could take place. We hope justice will be served.”
Key Details of the Clash
| Item | Details | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| Injured | 5 | 1 critically injured, transferred to Dhaka |
| Houses destroyed | 13 | Includes homes of Siraj Jamaddar’s family |
| Arrests | 2 | Cases filed against both parties |
| Location | Khatial village, Doshar, Madaripur | Controlled by police, military, and fire units |
| Cause of clash | Land and dominance dispute | Result of previous day’s confrontations and revenge |
Despite widespread fear among residents, the prompt intervention of law enforcement and emergency services has restored relative calm to the area. Authorities continue to monitor the situation to prevent further escalation.