In a tragic incident in Mohanpur, Rajshahi, a longstanding local muezzin, Mohammad Alauddin, aged 65, died following a violent clash between supporters of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) and Jamaat-e-Islami over control of Eid prayer leadership. Alauddin had served as the muezzin at Alauddin Model Mosque for several decades, gaining respect across the local community for his dedicated service.
The confrontation occurred on Saturday, 7 March, around 7:30 pm in front of the Upazila Model Mosque, situated in the Sankoa area of Mohanpur. According to eyewitnesses, tensions arose over who would lead the upcoming Eid prayers. Local Jamaat leaders claimed Alauddin as one of their own, whereas he was reportedly a supporter of BNP, while his sons were actively involved in Jamaat politics.
Reports indicate that a heated discussion escalated when Alauddin arrived at the mosque accompanied by his sons. A verbal altercation ensued between them and several BNP affiliates, including Omar Faruk, Md. Rasel, Abdul Karim, and Abdul Quddus. Witnesses stated that during the confrontation, some BNP supporters allegedly attempted to subdue Alauddin physically, pressing him to the ground, leading to his sudden collapse at the scene.
Abdul Awal, the Upazila Amir of Jamaat, confirmed the family’s long-standing political affiliation with Jamaat-e-Islami. Meanwhile, police spokesperson and Additional Superintendent of Police Sabina Yasmin indicated that preliminary reports suggest Alauddin may have died from a stroke triggered by the altercation.
The clash briefly disrupted local traffic, with the Rajshahi–Naogaon highway blocked for several hours. During this period, a BNP supporter’s motorcycle was set on fire, and the local BNP office suffered damage. Police later intervened and restored order. Alauddin’s body was initially taken to the Upazila Health Complex before his family transported it home. Should any disputes arise regarding the cause of death, authorities plan to send the body to Rajshahi Medical College for autopsy.
Incident Summary Table
| Information | Description |
|---|---|
| Deceased Name | Mohammad Alauddin |
| Age | 65 |
| Occupation | Muezzin, Alauddin Model Mosque |
| Date & Time of Incident | 7 March, 7:30 pm |
| Location | Sankoa, Mohanpur, Rajshahi |
| Parties Involved | BNP, Jamaat |
| Outcome | Death of muezzin, highway blockage, property damage |
| Police Statement | Preliminary reports suggest stroke as cause |
Local leaders and residents expressed deep concern over the political nature of the conflict, emphasising that such incidents not only threaten social harmony but also endanger the sanctity of religious observances. The episode has underscored the urgent need for dialogue between political factions and administrative authorities to prevent similar tragedies in future.