Political tensions in the Rajshahi-5 constituency, encompassing Puthia and Durgapur, reached a peak on Saturday when Ahshan Habib, a supporter of BNP’s rival candidate Esam Khairul Haque (popularly known as Shimul), was violently assaulted in Biralda village. Local residents rushed him to Rajshahi Medical College Hospital, where he remains in serious condition.
Ahshan Habib reported that he was actively campaigning for Shimul, who is contesting against the ruling party’s officially nominated candidate. Allegations indicate that supporters of the ruling party’s “Dhonshish” symbol targeted him for political reasons. The attackers reportedly used knives, sticks, and iron rods, inflicting severe injuries on multiple parts of his body.
Medical examinations revealed that Ahshan’s two right-hand fingers were broken, alongside multiple contusions and puncture wounds across his body. He stated that the attack occurred around midday while he was shopping in the local market. Approximately 15–16 individuals, including Rashid from his village, surrounded him, threatening and assaulting him with sticks and iron rods. Ahshan recounted one of their threats: “You voted for Shimul; today we will finish you.” Rashid’s son, Rasel, reportedly struck Ahshan on the head with an iron rod.
The attackers have been identified as Azad (50), Shakil (35), Maruf (21), Laltu (19), Iman (22), among others. Despite Ahshan’s attempt to escape and seek refuge in a nearby rice shop, he was pursued and beaten further. Local intervention was unable to prevent the assault, necessitating his urgent hospitalisation. Authorities have yet to make formal arrests, and Rasel could not be contacted for comment.
Zulfikar Rahman, a close associate of BNP candidate Nazrul Islam and former organisational secretary of the Rajshahi District Jubo Dal, condemned the attack, stating, “Nazrul Islam firmly opposes such acts of violence. He advocates an inclusive society and has warned those involved in violent incidents.”
Puthia police station in-charge Faridul Islam confirmed awareness of the incident but noted that no official complaint has yet been lodged.
Summary of Attack and Injuries
| Serial | Name | Age | Role | Injuries / Affected Areas | Weapons Used |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ahshan Habib | – | Victim | Head, hands, body | Iron rod, stick, hockey stick |
| 2 | Rasel (Rashid’s son) | 32 | Principal attacker | – | Iron rod |
| 3 | Azad | 50 | Assisting attacker | – | Stick, rod |
| 4 | Shakil | 35 | Assisting attacker | – | Stick, rod |
| 5 | Maruf | 21 | Assisting attacker | – | Stick, rod |
| 6 | Laltu | 19 | Assisting attacker | – | Stick, rod |
| 7 | Iman | 22 | Assisting attacker | – | Stick, rod |
The incident underscores a troubling rise in election-related violence in Rajshahi, threatening both local communities and the integrity of the electoral process. Political leaders and residents alike are urging vigilance and proactive measures to prevent such violent episodes ahead of the upcoming polls.