Madaripur’s Shivchar area witnessed a tense and unusual power struggle on Saturday, centred around a Union Parishad office long associated with the ruling Awami League. The office, which had been non-operational due to a prohibition on activities, was reopened by local Awami League figures, only to be quickly reclaimed by opposition BNP and Chhatra Dal activists.
The incident occurred at the Kutubpur Union office, where Awami League leader and Union Parishad Chairman, Atikur Rahman Madbar, led a group of associates to unlock the premises during the afternoon. Reports indicate that within a few hours, local BNP and student wing leaders arrived on the scene and forcibly reinstated the closure, taking control of the office.
Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with both sides engaging in a tense standoff. According to sources on site, the reopening by the Awami League faction appeared to be a strategic move intended to assert influence ahead of upcoming local developments.
Confirming the events, Nazmul Hasan Milon, Joint Convener of the district Chhatra Dal, stated, “The Awami League activists opened the office to create public unrest. Upon receiving news, we mobilised our members, secured the office, and it is now under our control.”
Local residents expressed concern over the confrontation, fearing that such political tussles could destabilise community harmony. Some observers described the situation as “a disturbing display of partisan rivalry spilling into civic spaces.”
Timeline of Events
| Time (approx.) | Event | Involved Parties |
|---|---|---|
| 12:30 PM | Awami League group opens Kutubpur Union office | Awami League, Atikur Rahman Madbar |
| 1:30 PM | BNP and Chhatra Dal members arrive | BNP, Chhatra Dal, local activists |
| 2:00 PM | Office is locked again and taken under opposition control | BNP, Chhatra Dal |
| After 2:00 PM | Office remains under BNP and Chhatra Dal control | BNP, Chhatra Dal |
Political analysts suggest that such confrontations are indicative of rising localised tensions, with union offices often becoming symbolic territories of influence. The episode has drawn attention to the precarious nature of administrative spaces when they intersect with political rivalries.
Authorities in Madaripur have yet to comment on whether any formal investigation or mediation will follow, but residents hope for a peaceful resolution to prevent further escalation.