Three Workers’ Party members injured in election showdown clash

Dhaka, 2 February 2026: Three members of the Revolutionary Workers’ Party were injured in a violent clash during the ongoing election campaign for the Dhaka-12 constituency. The incident occurred in the Hatirjheel area, specifically around Madhubag–Mirbag, at approximately 5:30 pm on Monday.

The injured have been identified as Ahad Hossain (27), Abdur Rahman Sakin (27), and Mohammad Hossain (39). All three were admitted to the emergency department of Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH) at around 8:30 pm for treatment.

Saiful Haque, General Secretary of the Revolutionary Workers’ Party and candidate for Dhaka-12 under the “Kodal” (Pickaxe) symbol, alleged that supporters of independent candidate Saiful Alam Nirab, who was previously expelled from the BNP, orchestrated the attack.

According to Saiful Haque, a campaign procession carrying the Kodal symbol began at Madhubag Field and proceeded towards Mirbag. Upon reaching Mirbag, Nirab’s supporters reportedly launched a sudden assault using pipes, sticks, and rods, resulting in injuries to three party members. Haque emphasised the need for immediate legal action against the perpetrators and demanded exemplary punishment, urging the Election Commission to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure accountability. He also highlighted that Ward-36 in Dhaka-12 is particularly vulnerable, with candidates and voters frequently exposed to threats and instigation.

Contrastingly, Saiful Alam Nirab offered a different account, stating that the altercation began when Haque’s supporters allegedly restrained a supporter of his named Bulbul by the collar. What initially started as a verbal argument quickly escalated into a physical confrontation.

Adding another perspective, Imran Khan, a member of the BNP in Hatirjheel Thana, alleged that around 150–200 people joined the Kodal campaign procession from Madhubag Field. During the march, supporters of the expelled BNP leader, including Masum Mia, Shyamoli Khan, Bappi Khan, and Mamun Roni, reportedly attacked the BNP group, leaving several of their activists injured.

The incident has been officially confirmed by Inspector Mohammad Faruk, officer-in-charge of the DMCH hospital police camp. He stated that three individuals injured in the electoral violence were brought to the hospital at around 8:30 pm and remain under treatment. The matter has been reported to the relevant local police authorities for further investigation.

Key Details of the Incident

The incident underscores rising tensions in Dhaka-12 as the national elections approach, with rival campaign teams accusing each other of orchestrating violence. Authorities have been urged to ensure safety and uphold the integrity of the electoral process.