AL-BNP clash in Faridpur leaves 8 injured

At least eight people were injured in a clash between supporters of the Awami League and the BNP over fishing rights in a pond in Faridpur today (3 February).

Three of the injured were hospitalised at Faridpur Medical College Hospital.

The violence, which took place in Fushra village of Kanpur union in Faridpur Sadar upazila around noon, led to attacks, vandalism, and looting of at least 20 homes, including those of leaders from both parties.

Police from Faridpur Kotwali Police Station, along with the army, arrived at the scene and brought the situation under control.

One group was led by Hashem Khan, president of the BNP's ward no-9 in Kanpur union, while the other side was led by Akkas Matubbar, president of the same ward for the Awami League.

Locals reported that a dispute over fishing in the pond sparked an argument between supporters of both sides on Sunday afternoon. On Monday morning, Hashem Khan's supporters launched an attack on Matubbar's house. 

Speaking to the media, Awami League leader Akkas Matubbar said, "On Sunday night, we agreed, through police mediation, not to engage in a clash. I stuck to this agreement, but Hashem Khan did not. His supporters suddenly attacked my house and the homes of my supporters, causing damage and looting cattle worth Tk10 lakh."

Hashem Khan denied the allegations, stating, "Akkas's supporters attacked my house and vandalised it."

Md Asaduzzaman, officer-in-charge of Kotwali Police Station, said after receiving reports of the clash, police, army, and RAB members were deployed to the scene. 

"The situation is now under control, with additional police stationed in the area. Further legal actions are underway," he added.