At least 10 people were injured in a clash between the supporter groups of two BNP leaders in Mymensingh-10 (Gafargaon) constituency on Wednesday evening.
The clash occurred in front of Islamia School in Gafargaon after election symbols were allocated for the constituency. Supporters of Akhtaruzzaman Bachchu, who got the BNP candidate A and rebel candidate AB Siddiqur Rahman confronted each other during rival processions, triggering clashes, gunfire, and reported fires in several locations.
Police and the army restored calm with baton charges, but shops remained closed and the area stayed tense.
Confirming the incident, Mymensingh Additional Superintendent of Police (Finance & Administration) Md. Abdullah Al Mamun said the situation is now under control and those involved will face legal action after investigation.
Akhtaruzzaman Bachchu claimed his supporters were attacked by the rebel BNP faction and demanded arrests, while AB Siddiqur Rahman denied the allegations, saying his 10,000 supporters held a peaceful procession and he did not attack anyone.
BNP activists accused AB Siddiquur Rahman, joint convenor of Mymensingh South District BNP, of having business ties with fugitive PM Sheikh Hasina’s adviser and Beximco vice chairman Salman F Rahman. They alleged he faces a Tk 136.68 crore embezzlement case with the ACC and is conspiring against the party after being denied the nomination.
Regarding the case, Siddiqur said, “There may be a case, but it is not an important matter.”