Leaders and activists of the BNP's Manda Upazila unit in Naogaon are currently trying to avoid getting arrested.

Despite their attempts to hide, police have already apprehended 22 BNP leaders and activists from this upazila. Hundreds of party workers and their allies are fleeing their homes as the authorities intensify their crackdown.

This surge in arrests coincides with the escalating anti-discrimination student movement, affecting Manda along with other areas.

A case under the Explosive Substances Act was filed at Manda Police Station on July 18 following a complaint by Masud Rana, a former leader of the upazila Chhatra League.

On the same night, police arrested four BNP leaders, including Manda Upazila Jubo Dal leader Shanto Mollah, Swechasebak Dal leader Abdul Wahab, and Sramik Dal leader Yusuf Liton, from their homes.

The following day, police conducted raids across the upazila, leading to further arrests of BNP leaders and activists. As of Friday morning, at least 22 individuals have been detained.

Dr Ikramul Bari Tipu, the former general secretary of Manda Thana BNP, criticised the arrests, claiming they are based on false accusations. He described the case filed at Manda Police Station as fictitious, fabricated, and politically motivated. Tipu, also a former upazila chairman, demanded a public inquiry and challenged anyone to prove the allegations against them. He condemned the arbitrary arrests and called on law enforcers to cease these actions.

Mozammel Haque Kazi, officer-in-charge of Manda Police Station, confirmed that 22 individuals have been arrested in connection with the sabotage case. He said efforts are ongoing to apprehend others involved, emphasising that no one connected to the case will be spared.