A clash between two local groups at Banshpukuria Bazar in Puthia upazila of Rajshahi left at least two people seriously injured and triggered incidents of vandalism and arson on Friday evening.
According to local sources, the violence erupted around 7:30 pm following a long-standing dispute over the management committee of the Banshpukuria South Para Eidgah field.
The conflict reportedly involves Abdul Wahid, former member of Ward No. 1 of Belpukur Union, and Momin, president of Ward No. 1 unit of Belpukur Union BNP. Their disagreement over the formation of the Eidgah management committee had been ongoing for some time.
Witnesses said that an argument between the two sides at the market quickly escalated into a clash.
According to allegations, when Khorshed and Joy, nephews of Momin, arrived at the market, they were attacked by Abdul Wahid Member, his elder brother Abu Sayeed, his son Joy, and Sohan, along with several others.
As a result of the attack, two people sustained serious head injuries.
Local residents rescued the injured and took them to Puthia Upazila Health Complex. Later, they were referred to Rajshahi Medical College Hospital (RMCH) for advanced treatment.
After news of the clash spread, a group of Momin’s supporters reportedly arrived at Banshpukuria Bazar and carried out vandalism at a pesticide shop owned by Anisur Rahman, nephew of Abdul Wahid.
They also set fire to a carrom board taken from Wahid Member’s party office and left it burning on the road. Fire Service personnel later brought the fire under control.
Police from Belpukur Police Station rushed to the spot and brought the situation under control.
Officer-in-Charge (OC) Md. Arjun said:
“The clash originated from an ongoing dispute over the Eidgah field management committee. The injured have been given medical treatment and the situation is currently under control. Legal action will be taken after investigation if complaints are filed.”
Authorities said the situation in the area is currently stable, while police remain alert to prevent further unrest.
