Police-BNP activists clash in Kishoreganj; several activists, journalists injured

Several BNP activists and journalists were injured in a clash between police and the party activists during their march in Kishoreganj Tuesday.

Daily Manab Zamin‍‍`s staff reporter Ashraful Islam, Channel 24‍‍`s district correspondent Alam Faisal, district Jubo Dal general secretary Abdullah Al Masud Sumon, organizing secretary Tarekuzzaman, and Chhatra Dal leader Tripti were among the injured.

As part of the pre-announced program, BNP leaders and activists from various upazilas and municipalities gathered at Gurudayal College ground in the district town this morning.

When they reached the Rathkhala area at 12:30 pm, police obstructed them.

Refusing to be deterred by the police barricade, the BNP procession attempted to move forward, and police responded with a baton charge, resulting in a clash between law enforcers and BNP leaders and activists.

During the chase and counter-chase, agitated BNP men threw bricks at the police.

Police charged baton and fired several rounds of tear shells.

The area’s traffic came to a standstill for nearly half an hour and shops were also closed.

Additional Superintendent of Police (Finance and Administration) Mushtaq Sarkar said that the BNP‍‍`s pre-scheduled program was initially from Gurudayal Government College ground to Rathkhola Maidan.

“However, when the procession attempted to cross Rathkhala Maidan and move forward, police intervened and blocked their path. In response to the police obstruction, some BNP activists resorted to violence by throwing bricks at the officers,” he said.

As of now, no arrests have been made in connection with the clashes, he added.

Kishoreganj BNP organizing secretary Nazmul Alam said several leaders and activists were injured in the police attack.

They are currently receiving first aid at different hospitals, he said.