Jamaat-e-Islami attack the Hindu community in the area, torches a temple
A BNP leader died during in fierce clashes with government-backed Awami League supporters in Patgram upazila, Lalmonirhat on Saturday morning.
At least 10 others were injured in the clashes that were followed by a Jamaat-e-Islami attack on the Hindu community and arson on their temple.
The incident took place during an anti-polls hartal of the BNP-led 18-party alliance a day ahead of the 10th parliamentary elections across the country.
The deceased was identified as Mobarak Hossain, 38, ward-level leader of BNP’s Shechwashebok Dal of Bawra union unit, police said.
Awami League men, wielding local sharp weapons, attacked on a pro-hartal procession around 10am, Patgram police Officer-in-Charge Amiruzzaman said.
“Shechwashebok Dal leader Mobarak Hossain died on the spot,” he said. “Later, Jamaat attacked Parapukur Sashan Temple in the area.”
Witnesses said a local Hindu leader Sunil Chandra Sen, 48, and at least five others were assaulted by Jamaat men while protesting the arson.
A tense situation was prevailing the area during the mayhem. OC Amiruzzaman said joint forces rushed to the spot and brought the situation under control.
The dead body was recovered around midday and sent to Patgram Upazila Health Complex for autopsy.
Lalmonirhat is one of the areas listed “vulnerable” in the country where the specially-formed joint forces are cracking down on violence.