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Violence has broken out between supporters of the BNP and an independent candidate over election campaigning in Sadar Upazila of Munshiganj-3 seat, leaving at least two people with gunshot wounds.
The clash took place on Saturday afternoon in Munshikandi village, Munshiganj's Additional Superintendent Mohammad Firoz Kabir said.
Citing witnesses and locals, police said supporters of independent candidate Ataur Rahman Mallik, a district BNP member contesting with the “Football” symbol, brought out a campaign procession at noon.
They were reportedly ambushed by supporters of the Sheaf of Paddy symbol, led by Upazila BNP joint general secretary Ojir Ali, alongside union unit leader Awlad Mollah.
According to witnesses, supporters of both sides became locked in violent clashes within moments.
During the confrontation, crude bombs were detonated and gunshots were fired, spreading panic across the area.
Several people were injured in the clashes.
Among them, Munshikandi villagers Lijan Sarker and Monir Hossain sustained serious injuries.
After receiving first aid at Munshiganj General Hospital, both were referred to Dhaka Medical College Hospital due to the critical nature of their wounds.
Videos showing individuals openly carrying firearms while running through potato fields, along with scenes of crude bomb explosions during the clash, have spread widely on social media.
Additional Superintendent Firoz said, “There had been a prior dispute between the two sides over establishing dominance.
“With the election approaching, that rivalry resurfaced and led to this unpleasant incident.”
Police have been deployed at the scene, and operations are under way to arrest those involved, he added.