Jamaat, BNP activists scuffle over ‘pre-polls campaigning’ triggers tension in Mirpur

Tension has flared in Dhaka’s Mirpur after activists of the Jamaat-e-Islami and BNP were involved in a scuffle over the distribution of campaign leaflets ahead of the official start of electioneering.

The incident took place on Tuesday evening outside the Pirerbagh Al Mubarak Mosque under Mirpur Model Police Station, said Assistant Commissioner Md Mizanur Rahman.

He said junior-level activists from both sides exchanged punches and kicks, prompting police intervention to bring the situation under control.

“Senior leaders from both parties, along with Army and police officials, went to the scene after reports… They are now in discussions to defuse the situation,” the police officer said.

Asked about injuries, Mizanur said he had heard that a few people were hurt, but described the incident as “a minor event” with no serious injuries reported.

According to police, the clash was triggered when Jamaat activists allegedly began distributing election leaflets before the official campaign period.

BNP activists objected, arguing that campaigning was not permitted at this stage.

An argument ensued, which later intensified into pushing and a physical altercation, the officer said.

The area falls under the Dhaka-15 constituency, where Jamaat chief Shafiqur Rahman is running for parliament.

The BNP has nominated Shafiqul Islam Khan Milton for the same seat.

The national election and referendum are scheduled for Feb 12, while official campaigning is set to begin on Thursday.

In recent days, the BNP, Jamaat and the National Citizen Party have exchanged allegations over election rules, conduct and the issue of a level playing field.