Authorities have tightened security in and around the Biswa Ijtema ground in Tongi to prevent any untoward incidents following violent clashes between two groups that left two people dead and many injured.
A large contingent of the Army, Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), and other forces, along with regular police, have been patrolling the area, reports UNB’s district correspondent from the scene.
According to a statement from the BGB headquarters, four platoons have been deployed in the area, reports UNB.
Despite the heavy security, a tense atmosphere persists there.
Locals reported that followers of Maulana Saad remain inside the ground, while those of Maulana Zubair are positioned outside.
Meanwhile, a meeting between the two groups was held at the Ministry of Home Affairs later on Wednesday.
The meeting asked the two groups to vacate the ground and they agreed to leave the area.
As per the government’s decision, the first phase of the Biswa Ijtema, organised by Zubair’s followers, will take place from January 31 to February 2 next year, while the second phase, led by Saad’s followers, is scheduled from February 7 to 9.
Although the government permitted the Saad group to host the first phase, the opposing faction has been reluctant to accept the decision. Tensions between the two groups have been brewing ever since.
In preparation for their 'Jor Ijtema,' set to be held from December 20 to 24, Saad’s followers began entering the ground.
But, sensing their presence, Zubair’s followers reportedly attacked them around 3am.
In response, Saad’s supporters, attempting to gain entry to the ground, launched a counter-attack, leading to a fierce clash that resulted in two deaths and numerous injuries.
Locals alleged that as Saad’s supporters entered the ground, police stationed at the Ijtema site moved away, positioning themselves on the Dhaka-Mymensingh Highway to the east.
Tongi West Police Station Officer-in-Charge Iskandar Habibur Rahman confirmed the fatalities, adding that several injured individuals were sent to Dhaka Medical College Hospital.
He said that the situation is now under control, with law enforcement remaining on high alert.
Bd-pratidin English/Fariha Nowshin Chinika
