A former Bangladesh member of parliament was attacked during a funeral procession Thursday morning in Karnaphuli, resulting in injuries to six individuals, including a journalist, according to local officials and eyewitnesses.
Sarwar Jamal Nizam, 65, of Chittagong and a former lawmaker for the Chittagong-13 constituency, was reportedly targeted by political rivals while attending the funeral of the mother of former BNP president Ehsan A Khan in Dakpara, Ward No. 9 of Baruthan Union. The incident occurred around 11 a.m., following a period of internal party tension.
Local sources alleged that the attackers were supporters of Karnaphuli Upazila BNP convener SM Mamun Mia, a follower of South District BNP Member Secretary Lion Md. Helal Uddin. Mamun Mia, however, denied any involvement in the attack.
Among the injured was journalist Mohi Uddin, the Karnaphuli correspondent for the Daily Azadi. Witnesses said he was assaulted and had his mobile phone taken while covering the altercation. He was reportedly aided by Shamim, joint convener of Karnaphuli Jubo Dal.
The clash reportedly began prior to the funeral when a banner placed by Nizam was torn down and discarded by activists linked to Mamun Mia. Tensions escalated when Nizam and approximately 150 followers entered the funeral ground and attempted to position themselves in the front row during prayers.
Following the funeral, violence erupted on the Karnaphuli-Anowara road, where both groups hurled stones, bricks and plastic bags, causing panic among pedestrians.
Police responded swiftly and said the situation is now under control. Officer-in-Charge Muhammad Sharif of Karnaphuli Police Station confirmed that two police vehicles were dispatched and added that legal action will be taken pending a formal complaint.
Authorities visited the injured journalist’s residence to assure support. Political leaders from both factions acknowledged the clash but offered differing accounts of the events. Nizam stated he was attacked from behind and that two of his associates were hospitalized due to serious injuries.
Police have urged any victims to file formal complaints to facilitate further investigation.