Dhaka, Bangladesh – A violent incident unfolded at Habibullah Bahar College, heightening tensions in the lead-up to the upcoming elections. Nasiruddin Patwary, the National Citizen Party candidate running for the Dhaka-8 constituency, accused senior BNP leader Mirza Abbas of orchestrating an attack against him, allegedly involving family members and local supporters.
During a press conference following the confrontation, Patwary asserted that the assault was premeditated. He specifically named Mirza Abbas’ nephew, Aditya, as allegedly being behind the aggression, which he claimed involved members of the local Chhatra Dal, a student wing of the BNP. The details surrounding the attack remain unverified by independent sources.
Patwary urged Tarique Rahman, the acting BNP chairperson, to take decisive action against individuals who contribute to violence within the party. “This is an opportunity for Tarique Rahman to show whether he will continue protecting these elements or uphold party discipline,” he emphasized during his remarks. He also highlighted that if former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia had witnessed the incident, she would have felt deep embarrassment for the party’s actions.
The incident reportedly began when Patwary attended a pitha festival at the college, greeted initially by students with flowers. However, he alleged that he was soon confronted by individuals claiming to be former Chhatra Dal leaders who demanded financial contributions. Patwary claimed he turned down their requests, stating he would not engage in any form of financial misconduct or extortion.
What began as a verbal confrontation reportedly escalated quickly, resulting in violence, including the throwing of bricks and eggs at him and his supporters. The NCP candidate mentioned that several individuals were injured in the melee, including a woman who required medical attention for a head wound.
Despite the presence of police during the confrontation, Patwary alleged that security forces did not intervene adequately to protect his group. “Our supporters were assaulted right in front of the police, who claimed to be there to safeguard us,” he stated, expressing frustration over the apparent lack of intervention.
The candidate also criticized the Election Commission for failing to maintain order and ensure a fair political environment ahead of the February 12 elections. “Their inaction has allowed for such violence to take place, further complicating the electoral process,” he contended.
Unperturbed by the violence he faced, Patwary affirmed his commitment to continue his campaign against terrorism, extortion, and corruption in the Dhaka-8 constituency. He expressed determination to advocate for a peaceful political environment, regardless of the challenges ahead.