20 hurt as clash breaks out at Baitul Mukarram National Mosque

More than fifty people were injured as clashes broke out at Baitul Mukarram National Mosque between followers of present Khatib Waliur Rahman and former Khatib Ruhul Amin before Jumma prayers.

The incident occurred around 12:30 PM while Khatib Waliur Rahman was addressing the worshipers.

Eyewitnesses said Khatib Waliur Rahman Khan was giving a speech before the prayer started. At that time, Khatib Maulana Mufti Ruhul Amin entered Baitul Mukarram Mosque with his followers and took the microphone of the Khatib and attacked the worshipers and servants (Khadem) who were sitting near the pulpit.

Then the clash took place between the two sides leaving more than 20 people injured.

Worshiper Hamid said the former Imam could have solved the problem by sitting through the proper authorities. But he brought people and attacked. "It is really shameful," he added.

Wishing anonymity, a police official, said this was not a major incident. Currently the situation is under control. "We are looking into the matter," he added.

He further stated that additional police forces have been deployed at Baitul Mukarram North Gate and Paltan intersection. Besides, senior officials of DMP and members of the army are present there.