National Citizen Party (NCP) Chief Coordinator Nasiruddin Patwari was allegedly attacked with eggs and involved in a subsequent scuffle in Jhenaidah on Friday, prompting the party to stage an immediate protest march.
The incident took place in front of the Jhenaidah Municipal Collectorate Jame Mosque shortly after 2pm, following Jummah prayers.
Eyewitnesses said Nasiruddin Patwari was leaving the mosque when Islamic University Chhatra Dal convener Shahed Ahmed approached him for a conversation. At that point, some individuals allegedly threw eggs from behind, triggering tension that escalated into a scuffle and confrontation between the two sides.
In a Facebook post, Nasiruddin Patwari alleged that the attack occurred in the presence of police during a scheduled programme. He wrote, "As per the pre-arranged programme in Jhenaidah, immediately after the Jumu'ah prayers at the Municipal Collector's Jame Mosque, opposite the Deputy Commissioner's residence, Chhatra Dal and Jubo Dal leaders and activists started attacking him in the presence of the police. First, eggs, bricks and stones were thrown, then they were suddenly hit with hockey sticks. Three people's heads were smashed and several others were injured. They also targeted me and NCP joint member Tarek Reza and punched them."
He further alleged that attackers snatched his mobile phone, camera and wallet, adding in another post, "After the incident, we are currently at the police station and are preparing to file a case. Chhatra Dal, Jubo Dal, BNP are preparing to attack in front of the police station again."
Following the incident, the NCP brought out a protest march, led by party spokesperson Asif Mahmud Sajeeb Bhuiyan, condemning the attack and demanding action against those involved.
Although allegations were raised against leaders and activists of Chhatra Dal and Jubo Dal, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) denied any involvement in the incident.
Islamic University Chhatra Dal convener Shahed Ahmed said, "Nasiruddin Patwari is making various ugly statements about senior BNP leaders while visiting different districts. When Nasiruddin Patwari came to Jhenaidah on a visit, I met him and discussed the matter. At that time, the angry local crowd threw eggs. We have nothing to do with the fight or egg throwing."
Jhenaidah Sadar Police Station Officer in Charge Asaduzzaman said the situation was brought under control following the incident.
"The situation is now under control. Police have been deployed at important points in the city. Nasiruddin Patwari has come to the police station. We have not received a written complaint so far," he said.
