Section 144 issued in Hajiganj: Police and BGB on the ground to control the situation. There has been a massive clash in Hajiganj of Chandpur over the desecration of the Holy Quran at the Puja Mandap in Cumilla. At least 50 people were injured in the clashes between police and locals. Although three people were reported killed in the clashes locally, the police-administration said it was not sure.
Meanwhile, Upazila Nirbahi Officer and Executive Magistrate Momena Akhter has issued section 144 in Hajiganj municipal area till further orders. Besides the police, BGB and magistrates have been deployed.
Clashes broke out between police and protesters in Hajiganj after the Esha prayers on Wednesday 13 October. Police fired blank shots and tear gas to bring the situation under control. At that time 3 people were killed on the spot. At least 50 people, including 21 policemen, two journalists and a mob, were injured in the clashes.
According to Hajiganj Upazila Health Complex sources, the deceased were identified as Alamin, 18, of Raichon village under Barakul union of Hajiganj upazila, Yasin Hossain Hridoy, 15, son of Fazlul Haque of Sekandar Ali Beparibari in Randhunimura upazila and Bablu, 28, of Chapainawabganj area.
Witnesses Manik Hossain, Johnny and Delwar said that after the Esha prayers on Wednesday, the locals took out a protest procession from Hajiganj Bishoroad crossroads area. After marching twice on the main road of Hajiganj Bazar, on the way to the east of the market for the 3rd time, the procession suddenly attacked the Laxmi Narayan Jiur Akhra (Trinayani) Puja Mandap. Later clashes broke out between the police and the worshipers.
Protesters later attacked about six temples. Attacks and vandalism have taken place at Jiur Akhra, Navdurga, Trishul, Tri Nayani, Zamindar Bari temples and temples in Balakhal and Rampur areas.
Hajiganj Police Officer-in-Charge (OC) Harunur Rashid said, “21 policemen injured. Protesters attacked the police station at night.”
Hajiganj Upazila Nirbahi Officer Momena Akhter confirmed the news and said I was not sure about the death.
Chandpur Superintendent of Police Milon Mahmud said some of the injured had been sent to hospital. 15-20 policemen were injured.
However, he did not confirm the death.
Meanwhile, relatives of the victims were seen crowding in front of Hajiganj Upazila Health Complex and police station.
Correspondent: Zahirul Islam Joy, October 142021