Violent Clash Erupts Between BNP and NCP Supporters in Cumilla: 35 Injured Including Journalists
Image via www.thehawk.in
Cumilla, Bangladesh | July 31, 2025 —A violent confrontation broke out on Wednesday evening in Muradnagar Upazila of Cumilla, leaving at least 35 people injured, including five journalists, after a protest rally organized by the National Citizens Party (NCP) spiraled into chaos following a confrontation with Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) supporters. Local media reports and eyewitness accounts paint a disturbing picture of political unrest as bricks and stones flew across the streets, forcing shopkeepers to flee and bringing the area to a standstill.
The incident marks a troubling new chapter in Bangladesh’s volatile political climate, with intra-opposition conflict undermining recent efforts at unity.
What Sparked the Violence?
The tension began during a protest rally reportedly organized by NCP supporters under the banner “People from all walks of life of Muradnagar Upazila.” The rally aimed to condemn what they called “false propaganda and conspiracy” against Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain, a local government advisor of Bangladesh’s interim government.
According to eyewitnesses quoted by the leading Bangladeshi daily Prothom Alo, the situation escalated when slogans in support of Asif Mahmud were met with stone-pelting from alleged BNP members.
Slogans like:
- “Direct action against extortionists!”
- “Catch extortionists, throw them in jail!”
- “Muradnagar’s soil, Asif’s base!”
were being chanted when, all of a sudden, bricks and stones were hurled from the opposing side, reportedly triggering a full-blown clash between BNP and NCP supporters.
Brutal Street Fighting Leaves Dozens Injured
The confrontation quickly escalated into street-level violence, with activists from both sides chasing each other and attacking with bricks and wooden sticks. According to local reports, around 35 individuals were injured, including five journalists who were covering the protest.
Among the injured was Shekhar, a member of Muradnagar Sadar union parishad, who sustained a head injury.
“As soon as we began our rally, BNP men attacked us with brick chunks. I was beaten and sustained a head injury,” he said.
Minazul Haque, the convenor of Nagorik Samaj, an NCP-aligned citizens' group, also accused the BNP of orchestrating the attack:
“BNP men intentionally attacked us. As soon as we brought out the procession, they started throwing brickbats and stones and chased us. Around 50 of our supporters were injured during this time.”
The violence caused widespread panic in the area, with local businesses shuttering immediately and pedestrians fleeing the scene.
BNP Denies Responsibility, Blames NCP
However, the BNP has strongly denied the allegations, instead accusing NCP supporters of provoking the attack with police support.
BNP’s Muradnagar unit convener Mahiuddin Anjan stated:
“Our protest was against false cases filed by Asif Mahmud. His supporters initiated the clash under police protection.”
Earlier on Tuesday, BNP supporters reportedly held their own rally in Muradnagar, demanding the resignation of Asif Mahmud, who they accuse of filing politically motivated cases against opposition leaders.
Background: United Opposition Cracking?
The incident signals cracks within the opposition camp in Bangladesh, which had until recently demonstrated rare unity in ousting the Awami League government led by former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
During the 2024 protests, several opposition parties — including the BNP, NCP, and student groups — formed a joint platform under the leadership of figures like Nobel Laureate Dr. Muhammad Yunus to demand Hasina’s resignation and the installation of an interim caretaker government.
While the coalition succeeded in pressuring the Awami League to step down, the power struggle within the opposition has intensified ever since. The appointment of Asif Mahmud Shojib Bhuyain as a local government advisor by the interim setup has been a flashpoint, with rival parties accusing him of using state power to target former allies.
Wednesday’s violent episode reflects the fragile political consensus and growing mistrust among opposition ranks, raising concerns about the future stability of the interim administration.
Press Freedom Under Threat?
The injury of five journalists in the clash has also raised alarms about press safety in politically charged environments. Independent journalist networks have demanded an investigation into the incident and called for the interim government to ensure media protection during political rallies.
Local journalist groups in Cumilla have reportedly submitted a formal memorandum to the district administration, urging action against those responsible for the attack.
Political Fallout and Public Fear
The repeated incidents of street violence have rattled local residents and business owners in Muradnagar, who have urged political groups to resolve disputes peacefully.
“Muradnagar is turning into a political battleground. The parties promised stability after Hasina. What we see now is chaos and fear,” said a local shopkeeper who closed early on Wednesday due to the unrest.
With War 2 and other major public events on the horizon in Bangladesh, civic groups are worried that continued violence may disrupt social life and erode trust in the newly installed interim government.
Final Thoughts from The Trending People
The violent clash between BNP and NCP supporters in Cumilla is more than just a local skirmish — it’s a warning signal. The fragile alliance that once stood united against the Awami League is now showing signs of internal collapse, threatening the democratic transition that many in Bangladesh hoped for.
As political tensions escalate, and public confidence erodes, the need for peaceful dialogue, electoral clarity, and institutional stability has never been more urgent. The coming weeks will be critical for both the interim government and the opposition forces that helped bring it to power.