Dhaka, Bangladesh — A political feud within the Nationalist Party of Bangladesh (BNP) unfolded dramatically this week when Nasiruddin Patwary, the National Citizen Party (NCP) candidate for Dhaka-8, claimed he was the target of a orchestrated attack allegedly linked to senior BNP leader Mirza Abbas. Patwary’s accusations emerged during a press conference held shortly after the incident at Habibullah Bahar College.
Describing the confrontation as “premeditated,” Patwary implicated Abbas’ nephew, Aditya, along with other local leaders affiliated with the BNP’s student wing, Jatiyatabadi Chhatra Dal. Although specific names were mentioned during the press briefing, independent verification of these claims has not been achieved.
Patwary urged Tarique Rahman, the BNP’s acting chairman, to take definitive action regarding the allegations, asking whether Rahman would choose to continue accommodating individuals who allegedly disrupt party discipline. “I demand the expulsion of Mirza Abbas for not upholding the integrity of the party,” he stated.
Reflecting on the situation, Patwary expressed that former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia would have been “ashamed” to witness such violence in the name of political rivalry. He recounted that his visit to the college, where he had been invited to participate in a pitha festival, initially drew a warm reception from students. However, the atmosphere quickly soured when certain individuals confronted his team at the entrance, demanding financial contributions.
“They insisted that Mirza Abbas contributes there and inquired if I could do the same,” Patwary recounted, noting his refusal to engage in any form of corruption or bribery. The verbal dispute escalated into physical confrontations, with alleged members of the Chhatra Dal reportedly throwing bricks and eggs at his party supporters.
Patwary claimed multiple injuries occurred during the chaos, including a serious head injury to a female supporter requiring stitches. Worsening the situation, he stated that the violence persisted even after police intervention. “While they assured us of protection, it was disheartening to see our supporters being attacked in their presence,” he remarked.
Additionally, Patwary voiced criticism of the Election Commission, arguing it has neglected to provide adequate security and a fair atmosphere for the upcoming elections scheduled for February 12. Despite the earlier violence, he reaffirmed his commitment to campaign peacefully and declared his intentions to combat terrorism, extortion, and corruption in the Dhaka-8 constituency.
As tensions rise ahead of the polls, the unfolding drama within the BNP may have significant implications for voter sentiment in the region. The party faces internal divisions, while Patwary positions the NCP as a viable alternative for those seeking change.