BNP factions clash at Comilla Town Hall; administration cancels permission

PNN News Desk, Comilla

Tensions arose at the historic Comilla Town Hall when two BNP factions planned separate programs on the same day. Concerned about law and order, the district administration prohibited both factions from using the venue on Thursday (21 November). Neither faction is willing to comply and both are intensifying preparations.

BNP’s initial nominee for Comilla-6, Monirul Haque Chowdhury, announced a public rally at the Town Hall. On the same day, supporters of another aspirant, Amin-ur-Rashid, organized a prayer gathering for Khaleda Zia’s recovery and Tareq Rahman’s health. Both factions began erecting stages and pavilions, causing intense local political tension.

Late Wednesday, Additional District Magistrate Mohammad Zafar Sadiq Chowdhury said the Special Branch (DSB) warned of potential clashes, so the venue was not allocated. Written notices were sent. “Alternative locations are available. Legal action will follow if instructions are ignored,” he added.

Both factions rejected the administration’s decision. Monirul Haque Chowdhury inspected the venue with his supporters and confirmed the rally would proceed. His lawyer Abdul Motaleb Majumdar stated, “The rally will definitely happen. Preparations are complete. The venue is ours.”

Amin-ur-Rashid’s supporters also occupied the venue overnight, insisting on holding their program there. Upazila BNP general secretary Safiul Alam said, “All preparations have been made. The program will not take place elsewhere.”

On 3 November, BNP released a list of potential candidates for 237 seats. Monirul Haque Chowdhury was nominated for Comilla-6, after which Amin-ur-Rashid’s supporters began active on-ground campaigns.