Clash on Ijtema ground leaves three dead, over 100 injured

A violent clash has erupted between the supporters of Jobayer and Saad factions over control of the Bishwa Ijtema ground, leaving three people dead and over 100 injured.

The Saad faction claims to have taken control of the Ijtema ground, releasing video statements asserting their dominance.

The confrontation began around 3:00 am on Tuesday (17 December).

The deceased were identified as Bachchu Mia (70), a resident of Egarasindu in Pakundia Thana, Kishoreganj district, and Belal (60), son of Abdul Samad from Beraid area, South Khan, Dhaka. The identity of the third victim is yet to be confirmed.

Local sources said that around 3:00 am, Saad supporters began entering the Ijtema ground from the western bank of the Turag River, using various routes, including the Kamarpara Bridge. In response, Jobayer supporters inside the ground started pelting bricks and stones. The Saad supporters retaliated, leading to intense clashes when they forced their way into the ground. The violent encounter left three people dead and over 100 injured.

Muazz Bin Noor, a prominent leader of the Saad faction, released a video message claiming their control over the Ijtema ground. He accused Jobayer supporters of initiating the attack, which led to the death of three of their members. Noor also alleged that several Jobayer supporters, armed with knives and other weapons, were detained.

The injured are being taken to Tongi Ahsanullah Master General Hospital and other medical facilities.