PABNA, February 26, (V7N) — A violent clash erupted on the premises of the Chatmohar Upazila Executive Officer’s (UNO) office on Thursday afternoon, as leaders and activists of the BNP and its affiliated organizations allegedly beat the Secretary of the Upazila Jamaat-e-Islami over a market lease tender.

The incident occurred at approximately 1:45 PM, moments after Aurangzeb, the Secretary of Chaikola Union Jamaat, submitted a tender schedule for the lease of the local Daka Hat Bazaar. Eyewitnesses reported that BNP activists initially confronted Aurangzeb before turning their aggression toward Habibur Rahman, the Upazila Jamaat Secretary, who was exiting the UNO’s office after separate personal business.
Police Presence and Alleged Inaction

The assault took place in the presence of police and Ansar members deployed to maintain order during the high-stakes tender process. However, victims and witnesses alleged that law enforcement remained largely passive. "The police were present, but they were unable to stop the attackers except by blowing their whistles and waving their hands," one witness noted.

The victim, Habibur Rahman, stated that he was chased and severely beaten without provocation. "I had no connection to the tender submission; I was there for a personal matter. As soon as I stepped out, they jumped on me," he said. He identified several local BNP, Jubo Dal, and Chhatra Dal leaders among the attackers, including Likhon Biswas, Bablu Mistry, and Jaber Molla.
Counter-Claims and Administrative Response

Accused BNP leader Likhon Biswas denied direct involvement, claiming he was only there to check the tender deadline. "I heard about the trouble later; I was not involved in any attack. These are false allegations," he claimed.

Chatmohar UNO Musa Naser Chowdhury confirmed the incident, describing it as a "criminal offense." He expressed surprise that such an event occurred despite the police deployment. Meanwhile, Chatmohar Police Station OC Golam Sarwar Hossain declined to provide details on how the attack unfolded under police watch, stating, "You asked a difficult question; I can't say anything about it."
Context of Tension

The incident underscores the growing friction between the two major political allies in the post-transition landscape. Habibur Rahman has informed the local Member of Parliament and the Upazila Jamaat Ameer, stating that legal action is being prepared. The tender box was scheduled to be opened at 3:00 PM today, but the atmosphere remains tense throughout the Upazila Parishad area.

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