Feb 03 (V7N) — Makkel Mridha, the convener of Sahapur Union Krishak Dal in Ishwardi, Pabna, has openly threatened to slit the veins of Jamaat-e-Islami leaders and activists in public if they attempt to vote at polling centers.

Mridha, who is also the prime accused in a previous case, had earlier drawn attention for allegedly attacking the vehicle of Jamaat candidate Abu Taleb Mandal in the Pabna-4 constituency.

A video of Mridha making the threat has recently gone viral on social media. The statement was delivered during an election rally for BNP candidate Habibur Rahman Habib at the Char Gargari Dakhil Madrasa grounds in Sahapur Union last Sunday (February 1).

In the video, Mridha says that Jamaat has been responsible for widespread violence and destruction, claiming they have looted and ruined everything. He further declares that no Jamaat programs will be allowed to proceed and warns that anyone from Jamaat who comes to vote will be attacked openly during the day, stating that Jamaat supporters will not be permitted to enter polling centers.

Attempts to contact Mridha by phone for comments were unsuccessful, as his mobile phone was found switched off.

Regarding the matter, Arifur Rahman, Assistant Returning Officer of the Pabna-4 constituency and Upazila Nirbahi Officer of Ishwardi, confirmed that authorities have received the video and have requested a formal written complaint. He stated that appropriate action would be taken once such a complaint is submitted.

It may be noted that on November 27, a Jamaat candidate was attacked while campaigning in Chargargari village of Sahapur Union. The incident later escalated into a clash between supporters of both sides. During the unrest, motorcycles belonging to Jamaat leaders and activists were looted and later recovered from a forest area behind Mridha’s residence. Mridha is named as the principal accused in the case filed over those events.

Additionally, Mridha has previously been accused of attacking and looting the homes of several local Awami League leaders and activists following August 5.

END/SRP/AJ