The clash erupted around 4 p.m. between supporters of Khandaker Nasirul Islam, vice-president of the Boalmari Upazila BNP Krishak Dal central committee, and Shamsuddin Mia alias Jhunu, former joint secretary of the upazila BNP. Both leaders are reportedly vying for the BNP nomination from the Faridpur-1 constituency covering Boalmari, Alfadanga, and Madhukhali for the upcoming national election. The party has yet to finalize its nomination for the seat.
Witnesses said supporters of Shamsuddin Mia gathered at the Wapdar intersection around 3 p.m., while Nasirul’s followers assembled near Kazi Sirajul Islam Women’s College. Both groups carried bamboo sticks with rice stalks tied to the ends. As the two processions advanced toward each other, they began pelting bricks near the Boalmari Municipality office.
Outnumbered, Shamsuddin’s men retreated and took shelter in front of the Harun Shopping Complex. Soon after, a faction of Nasirul’s supporters launched an attack, vandalizing Shamsuddin’s office located on the ground floor of the complex. At least 11 motorcycles parked outside were set on fire, and several nearby shops were ransacked. Witnesses reported seeing the attackers armed with local weapons, including machetes and Chinese axes.
Boalmari Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Tanvir Hasan Chowdhury, Assistant Commissioner (Land) Md. Shibbir Ahmed, and Boalmari Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Mahmudul Hasan attempted to intervene but were forced to withdraw after being attacked by Nasirul’s supporters.
During the violence, police took defensive positions from 5 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. when the mob attacked with bricks and sticks. A fire service vehicle was also attacked while attempting to douse the flames.
Speaking to reporters, Shamsuddin Mia alleged, “We had informed the administration before organizing our program at Wapdar intersection. Nasirul’s men, aided by Awami League supporters, attacked us. Seventeen of our activists were injured, and Begum Khaleda Zia’s portrait in the office was vandalized.”
In response, Khandaker Nasirul Islam claimed he was not present at the scene during the incident. “Our people were attacked first. One person was hacked and several others were injured. In anger, the crowd retaliated and set the motorcycles on fire,” he said.
Army personnel arrived at the scene around 5:30 p.m. to restore order, while firefighters extinguished the blaze. Despite the army’s presence, tension remained high in the area.
Confirming the incident, Boalmari Police Station OC Mahmudul Hasan said at 6:15 p.m., “A clash between two BNP factions led to vandalism and arson. Three policemen were injured in the violence. The situation is now under control.”
