Proshika clashes leave 'dozens injured'

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Clashes between pro and anti-Faruque groups took place at the Proshika Headquarters in the city's Mirpur-2 area Saturday. — FE photo

Dozens were reportedly injured in clashes at the Dhaka headquarters of Proshika, one of the country's largest non-government organisations, as hundreds of supporters led by its sacked chairman Kazi Faruque Ahmed marched on the building Saturday, reports bdnews24.com.
The balconies of the 14-storey building were packed with Proshika staff. Both sides were seen throwing brickbats and other missiles.
Mirpur police reached the spot at around 10am and struggled for five hours to bring the situation under control. Mirpur zone assistant police commissioner Moniruzzaman said a group of people initially approached the Mirpur-2 offices at around 9am, but failed to enter the building, as staff from inside obstructed them. Clashes occurred, as the building's employees tried to chase them off.
Former Proshika chief Kazi Faruque Ahmed later brought out a procession, around 11am, chanting 'Joy Bangla' and trying to enter the premises. Witnesses said local leaders and supporters of ruling Awami League were also seen in the procession.
Proshika's board of governors replaced Kazi Faruque as chairman in May this year in the face of ongoing employees' agitation against Faruque for alleged corruption and nepotism. Faruque faces money-laundering charges along with family members.
Faruque, who has legally challenged his removal as chairman, told newsmen Saturday: "I am still the chairman of this organisation. I came to office this morning, but was not allowed to enter."
On the involvement of local Awami League-backed leaders in his procession he said the Awami Swechchhasebak League and Jubo League were with him, as they were united in the "pro-liberation cause."