Jamaat opposes holding fair, 11 hurt in clash with BNP

KUSHTIA, May 21 (UNB): At least 11 people were injured in a clash between activists of Jamaat-e-Islami and the BNP over a traditional 'Gazi Kalu-Champabati' fair in Jagannathpur union under Kumarkhali upazila in Kushtia on Tuesday evening.

Kumarkhali Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Md Solaiman Sheikh said several people were injured in the clash and are now undergoing treatment at various hospitals. "The fair did not have permission this year. The situation is currently under control," he added.

Locals said at least 11 people were injured and admitted to the upazila health complex, while some were later transferred to Kushtia General Hospital and other facilities for advanced treatment.

The fair was scheduled to begin on May 17. However, Jamaat and its affiliated organisations demanded the event be cancelled, citing alleged indecent activities and gambling, according to locals.

Despite the lack of administrative approval, BNP supporters attempted to hold the nearly 150-year-old fair in view of local tradition, which led to rising tensions from Tuesday afternoon.

Police were deployed and conducted patrols throughout the day, but violence broke out in the evening between members of both groups, resulting in injuries and damage to several shops. Some establishments were also reportedly looted during the unrest.

Denying allegations against his party, Kumarkhali Upazila Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Afzal Hossain said, "Our activists and local residents were peacefully protesting against anti-Islamic activities at the fair when the fair committee members attacked us. We plan to file a case over the incident."