BNP factional clash leaves local leader dead in Rajshahi

A local-level BNP leader has been beaten to death in Rajshahi's Charghat following a dispute over who should be the chief guest at a local Islamic gathering, police say, reports bdnews24.com.
The incident occurred at 9.30 pm on Friday in Yusufpur union.
The victim, Ershad Ali (65), was the vice-president of Yusufpur union unit of BNP and a supporter of MP and District BNP Convenor Abu Sayeed Chand of Rajshahi-6 (Bagha-Charghat) constituency.
Those accused of the attack are supporters of former district BNP vice-president Anwar Hossain Uzzal, who had sought nomination for the same parliamentary seat.
Charghat Police Sub-Inspector Sirajul Islam said the clash was triggered after Friday prayers when locals gathered at a mosque.
One group wanted Anwar as the chief guest, while the other backed MP Chand. The discussion broke down amid disagreements.
Later in the evening, after performing the Taraweeh prayers, Ershad was attacked on his way home.
"Several followers of [Anwar], including Saidur Rahman, were sitting at a tea stall. When [Ershad] arrived, they beat him with sticks and guava tree branches. They then left him there," SI Sirajul said.
"The attack happened right next to his house. Ershad died at the scene. Family members later took his body home."
Police reached the site soon after the incident, but the attackers fled the area.
"Efforts are ongoing to arrest them," the officer said.
The body has been sent to Rajshahi Medical College morgue for postmortem.