15 Injured in Clash Between Hizb ut-Tahrir Members and Locals in Pirgacha

Daily Bijoy News, Pirgacha (Rangpur) Correspondent:
A clash has occurred between members of the banned organization Hizb ut-Tahrir and local residents in Pirgacha, Rangpur. At least 15 people from both sides were injured in the incident. To bring the situation under control, the police quickly arrived at the scene, conducted an operation, and arrested seven individuals.

The clash took place on Monday morning (February 24) in the Nagdah Sidam area of Parul Union in the upazila. According to police and local sources, around 40 members of Hizb ut-Tahrir were holding a secret meeting there. Upon learning about the meeting, local residents confronted them. Tensions escalated between the two sides, leading to a violent clash. During the clash, the houses of four Hizb ut-Tahrir members were set on fire, and the houses of two other members were vandalized. Both sides chased each other with sticks and sharp weapons. Four critically injured individuals were immediately admitted to Rangpur Medical College Hospital. The condition of several injured individuals is reported to be critical.

Upon receiving news of the clash, police, army, and DB police quickly arrived at the scene and brought the situation under control. Seven people were arrested during the operation, and two others, including an eight-month pregnant woman, were taken into police custody. Local residents have demanded that the activities of the banned organization Hizb ut-Tahrir be completely stopped and strict action be taken against them. On the other hand, family members of the arrested individuals claim that false charges have been brought against them.

Regarding the incident, Asifa Afroz Adree, Assistant Superintendent of Police (C Circle) of Rangpur District Police, said that the situation is currently calm. Seven people have been arrested in connection with the clash, including two women who are in police custody.

Nazmul Haque Suman, Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) of Pirgacha, stated that tensions arose among local residents on Tuesday surrounding a gathering of Hizb ut-Tahrir, which led to the clash. Police have been deployed throughout the area following the clash. Although tension persists in the area, the situation is under control.

Daily Bijoy News/ Atiqur Rahman