BNP program in Rajshahi comes under police attack, 7 held

At least seven BNP men were detained on Saturday after police dispersed a rally held by the party in Rajshahi. 

Shamim Sarkar, joint editor of Rajshahi district unit Chhatra Dal said that Rajshahi district unit BNP leaders and activists were carrying out a prescheduled protest program on Saturday when the police beat the participants in the procession. 

Dhaka Tribune

A total of seven people, including BNP Rajshahi district Convenor Abu Syed Chand, who was in front of the procession, were detained by the police, he said.

Over 50 leaders and activists were also injured in the incident. They are currently being treated at Rajshahi Medical College Hospital, Sarkar added.

Meanwhile, BNP Chairperson's Advisor Mizanur Rahman Minu claimed that they could not trace 20 BNP leaders and activists after the attack took place. He alleged that police may have detained them as well. 

Dhaka Tribune

In this regard, Rajshahi Metropolitan Police (RMP) Deputy Commissioner (Boalia Zone) Arefin Jewel said BNP was only allowed to stay at Bhuban Mohan Park for its scheduled sit-in program. 

“But the BNP leaders were creating chaos at Batar Junction area. Because of this, seven people including district BNP Convener Chand have been detained.”