At least 20 injured in BNP-Jamaat clash in Patuakhali

At least 20 people were injured on Sunday in a clash between activists of BNP and Jamaat-e-Islami during rival processions at Chandradwip union in Bauphal upazila under the Patuakhali-2 constituency.

According to local sources, the violence erupted in the afternoon at Bhandaria Bazar when face-to-face processions of BNP and Jamaat supporters confronted each other, triggering a clash.

Around 20 people from both sides were injured.

The injured were admitted to Bauphal Upazila Health Complex for treatment. 

Jamaat candidate Shafiqul Islam Masud alleged that BNP activists attacked his supporters while they were bringing out a procession, leaving 15 of his activists injured.

BNP candidate Shahidul Alam Talukder claimed that one of his supporters was seriously injured and was being taken to Sher-e-Bangla Medical College Hospital, Barishal. 

Bauphal Police Station Officer-in-Charge Mohammad Siddiqur Rahman said the situation is now under control.

However, locals reported that tension remains high in the area.