United News of Bangladesh

Supporters of independent candidate for Lalmonirhat-1 (Hatibandha-Patgram) Shihab Ahmed blocked Burimari–Patgram highway on Sunday night after some miscreants attacked his convoy in Hatibandha upazila, leaving him injured. Witnesses said a group of miscreants suddenly attacked the convoy as it was returning from election campaigning around 10:30 pm at Jorapukur area of Hatibandha upazila. Shihab Ahmed and several supporters were injured. The candidate’s private vehicle was severely damaged. Following the attack, hundreds of supporters took to the streets, staging demonstrations at various points along the Lalmonirhat–Burimari highway and halting traffic. Several cargo trucks and passenger buses were stranded, causing severe congestion and inconvenience to commuters. Police from Hatibandha police station  rushed to the spot to bring the situation under control. Additional police and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) personnel have been deployed due to heightened tension in the area. BNP, independent candidates’ supporters clash  in Natore; 13 injured Shihab Ahmed said, “We were returning peacefully after campaigning but as soon as we reached Jorapukur, we faced a premeditated and cowardly attack. My vehicle was completely destroyed. Currently, there is no security for our lives and property. If the ground situation remains this unstable, general voters will be afraid to go to the polling stations.” Hatibandha Thana Officer-in-Charge (OC) Ramjan Ali said, “We immediately visited the candidate to ensure his safety after learning of the incident. The agitated supporters were requested to lift the roadblock. The situation is now under control. Those involved in the attack will face strict legal action following investigation.”