At least 21 homes have reportedly been attacked and vandalised in Nalkhola village of Kushtia Sadar upazila over the past 12 days, with locals also alleging looting, arson and demands for money.
The attacks have sparked fear in the village, prompting several families to leave their homes and take shelter elsewhere.
During a visit to the village this morning (27 September), signs of vandalism were visible at several affected homes. Many houses had no male members present, while several women declined to speak to the media, citing security concerns.
According to locals, the incidents began after an attack and vandalism at the office of Patikabari Union BNP convener Abdur Rahman at Nalkhola Bazar on 15 September.
The incident followed a dispute involving a mosque, a temple and a social issue. BNP leaders and activists blamed several people, including Union Jubo League Vice-President Ruhul, for the attack.
Since then, homes, shops and jute warehouses allegedly belonging to people on the opposing side have been attacked, vandalised and set on fire, locals said.
They alleged that supporters of Abdur Rahman were behind attacks and vandalism at at least 21 homes over the past 12 days. Several homes were also allegedly looted, while some families were reportedly asked to pay money.
Locals further alleged that Tk1,000 was being demanded from each family in the name of covering legal expenses.
Case plaintiff detained
Meanwhile, police today detained 65-year-old Nur Jahan Begum, who had filed a case over an attack on her home, according to her family.
Her daughter Selina Akter said their house was attacked, set on fire and looted several days ago over a social and land dispute.
Nur Jahan filed a case at a Kushtia court on 21 September, following which the court ordered the Police Bureau of Investigation (PBI) to investigate the case, Selina said.
She also alleged that the family had been receiving threats since the case was filed.
According to Selina, two police vehicles arrived at their home around 7:30am today. Several officers, including female police personnel, entered the house and told her mother, “You are the plaintiff in the case. The OC wants to speak to you.”
They then took Nur Jahan away in a vehicle, she alleged.
Islami University Police Station Officer-in-Charge SM Mamunur Rashid could not immediately provide details about the detention.
Kushtia district police spokesperson and Additional Superintendent of Police (Crime and Operations) Faisal Mahmud said Nur Jahan had been detained as a suspected accused under the Anti-Terrorism Act.
BNP leader denies allegations
Abdur Rahman denied the allegations against him.
He said Awami League leaders who had been in hiding were returning to the area and becoming active again.
He also said his office had been attacked and vandalised several days ago.
Abdur Rahman dismissed the allegations that his supporters were behind the attacks as “propaganda.”
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