Gazipur, Dec 18 (V7N) — The government has stepped in to take control of the Bishwa Ijtema Maidan in Tongi, Gazipur, following violent clashes between followers of Maulana Zubair and Maulana Saad. Authorities have announced that neither faction of the Tablighi Jamaat will be allowed to enter the ground. In a bid to maintain peace, the government has urged all parties to refrain from making provocative statements.

The decision comes in the wake of violent confrontations that erupted on Tuesday night, resulting in three fatalities and over 100 injuries. The deceased were identified as Bachchu Mia (70) from Kishoreganj, Belal Hossain (60) from Dhaka’s Dakshin Khan, and Taijul Islam from Bogra. Belal Hossain succumbed to his injuries at Dhaka Medical College Hospital.

The clashes reportedly began as Saad followers attempted to access the Ijtema Maidan to prepare for a five-day Ijtema starting December 20. Pro-Zubair supporters, who were already stationed at the site, resisted their entry, leading to a violent confrontation.

Mufti Amanul Haque, media coordinator for the Zubair group, claimed that the attack occurred during a meeting with organizers of an anti-discrimination movement. Meanwhile, Muhammad Sayem, a media coordinator for Saad supporters, asserted, "The Bishwa Ijtema ground is under our control. One of our comrades, Belal Hossain, has died."

The government has taken swift action to restore order, deploying security forces to secure the Ijtema Maidan. Officials emphasized that the ban on entry for both groups is essential to prevent further violence. Medical teams are treating the injured at various hospitals, including Dhaka Medical College.

The clashes have drawn widespread concern, with religious leaders and community members calling for peace and unity within the Tablighi Jamaat. The Bishwa Ijtema, one of the largest annual Muslim gatherings in the world, is a significant religious event in Bangladesh, drawing millions of participants.

Authorities are working to ensure the safety of attendees and maintain the sanctity of the Ijtema amid the ongoing tensions.

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