Law enforcement takes control of Ijtema ground

Dhaka, Dec 19 (V7N) – Law enforcement has taken control of the Biswa Ijtema ground in Tongi, restricting public entry.

So far, no cases have been filed over the clashes between Maulana Zubair and Maulana Saad Kandhalvi's followers over control of the ground, which caused injuries and deaths.

The ground remains vacant under law enforcement's control, with officers stationed around the area.

Deputy Commissioner of GMP’s Tongi Zone, NM Nasiruddin, said: "Following clashes, the ground was evacuated per ministry orders and a notice from the GMP commissioner. Law enforcement, including police, army, and BGB, is ensuring security, and the ground is under police control."

A public notice issued Wednesday prohibited gatherings, processions, and entry into the 3-kilometer radius around the ground. Carrying weapons or making loud noises is also forbidden, with violators facing legal action.

Maulana Zubair's followers claimed that they were protecting their belongings as instructed by their elders.

Police reported that Maulana Saad’s followers planned a five-day gathering starting Friday, opposed by Zubair’s followers, leading to clashes early Tuesday morning.

Maulana Saad's media coordinator, Sayem, alleged: "The ground should remain under administrative control, but the government has unfairly handed it over to Zubair’s followers."

On Wednesday, four people were killed and at least 40 others injured in a clash between two factions of Tabligh Jamaat at the Biswa Ijtema ground in Tongi.

The deceased include Amirul Islam Bachhu, 70, from Kishoreganj, Bilal Hossain, 60, from Faridpur, and Tajul Islam, 70, from Bogura, while the identity of the fourth victim remains unknown.

The clashes reportedly began at around 3am when one faction attempted to take control of the Ijtema ground.

The followers of Maulana Saad and Maulana Zubair have been in conflict for several years.

The government had scheduled the first phase of Biswa Ijtema for Zubair’s followers from January 31 to February 2, while the second phase for Saad’s faction from February 7 to 9.