PABNA, May 22 (V7N) – Seven people were injured, at least seven by gunfire, during an hour-long clash today between two rival groups vying for control of a sand quarry (Balu Mahal) on the Padma River in Ishwardi, Pabna. The incident occurred around 10:30 AM in the Char area of Sada Union.

The injured have been identified as Selim Hossain (45) of Purba Nawdapara village, Chapal Sardar (27) of Rooppur BBC Bazar area, Rezaul Haque alias Lalu of Charruppur, Shawkat Islam of Bheramara Upazila in Kushtia, Ripon Hossain of Golapnagar Bangalpara, and Md. Sanaullah of Fakirabad village. Selim Hossain, who sustained serious injuries, has been admitted to Rajshahi Medical College Hospital.

Police and local sources indicate a long-standing dispute over sand business dominance in the Padma River's Sada area between Md. Kakon of Kushtia and Sultan Ali Tony Biswas, convener of Ishwardi Upazila Jubo Dal. Tensions escalated when both factions conducted drills in the Padma Char on Wednesday.

Allegations suggest that on Thursday morning, Kakon's followers arrived in several trawlers and attempted to seize control of the Balumahal in Char, prompting resistance from Tony Biswas's men. This confrontation quickly escalated into clashes and gunfire.

Tony Biswas claimed he is legally collecting sand rent under a lease and that Kakon's group has been obstructing him. "This morning, they suddenly came in a trawler, attacked and opened fire. At least 10-12 of my people were injured. Of these, 7 were shot," he stated, adding that he intends to take legal action.

Attempts to reach Kakon for comment were unsuccessful.

Laxmikunda Naval Police OC Imran Mahmud confirmed, "Seven people were shot in the incident. The situation is currently normal and additional police have been deployed at the scene."

Ishwardi Police Station Inspector (Investigation) Monirul Islam noted, "The clash mainly occurred due to a dispute between two parties over the lease of sand and collection of rent. Upon receiving the information, the police went and brought the situation under control. Police patrols have been strengthened in the area. No party has filed a complaint yet."

Those injured in the shooting are receiving treatment at Ishwardi Hospital in Pabna.

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