Madaripur, Nov 16 (V7N) – BNP leaders and activists in the Madaripur-1 (Shibchar) constituency conducted nearly ten consecutive hours of patrols from late Saturday night until Sunday morning, a move that significantly affected local transportation and daily life. Party sources said the operation was led by Kamal Zaman Nuruddin Molla, a prominent businessman and BNP’s nominated candidate whose nomination remains pending. Accompanied by party workers, he took positions at various points along the expressway, local markets, and key intersections to prevent arson, vandalism, and alleged sabotage attempts by what BNP described as a “banned rival group.”

Kamal Zaman Nuruddin Molla stated that from 11 p.m. on Saturday until 9 a.m. on Sunday, he and his followers stationed themselves across multiple security points from the Dhaka–Bhanga Expressway to the Padma Bridge border area. Residents reported that the heavy presence of BNP activists helped reduce uncertainty and provided a sense of relief among people who had feared nighttime disruptions.

BNP leaders claimed that amid the ongoing political unrest, they expected attempts by the Awami League, which they described as a banned group, to cause disorder through road blockades, arson, and public disturbances. The party further alleged that on 13 November, tree trunks were placed on the Bhanga–Barishal road to block traffic, with incidents of tree cutting and small-scale fires. In response, the BNP unit in Madaripur-1 mobilized its members to ensure public safety and maintain normal traffic flow on the expressway.

BNP leaders added that the people of Shibchar “no longer feel terrified because we are present on the ground,” stating that they were guarding the area alongside locals to resist “terror groups” trying to incite disorder. According to Molla, no form of sabotage or intimidation would be allowed. He said the party would continue its efforts to protect residents, noting that he has been active against what he described as the “autocratic Awami League” for 17 years and intends to keep serving the community despite political challenges.

The BNP’s Shibchar branch reported that during an early-morning incident on 12 November and subsequent operations on the Dhaka–Bhanga Expressway, alleged attacks by the banned Awami League resulted in cocktail explosions and gunfire. According to party sources, seven to eight people—including Shajahan Molla Saju, joint convener of the Shibchar BNP—were severely injured. Local BNP leader Shahadat Hossain Khan, joint convener Saju, and member secretary Sohel Rana reportedly arranged transportation and treatment for the injured.

As of the filing of this report on 16 November, no written or verbal response had been received from the local administration or police regarding the incidents, injuries, or allegations.

Local business owners and residents told reporters they felt somewhat reassured by the constant presence of BNP activists. One young businessman said that many people typically remain anxious at night, but the patrols eased concerns and helped maintain traffic flow in most areas. However, several villagers noted that the political uncertainty still worries them. They urged the administration to make visible efforts to ensure safety and called on all political groups to exercise restraint.

The broader political context remains tense. Over the past year, the country has experienced repeated cycles of unrest, allegations, and disputes. According to party documents reviewed by the reporter, legal procedures—including cases before the International Crimes Tribunal—had advanced demands for justice over alleged violence against student protesters last year. BNP sources added that November 13 had been scheduled for the verdict in cases involving Awami League leader Hasina and several others.

While BNP leaders say the local situation is currently calm, fears of renewed disturbance persist given the volatile political climate, ongoing road blockades, rallies, and inter-party confrontations. Local citizens, business owners, and political observers emphasized the urgent need for effective governance and strict application of the rule of law. They also stressed that both the administration and the Election Commission must act decisively to ensure public safety and uninterrupted daily life while urging all political parties to maintain restraint.

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