Tongi, Dec 19 (V7N) — The Ijtema Maidan in Tongi remains under tight security after a violent clash between followers of Maulana Saad and Maulana Jobair resulted in four deaths and over 100 injuries late Tuesday night. The area has been cordoned off by law enforcement, with members of the Army, Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), Rapid Action Battalion (RAB), and police on high alert to prevent further violence.

Following the clash, the Ijtema ground was evacuated early Wednesday morning, with Maulana Saad’s followers vacating the premises. Law enforcement has established control of the area, barring anyone from staying within a 3-kilometre radius. Strict searches are being conducted on anyone passing through nearby areas.

The Gazipur District Police have urged citizens to comply with the law to avoid any untoward incidents.

The clashes erupted over the control of the Ijtema Maidan. Maulana Saad’s followers had planned to hold a large gathering from December 20, but they were met with resistance from Maulana Jobair’s supporters, who were already present at the ground to prevent the event. The midnight violence led to heavy casualties, with both sides blaming each other for the tragedy.

In response to the situation, a meeting was held at the Secretariat on Tuesday afternoon between Maulana Saad’s representatives and five government advisors. Following the discussions, the government directed the immediate evacuation of the Ijtema Maidan.

The Bishwa Ijtema, the world’s second-largest Muslim congregation, is scheduled to take place in two phases at the same venue. The first phase, from January 31 to February 2, will be attended by Maulana Jobair’s followers. The second phase, from February 7 to February 9, will see the participation of Maulana Saad’s supporters.

The situation remains tense, with law enforcement prioritising the prevention of any further conflict.

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