Cox’s Bazar turned tense after Nasiruddin Patwari, chief coordinator of the National Citizen Party (NCP), indirectly referred to BNP Standing Committee member Salahuddin Ahmed as a ‘new godfather.’ In response, an angry group of BNP leaders and activists attacked and vandalised an NCP rally there.

The remark was made during an NCP rally at Shaheed Daulat Maidan near Cox’s Bazar Public Library. 

“Once, Shamim Osman was known as the godfather of Narayanganj. Now, we hear a new godfather has arrived in Cox’s Bazar from Shillong,” Patwari said, without directly naming Salahuddin.

Salahuddin had been missing for several years before being found in Shillong, India. He returned to Bangladesh last August following the change of government. 

Following the comments, agitated BNP supporters reportedly vandalised the rally venue and brought out protest processions in different parts of the town. Another NCP rally in Chakaria also came under attack.

Law enforcement officials, including police and members of the army, were deployed to bring the situation under control. Additional surveillance has been imposed in the district, sources said.

In a statement, Cox’s Bazar district BNP condemned Patwari’s remarks and demanded an apology.

MN/